Murray Bridge is the fork in the road. Whichever way you head, the first hour decides whether the trip is easy or expensive.
- The freeway. The descent from the Hills into Murray Bridge is long and steep. Coming the other way, the climb is where undersized tow vehicles and tired bearings show up. Use a low gear, let the van’s brakes do their share, and check hub temperatures at the top.
- River roads. The runs to Mannum, Swan Reach and the ferries are narrow, with soft shoulders and plenty of roos at dusk. Keep speed down and give the ferry crews room to load you.
- The Mallee. Long, straight and hot. Fuel up in Murray Bridge or Tailem Bend, carry water, and watch tyre pressures when the bitumen is cooking.
- The Coorong. Sand tracks and salt. Drop pressures, carry traction boards, and rinse the chassis when you get home.
- Wind. The plains either side of the river are open. Keep weight low and forward and check your tow ball weight before you leave.
A pre-trip service, a weigh and a leak test are the three jobs we recommend before a long trip. We can do all three in the same booking.
