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Certificate Course:
This comprehensive two-day course exceeds standards for basic and advanced driver training. It is suitable for novices as well as experienced 4WD operators, and can involve soft-roaders to 4WD trucks. Standard vehicles with standard tyres are acceptable, but modified vehicles with extensive recovery equipment can also be taken to their limits in controlled situations.
The course involves an entertaining presentation of four wheel drive vehicle operation and recovery techniques. The course comprises classroom theory and practical exercises, with detailed notes and a bit of fun.
Theory sessions give an understanding of the technology involved in modern 4WD vehicles and recovery equipment. Discussion sessions are based around real-life experiences (including analysis of accidents and rescues) imparting knowledge on coping with challenging situations. Driving sessions allow participants to practice particular techniques taught in the course, taking vehicles to their limits, safely.
This course is run as a residential weekend at our training facility at Rawson (self-cater motel style accommodation) with field exercises on steep, rugged tracks around Walhalla, and simulated desert conditions in south Gippsland. Terrain includes one of the biggest river crossings in Victoria and our favourite big sand hill. Price $200 (non-participating partners/family $50 each) plus accommodation and optional Saturday night pub meal.
Topics covered include:
Vehicles and preparation: ●low range and ground clearance ●AWD performance ●suspension systems ●part-time and full-time 4WD ●differentials and locks ●ABS brakes, stability and traction control ●auto transmissions and smart diffs ●free wheel hubs ●tyre patterns, sizes and pressures ●traction fundamentals ●simple mechanical checks and spares ●petrol, diesel, LPG and turbo engine characteristics ●4WD maintainability ●snatch strap safety and tow point integrity ●winches, snatch blocks and recovery loads ●vehicle jacks ●wheel chains ●CB radios, GPS and satellite communications ●roof racks and trailers.
Tackling tough trails: ●mountain climbing and signs of trouble ●washaways, rock ledges and boulders ●forward and reverse hill starts ●slippery descents ●fording rivers ●silt protection ●rocks, holes and slippery banks ●engine fans and ignition ●snorkels and waterproofing ●deep water recoveries ●oil seals and breathers ●wet brakes ●mud and snow ●momentum and gravity ●ruts and bog holes ●south side of the mountain ●black ice and alpine parking ●sand: power, gears and tyre pressures ●salt water and beach hazards ●fallen trees ●avoiding duco scratches and stone chips ●potholes and suspension ●reverse gear risks ●environment ●tents, camping gear and fridges ●packing, luggage and water.
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