4WD Training

[Strop]

Hi all,

Posted something in relation to this in the general discussion area but no responses so far but I need some feedback ASAP.

I am totally new to 4WD. First one. I have lots of what's, ifs and possibilities going through my head. I think a 4WD course is on the cards but which one and where is the question.

There is Green Oval Experience 2 day course in Queensland in 2 weeks that has vacancies (I think) Level 1&2 Trail Mastery. I think this course is directed at the capabilities of the D3/4 etc. So questions I am seeking answers for.

Is it suitable for a novice?
Is it good value?
Is it better/equal to what I would get elsewhere?
Where else would you recommend?

I need some comments quick please. The only reason I hesitate (probably minor) is that I purchased their 4WD book online and still haven't received it. Open & Honest feedback appreciated - I know Gordon haunts here so if you want to PM me fine. No offence meant to anyone but seeking value as $$$ disappearing quick.

All the best,

Laurie

[DiscoJeffster]

I'll be brutally honest. I got out there in my last Paj and went for it. Learnt from my mistakes.
This car I've read the forum, understand the modes, the DSC off, the tyre pressures, how to use the suspension (extended modes) etc and have put it to good use. I'm not a novice in my opinion, but felt I could learn it myself mostly and the forums.
Each to their own, and there is a lot to be said for a tailor made experience just from the fun perspective

[Lee Jackson]

Hi Laurie,

Have you considered joining the Land Rover 4x4 Owners Club. They have a course which I hear is great. That is what I am planning on doing when I get my real 4x4.

[TuffRR]

The GOE course will teach you about how to use the terrain response and other Land Rover features. It will not teach you safe recovery techniques or other fundamentals that you should know if you are going to be 4wding.

[Cantthinkofone]

Hi Laurie,

I would still consider myself a novice or at least a beginner. I've been to a couple of pay and play days at 4wd areas in the UK, done a few 4wd experience days including the Land Rover one also in the UK and spent 9 days on Fraser Island.

I have also bought the GOE book and would like to do one of his courses at some point. I have to say the book is excellent, it not only gives you in depth advice on the terrain response settings and their appropriate use, but also some common faults and their fixes that you could do in the field plus info on touring and modifications. I am sure the course is this plus a whole lot more. Gordon really does seem to know his stuff, particularly when related to Land Rovers. On this point, I do think that whoever you do a course with, it would certainly be of benefit for them to be Land Rover based.

Cheers,
Andy

[Bytemrk]

G'day Laurie,

Are in Armidale Vic or NSW or WA?.... if you are considering a course in QLD I am guessing NSW.

As stated , the GOE course will teach you lots about your specific car, but I suspect very little about the basics of 4wd safely or recovery.

Joining a club has some big advantages in that the training courses are usually subsidised, you are likely to meet others to go out with regularly and often the club members know a lot about your vehicle too ( depending on the club. There courses are also often in well controlled environments where you can learn and make mistakes safely....

Once we know where you are - you might even find someone on here happy to go out with you to help you get the first pointers. Plenty here go on trips together and travelling with someone is always handy when you do have a problem

[Strop]

I'll be brutally honest. I got out there in my last Paj and went for it. Learnt from my mistakes.

That's me. The problem is that you can do a lot of $$ quickly. I have bought myself some rock/tree slides not because I want to go extreme but because I see it as cheap insurance as I am in mountain country.

Have you considered joining the Land Rover 4x4 Owners Club. They have a course which I hear is great. That is what I am planning on doing when I get my real 4x4.

Lee, I have but closest one is 5 hrs away. Still haven't discounted it though.

The GOE course will teach you about how to use the terrain response and other Land Rover features. It will not teach you safe recovery techniques or other fundamentals that you should know if you are going to be 4wding.

TuffRR, can I assume you have done one of the GOE courses?

On this point, I do think that whoever you do a course with, it would certainty be of benefit for them to be Land Rover based.

Yes, that is why the urgency. Gordon,s last one for year. As I said still waiting on book.

G'day Laurie,

Are in Armidale Vic or NSW or WA?

Always hard that one, but you figured it out.

I have been on the beach with the brother-in-law and it doesn't worry me that much. I think as long as I am not stuck where the wet stuff can get to me fine - no real problem.

Understanding the capabilities of a vehicle in a controlled environment is a good thing. Did the same when teaching learner riders myself. You can then take those new skills or affirmed skills out and practice them.

Will have to check the schedule again to see if there is any recovery on the agenda.

Laurie

[Strop]

Just checked

Level 1 & 2 Trail Mastery: A 2 day training session that will ensure you master hill climbs, mud and fording in your TR-equipped Land Rover. Covers basic to advanced TR driving, recovery and emergency techniques.

Laurie

[rocket rod]

If you can afford it just do it. You can never have too much training or gain too much experience. I've done two of Gordon's courses and one tag-a-long. All worthwhile. They are suitable for novices but you will be pushed to do things you wouldn't normally take on, but when you complete the task you'll be all smiles.

[TuffRR]

TuffRR, can I assume you have done one of the GOE courses?

I have. And didn’t see a snatch strap or winch all weekend….