I had expected to bring a review of the Federal mud tyre, but after being assured that Federal would come to the party with a couple of sets to try out, I am still waiting.

So, in the mean time I have fitted a set of brand spanking new Maxxis Bighorn.

I did the first trip on them this weekend and must say I am very impressed. I went up around Marysville, particularly Mt Strickland, which for part is very slippery red clay and then very rocky. From Mt Strickland I then went across to Lake Mountain and Mt Margaret.

Throughout the day the tyres self cleaned extremely well. The inside of the guards continually peppered with the mud from the tyres. The grip was awesome, and to get out after some of the steep sections to find the tread completely clean was astonishing.

If anyone is looking for a new mud tyre give these Maxxis Bighorn’s careful consideration. Just a side note on these, the sidewalls are extremely thick when compared to either the Federal or the BFG mud tyres and the tyres weigh more.

Check out our Mt Strickland DVD coming shortly and have a look at how they performed.

Email: info@4x4galore.com
Author – Doug Johnston

Radiator Fan While under the hood spraying water repellent, check to see what type of radiator fan is fitted. Most 4x4's these days have the viscous coupling type, which means that when the engine is cool enough the fan doesn't spin at full speed. With the engine off, try and turn the fan. If it turns easily, you will probably get away without having to take off the fan belt. If it doesn't turn easily or yours is the fixed type, then you should remove the fan belt, If you don't and water enters the engine bay, the fan may act as a propeller, bend forward and cut a nice round hole through your radiator. It's certainly one problem you don't want to discover once you have completed the crossing. Even if it doesn't affect your radiator, you still do not want water being sprayed around, especially in a petrol 4x4.