Thread: Cape York in a 89 Rangie

The main thing to understand is that the track changes with each wet season.

I can't tell you what it's like this year, because I was up there in July last year.

The most accurate advice is the bit you'll get at bramwell.

There are plenty of 'back out of it' options if you think that a particular crossing is not for you - just head to the development rd if all else fails

I go fishing into the wilds of Cape York at least twice a year in my D1 which is located in Cairns with my sons. I generally stick to the southern half.
I agree with most of what has been said. Don't go overboard with gear. The roads are good. Use quiet all terrain tyres. Keep your money - keep it to spend on local attractions and pubs on the way.

In late May you will need extra traction devices if you go looking for trouble, but by July/August/Sept/Oct you just need a comfortable, DUST FREE, 4WD. The corrugations get bigger as the months advance from June so comfortable suspension is a must. The dust gets denser as each month progresses so make sure your car is dust proof.
I would advise to go lightweight - without a roof top tent. You will save a great deal in fuel over the trip - greatly extended range on a tankful. I have attached a picture of what light weight means to me. It is at a typical campsite in Lakefield. You can be just as comfortable and you feel part of the environment. I got rid of my roof top tent 5 years ago.
Unless you camp on the coast early in the season you will not need wet weather gear. If you want to stay on the coast you may get pre-dawn rain early in the dry season. All you need is a tarp or fly for your tent in this case. You can get a bit of wet weather enroute as you leave Rockhampton due to the SE stream weather setting in - that is if you are coming from the southern states.
The RRC V8 is a simple car that very reliable and easy to maintain. It is very comfortable and very capable in standard form. If you need parts or a quick checkup enroute there are several very capable Landrover mechanics in Cairns. I would suggest booking in there on your way to get a checkover.

Avoid wasting too much money on accessories - you wont need them - unless you really want to go looking for trouble. The D1 in the picture attached has double diff locks and a winch - they have only been used in anger a few times in 5 years in that region. However I have attempted to cross some very dangerous creek mouths and swampy areas - but I should have used more common sense and just walked. If you are a solo vehicle you just need to use common sense and the RRC will take you you most places in the dry season.
Enjoy. Don't be like a lot of visitors up there who leave litter at the popular campsites and don't bother to bury their body waste. It is a very common scene up there.

Great advice Peter51. This goes for travel across most of northern Australia. Keep it simple, light weight, any weight low down and off the roof. A mozzie dome / swag is all you want for warm/hot nights. Then throw the fly over if any rain. My goal is always to take as little gear as possible, but lots of good water, great food and some spare fuel. Simplify. Cheers