D4 general queries

[MickM]

I have been viewing this forum for some time now as I have had a 300Tdi Discovery (bought new in 1999 - runout model) and have been very happy with it (Cape York, Gibb River road, East & West McDonald Ranges, Strezleki & Oondnadatta just to name a few places we have travelled in the Disco without any dramas) but now it's time to upgrade to a better tow vehicle for an offroad caravan planned for the near future (currently have offroad camper).

Hopefully picking up my new D4 3.0 TDV6 at the end of the week. I am heading to Cape York on 12 June in the D4 if I can workout a few things with additional battery etc if not then it will be in the ever reliable 300Tdi.

Can an additional battery be fitted in the engine compartment area? To be honest I didn't have too good of look in the engine bay when we took the vehicle for a test drive.

Do the 19" tyres stand up to off road work? Not that the Cape trip or the Telegraph track is tyre shredding rocks like the Gibb River, but am interested in comments by people with a few Ks on their D4s.

I did not opt fo the reversing camera as I intend to fit an aftermarket unit sometime in the future - more questions then.

Look forward to any comments.
Thanks
Mick

[ADMIRAL]

Hi Mick. I suggest you read the FAQ's at the start of the D3/D4 Channel. I would expect most of your queries to be answered there.

The issue of different size rims has been done to death, to the point where you will bring the wrath of the moderators down on your head if you dare to ask another question not already covered. Do a search on the same channel. I think you will be occupied for hours by the threads covering this issue.

The same for dual batteries. It has been pretty much covered.

Welcome to the forum

[GeorgeK]

Hi Mick,

My dealer told me today that they can fit a dual battery system under bonnet, in my new D4 that is currently undergoing PD. I gave them the go ahead on the basis that in the event of any warranty claims I would be better protected. Also they have the car anyway. It is not cheap!

I would not dare to comment on wheel rim sizes.

I hope this helps,

George

[Disco4SE]

Hi MickM, Congrats on your new Disco. You will not be disappointed in the D4 3.0, especially when towing.
In standard form with the 19" rims (there you go, I mentioned them) they are an extremely capable vehicle.
There is a 'Traxide' duel battery system available. I had mine done by my local auto electrician using an 'Optima' battery. Had it done just before Christmas and has been running my fridge non stop since with no problems. It may pay you to investigate the dealer option like George. That way there are no warranty issues.
BTW: My auto electricain also fitted an after market reversing camera at the same time they did the second battery. Extremely happy with it as well.
As Admiral mentioned, have a look at the posts on 19" rims, batteries etc and form your own opinion. May pay to talk to some experts in the field as well.
Cheers, Craig.

[CSBrisie]

GeorgeK - which dealer? I'd be interested in whether they will do that for me here in SA. Also, what type of system did they use...Traxide?
cheers

[GeorgeK]

Hi BlackPerth,

I have sent you a PM with the details.

Cheers

George

[MickM]

Hi Disco4SE, thanks for the info. I have sent a query to Traxide for info on their systems. My understanding is the Traxide systems have the 2nd battery in the rear cargo area - is this correct? Thanks Mick

[Disco4SE]

Not sure about that Mick. Mine went in the black box under the bonnet on the drivers side against the firewall.

[ADMIRAL]

Hi Disco4SE, thanks for the info. I have sent a query to Traxide for info on their systems. My understanding is the Traxide systems have the 2nd battery in the rear cargo area - is this correct? Thanks Mick

Hi Mick,

I see you are getting there. As you will find out from DRIVESAFE, there are numerous options for your dual battery, and the cargo area is only one. The 2nd battery can also be fitted where it was located in the D3. ( in the box at the rear of the engine bay, rh side ) Do a search. There are some good threads complete with pics on what is involved in using this box on a D4. The other location is the clear area at the front of the engine bay on the LH side. Despite criticism on this location being too hot for batteries, there are several battery trays appearing on the market. With the right shielding and a suitable battery ( say Odyssey ) it may work ok.

Keep searching those threads.

[Disco4SE]

Hi Mick, from what I read, people go for the cargo fittment to acheive a larger battery. Mine is a 50 amp hour, which I believe is the largest that you can fit under the bonnet.
Providing that you are driving your vehicle at least every second day, the 50 amp hour should be sufficient. This all depends what you intend to run off it of course.
Well, I think I have mentioned something on just about every post this morning. Time to get of the puter and go to the gym.
Cheers, Craig

[CaverD3]

the Varta 08 Amph will fit with a slight trim.:D

[MickM]

Craig,
Appreciate your input, I have orderd today the traxide (battery in the rear cargo area) system. In my current 300Tdi I have 3 batteries and I intend using the one I have in the rear cargo area in the D4. I have a shelf system in the 300Tdi which I believe I can adapt to the rear of the D4.
I am looking forward to getting the D4 (I hope my wife can pick it up tomorrow - as I am aout of town until friday evening) and hope all is sorted by 12 June as this is the day that I am leaving for Cape York again.
It will be interesting to match my capability in the 300Tdi against the ability of the D4 (OTL tack in particular).
Agan thanks for your input .
Mick

[Disco4SE]

No worries Mick. Hope you have a great trip and enjoy the new D4. I know you will.
Hey, bit rough the wife picking up the new beast!

[ADMIRAL]

Dangerous...may not want to give it up.

[scarry]

Dangerous...may not want to give it up.
Exactly.......

Good luck with the cape trip,remember to let us all know how you go,& the rules are........pics.;)