darvidanoar
X-TRAIL NEWBIE
Date Registered: 07-2013
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
TOTAL POSTS: 66
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4WD training with Brisbane Hinterland 4WD - 19 January 2014
We met the instructor, Steven, at 8.00am and trekked out to the training ground. The first hour was theory, covering some basic topics such as traction, clearance, tyre pressure, approach, ramp-over and departure angles etc. Then it was off to do a little practical work.
The format of the day, followed a regular pattern:
(a) move to the challenge;
(b) stop and discuss technique;
(c) one by one, complete the challenge; and
(d) go around again on our own (with guidance if required).
First stop was a section of rutted track designed to get the vehicle into a position where one wheel loses traction and is left hanging in the air. Then, it was off to negotiate more rutted and rocky tracks, a slalom and a few ramp-overs. Along the way Steve preceded each challenge with instruction on technique and strategy. After a few rounds of this circuit, it was off to the next stage: Guidance.
In the guidance circuit we had a quick lesson in vehicle guidance and then took turns to guide our vehicles over a short bridge and a rocky section of track.
The last technique to learn before lunch was stall recoveries (and the auto equivalent). Performing a stall recovery was marked as a prerequisite for tackling the hill climb, so I was keen to give it a go. The description of the technique sounded a bit daunting, but once I was in the car and being guided by Steve, it all came together nicely.
After lunch we tackled the big hill, which consisted of a couple of steep climbs up one side, followed by a steep descent on the other side. It was great to finally use the hill descent in a real situation. Apart from a little weirdness to start with (foot to the floor and very little forward motion), the exy performed well in both directions.
Finally, came the 'test' ... to use what we'd learned during the day. With one team member guiding, we had to choose a line and then guide and guide our vehicles through a section of rutted track. This was followed by a fairly steep ascent which we had to walk first and then determine a line suitable for our vehicles. I'm happy to say, my baby flew up that hill first go.
A final demonstration of recovery technique using a snatch strap and the day was done.
All in all, a great experience led by a competent and knowledgeable instructor. I now feel much more confident in my vehicle's capabilities as well as my own ability. It was also great to meet some other folk with a variety of vehicles and to see how each vehicle performed.
Highly recommended.
Also, I happened to meet Peter, another forum member on the same course. (G'day Peter!)
[Some video from the day here]
Last edited by darvidanoar, 20/Jan/2014, 7:41 pm
--- David
Member No: X-3186
2012 Nissan X-Trail ST-L
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20/Jan/2014, 7:37 pm
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Toddyh03
X-TRAIL HOLIC
Date Registered: 08-2011
Location: Lalor Park, NSW
TOTAL POSTS: 1663
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Re: 4WD training with Brisbane Hinterland 4WD - 19 January 2014
Well done David. 4wd training certainly helps get an understanding of the vehicle doesn't it.
The first lot of training I did was in a rodeo ute (work car) and all I understood from that was that utes are too long for the driving I wanted to do
Seriously though, I think it made me a better driver on the road too. Just simple little things you don't think about until someone points it out to you. Did you come away feeling like a better driver all round?
--- Toddyh X-2048 (c)
New: Challenger
Old: 2010 T31 Diesel modified
My XTrail
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21/Jan/2014, 6:40 am
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darvidanoar
X-TRAIL NEWBIE
Date Registered: 07-2013
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
TOTAL POSTS: 66
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Re:
Definitely more confident now Todd. I went some places last Sunday that I would never have attempted before. Now at least I know what's possible and have a better idea how to approach it.
--- David
Member No: X-3186
2012 Nissan X-Trail ST-L
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21/Jan/2014, 7:09 am
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darvidanoar
X-TRAIL NEWBIE
Date Registered: 07-2013
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
TOTAL POSTS: 66
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Re:
Nice one Peter! Looking forward to hearing about some of your adventures :-)
--- David
Member No: X-3186
2012 Nissan X-Trail ST-L
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21/Jan/2014, 8:54 pm
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Twin mobile
X-TRAIL ENTHUSIAST
Date Registered: 12-2013
Location: Mt Isa, QLD
TOTAL POSTS: 125
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Re: 4WD training with Brisbane Hinterland 4WD - 19 January 2014
Hi David,
Was wondering if you could shed some light on the details of the course?
From your detailed description it sounds like a great way to understand your vehicles abilities and limits as well as building confidence in the person behind the wheel.
I spend my holidays back home between Brisbane and the GC and would consider doing this course if I can afford the time and money.
Thanks for your input,
Ben
--- Benjamin X-3439
Mt Isa, QLD
05/10 T31 Exy, 2.5L Manual ST
K&N + A/C, 63mm ECB, 20" LED, 220 HIDs, TJM Bashplate, 2" Susp Kit, H/D Towbar, Whispbars, 235/70R16 697s, Hi-Tech Exhaust
To do: Brakes, Strut Bar, Side Steps, 6" Head Unit
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5/Jan/2015, 9:56 pm
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darvidanoar
X-TRAIL NEWBIE
Date Registered: 07-2013
Location: Brisbane, Queensland
TOTAL POSTS: 66
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Re:
Hi Benjamin,
Their contact details are on their web site:
http://www.brishint4wd.com.au/
They now also offer a sand driving course, which I believe runs on Bribie Id.
Cheers
--- David
Member No: X-3186
2012 Nissan X-Trail ST-L
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8/Jan/2015, 5:21 am
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