Buying a 4wd for Uganda

Q. Do I need a 4wd vehicle for Uganda?

It depends on what you intend to do. If you are based in Kampala and only going on safari once a year then a two wheel drive vehicle will suffice. You can always hire out a 4wd. The main roads in Kampala are mostly tarmac although can be pot holed.

What you have to bear in mind is the driving standard in Kampala and Uganda as a whole is poor, to say the least. Therefore, if you are concerned about the safety of your occupants in the event of an accident then a large, strong 2wd (not many available) or 4wd is necessary. If you are intent on seeing as much of Uganda as you can during your stay then a 4wd is essential.

Q. What is the most common 4wd vehicle in Uganda?

The answer to this question is market related based. Organisations and individuals alike go for price, availability and availability of spares at a good price. The market leader would have to be Toyota; followed by Nissan, Mitsubishi and Land Rover.

Q. What is most important feature to consider when buying a 4wd for this area?

Availability of a good spares and service back up is essential. What we have found is that a simple, robust vehicle with a live axle suspension system works well. Although, you lose some of the creature comforts of some of the more up-to-date models you will find that you will have less problems with wear and tear and service costs.

About Tyres, Steering and 4wd Spec's

Q. Why is there a difference between what the tyre manufacture recommends my tyre pressure should be at and that of the vehicle manufacture?

The vehicle manufacturer's recommended tyre pressures are what you should use. They give different pressures for different sizes. These pressures have been worked out to give the most tyre contact with the road whilst maintaining comfort and longevity.

The official manufacturer's recommended tyre pressures do not usually differ that much; but what you have to be aware of is the "unofficial" pressures given by the tyre vendors. These tend to be at a higher pressure than the vehicle manufacturer's.

The only reasons I can think for this is either that they don't know what they are talking about or they want the tyre to wear out quickly so as that you come back and buy another set sooner rather than later!!

Q. I recently purchased a 300tdi, 110 pickup and it already has a steering problem. When I drive on tarmac it feels as if the vehicle is wandering. I have had the wheels balanced and alignment done but it is still doing it. What else could be causing this?

It sounds as though your vehicle has cross ply tyres fitted. What you have described are classic symptoms. Some dealers in this region fit them as standard on pickups as they presume that they are going to be doing heavy-duty work (Also, they are cheaper!!). You should have this checked and get the tyres changed if they are cross plies. Cross ply tyres do not have a suitable speed rating for a Land Rover fitted with a 300 Tdi engine and you could risk them exploding if you travel at a speed of over 80 kph for a long stretch.

Q. I have been told by the local mechanics that a thermostat is unnecessary in my engine - is this true?

A thermostat is vital for the correct running temperature of your engine. If you do not have a thermostat fitted then your engine will not operate at the correct even temperature. i.e. it will be always running cold therefore the engine could wear out prematurely.

A thermostat can be removed when it becomes faulty but should be replaced with a new unit ASAP. You should run coolant in your cooling system to prevent a thermostat from sticking closed. Coolant has a corrosion inhibitor that will extend the life of the parts within your cooling system.

Q. Someone told me there are different vehicle spec.'s. What does this mean?

Some vehicle manufacturers make the same model vehicles with different specifications for different working environments. For instance, Toyota makes a Landcruiser for African conditions. This means that it could have a different radiator and/or suspension. It probably has power steering and air con but it might not have ABS or airbags fitted.

If you are buying a vehicle abroad to bring to East Africa check with your dealer that it is of the correct specification for the environment and that the main dealers, in the area where you are taking the vehicle, have the necessary computerised test equipment to service modern vehicles.

About 4wd Equipment

Q. I would like to buy a high lift jack - they come in two lengths - 4' and 5'. Which would you recommend?

The serious 4X4 boys and girls go for the 5'. Because they can get more lift if they are stuck in particularly bad ruts. Or they need a longer pull if using it as a hand winch. What you have to bear in mind is the room you have available.

I like to store my high lift in my vehicle so for practicality and ease of fitting I use a 4'. It has got me out of some very bad situations. I have only ever wished I had a 5' when I have got a little bit tired when using it as a hand winch. The age-old adage of it doesn't matter what size it is but how you use it applies!!!