RIDE WITH ALLAN: Article 1
When Starting Out

The Vehicle
That 1st step that begins after a little inspiration is to find the right vehicle. This is such an important moment.

Big enough?
4WDriving is more of a long-term life style choice if you do it well, but for this to happen it is always important to have the support of the family. Thus when choosing your vehicle make sure you keep their needs in mind and what their needs are going to be in 5 years time. This biggest consideration here is room and comfort to ensure they love 4WDing as much as you do! Therefore when kids are involved short and medium wheel based vehicles are out and a station wagon is the ideal way to go.

Take your time
Some tell me they don't have the time to shop around but if your going to be spending 20, 40 or $50 000 then it is important to find the time. It's not all headaches; in fact this part of journey can be the most exciting. When do you know that you have done enough research? The moment when you can look at a vehicle and say (with total trust in yourself) the approximate figure of what it should be worth. Look at enough vehicles and this will come naturally.

Parts
Availability of parts is so important if you're in the middle of nowhere and break down. No good saving money on a vehicle if it will cost you a fortune in parts that take days to get when you're stuck. Generally, the more common the vehicle, the easier (and cheaper) it is to find the parts you need.

Tyres
There are all sorts of upgraded tyres all claiming to improve performance. This can be true but be aware that 'fat tyres' put much more pressure on steering and suspension then is necessary which of course leads to bigger repair bills. I get around in the standard off road tyres and they work fine.

History
A standard check of the vehicle's service history is not too much to ask and is a great reflection of the sellers love for his vehicle. Some TLC and up-to-date servicing equals fewer hassles for you in the future. To really ease your mind I would recommend having it checked over by the RACV or your states registered auto body.

Simple Checks
- Look under the radiator cap for any white marks that would indicate condensation. This is a bad sign and ultimately means there is a head gasket Issue.
- Check if the chassis is filled with Sand or Dirt this means the vehicle has been dunked into water for some time and will need work.
- Leave the vehicle idle for 15mins, while you looking over the vehicle. Then accelerate hard and note any excessive blue smoke. This indicates that oil is being sucked up into the combustion chamber because the oil seals are leaking, which will lead to engine trouble.

Diesel Vehicles
These can be wonderful vehicles but remember they are much tougher to judge engine condition. This is simply because they are generally a noisier engine and therefore more difficult to detect unusual noises.These points may all seem confusing but once the vehicle is purchased then you are on your way to some great adventure!

Tread your own path!
Allan Gray.