Check-List for Water-Crossings

Category

Check / Task

Vehicle

In croc infested rivers it may be good practice to connect the water passing vehicle to another car using the winch cable. This way it can be recovered without the necessity ofthe driver entering the water.

Connect exhaust extension (if available)

Close doors and windows

Don't lock driver's and co-driver's door (easy escape)

Switch off air condition fanor cover bonnet with a blanket (depending depth of water)

Switch off radiator fan or cover bonnet with a blanket (depending depth of water)

Check diff breathers and extend them if necessary or cool down the diffs before submerging them

Documents

Pack documents in waterproof containers (depends on depth and current)

Category

Check / Task

Hints

Walk through before you drive (pay attention to salties!!!)

Mark critical positions and obstacles

Cross rivers at a recognised ford (if available)

Switch to low-range (engage free-wheeling hubs!)

Cross river aslope against current

On strong current do not drive deeper than the floor of the car

The water may not reach the electrical system. In petrol driven cars the water may not reach the distributor

No water may enter the motors air intake (immediate total motor defect)

Avoid saltwater

Category

Check / Task

Vehicle

Disconnect and store exhaust extension

Switch on air condition fan

Switch on radiator fan

Test the brackes