Great Central Road in 2WD

I think sand would be the least of your worries really. Which direction did you intend heading? I did the road in August this year west to east and in many parts it was well graded and easily driven in a two wheel drive vehicle. From Docker River to Yulara, the corrugations were extremely bad with a few sandy spots. Considering that most of the locals drive the road in a varied assortment of older model two wheel drive vehicles, you should be right if you take it easy. Tyres and wheels would be an item for serious consideration though. That and the top level of cover with your states Automobile Association! You could also check with the various roadhouses along the route ie; Warburton, Warukuna etc, prior to leaving to see about road conditions and whether anyone has seen the grader out that way.

Cheers.

Thanks for the answer! I want to be driving from west to east as well.

You won't have a problem , just don't go if there has been any rain . Cheers Errol

I have been across four times over the last ten or so years twice in 2wd toyota ute and twice in fwd. Plenty of regular cars use it but I am a little bit dubious about a little charade. No sand to speak of these days but the corrugations will sorely try your patience when you get close to NT and through Docker River before it eases off.

On the last trip a lady complained about the nuts an bolts falling off her 4wd but you know perceptions have a lot to do with the mixed opinions we get. I have an old mate who suffered badly on a little trip up the coastal track to Cervantes complaining all the way. I told him later he was just a wimp and its true. The imagination can make things seem like the vehicle will fall apart but you get used to it.

Main thing is don't rush it or get too tired trying for long runs. Go easy and you should enjoy the trip. It's my favourite road but of course that's another perception not shared with some who only see emptyness all the way.

Owen

Did GCR in 4wd in July. Ordinarily you shouldn't have too many problems in 2wd - however March would I think be one of the hotter and wetter months out there. You will need to be well prepped in case you have any problems as some parts of it are very remote. As per previous replies, the road is very bad if it has been raining. We found the WA side to be very good - almost highway speeds possible. NT side was a LOT worse and would have been very painful in a small 2wd.

Also, not sure of fuel range of your vehicle - there are some long distances between fill ups out there.

Finally, if you do decide to go for it, call the Alice Springs Visitor Centre before you set off - they usually have up-to-date info on road condition.

Enjoy - it was certainly a highlight of our 20,000km trip!

scubadoc,

Agree with comments re there being no need for a 4WD for traction or clearance.

I've done the GCR in a '63 EH holden 2WD, an '81 Nissan 720 2WD ute twice and once in an 89 landcruiser. It's a damn long way off the bitumen no matter what vehicle and it ain't no smooth graded road most of the time. A bit of the story is at www.peoplehelp.com.au/travel/desert/

- BUT the charade is a short wheel base light vehicle that you may love to bits. My serious concern would be that there may be many more bits to love by the time you arrive at the destination with many bits you won't see again and having left them by the road.

http://www.peoplehelp.com.au/travel/desert/thumbnails/dscf0640.jpg

Keep safe, and take a big tarp to keep the shade off if you break down and need to wait for help - and you don't think I'm serious!!

Tim