Pre outback trip check of vehicle

Rob,

I've always founf Kerry at ARB Northern to be honest and upfront, and would have no hesitation in recommending them.

How many K's on the 80 and how well maintained is it ?
Things I'd check would include all belts and hoses (and carry spares), bearings (heavy loading etc) and the clutch (those dunes arent easy on em) and water pump if the K's are up around 200K or over. I'd carry two spare shockies (the tracks in and out can be rough and corregated) and make sure I had new batteries. If you havent had a major service for a while now might be the time. Its a heck of a lot cheaper in town than in the bush.
Other things to watch are tyre pressure and your speed. Make sure you have time in hand, it's your holiday, take it easy and don't spoil it with mech probs or an accident. Have a great trip and be kind to the locals :))

Many thanks guys for the above. Vehicle has done 150K and is in very good condition - serviced every 5000km as per the book. I travelled outback 2 years ago (Birdsville/Oodnadatta Tracks etc) but the Simpson is the first time so want it to be in top condition for that. Thanks Footloose - I appreciate the hints - especially the belts, bearings, water pump, shockers etc

I guess what I'm after is someone good to check the clutch, bearings, water pump etc to tell me what needs replacing or service. As you say it's a hell of a lot easier here rather than in the middle of the desert.
Rob

I agree with all comments so far. I also get under the truck with a host of socket and spanner sizes and tighten every nut or bolt head I can reach. I check the universals and look for tell tale signs of leaks. Nipping up the bolts on the sump is also a good idea. Get your mechanic to check the alternator output, battery connections, belts and waterpump flow. Another good idea would be to carry a spare front and rear shockabsorber. Hope this helps.

Gidday Rob80.. Something to concider is taking spares that will keep you going.. ok wheel bearings, belts, hoses,tyres and tubes,spare filters and oil (enought to do a full oil change if need be)and water and things like that.. make sure you got good shockies before you leave but if they do let you down they won't imobilise you.. they are the things you should be thinking of.. if you can limp to safety slowly is all well and good but to be stuck is another problem.. I hope that helps some..

Keep your whistle wet and your powder dry.. Dodgy..