4WD Low Range Bush Driving Course

The RACQ Driver Education 4WD Low Range Bush Driving Course aims to familiarise drivers of the key features, capabilities and limitations of their off road capable vehicle.

It also develops a clear understanding of the correct and safe use of a 4WD vehicle in an off-road situation, where protection of their passengers, the vehicle and the environment can be demonstrated.

This course provides participants with the skills and knowledge required to use the appropriate range, gear and technique to drive a 4WD vehicle through and over different and difficult terrain and use basic vehicle recovery techniques.

This 4WD Low Range Bush Driving Course is an investment in your future. Providing mechanical understanding of your off-road capable vehicle, environment appreciation and correct driving techniques. You will be provided with the knowledge, techniques and confidence for all essential areas of off-road driving.

Understandably, to drive a 4WD or off-road capable vehicle efficiently requires additional skill and knowledge. Poor driving habits in a 4WD vehicle can unknowingly increase your vehicle maintenance costs considerably. The repercussions can be expensive, and potentially life threatening.

Whether driving for work or pleasure, greater emphasis is placed on the ‘duty of care’, particularly that of the employer to their employees in relation to driving of a 4WD vehicle. Too often people are injured and vehicles damaged as a result of inexperience or lack of appreciation of potential hazards. Training can significantly reduce the risk to the driver (and passengers), vehicle and the environment.

The RACQ 4WD Low Range Bush Driving Course is a full day nationally recognised, course for licensed drivers, which focuses on building effective techniques to safely drive a 4WD vehicle off road in difficult terrain. This course can be readily tailored to suit the specific requirements of individual clients.

Content

The RACQ 4WD Low Range Bush Driving Course devotes equal attention to theory and practice with a low ratio of one instructor to six participants.

Theory

• identify 4WD specific terms, terminology and techniques
• how a 4WD works and when to use high & low range
• ground clearance
• tyres and tyre pressures
• plan for minimal environmental impact
• essential and emergency 4WD equipment
• trip preparation

Practical

• vehicle inspection & pre-departure checks
• blind areas, turning circle and seating position
• ground appreciation and wheel placement
• use the features of a 4WD vehicle to drive in a wide variety of bush environments
• emergency stall/start procedure – start recovery techniques
• safe and correct use of a snatch strap and Maxtrax