Big Red Bash

[Strutman Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Strutman]

Morning all. have just bought my first Prado 120 petrol, (allways had patrols ) just for our Big Red Bash trip in July.Whos been before in their Prado? whos going again? what tips do I need to know car specific for the trip please. Leaving from Port douglas.

[stevensr34 Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close stevensr34]

Check if you have "LT" designated tyres (Light Truck). These have more nylon/steel bands in construction and are less likely to get punctures.
Carry spare water & first aid kit.
Get the serpentine belt changed to a new one, and carry the old one as a spare.
Check the rubber water hoses for wear. Maybe get them all replaced.
Check the rear door for sagging, and check/replace the rubber seal - it has to seal out lots of dust!
Maybe look at a suspension refresh - don't go there on standard suspension - corrugations will kill standard shocks.
Have you got a bull bar & spotties?
Have you got bash plates underneath?

...anyway...

enjoy!

[Strutman Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close Strutman]

Thankyou for info, will be putting new rubber before I go, so will go with LT type tyres, yes have TJM bar with good under car cover. Have been contemplating plate under tank? And yes have some sag in back door, but a few threads on here about fixing with some Gal washers, so cheers. Will get full service and belt changed also thanks. Did not really want to change suspension, but sounds like I may have to.Great info

[gee Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close gee]

I don't think you necessarily need new suspension but, I agree, quality tyres are a must. Lowering your tyre pressure and sticking to around 80kph on corrugations goes a long way. Last year I drove my 90 series to the Cape, back through the Gulf, down to Birdsville and back home to Brisbane without an issue.The people breaking things, were always the ones in a hurry.