Greetings from Darmain [Archive]

Darmain

14-09-2009, 10:11 PM

Hi Guys,

I'm Darmain, my real name is Dave Sawyer and I live in Chippenham, Wilts.

I drive a LandRover Freelander XeDi with an L-series Diesel lump. I bought it about 2 years ago with the primary role of pulling our caravan. Since then I have to ask myself the question as to why I didn't get a Landy sooner. It is simple the most fun car I have ever driven (Okay, that was a sad admission I know and I may well regret those words :lol:, but it is the truth of it). The car is basically factory spec and is running Mich Synchrone 4x4 tyres all round. Obviously it is able to tow a trailer. I have towed our old 18ft van I would guess about 5000 miles over the last few years, and have now upgraded to a 22ft model.

I have done a little, 'light' greenlaning but have not got involved in any serious sticky off roading. The car has to get me to work every day so I can't break it.

My family and I attended the Hullavington Emergency Services Show last weekend and we came across the W4x4R and G4x4R stands. Now to be honest I didn't know these teams existed. After learning what it was all about from Pete on the W4x4R stand, I thought what a brilliant idea it was. Pete was also happy as I bought a Polo shirt off the stand. :D

I am now seriously considering joining a group. Obviously the Wessex team would be the logical choice. The thing is I have several questions that I need answers to first. Firstly, if called out is the fuel costs covered? I can't see that written anywhere, one way or the other. It is an obvious consideration. My second question is, is a little Hippo of use to the group?

Many thanks for 'listening'.

Dave

Teresa Herefordshire

14-09-2009, 10:54 PM

Hi Dave and welcome to the forum!

Re suitability of your vehicle, speak to Graham Powys and have a look at the pics in the first post of this link below ...

viewtopic.php?f=45&t=911 (http://www.4x4response.info/forum/viewtopic.php?f=45&t=911)

He seems to manage quite well in his .... ;)

If you drive it right you shouldn't be getting it broken! My Disco is my everyday car so whatever I do to it on a weekend it has to get me to work on a Monday. Even when it's had 3 inches of muddy water in it. :oops: The only damage it's had (apart from scratches) was done on the way to work, not off road!

Not sure about all groups but I think our group get around 30p per mile fuel for call outs and I think that is paid by the council if we are called out by them.

Teresa Herefordshire

14-09-2009, 11:11 PM

stephendrabble

15-09-2009, 04:38 AM

Hi Dave, welcome.

stop thinking and JOIN... I could do with some local help as im only in Devizes.

you need to PM Pete Chambers hes our LOCAL guy in wessex.

Steve

BobWessex

15-09-2009, 06:02 AM

Darmain

15-09-2009, 09:03 AM

Since then I have to ask myself the question as to why I didn't get a Landy sooner. It is simple the most fun car I have ever driven (Okay, that was a sad admission I know and I may well regret those words :lol:, but it is the truth of it).

Just to add, I'm afraid you're going through a mid life crisis. Counselling is available but it can't help and most of us will tell you that once you've driven a 4x4 you've gone over to the dark side and there's no hope. Sorry. But the upside is that you will ALWAYS feel superior in car parks! :D And they make you smile when you have to face the drive to work. 8-)

Thanks for that Teresa. Now, as I've just hit the big 40 this news is not good. :lol:

The FL1 is good in that it is not much bigger than our family car, a Citroen Xsara Picasso. Therefore it doesn't stand as as much as a Disco. Well, unless I get silly and put a lift kit on it.... :D

Darmain

15-09-2009, 09:23 AM

Hi Dave, welcome.

stop thinking and JOIN... I could do with some local help as im only in Devizes.

you need to PM Pete Chambers hes our LOCAL guy in wessex.

Steve

Hi Steve,

Yes, I spoke to Pete at the EES at Hullavington and I have his number also.

I am warming up to the idea of joining but just making sure I know what I'm getting into first. Then I have the grounds to make a good choice. Having said that, I'm sure help will be coming your way, based on what I've learnt so far.

Many thanks,

Dave

Darmain

15-09-2009, 12:42 PM

Hi Dave,

I remember coming along while you were chatting to Pete

Fuel and other reasonably incurred expenses are reclaimable via the treasurer. The normal rate is 40p per mile but it is built into our agreements with user bodies that we may claim more in adverse conditions -- i.e. spending all day trying to get 10 miles across hills or through snow.

Things like H/V clothing, vehicle ID etc. we will issue to you so there won't be a cost there.

As I mentioned in my E-mail the other night you need to notify your insurance company, one or two nationally have had an issue but MOST have no problems.

Look forward to seeing you as a member.

Thanks Bob,

Now I have a face to the name.

The fuel thing was a concern. As we all known fuel ain't cheap and its only gonna cost more. It costs me £55 to fill the Hippo at the moment. I do get between 400 and 450 miles out of that though, which I'm pleased with. As long as there is assistance with this cost then I'm happy. All I've got to sort now is the insurance and get my hands on a CB rig. I had a 'portable' Midland rig a long while ago and a mag mount aerial. It ended up in the attic as I had no real practical use for it. A little while ago I tried it out and discovered the rig was dead so I turfed it out. Now I have a horrible feeling the aerial went too. I think the SWR meter was saved though. Will have to have a look.

stephendrabble

15-09-2009, 01:00 PM

try 4x4cb.co.uk i think we can get a discount there is you tell him.

or look on ebay, theres a localish guy in Trowbridge.

Teresa Herefordshire

15-09-2009, 11:15 PM

I am warming up to the idea of joining but just making sure I know what I'm getting into first.

Just join your nearest group! You're not committing yourself to anything. You don't HAVE to go on any call outs - if you get them. You can go along to group meetings, find out more, get advice on what CB to get, find out more about getting some practice off road driving, make contact with other 4x4 owners, etc.

Your only initial outlay is the membership fee and you can take it from there. All depends what your local group gets up to but meet up with some of them and have a chat.

It's really up to you how much or little you get involved and if you weren't keen on taking your car off road (yet! ;) ) you could help out in other ways at shows etc.

Go on, what have you got to lose! :D

Darmain

16-09-2009, 12:15 PM

Hee Hee, its okay Teresa, I'm sold on the idea. I'm just to get in contact with the insurance company and sort that out, then I'll be calling Pete to proceed to the first steps of joining. Thanks for the encouragement anyway. :D

Teresa Herefordshire

16-09-2009, 12:27 PM

Insurance is a bit of a minefield. Does anyone have a "network" answer on what we need to do about it and who are the best insurers who understand what it's about?

I have off road insurance but haven't declared the Response work yet - I may never need it if I'm not called out. I looked into it with my insurer but it seemed to cause complications so I just left it off in the end.

Darmain

16-09-2009, 12:48 PM

If all you are doing is helping out for no financial gain and you are not doing anything that is outside of normal traffic laws then is there a problem. If you are on police escort and being led through red lights then I suspect you are on dodgy ground, insurance wise. Other than that, what difference is this to say taking the plastic bottles down the recycling centre for the in-laws? I'm going to check my policy book tonight, then possibly give the company a call. Mind you I'm always a bit nervious about making contact as I'm sure its all on your file, whether its a claim or just a question.

BobWessex

16-09-2009, 12:49 PM

Try Sureterm or Swinton

I'm with Swinton with volunteer driving expressly included.

Sureterm, I have been told that they are worth talking to. IF called by Dorset Police we are expressly covered on their vehicle insurance whilst working on their behalf. I hope to have that built into our agreement with neighbouring forces.

Darmain

16-09-2009, 04:39 PM

Well, I made the call!! At first it was very negative. Can't possibly do that as it increases the risk weighting. Then the lady had an idea and went off to talk to the underwritting guys. She was gone about 10 minutes. When she came back it was good news. Yes, I am covered, provided that the work is purely voluntary and I am not to operate a blue light. A note has been added to my policy. Looks like the jobs a good un. Right, I know what the next step is. :lol: :D :D

stephendrabble

16-09-2009, 05:17 PM

so Ill be meeting you at the next pub meet.

early october i think he said..

right pete?

BobWessex

16-09-2009, 07:56 PM

Yes, I am covered, provided that the work is purely voluntary and I am not to operate a blue light. A note has been added to my policy. Looks like the jobs a good un.

DEFINITELY NO BLUES, and Orange/amber only when stationary (or moving slowly) to alert members of the public to a possible hazard,

Right, I know what the next step is. :lol: :D :D Yeap follow this link (http://www.wessex4x4response.org.uk/join.htm)

Darmain

16-09-2009, 08:23 PM

Yeap follow this link (http://www.wessex4x4response.org.uk/join.htm)

Tis done!! :D

BobWessex

16-09-2009, 08:37 PM

received and sent to our Recruitment Officer, (on holiday) expect a reply in a few days.

Darmain

17-09-2009, 08:50 AM

Many thanks Bob.

Darmain

17-09-2009, 09:26 PM

Right, getting a rattle on now. The CB equipment search in the attic proved fruitless. I guess that I must have decided I would never use a CB again and turfed everything out. :( So I have been on to various sites but settled on the 4x4CB.com site. There I discovered the special offers and used that to built myself a reasonable system. I didn't go for the cheapest as this equipment will have a serious purpose and I want it to work.

The next challenge is to find somewhere to mount the thing in the Hippo.....

Tony Ferrari

18-09-2009, 10:45 AM

Dave

Having the same dilema myself at the moment, is your Hippo a three or five door as I have a cunning plan for my three door, involving the inbuilt sunglasses holder.

Cheers

Tony

Darmain

18-09-2009, 12:20 PM

Hi Tony,

My Hippo is a five door station wagon so no removable roof.

I have one idea to try and that is under the grab rail on the passenger side. In my Hippo I don't have a passenger side airbag so I'm going to have a look at removing the panel where it should be and seeing if I can fit the rig in there.

Alternatively I have considered getting a steel plate cut to fit the dash tray in the centre and then fitting the mounting bracket to that, the rig then secured on top of the dash. Not so keen as in an accident it could get airbourne and hit people. Also I would have to take it away and hide it when I'm away from the car.

I had to get myself up to date on CB as I see there are now 80 channels available. Quite amused by this as when I used to use a CB in the mid 90s, so many channels were never used, so what do we want another 40 for? I note that some rigs have selectable AM/FM but I assume that AM and its SSB derivatives are still illegal in the UK. I gave up with the rig in the past as all it seemed to have was people getting up on Westbury White Horse and seeing how far they could reach out. Trouble was I didn't have enough gain to get back to them, not that I actually wanted to. I used to put the rig on in the evening while doing other things. There was a couple of blokes always having a good old natter. Regularly on every night and the conversations used to be better than television. Then the rig failed, I think due to a broken wire in the mic cable. I'm an electronics engineer by trade but not into RF and although I fixed the problem and proved it out I never got that rig to work again. Assume something else had given up. RF electronics is a black art to me so I didn't spend to much time in diagnosing the problem. The rig ended up in the attic and eventually got turfed. Hopefully this new equipment will have a good SWR value and a better range.

As a matter of interest I gather that CB still uses "Handles". How does this generally work with the 4x4 network. Is there a standard that you follow? Do you use Q codes and / or 10 codes?

Many thanks,

Dave

BobWessex

18-09-2009, 06:35 PM

Hi Dave standard call signs (membership number) as shown in signatures and on the vehicles. We tend to avoid 10 -codes Q- codes etc. They can easily add to confusion.

For instance 10-4

used in the USA means message understood.

used by some UK Police services means on scene

used by some UK fire services means mobile from scene returning to station.

General guidance from the "powers that be" is that wherever possible messages should be in 'clear english'. That way everyone understands the message.

Teresa Herefordshire

18-09-2009, 09:12 PM

Real names can work quite well too and they're easier to remember!

We have too many Marks in Wales group but saying Mark S or Mark M makes it pretty clear.

BobWessex

18-09-2009, 09:31 PM

Agreed but when working with other teams, if WE01 is behind GR01 "GR01 from WE01" saves trying to remember the guy's name.

Even though I know that GR01 is Darren

Darmain

18-09-2009, 09:46 PM

Am I allowed to ask how many units there are in the Wessex team?

BobWessex

18-09-2009, 10:14 PM

Of course you are.

I believe off the top of my head that the count is now up to 56 with roughly half a dozen applications at various stages through the process

Teresa Herefordshire

19-09-2009, 09:38 AM

Agreed but when working with other teams, if WE01 is behind GR01 "GR01 from WE01" saves trying to remember the guy's name.

Even though I know that GR01 is Darren

Fair enough. And a bit more professional than "Oi, you in the blue Disco!" ;)

Haven't yet worked or been out with people who have numbers on their vehicles as neither of my groups have started using them yet. I'm sure we will as we get more organised and I'm sure it would be better for recognition especially at night.

stephendrabble

19-09-2009, 10:16 AM

[quote name="Teresa Herefordshire"]
[quote name="BobWessex"]

Fair enough. And a bit more professional than "Oi, you in the blue Disco!" ;)

quote]

that works too im sure, but not if you got 3 blue ones...

or you just get 3 people answering you..

Darmain

22-09-2009, 10:13 AM

Right, latest news!!

The CB kit turned up yesterday and last night saw some busy work getting it installed and working.

Installation was fairly staright forward. In the Hippo there is a comparment that houses a passenger airbag, which my model doesn't have. It offered itself nicely to holding the rig itself. Then came the dilema. The aerial is proving a pain to tune up properly so I felt it necesssary to have the SWR meter in the circuit all the time. Where to put that? In the glove box, there was a nice position for it to sit and its wired up such that all the connections occur inside the dashboard space and not in the globe box itself. Meant drilling some sizeable hols in the back of the globebox though.

Aerial tuning is proving a right pain. I've got two aerials and a mag mount. The 5 foot springer won't give me a better SWR than 2.5 and doesn't seem to be able to adjust long enough to improve on this. However, the little wip aerial got the SWR so low that I thought there was a fault. Naturally it isn't going to radiate as well so I'd rather get the springer working better. More work to do here.

Last night I tried it out, but try as I might I couldn't get a response to my requests for a rig check. I then went for a drive up to a high point looking over Swindon and got a copy from Corsham, which is in the opposite direction. :roll:

Now I remember why the old rig was never replaced. CB, isn't it a wonderful commmunication system.......

stephendrabble

22-09-2009, 10:29 AM

give me a call some time, we can meet up, Iz only be in Devizes.

I can never find any one on the CD either.. Was thinking it was bust..

be god to make sure both are working. as when on call out we are on-air and know we are.

Steve

DaveRoberts

22-09-2009, 08:53 PM

Hi Dave, good to see you here too :D

Hello everypeeps. Recently joined Wessex 4x4, got the CB, magmount (until I decided where to fit the kit) and I'm another Hippo like Darmain. I've played a couple of times on Salisbury Plain so I'm quite comfy with the car's capabilities ;)

I've just been granted access to the forum and I'm looking forward to joining in and helping out.

Dave Roberts WE18

PS, noted a certain WE01 circling the M25 last saturday too :mrgreen:

BobWessex

22-09-2009, 09:02 PM

Ah you should have given me a wave.

Had to do a quick run up to Watford & return.

Darmain

22-09-2009, 11:23 PM

stephendrabble

23-09-2009, 04:47 AM

Wey Hey, its a small word!! I know of Skynet as a buddy on another 4x4 forum. This is great news to see you're a W4x4R member. Steve will be happy also as this is more local company for him. Afraid you're out numbered by Hippos now Steve. :D

Meanwhile, my enrolement is progressing nicely. :D

the more the merrier.. but dont hippos get stuck in the mud? LOL

any way, be nice to put a face to a name when we all meet up at the next pub meet..

DaveRoberts

23-09-2009, 08:50 AM

Ah you should have given me a wave.

Had to do a quick run up to Watford & return.

I was going to, once I saw the sticker in yr rear window but couldnt catch you in the traffic. Besides which I had a small trailer carrying various items required by today's Uni student, namely his comfy leather chair, thick duvet and flat screen TV!!!

Tony Ferrari

05-10-2009, 08:31 PM

Bob

You were in Watford and you didn't pop in for a cuppa (only 15 miles away) :D

Actually good job because I was away in Wales!

This was followed by a week in the Lake District that turned out to be the most expensive holiday I have ever had...

There's a clue in my avatar :mrgreen:

Tony

stephendrabble

05-10-2009, 08:42 PM

Wey Hey, its a small word!! I know of Skynet as a buddy on another 4x4 forum. This is great news to see you're a W4x4R member. Steve will be happy also as this is more local company for him. Afraid you're out numbered by Hippos now Steve. :D

Meanwhile, my enrolement is progressing nicely. :D

thats OK, still find my Red T2..

http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr9/zippy656/13-09-09_1326.jpg

just find the arial..

http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr9/zippy656/05-09-09_1655.jpg

I did try to hide it in the Devizes Carnaval though... didnt work

Darmain

18-10-2009, 08:55 AM

Hi All,

It is with regret that I have had to inform the recruitment officer that I am no longer able to pursue my membership of W4x4R.

Unfortunately, am unexpected problem has occurred for my family, which means I will be having to spend more time with them.

I wish you all great success in your future missions with your respective teams and I thank you all for all the help and support you have shown me in the past month.

Very best regards,

Dave :cry:

BobWessex

18-10-2009, 05:10 PM

Hi Dave you have a brief PM, if things change and you later feel that you have the time you'll be more than welcome

Darmain

11-01-2010, 11:29 PM

Hi People,

Darmain is back!!

I applied to join back in September last year. The application process was running a little rough at the time (I see improvements have been made :P ). Then we had a significant potential health problem in the family, that threatened to turn everything on its head. It was a really scary time and I realised I was needed at home and so until I knew where everything was heading I decided it was best not to make commitments elsewhere.

Well I'm pleased to say, following several hospital visits, that all is now well and normal life has resumed in our household. I'm sure you will appreciate how grateful we all are for that.

Well, the current weather conditions reminded me of all the groups dedication to help out. I've been watching the Wessex website and see that its all hands to the pump kind of thing. I've been helping out family and friends in the Hippo, which has proved itself to be a formidable machine on snow and ice. It seemed to me that perhaps I could still be of use.

I've been in contact with Dave Roberts with the intention of joining the local guys at one of their meets. I want to get my head back round what is involved and how things work before I start filling in forms again. After that then I hope to be able to join you all.

I see there is another person for Chipenham that has joined so I'm sure they will appreciate some help. Besides, I have cut my dashboard up to fit this CB kit. May as well make some use of it. :lol:

BobWessex

11-01-2010, 11:36 PM

Hi Dave,

You might find that recruitment is back to a little rough again I'm afraid, due to the number of applications in the last week. We have received 38 applications since last Tuesday, which will take a little time to process

Darmain

11-01-2010, 11:42 PM

Hi Bob,

38 applications!! Crickey, that sounds like good news. Do you need more? I mean I'd like to make myself useful but only if I am needed.

DaveRoberts

11-01-2010, 11:45 PM

However you will get the local processing sorted fairly quickly ;)

You know where the forms are mate and I'm sure I have a copy of the Dorset Police form on my HDD somewhere :D

Now, whose round is it??? :lol:

BobWessex

11-01-2010, 11:47 PM

Dave, the more we have the less the work load so "yes please".

Darmain

11-01-2010, 11:47 PM

Just tell me where and when Dave!! :P

DaveRoberts

11-01-2010, 11:48 PM

stephendrabble

12-01-2010, 06:20 AM

sort out a day, Ill go see about the room !!!

however I'm sorry to say i don't know the postcode for the pub!

but as I can see the PUB from my house I'm sure mine will be good enough..

SN10 3EH. if you can see the pub, me thinks you shouldn't be driving

DaveRoberts

12-01-2010, 08:02 AM

Same street, same postcode ;)

DaveRoberts

12-01-2010, 08:18 AM

Apart from this weekend, where I am free, the next date I can be available is Sat 30th before 6pm (in work at 7pm) for a group docs check.

BobWessex

12-01-2010, 08:45 AM

Guys, before you get carried away with checking new members PLEASE ensure that John T is up to speed, he has a large number of applications to process.

DaveRoberts

12-01-2010, 09:12 AM

True....... sowweeeee

[edit]

5th Feb, 8pm, Cavalier Pub, Devizes.,,, :D

Darmain

16-01-2010, 06:31 PM

Crikey, just spotted the edit there Dave, February before we meet. Thats a shame. Perhaps we can meet sooner and less formally if poss. What about Stephen also as you two seem (from my perspective) to be the two local boys. Your job is to get me to join!! http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_e_smile.gif

Darmain

17-01-2010, 09:38 PM

I have a question.

What arrangements do people have with thier employers regarding call outs?

I sent an email to our HR officer and explained 4x4R to them. I pointed out that for small scale call outs during work time then it is clear that I can not respond. However, if there was a big incident such as the floods in Gloucestershire then there maybe more of a need to be away during work time. What, I wanted to know, was the companies policy on this. I have been met with silence with regard to this email, which is not untypical for her, or HR people in general.

Then I spoke to a collegue that rides a "Blood bike" and his view was that the company frowns on such involvements. He gets no support at all. Well, that kind of puts it in perspective I suppose.

I just wondered how this sort of thing works with those of you that are members.

Still intend to join though so no worries there. Got to have a life outside of work, that I firmly believe.

Teresa Herefordshire

17-01-2010, 10:41 PM

I sent an email to our HR officer and explained 4x4R to them. I pointed out that for small scale call outs during work time then it is clear that I can not respond. However, if there was a big incident such as the floods in Gloucestershire then there maybe more of a need to be away during work time. What, I wanted to know, was the companies policy on this. I have been met with silence with regard to this email, which is not untypical for her, or HR people in general.

I checked with my Personnel Dept who said they are looking into the policy for volunteers. In the meantime, take any time off as holiday or flexitime. Last week I chose the days I knew would be quiet in work to register as available for responding. But usually if it's bad enough for us to be on call outs they will have sent us home anyway. On the first bad snow day, I went into work and was called out at 9am so took it as holiday. Hardly anyone else made it into work - I assume they didn't take it as holiday! As I work flexitime I can make it up at other times so not too much of an issue unless we had a long term situation - which was starting to happen with the snow - 10 days of call outs.

One thing I did though was to let them know if they needed help in getting staff home I would be available for that - and offered to bring one of the directors in to work! Hopefully that will go in my favour! http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif And it is good PR for the organisation if they support this sort of thing.

BobWessex

17-01-2010, 10:47 PM

I am fairly lucky that my employer views us in the same light as the RNLI, Special Constables, Retained Firefighters & similar, in fact after a brief write up in the internal mag last winter they have been runniing a series on "those who volunteer" featuring all those roles that I have mentioned and several others. The general view is that if an employee is likely to go out of his way to help the community he is likely to have a similar attitude to work. They are fully aware of my role at both national and local level and seem to have no issues with it.There have been occasions when they've asked when I'm going to leave for a 'shout'. The biggest problem from my point of view is just to ensure that I don't run out of'holiday' -some holiday- otherwise I have to take it as unpaid leave. There've also been occasions, Pandemic Flu for instance, when thay've asked me for the latest info as they know that I have easy access to some documents that they don't

On the Wessex site we have a proforma letter that can be sent to employers - I am conscious that we mustn't take the mcikey, so usually discuss anything likely to last more than a day or two.

TimChilde

17-01-2010, 11:58 PM

I work as a trainer - so it kinda helps if I'm there at the same time as the students http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_e_sad.gif

The only down side to my job is the inflexibility.

WessexMario

18-01-2010, 03:43 PM

Hello Dave from sunny Chippenham (as you live there you'll know I'm fibbing) http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/rolleyes.gif

Mario

Darmain

18-01-2010, 08:52 PM

Hi Mario,

You were fibbing anaw. When I got home there was no sun, in fact it was dark. I'm most disappointed!! http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_e_biggrin.gif

Darmain

06-02-2010, 04:56 PM

Hi People,

Well, here's the news. I went along to the local meet in Devizes last night and meet some Wessex members and some other potential members. We had a good chat and a good evening. Lots of things discussed and lots of questions answered. So, am I still sat on the fence? Well, no. The application form is submitted and off we go. Looking forward to this.

Cheers,

Dave

BobWessex

06-02-2010, 06:05 PM

Application form received http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_cool.gif

Tony Ferrari

07-02-2010, 05:47 PM

Welcome Dave!

That took a bit of time but nice to see you finally made it.

And as for that original question about the suitability of a Freelander, well what do you think....

http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t9/MadCowPhotos/My%20Freelander/1BragburyLane29.jpg

stephendrabble

07-02-2010, 06:45 PM

Hi Dave, great news paper work is in..

not all we need is some thing to do..

maybe well meet up some time

Darmain

07-02-2010, 07:42 PM

Thanks very much chaps. It took a while for various reasons but mainly, and recently, because I wanted to make sure that I knew exactly what I was letting myself in for and to be sure I could fit this into both my life at home and work and into the lives of my family. The answers are all there now. The only real way to find out for sure is to do it.

Well, to Steve's message, I suspect I will be seeing you sometime. When's the next pub meet for a start? http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_razz.gif

To Tony's message. That looks very much like my FL. I found its handling of the snow and ice as just outstanding. I took the step of taking it places that would otherwise have been inaccessable in a normal road car, namely the little lanes on steep hills that had seen little traffic and were covered in snow and ice. With careful driving it handling was spot on. I know the Freelander is considered by some to be not a proper Landrover, and it is true that the Discos, Rangys and Defenders are better in the really rough stuff. However, from my contributions to another forum on Landy's I get the impression that the severe weather, while on road, conditions is where the FL really shines.

What I have not discovered yet is how deep a snow fall it can handle.... http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_eek.gif

Okay, so now that I've started the joining process I had a think about equipment that I should kit the car out with. I already have a small first aid kit on board (having children warrants this) and I've recently refurbished that so its a good start. When the snow first arrived I invested in a reasonable tow strap, a 15 ft strap rated at about 900Kg. Not massive but good enough for most things. It was just in case I came across anyone that was in trouble. As it turned out I didn't, but I was prepared. I've also got a reasonable rechargable working light and a 80 channel CB.

Now, things I am considering investing in, in some sort of order of priority are:

Fire extingusher.

Basic HAM license.

2m radio system.

Second set of hubs, fitted with reasonable all terrain tyres. Not quite so necessary and dependent on money.

The HAM license and kit is based on a conversation at the meeting last Friday, where it was suggested that CB was next to useless. Now I have a technical background and although radio is not my strong point, I have dabbled in years gone by, So I do recognise that the 2m system is superior in range. A friend of mine is a HAM and I've seen what his kit can do. The question I have is this. Is the CB (which I did buy exclusively for 4x4 response) actually useless? I'm going to leave it in the car as its short range operation is okay and more people are likely to have one. However, is the 2m rig a good investment? I don't mind spending a bit to help but I don't want to two radios that have no real use.

Comments and suggestions are always welcome. http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_e_biggrin.gif

Many thanks,

Dave

stephendrabble

07-02-2010, 07:47 PM

Well, to Steve's message, I suspect I will be seeing you sometime. When's the next pub meet for a start? http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_razz.gif Dave

you know where the pub is..

text me, ill pop along! any day after 8pm..

easy. thats sorted now!

BobWessex

07-02-2010, 09:36 PM

Thanks very much chaps. It took a while for various reasons but mainly, and recently, because I wa

Okay, so now that I've started the joining process I had a think about equipment that I should kit the car out with. I already have a small first aid kit on board (having children warrants this) and I've recently refurbished that so its a good start. When the snow first arrived I invested in a reasonable tow strap, a 15 ft strap rated at about 900Kg. Not massive but good enough for most things. It was just in case I came across anyone that was in trouble. As it turned out I didn't, but I was prepared. I've also got a reasonable rechargable working light and a 80 channel CB.

Now, things I am considering investing in, in some sort of order of priority are:

Fire extingusher.

Basic HAM license.

2m radio system.

Second set of hubs, fitted with reasonable all terrain tyres. Not quite so necessary and dependent on money.

The HAM license and kit is based on a conversation at the meeting last Friday, where it was suggested that CB was next to useless. Now I have a technical background and although radio is not my strong point, I have dabbled in years gone by, So I do recognise that the 2m system is superior in range. A friend of mine is a HAM and I've seen what his kit can do. The question I have is this. Is the CB (which I did buy exclusively for 4x4 response) actually useless? I'm going to leave it in the car as its short range operation is okay and more people are likely to have one. However, is the 2m rig a good investment? I don't mind spending a bit to help but I don't want to two radios that have no real use.

Dave, don't buy a radio yet before you get the licence wait to we next have some training sessions set up.

Re the CB always worth having as they are absolutely invaluable for short range vehicle to vehicle (convoy) comms leavng the 2 metre band free for vehicle to control commsunications.

stephendrabble

07-02-2010, 09:43 PM

Darmain

07-02-2010, 11:35 PM

hi, talk to JIM at http://www.4x4cb.com/

Very helpfull, got me sorted CB wise..

Pete was going to looking getting some radio training sorted. so hopefully a few can get our licence sorted

Hi Steve, Got the CB already and all fitted and working. It was the suggestion it was no use that had me scratching me head.

nb.. not sure hoe Mrs will like the idea of another arial though...

Tell her the porkupine look is in this year.... http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_mrgreen.gif

Darmain

07-02-2010, 11:43 PM

Dave, don't buy a radio yet before you get the licence wait to we next have some training sessions set up.

Re the CB always worth having as they are absolutely invaluable for short range vehicle to vehicle (convoy) comms leavng the 2 metre band free for vehicle to control commsunications.

Hi Bob, My thoughts exactly. I was trying to verify the need for 2m. If its useful then I'll go for it so please count me in on the training.

And sorry to Pete C, who when he asked if I wanted training I replied "No". In retrospect, that was definately the wrong answer.

Lets hope I don't get the bug and end up with a serious array in the back garden. http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/icon_mrgreen.gif

That'll take some explaining to the wife!! http://www.4x4response.info/forum/public/style_emoticons/<#EMO_DIR#>/unsure.gif

stephendrabble

08-02-2010, 05:50 AM

im up for any training.

just fitting it in around life is the hard part

Darmain

08-03-2010, 01:12 PM

Latest news. Been to the induction in Sherborne, which was really interesting and useful. Now got the CRB interview tomorrow evening. Sorted!! :)

stephendrabble

08-03-2010, 01:14 PM

Whos that with Dave?

Darmain

08-03-2010, 01:15 PM

That'll be Russ L!!

stephendrabble

08-03-2010, 01:44 PM

thats cool, save you coming ove to Devizes again..

Darmain

08-03-2010, 03:21 PM

Well, true, but I have to go to Farley Wick instead. :D

Whens the next meet then Steve, anything planned?

stephendrabble

08-03-2010, 08:08 PM

not that i know of..

but if you want to pop over i can always make that LONG walk to the pub... any time

Teresa Herefordshire

09-03-2010, 12:43 AM

Hard life innit Steve ...;) Maybe you need to move the pub a bit nearer.

stephendrabble

09-03-2010, 06:54 AM

lol, no thanks!

its close enough, to be nice. and far enough away so we done hear kicking out time..

would take loner to open the car start it and reverse out the drive than it would to walk.

Darmain

09-03-2010, 11:14 PM

Well, that the next hurdle cleared. I had my interview at the Fox & Hounds at Farley Wick near Bath. Many thanks to Russ for doing the honours. Now lets see if Mr Plod is happy with me :D

Put it this way, if he turns up something I'll be the first to be surprised!! :)

Darmain

01-04-2010, 02:48 PM

Woo Hoo!! I'm now a number!! :D:D:D

TimChilde

01-04-2010, 06:59 PM

Woo Hoo!! I'm now a number!!

Finally ;)

Of course you could have done it the easier way through the West Midlands enrollment procedure.......

1) Turn up at the pub for the meeting
2) Buy Chairman and Vice Chairman a drink
3) Repeat step 2 until number is allocated

:D:D:D

Teresa Herefordshire

01-04-2010, 09:30 PM

And that will get you onto the Committee! :p

Sorry Tim, I forgot to do the "buying a drink" part. But then I'm just a visitor so I can get away with it I hope! :)

Darmain

02-04-2010, 09:48 AM

A question (for a mod). When am I actually a member and when can my account on here be upgraded to the membership level? Many thanks, Dave

WessexMario

02-04-2010, 10:56 AM

Patience Dave!
It needs one of our group management to notify the forum admin of the names of new responders, which will happen soon. There's a lot of work going on behiond the scenes in W4x4R. We had an extraordinary recruitment response over the last few months, so when our Membership secretary gets the list together, then all the new guys will get their status set correctly. It does make for less total time expended if everyone is batched up, rather than doing individuals one at a time as and when. Do remember that the management team, as well as the responders, are volunteers and have other lives/jobs/families/etc too.
Bear with us, things are and will be happening...
Mario

Darmain

02-04-2010, 11:53 AM

Please don't take my question as a complaint!! It is be no means as such. Yes, I am fully aware of the huge amount of work that is going on. If it takes a year to do then so be it. I guess that I have always found it difficult to picture the processes that are going on within W4x4R. The question was just an attempt to add another piece that that picture. I think you have done just that. :D:D:D

WessexMario

02-04-2010, 12:33 PM

Please don't take my question as a complaint!!

Not at all. When you're waiting for things to happen it can feel like forever, and enthusiasm and impatience can be confused. (I suffer from both).

On another note, the plans for the Am.radio training are progressing. Dave WE57, our group Training Manager, is juggling trainees, venues, instructors and dates, so it's all in the air at the moment but it shouldn't be too long before all the pieces fall into place and we can announce firm plans for the training.

I often get frustrated when things take time.. you know, when you think... "I'll just run that cable from behind the dash to a mount on the roof, then I'll have a coffee break." :D

Darmain

02-04-2010, 06:40 PM

Yup!! I've been doing a bit more to my lighting project. Got the assembly on the roof of the Hippo now, with the front lights fitted, wired, dropped into the car and in a coil on the floor. So their not working yet!! Had to adjust the mounts of the assembly today as it was uncomfortably close to the paint work of the roof. Better now. Also fitted Nylocs to the main attachments to the roof rails, in place of the normal SS nuts. Having the whole lot take off at 60MPH would not be a satisfactory result me thinks.

I have made one decision though. No wurly gig or similar until I've got a green light on the CRB. I don't have any worries with the check but it would be a right pain if I'd bought the kit I can only use for W4x4R and then can't drive for them.