[1 April 2008]
Raid Vehicle 11
Annette and Michael Molesworth

Notes on Preparation

"The van is coming along, in preparation for the big trip.

The solution here solves the problem of where to put the spare tyres and the extra fuel. There is provision on each side for a tank and a wheel. A change over tap and an extra fuel gauge keeps the driver informed of fuel reserves.

The length allows the sleepers to stretch out in comfort, without the bother of removing a seat to get room.

An extension on the suspension pot rod keeps the spring operation as before. The shock absorber is mounted to the chassis in the same relative position to the rear swing arm, so it works normally too.

Nankang 80/145 Camel Foots fitted all round for optimum headway in sandy patches.

The underneath has a rock reforcing plate of A2 steel fitted to protect the sump and gearbox. This is augmented with a spinifex basher rising forward to the front bumper to keep the seeds clear of the fan and cooling ducts.

A set of NightVision flamethrower deluxe 100 watt driving lights above the cabin, controlled by a current diversion switch to avoid alternator stress or winding meltdown, with on dash indication. Yet to be fitted.

Driver assistance equipment includes a colour changing tachometer to monitor high revving in sandy conditions, to avoid brinell hardening of the gudgeon pins.

A sotto voce satellite navigation system so you know when you are lost, fitted with a driver's side sunvisor vanity mirror accessory so you can see exactly who is lost.
Special terretts syndrome scrambling UHF radio for offence free communications, compact size, 40 channels, 5 watt output, with hang up, press to talk fidelity microphone, and optional vox control comms headset.

Composite material, foil and polyester, layered insulation to the interior of the cabin roof, to reduce insolation sourced heat ontake.
The roof to be painted with wavelenth selective reflective paint to further reduce red centre heat stress.

Custom suspended seat squabs with caoutchouc toroid reinforced padding. Quick release fastening for ready use in extravehicular socialising.