BLAKE’S MOBILE
AUTOMOTIVE
When it comes to keeping your 4WD
running well, good maintenance is the key.
So before any big trip it’s worth giving your
vehicle a full service and a good check over.
What are the most common maintenance
items to get neglected on a 4WD?
Blake: The brake calliper slides! They seize
up over time, especially if water gets inside.
This can cause uneven braking issues and
uneven/premature brake pad wear. They
should be lubricated with a special antiseize brake compound specifically made for
brake callipers every time you change your
brake pads, and even more regularly if your
4WD likes to play in the mud.
“HECK, A FEW
YEARS BACK THOSE
SAME ICONIC TRIPS
WERE DONE ON
HORSEBACK!”
damage in 4WDs, and there’s nothing worse than
a stubborn wheel nut when you’re in the middle of
a trackside fix.
READY TO ROLL
Well, there’s not much else left to do but chuck
the gear in the back, hitch up your rig and hit
the road. I’ll tell you what, though, if there’s one
thing I’ve learnt over the years it’s that having
an equipped mind is far more useful than having
an over-equipped vehicle. What I mean is it’s
easy to get caught up in the hype and think you
need every latest gizmo to do the trip. Heck, a
few years back those same iconic trips were done
on horseback! So, I guess there are no excuses,
eh? It’s time to head out there for your most epic
adventure yet!
How long before a big trip should you give
your vehicle the once over?
A good 3-4 weeks is usually ideal. Not only
does it help avoid the mad rush before
a trip, but if there is a problem it allows
enough time to allow for repairs, or for
parts to arrive. Plus, it’s best to let new
parts settle in properly before you leave.
Why are regular oil changes so
important?
Engine oil contains detergents which do
break down over time. These detergents
break down carbon that enters the oil
and if it’s not changed regularly, a thick
sludge will form leading to blockages of
oil galleries and pick-ups. This eventually
starves vital internal engine components
of oil pressure, causing a catastrophic
engine failure.
What little odd jobs can 4WDers do
between services to help out with the
maintenance side of things?
Little things like lubricating the door locks
and hinges go a long way over time. I’d also
recommend to regularly check the external
radiator fins are free of mud and the front
grille isn’t caked up with grass seeds or
similar.
Check the engine fluid levels, check the
air filter and clean electrical connections
with contact cleaner.
ADVENTURES
91