Einträge mit dem Tag ‘sand’

Fact is, the new Land Cruiser LC79 Bakkie has a front track 4” wider than the rear track (or axle). This was apparently done to accommodate the larger V8 Turbo Diesel engine, which absurdly may not even become available in Southern Africa.

Common sense dictates, and some seem to have experienced this already, that the narrower track in the back may present a problem, especially in sand. In our specific case we have added worries, because Wohni definitely has a higher centre of gravity than a non-converted Bakkie would have – plus – we will more often than not travel on the limit of gross weight, thus exaggerating any phenomenon and/or occurrence.

Wheel Spacers

The obvious thing to do would be adding wheel spacers at the back. However, a 2” extension of leverage on each side is no minor alteration and may or may not cause havoc in difficult terrain. Doing a quick thumb suck I guesstimate the increase in forces applied to be approximately 3-4% each side, yes?

On a positive note, we are ‘only’ concerned about the rear and hence don’t have to deal with reinforcing ball joints, etc. Also, as far as roll stability goes we would definitely have an added bonus. Still, forces on the diff, bearings and the axle itself are reason enough to be concerned.

I feel somewhat between a rock and a hard place about this, but tend towards going for the added benefit of the spacers versus the minor risk of breakage, hoping that Murphy is not around when push comes to shove.

I would greatly appreciate any thoughts and/or input.

All the best

Tommy

Amended 27/10/2008 - Interesting threads and discussions about this:

@ ExplorOz

@ Expeditionportal

@ Landcruiserclub

Share This

… that’s the question. Most in the knowing, and I tend to agree, claim that once you have it, it will be utilised mainly to help others - nothing wrong with that. Another theory and my main concern, when you really need it, i.e. sand, mud, river, etc., will there be something to hook onto. If not, it’s useless, right? Not quite.

Pull-Pal in action Copyright Pull-Pal

A fellow Namibian off-roader (thanks Werner) - funny enough we met through a German forum - pointed me to Pull-Pal, an American product also used by the military. When I saw it, everything came together and started making sense. I had a rough concept of some sort of ground anchor in mind for a long time, I just couldn’t figure out how to best do it, plus what kinda steel to use, as regular mild steel obviously won’t do it (Werner, I agree).

Looking at the product and its price, I don’t think it would be worth even attempting a home-made solution. I believe the Pull-Pal is properly conceptualised, manufactured and tested - no need to reinvent the wheel.

To me, that’s a no-brainer. I’ll order one and the winch question is now also a definite ‘yes’. It is one of those items I rather have than not have. If the rare occasion, where you really do need it, never arises, even the better.

What do you think?

Cheers & Beers

Tommy

Share This