Newbie in tauranga

[bazzathemammoth]

Hey all
I have gotten the bug for 4wding and decided to buy a ute. I bought a Mitsi Strada and am keen as to get it dirty. Its stock and has fresh A/Ts on the back with some fairly worn ones on the front. So far Ive taken it on the beach, but thats about the extent of my off road adventures.

It looks like woodhill could be a good place to get a feel for it so I am heading there next weekend (sun) to try and give it a good blat. I think I have found another 4wd to come with me so that I can get stuck without too much drama. Just wondering about a few things:

1) Ive been reading up about recovery gear, and I was wondering how the shackles size is measured. I think my tow ball bolt is about 20mm, does that sound right? So i guess ill need a 19mm pin shackle? Also going to get a 9m snatch rope, and a decent shovel. Anything else I've missed?

2) There's a massive hook on the front of my vehicle (looks factory), bolted to the chassis rail. It would seem like it would be fine to use for recovery, but that seems to be generally frowned on. What do you think?

3) Where is the best place to get the gear from?

3) Is there anywhere near woodhill where I can pump my tyres back up?

Finally is anyone going to be there that would be keen on showing me a few things? The other 4wder is fairly novice too from what I hear. (beers and food could be arranged!)

[Jay]

Welcome aboard!

I've always liked the shape and look of the Strada.

Decent snatch rope, another vehicle and a shovel sound like a good start... 19mm shackle sounds about right, just check it before you buy it. Once the bug fully hits, you will be up for a winch, extension straps, tree protector, high lift jack etc etc etc

Warren at www.4wdbits.co.nz will be able to sort you out for gear, and a great guy to deal with, based in Auckland but he courier's stuff out really quick.

There's a couple of petrol stations within 10kms of woodhill, so you should be sweet there...

And I could be keen to come out next Sunday (21st) - flick me a PM if your still keen and can sus something out - Ive got onboard air too, so no need for the gas station this time round.

Jay

[BlakeNZ]

I'm at a similar stage to you. Have bought shackles (19mm), two tow hooks, and snatch strap. I have also bought a fire extinguisher, which you may wish to consider.
I have a sneaking suspicion that your AT tires will be found wanting, and you will be wanting to buy a set of MT tires soon("Mud Terrain" i mean, as opposed to Mickey Thompson brand).
When you do buy some MT tires, consider getting them about 2" taller than stock, to give you an extra inch of ground clearance. The disadvantage of this, is that you really have to buy 5, so that your spare is the same diameter as the others.
All the best- let us know how you go.

[surf93]

Hi mate there is a crew of us from Tauranga that hit Thompsons a lot and occasionally whakamarama let us know if you want to tag along.

[bazzathemammoth]

So I've ordered the bits and cant wait for sunday!

Ive been talking to a few people about tyres and because I use my ute mainly for work (tradie) I dont think that MT tyres will suit. However I'm hearing lots of good things about the desert duelers. What do you guys think of them?

Also I'd be keen as to hit thompsons track with you guys sometime. Should I PM you my details?

[bazzathemammoth]

Update:
Had a great time at woodhill and cant wait to get dirty again. My daughter went from not liking it and thinking that its scary to thinking that its crazy and cool. Even the wife had a good time

Also big thanks to Jay who put in a stellar effort to try and get his 4wd up and running to come out with me, even though the tranny got the better of him. Here's my fav pic of the trip

[BlakeNZ]

good on you mate! thanks for the update and photo.

[pmfg]

Update:
Had a great time at woodhill and cant wait to get dirty again. My daughter went from not liking it and thinking that its scary to thinking that its crazy and cool. Even the wife had a good time

Also big thanks to Jay who put in a stellar effort to try and get his 4wd up and running to come out with me, even though the tranny got the better of him. Here's my fav pic of the trip

I know that puddle. Its good fun aye... heres me in it.
http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee27 ... 16a1a9.jpg

[Jay]

Hey Bazz,

Great to hear that you still went out and had a good day!
I'm all sorted now, so next time your up this way - hit me up!

Cheers,

Jay