b' Shock absorbers.They need to be ofgood quality and as new as possible as theywill be subjected to enormous heat andvibration stress on rough roads. Tyres should be in goodcondition andrun at a pressure suitable for the terrain.Asecond spare rim and tyre of the samerolling diameter as all other tyres on thevehicle should be carried.Avoid using lowprofile tyres as they are more susceptible todamage and it is harder to buy replace-ments for uncommon sizes in remote areas.Carry a good jack and a wooden block orplate to place under the jack on soft ground. A snorkel to raise the air intake levelhelps keep dust from entering the aircleaner but the air filter should be checkedregularly in dusty conditions especially if youare travelling in a convoy of vehicles ondusty tracks. A comprehensive tool kit suitable foryour vehicle is important. Check to see ifany special tools are needed for repairs oradjustments. For example, some dieselengines require a bleed pump to be fittedin line when changing a fuel filter. TORXheaded bolts are common on many modernvehicles but suitable tools rarely carried.Carry a workshop manual for your vehicle ifyou can obtain one.Even if you cannotmake a repair it may help a mechanic in aremote town. Keep loads as light as possible withheavy items as low as practical. Drive to theroad conditions, allow plenty of time andDo a daily check under the bonnet andenjoy the experience. under the vehicle when the engine is cool.Look for any fluid leaks, tyre damage, loosecomponents and clear away any grass, seedheads or insects from the radiator andunderneath the vehicle.Look for stonesthat might be wedged between wires orbrake and fuel lines and the chassis orpanels, these stones can quickly damagethe lines. If your vehicle is not under manufacturerTravelling in a group provideswarranty, membership of RACV Total Care oran additional safety net in thesimilar can ease the stress of a breakdownevent of a mechanical problem far from home.16'