OAUSA Net – March 06, 2014 - Vehicle Field Repair

[toms]

OAUSA Net – March 06, 2014 - Vehicle Field Repair

Tonight’s topic is expedient field repair of your vehicle. If your vehicle breaks down in the outdoor, you may be facing a survival situation if you cannot repair it.
We hope we have time to talk about the most common break downs, tools, skills, and spare parts needed. Here is our list – somewhat anecdotal but a good start:
2) Bent tie rod
3) U-joint http://www.4x4training.com/Articles/Veh ... oints.html
4) Broken axle
4) Broken drive shaft
5) control arm bracket torn off
6) Torn brake line
7) Radiator leak
8) Transfer Case Linkage
9) Loose track bar
10) Hose leak
11) Hydro locked engine
12) Fan belt trashed

Before you point out that the numbering above is off – we have reserved tires for the number one problem off-road. We plan to discuss tires in a separate net.

We are looking forward to a lot of listener participation again, so tune in and share your experiences and "field fixes" for some of the more common mechanical / electrical issues that off-road enthusiasts tend to "run into" on the trail.

Before the net let us know which items you are most interested in hearing about. We can move them to the top of our list to improve the chance if getting to it.

Some thoughts on field repair: Don’t Let a Breakdown Ruin Your Trip
http://www.4x4training.com/Articles/Veh ... Trips.html

[toms]

Product Spot Light - Metal Mender

Some trail fixes can only be solved with a welder.

We have all hear about using two batteries on the trail to do emergency welding repairs. The process involves using two sets of jumper cables – one to connect the 2 batteries together and the other for the ground and electrode. Sometimes a vice grip is used to hold the electrode and the jumper cable is attached to it. The big teeth in most jumper cables and the small gauge of the wire are problematic but It can and does work! Two batteries have enough power to punch holes through quarter inch plate if you want. I have even heard of people stacking 4 or 5 sun glasses together to protect their eyes in order to make emergency welding repairs.

But having the right gear makes it so much better. Anza Products has created an emergency kit for welding with two batteries called the Metal Mender. It is compact enough that you might actually have it with you when needed. You need to practice at home. Stick welding is not simple. And you still have to provide the welding helmet!

http://www.anzaproducts.com/#!metal-mender/cfs9

[DaveK]

IMPORTANT LINKS:

1. Radios in the park:
viewtopic.php?f=45&t=3702

http://www.cityofrc.us/cityhall/cs/park ... edhill.asp

2. Redondo Beach Meet & Greet:
viewforum.php?f=181

[traveltoad]

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