Bulldust can be hard to pick but in my experience it is usually indicated by a sudden change of colour to a much lighter colour than the rest of the track , sometimes even a bright yellow but not always . Over recent times I have only found bulldust on well used dirt tracks and station tracks as most of the more major outback tracks are better maintained ( but not always ).
Corrugations are the worst thing you can encounter . Sometimes they go on for many kilometres . I don ’ t go along with the theory of doing 90kmh and skimming over the top . This is extremely damaging to the suspension . A few years ago we followed the Mercedes Benz introduction for the G Wagon up the Canning Stock Route and they were following the 90kmh theory . In the roughest sections they were replacing shockers and other suspension parts every night . We didn ’ t have that kind of back up so we drove to the conditions , which meant , in the worst sections around Well 33 we found it best to drive at 16kph to preserve the vehicles and us .
I have found it is sometimes better to drive on the wrong side of the track , as for some reason , the corrugations don ’ t seem so bad . I cannot explain it but suggest that maybe the shape is a bit different on the exit side .
Don ’ t drive so close to the vehicle in front that you are in their dust . If you are on a Club trip you won ’ t be left behind . Dust in your engine is not good so drop back and use your CB radio to communicate .
Western Australia seems to have the best maintained roads & tracks .
Tyres
I have found that you are much better off with good quality tyres . Yes I know they cost more but their resistance to punctures and other damage makes for a much more enjoyable trip . My last 5 or 6 sets have been BFG ’ s and I can ’ t see me changing any time soon . It is just that I have had a good run with them . I ’ m sure there are other brands out there that are just as good .
Don ’ t set off on a long trip with tyres that are worn below 65 %/ 70 %. Don ’ t think “ l will just wear these out on this trip and get new ones when l get home ”. Travelling on outback dirt roads wears out your tyres very quickly and old ones seem to be more prone to damage . You will also pay more for new ones in the bush .
Don ’ t be afraid to let your tyres down either , as this gives a better ride and makes them more resistant to punctures and damage . The fact that the tyres are not as hard has a cushioning effect on the vehicles suspension . I have only experienced two punctures and both were because I did not stop and take the time to let them down .
Laurie Finlay # 267