April's Mudface 4x4 Personality
The
star of the show this month is Encik Abdul Rahman. Trailblazing
through Malaysian road with his blue Ford Ranger (intercooler
turbo 2500cc), Encik Rahman is a serious offroader. For his
suspension, he uses 5 speed adjustable Rancho 9000 shocks and
still keeps his existing leafs as "they are still good".
A site to watch, his Ranger spots a set of Silverstone MT117EX
mud tires and 15" Mangels rims, perfect for rough terrains.
And he likes it that way. Perhaps it is the easy maintenance
when it endures bents or knocks.
His
recovery equipment is as complete as any 4x4 competitor. On
his custom made bull bar, he has installed a Warn XD9000i winch.
This powerful winch can take a load of up to 9000lbs. Up in
the front he has powerful Hella lights to light up the track
or roads for comfortable night driving. His recovery equipment
is completed with Jackall hi-lift jack, recovery straps, shackles,
heavy duty gloves and a full kit TJM recovery bag. To protect
his front wheels fender, he has installed side bars connected
to the bull bar and side steps, which are heavy duty made for
use with hi-lift jacks. He is impressed with the ability of
these jacks and puts them in his truck everywhere he goes. To
round up his equipment is a rear bar with spare tire carrier.
He puts a Hella Matador light at the rear for lighting when
reversing and also setting up camp. He is thinking of adding
extra shocks and replacing the torsion bar to get the ultimate
ride.
Encik
Rahman is no newcomer. He has been to various trips since beginning
offroading in 1999. In last year's Sepang Silverstone 4x4 Jamboree,
he won the 9th placing out of 70 over competitors in Category
B (2,010-3,000cc). Despite the serious competitions on Encik
Rahman field book, he still enjoys the family trips where he
can bring the family along for some outdoor fun. He has been
to various 4x4 tracks in Malaysia, usually self organized with
friends or with other clubs like Iguana Adventurers.
When
asked about his perfect 4x4, the Toyota Land Cruiser 80 series
comes out tops because of its toughness. A tough expedition
vehicle of choice for long range trips. With a large capacity
cabin, it is highly comfortable and has a lot of safety features.
He likes the fact that it is also a very family-oriented 4x4.
With its 4.2 diesel engine, power is just a step away.
For those with a 4x4, his advice should be well heeded: "When
offroad, never compromise safety. Use all accesories & equipment
according to the procedures stated in the manual. Be careful
because when in the jungle no one can helps us. Attempt only
if you are 100% confident. Practice & self discipline will
help you to enjoy the sport safely. Lastly, take care of your
4x4 because it will get you out!"