Snow preparation for NSW + Road suitability for caravan

sjd70 · 1st March 2005, 04:44 PM

Hi,

This may seem a little premature but I am planning a trip to the NSW snowfileds for July. I am planning on a little skiing but more interested in touring and driving the area (Kosciosko National Park) site seeing etc.

Two questions:

Beyond ensuring that my radiator (Disco '95 Tdi auto) fluid additives are strong enough and I figure out how to prevent my washer fluid from freezing what other preparation is required?

The 2nd question is very specific! Are the main (and mainish) roads in the area suitable for a 17" single axle caravan? The main area I am considering is Jindabyne, Thredbo, Perisher, Khancoban, Kiandra, Adaminaby, Tumut + surrounding areas!

Any advice on planning and vehicle prep appreciated!

PS: Just found a reference to "alpine fuel" (for Tdi) What is this, Where do you get it?

Sean

**rmp** · 1st March 2005, 06:51 PM

Find a snow prep manual or article and have a read. In brief, here are some things as I remember them:

- take chains, and PRACTICE FITTING THEM.
- take waterproof gloves, tarp etc.
- alpine diesel should be available from servos close to areas that freeze
- antifreeze also into washer and coolant, if it isn't anti-freeze already

- read up on snow driving techniques; in brief, engage CDL, use highest possible gears, drive like you have no brakes
- don't put the handbrake on overnight, and get the wipers off the windscreen
- take a spade

Don't know about the roads but I do know trailers and ice/snow are not advisable.

etc.

**Ace** · 1st March 2005, 07:46 PM

I dont know much about snow driving, but i would have thought towing a caravan would be asking for trouble, wouldnt they be prone to sliding around, with little control available from the front? Matt

**rmp** · 1st March 2005, 07:49 PM

Originally posted by Ace
I dont know much about snow driving, but i would have thought towing a caravan would be asking for trouble, wouldnt they be prone to sliding around, with little control available from the front? Matt

That is exactly right. It can be hard enough to control a 4WD let alone a 4WD with a trailer.

**one_iota** · 1st March 2005, 08:00 PM

Towing is not my forte so I can't help there. Most roads affected by conditions will be closed (eg the Alpine Way).

Chains should be carried for some areas.

Arrive in Jindabyne with a "close to empty tank" and make sure you fill the tank with local diesel as they sell "Alpine Diesel" in winter which has a lower gel temperature. Otherwise you will need to light a fire under the rear of the car to get the fuel flowing in the morning. 8O

Try the National Parks (NWPS) for information.

http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/

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