The Mud Life - 21 - December 2020 by The Mud Life Magazine

THE MUD LIFE ISSUE 21 - DECEMBER 2020

JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA ISUZU D-MAX BLADE AUDI Q2 FORD RAPTOR ISUZU AT35

History of Jeep pt. 5 Laning Life Reader's Rides Christmas Gift Guide Green Laning

Isuzu D-Max Blade Pages 42-51

Important information Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the contents of The Mud Life magazine are accurate, we accept no responsibility for errors or omissions, nor the consequence of actions made as a result of these. When responding to any advertisements in The Mud Life magazine, you should make appropriate enquiries before sending money or entering into a contract. The publishers and owners take reasonable care to ensure advertiserâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s probity, but will not be liable for any losses incurred as a result of responding to adverts. Copyright All images and material on these pages are protected by copyright ÂŠ Damian Turner. All rights reserved.Â None of the images or material within this magazine may be reproduced, duplicated, copied, sold, resold or otherwise exploited for any commercial purpose that is not expressly authorised by Damian Turner or Karen Lee Turner.

IN THIS ISSUE TURNER'S TORQUE

NEWS

6-13

LANING LIFE 14-21 JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA 22-31 AUDI Q2 32-40 ISUZU D-MAX BLADE 42-51 GOODS & GEAR 52-57 CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE 58-69 JEEP - A HISTORY 70-79 FB PAGE of the MONTH 80-81 WHAT 3 WORDS 82-83 A POOTLE AROUND BOOTLE 84-94 IN OUR GARAGE 96-97 SIMON SAYS 98-99 READER'S RIDES 100-105 RETRO SNAPS 106-107

DAMIAN TURNER Editor-in-Chief, Writer, Photographer, Reviewer

KAREN LEE TURNER (A.K.A. The Muddy Madam)

Creative Director, Layout Designer, Reviewer

F O L LOW U S

THE TEAM

DIRECTORIES 108-111

FACEBOOK - TheMudLifeMag INSTAGRAM - themudlifemag TWITTER - themudlifemag WEBSITE - www.themudlife.co.uk

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Click on the covers to read any of our past issues.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

turners torque A

s we emerge from another lockdown, I can’t help but reflect on what a turbulent year it’s been. Some of you will have been furloughed (who knew that word existed 12 months ago?) and lived quite well, saving money whilst sat at home and putting on weight. Others on the other hand will have lost their jobs, incomes and struggled with unimaginary stresses just to simply survive, it hasn’t been easy, or fair, on a lot of us. With that in mind, I hope that in our small corner of the universe at least, the fact that The Mud Life remains free to read and enjoy has brought a little joy and escapism to many. On the subject of escapism, did you know that along with our Twitter, Instagram and regular Facebook page (all @ TheMudLifeMag), we also have a Facebook group that continues to grow - MegaMudLifers, so join up and enjoy the vibe.

On the subject of our growing Mud Life ‘family’, we want to say a huge thanks to everyone who regularly buys us a hot chocolate on our Ko-Fi page, and especially to those of you who leave us extra donations - you know who you are, thank you. Buying us a hot chocolate on our Ko-Fi page doesn’t just help us to keep The Mud Life free for everyone, but it also gives Muddy Madam and I a massive morale boost knowing that you guys and gals not only enjoy what we do, but appreciate it, too. So, as we enthusiastically bid farewell to 2020 and cautiously emerge into 2021, Muddy Madam and I would like to raise a glass to each and every one of you and wish you all the very best for Christmas and the New Year. Heres to hangovers and turkey butties. Stay safe and we’ll see you all in 2021.

Finally, an apology from Muddy Madam... A

s Damian has mentioned, 2020 hasn't been the best of years, in fact it definitely goes near the top of my 'WORST YEARS EVER' list; though not hitting the top spot as that was the year I was royally dumped whilst living abroad (actually I was ghosted, before ghosting became a 'thing'), then found out he stole all my money, followed by a roof crushing rolling-down-an-embankment car crash, all topped off with my sweet German Shepherd dog, Chrissie, dying in quarantine without me around. Yep, that was a crap year. That said, I think that for many of you 2020 may be at number one in your W.Y.E. list, and that is what I have to apologise for....you see, it's all my fault. Let me elaborate...... I am the person responsible for putting the mag together, and who decides what adorns the front cover, and I made a grave error at the beginning of the year. As you can see from the pic I tempted fate with my optimism, and fate decided to kick everyone in the proverbial nuts in retaliation. I am so very sorry, and I promise that in 2021 I won't repeat the mistake. Please forgive me, and have yourself a very Merry Christmas.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

s w e

Introducing Rayvolt Cruzer & Torino retro styled E-Bikes

The eye-catching, retro designs of Rayvolt E-bikes are the ultimate in retro cool. They boast style and sophistication, advanced technology, and they really stand out in any crowd, with their custom leatherwork, copper accents and retro-style accessories. Easy to charge and easy to ride, you can have full customisation of both frames and accessories, as well as the fully adjustable motor settings via the Rayvolt app. Using this technology, all aspects of the bikes’ performance can be tweaked to suit the rider, from the regenerative braking settings, through to throttle response and top speed. Both bikes feature fast charging - with a full charge achievable at home in just 4-6 hours. The lightweight, high-power batteries give a range of up to 50 miles using electric power alone, and more if you use a bit of pedal power. While both E-bikes are powerful machines, with up to 1000 watts of power available from a compact 48V motor, intuitive control is made easy for the rider with a thumb-controlled throttle and motor cutout activated by touching the powerful hydraulic brakes. Watch a short film about the bikes - https://youtu.be/gJs6sM-kySM prices start at £2,400 more at » http://www.rayvoltbike.co.uk 6

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

s w e

Defender Silhouette lives on with BOWLER

Land Rover has given Bowler permission to produce vehicles using the classic Defender shape in the next phase of development for the UK based manufacturer of all-terrain performance cars and rally raid vehicles. The new agreement paves the way for Bowler to develop a new family of high-performance models, beginning with a project codenamed ‘CSP 575’, a new road-going vehicle with Bowler’s own rallyproven CSP high-strength steel chassis, aluminium alloy Defender 110 Station Wagon body panels and Land Rover’s 575PS Supercharged V8. This project will supplement the ongoing motorsport developments that are the foundation of Bowler’s past, present and future plans. Initial renders of the planned 4x4 provide a glimpse of the rally-derived model, which will be the first new Bowler since 2016. Full details will be revealed early next year, but the competition-inspired off-roader promises to combine potent performance and motorsport-honed durability in a classic Defender 110 Station Wagon shape capable of accommodating four passengers. Founded in 1985, Bowler pioneered the production of dedicated off-road competition cars in the UK. Jaguar Land Rover acquired Bowler at the end of 2019 and its expert team has been

developing a number of exciting projects as part of Special Vehicle Operations. Bowler customers are already benefitting from this relationship as Land Rover SV engineers are helping develop Bowler vehicles and using their engineering expertise to test Bowler products at Special Vehicle Operations’ world-class facilities. Land Rover’s decision to issue Bowler with a licence agreement to build vehicles using the classic Defender shape is a natural progression of this relationship and the new station wagon project represents a unique undertaking – integrating the technology, components and engineering excellence underpinning Land Rover’s SV products with Bowler’s motorsport expertise and experience. The new model will be manufactured in very small quantities at Bowler’s headquarters in Derbyshire, UK, by the same engineers and technicians producing its competition 4x4s. Targeted at customers in the UK and select overseas markets, indicative pricing for the new model is around £200,000 in the UK. For more details, please see www.bowlermotors.com THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

s w e

LAND ROVER'S New Discovery revealed

Land Rover’s new Discovery features the latest generation of powerful and efficient six-cylinder Ingenium petrol and diesel engines, advanced Pivi Pro infotainment and superior comfort and practicality, meaning that the new Discovery remains one of the most capable, connected and versatile full seven-seat premium SUVs in the world. Despite more than3 decades of design evolution there are still certain Discovery DNA design cues that remain, including the clamshell bonnet, the stepped roof and the highly visible C-pillar. To give a new bold and confident road presence it has new signature LED headlights, a revised front bumper on the R-Dynamic features a wider body-coloured graphic and new side vents combine for a more purposeful and dynamic appearance. At the rear there’s new signature LED lights, which are joined across the back of vehicle by a new Gloss Black panel that incorporates the trademark Discovery script, providing a cleaner rear graphic. Inside, New Discovery benefits from enhancements to Land Rover’s cutting edge Pivi Pro infotainment system, a completely redesigned centre console that houses a 48% 8

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

larger 11.4-inch, full HD touchscreen, that I personally feel is a distraction when driving. That said, customers have the option of a full-colour Head-Up Display, putting high-resolution driving information directly into the driver’s eyeline, removing the need to look away from the road ahead. Family versatility is a hallmark of the Discovery, and its optional hands-free Gesture Tailgate can detect the wave of

a foot beneath the rear bumper to open the boot while the Powered Inner Tailgate restrains loose items in the huge 2,391 litre loadspace and doubles as a handy bench. Even with seven seats in use, the boot provides 258 litres of luggage space and all occupants have somewhere to charge electronic devices. New Discovery is available in Discovery S, SE and HSE trim levels, in sporty R-Dynamic guise or as a practical Commercial model with a 2,024-litre cargo area, additional underfloor stowage lockers and the same maximum 3,500kg towing capacity as the rest of the range. New Discovery introduces a trio of new straight-six Ingenium engines, both petrol and diesel, featuring 48V Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology. With an optional Terrain Response 2 technology, New Discovery is always automatically primed to suit the driving conditions while the new Wade Mode optimises the vehicle for deep water fording - even applying the brakes automatically when the driver disengages Wade Mode, to restore full performance from the first application of the brakes. Configurable Terrain Response allows drivers to fine-tune the Discovery’s throttle mapping, gearbox shift points, steering and suspension settings to suit their preferences and requirements, so customers can personalise the driving experience for a specific journey. This is just a short snippet of information about the new Discovery, I could have easily filled a further four pages, so for more info and to build your vehicle, visit www.landrover.co.uk Oh, and prices for the passenger models are priced from £53,050 in the UK.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

s w e

Fiat Panda range get a refresh for 2021 In its 40th year on sale, the Fiat Panda is enjoying a refresh for the 2021 model year as well as an overhaul of the Panda range and trim levels. A fan favourite, the Panda is still available as a 4x4 with the Fiat 0.9-litre 85hp Twinair engine, with the rest of the range using the 1.0-litre mild hybrid unit with 70hp that debuted earlier in 2020. At the bottom of the pile, the Panda Life has body-coloured bumpers, 14” steel wheels, air conditioning and DAB radio with MP3 compatibility and USB connectivity. Next up is the Panda City Life, then the Panda Wild 4x4 that tops the Panda Life range but adds all-wheel drive, rear differential gear locking, and front and rear skid plates. Skipping over the Panda Sport model that joins the Panda line-up for the first time, and we come to the Panda City Cross that comes with features never-before-seen on Panda. On the outside, LED DRL headlights, black door mirrors, handles, roof rack and side sills, 15” alloy wheels, body-coloured bumpers and skid plates complete the look. The new line-up is completed by the Panda Cross 4x4 that receives an all terrain selector with three modes (Auto, Off-road, Hill Descent Control), all-wheel drive, rear differential gear locking and rear parking sensors. The standard specification is completed with red front tow hooks, electrically adjustable and heated body-coloured door mirrors, front and rear bumper with silver skid plates, silver side mouldings and roof rails and dark tinted rear windows. Inside, the new dashboard is made from processed waste wood, while the new black and grey two-tone seats feature fabric in the centre panel made from at least 37% recycled material. The new Fiat Panda range is available to order now and priced from £11,895 OTR for the Fiat Panda 1.0-litre 70hp petrol to £17,995 for the Cross 4x4. For more information on the new Fiat Panda visit www.fiat.co.uk/panda.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

s w e

FORD unveil EcoSport Active

Ford have unveiled a new Active version of the Ford EcoSport compact SUV, from £21,645. Featuring unique exterior and interior styling alongside increased ride height and additional body protection for greater rough road capability, the EcoSport Active will help adventure-loving customers get the most from their active lifestyles.

There’s just one engine choice on offer and that’s Ford’s turbocharged 1.0-litre 3-cylinder petrol unit. The engine develops 123bhp and 170Nm of torque, which Ford says is enough for a 0–62mph time of 11 seconds and a top speed of 111mph. The unit is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and can return up to 47.9mpg on the WLTP combined cycle.

The Active shares most of its standard equipment with the Titanium, meaning buyers get silver roof rails, automatic headlights, cruise control, rear parking sensors, a rear view camera and an 8” touchscreen infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other Ecosport models include the ST-Line for buyers seeking sporty style and Titanium for those wanting luxury and high-level comfort. For more information visit: www.ford.co.uk

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

s w e

Mazda’s latest challenging drive across Kazakhstan

In its centenary year, Mazda’s latest challenging drive event has seen the Mazda CX-30 and its all-wheel drive system put to the test with a 520-mile drive across Eastern Kazakhstan to the border of China, taking in sections of the legendary Silk Road trading route to experience the barren beauty of remote central Asia.

to deliver an even more engaging driving experience.

Mazda’s love of using a drive to challenge man and machine is as strong today as it was in 1936 when a group of pioneers set out to demonstrate the durability of Mazda’s first vehicle - a threewheeled open truck called the Mazda Go. An early example of Mazda’s willingness to take on an ambitious drive, five Mazda-Go models (type KC and DC) set out from the southernmost tip of Japan’s main island chain, and showcased the Mazda Go over 1,680miles of dusty, muddy and backbone-rattling trails, arriving in Tokyo 25 days later.

Starting in Almaty - Kazakhstan’s biggest city, the CX-30s left the modern heart of the city taking on ruthless traffic jams on the way out of the sprawling city and onto the modern A3 highway heading towards the Aityn Emel National Park. Here the CX-30s headed away from tarmac roads onto gravel roads for a dusty and challenging drive to the famous Singing Dune.

The 2020 Mazda CX-30 Epic Drive in Kazakhstan allowed for the perfect demonstration of Mazda’s i-Activ all-wheel drive system. Featuring Mazda's new-generation Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture, the CX-30’s evolved generation of i-Activ AWD works in harmony with G-Vectoring Control Plus (GVC Plus) to control torque distribution between the front and rear wheels, 12

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

The 520-mile Kazakhstan Epic Drive route offered a real mix of driving conditions to put it and the CX-30 to the test – from city streets to modern dual carriageways, to rutted tarmac and offroad gravel tracks this drive had it all.

While not an outright off-road SUV, the CX-30’s AWD system ensured excellent traction on the low grip Kazak National Park roads. From the stunning 150m Singing Dune - named due to the way the winds and moving sands create an eerie almost chorus like sound- the route headed back out of the sub-desert plains with their roaming camels to the town of Zharkent, which is just a stone’s throw from the Chinese border at the South Eastern edge of this vast country.

On day two the Kazakhstan Epic Drive route took the cars south towards the Charyn Canyon and more challenging gravel roads through a series of incredible canyons that look strangely familiar to the wilds of Nevada yet sit in the heart of remote central Asia. After this the route headed west back towards Almaty skirting the vast Kapshagay Reservoir. The Mazda CX-30s completed the Kazakhstan Epic Drive with ease, proving the adaptability of Mazdaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest SUV and the abilities of the i-Activ AWD system. To experience the Mazda MX-30 Kazakhstan Epic Drive virtually, the full experience can be seen in the incredible film below.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

g n i n Life a L

aton E n e r u a by L

Read about green laning as seen through Lauren ‘Sunshine’ Eaton's windscreen at The Green Lane Association, and find out what’s hot, or not, in the laning world each month. Enjoy!

This is the first anniversary of the Laning Life column, and the last issue of 2020, and boy what a year it has been! I’m writing this from England for a change, I’ve come back for a few weeks to look after my mum post-surgery and her Land Rover (it's MOT time! I’ve put three Land Rovers through tests in a week!), and in doing so I’ve re-entered a lock down situation! Wales is currently unrestricted when it comes to travel inside the country, and the day after this issue gets published further changes to restrictions will happen, we may even be allowed a Christmas with our families! But I’m not going to even attempt to clarify the covid situation here just in case! Keep an eye out on the main GLASS Facebook page for updates as they happen.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Laning has been on, off and on again throughout the year, nothing has been black and white. The internet has turned into a free for all of legal disputes and differing opinions, but what has been consistent is the movement towards joining a laning organisation; it has been the busiest year yet in the 25 year history of GLASS! Huge thanks to you all for supporting our hobby through membership! Why not give someone the gift of adventure this Christmas? Keep an eye out on the GLASS national Facebook page for information on how to purchase membership as a gift, we’re starting up a new voucher scheme! But for now, let’s answer a few readers’ questions, as promised I’m dedicating the whole column to you guys and what you want to know…

Readers’ Questions I’m new to laning, why is there no (really good) app/sat nav? The app/sat nav question comes up daily. I added in the ‘new to laning’ bit because those of us who are old hats when it comes to navigating unsurfaced roads know that we’ve never had it easier. I might only be in my 30s, but I didn’t have Google Maps to use when I started driving on tarmac, let alone Trailwise2 or a smart phone to download apps to! Laning information was very time consuming to come by when I started, unlike today when I can check lanes in the whole UK in seconds via a device I keep in my pocket. Whilst I can see how much easier laning has become, and appreciate that a lot, I can also understand why newcomers to our hobby are often baffled, or a bit disappointed, that locating and navigating lanes isn’t simple!

and there are many more UCRs than BOATs open to legally drive. Some of our most well-known lanes won't appear, such as The Wayfarer, because it's a UCR. The DM is a legal document and will stand up in court when it comes to proving legalities, but it doesn't show 'all the lanes', in fact far from it. OS maps do denote BOATs, but many can be restricted, obstructed, or permanently closed, or may become so. An OS map is not a legal document, and does not contain up to date legal statuses, or give any idea of terrain conditions. Nor does it clearly show unsurfaced UCRs, it shows ORPAs (other roads with public access), but they’re not all legal lanes, or even lanes as we think of them, they may well be tarmacked. The list of streets will contain UCRs, but it'll likely also contain the street you live on. How do you tell the difference between a tarmacked street and a 'green lane' before you set out?

I also added the ‘really good’ app bit, because there are apps, but they’re not very accurate, and cannot be relied on alone to plan a trip.

Apps (of which there are several) contain lanes that others have driven in the past, but ask yourself: How much research did that person do before driving it? Has it become obstructed, restricted, or even closed since they drove it? What's the terrain like?

Common answers to how to find lanes tend to be along the lines of... "Just look on the definitive map, they're all there!" "Buy an OS map, they're all marked!" "Buy an app, there's loads on them!"

I don’t know of an app that doesn’t show legally closed lanes, or one that shows even 50% of the total number of legally drivable routes, they are really only a very cursory guide, and the information needs checking before it is used.

These are common misconceptions though. The Definitive Map (DM) and Statement only covers byways open to all traffic (BOATs), but not unclassified county roads (UCRs),

All the above need to be used together rather than alone, and then cross checked against each other to ensure a legal day out on the lanes.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

But what if there was an easier solution? TrailWise2 is an interactive database of almost 20,000 BOATs and UCRs that denotes not just their locations, but legal status and warnings of obstructions, restrictions and closures. It also allows users to add comments and photos to assist other users before they drive. BUT, it is not an app. It was never designed to be an app, it was designed as an online planning tool, and is actually a piece of research (the culmination of 25 years of laning by GLASS members) made available to all who join up. It is unrecognisable from the original version and now includes user comments, photos, details of restrictions, closures, and obstructions, has GPS tracking, eight different mapping base layers, distance measuring tools, drag and drop a GPX file capability so you can easily check a plotted route, highway authority boundary markers, and is continually updated to bring members more new features.

So, while we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have an all singing, all dancing app (at least not yet) things have come leaps and bounds since I started out in the not so distant past, and things will continue to get more user friendly.

What is the easiest way to report a problem on a lane? A quick and simple one!

www.fixmystreet.com Simply enter a postcode, street or place name, click on the lane and follow the instructions! It would be very helpful if you reported the problem to the local GLASS rep via email or the local area Facebook group, that way more reports can be filed and the problem is likely to be addressed more quickly, and TW2 will remain as up to date as possible.

I know it’s OK to cut back branches etc., that you encounter whilst driving a lane if they are preventing passage along the lane, i.e. abating the problem. Slightly different scenario - assuming you walk a lane first to assess its condition, and find it is OK apart from a fallen branch then drive that lane knowing there is a branch blocking it, would that still be classed as abating the problem, or would it fall into planned clearance? (from Charlie, via the Trailwise2)

There is a rumour going around that path extinguishment day in 2026 has not been ‘switched on’ by NERC legislation at the moment. I’m guessing by all the hullabaloo that it has? Unless you know otherwise... (from Nick - Byways, BOATs & UCRs Green Laning in the UK)

Thanks Nick. PED was given royal assent on 26th March 2015. Over the last couple of years PED has become an increasingly hot topic due to the number of DMMOs submitted, and the lack of time, resources, and money local authorities have to action them all.

Thanks for the question Charlie! Legally speaking spotting an obstruction and then returning equipped to deal with it is classed as 'organised clearance', and should only be done with the blessing of the local authority or land owner, and often with relevant insurance.

There is outcry UK wide about the workload the deadline is imposing on council RoW departments, literally tens of thousands of applications have been submitted and they aren’t stopping either! Councils can extend the deadline by 5 years, but even then it looks unlikely that many will be able to get the backlog shifted by the final cut-off date.

It may sound a bit pedantic - at the end of the day if you had a saw with you it’s legal to have cut that same branch on the Saturday, but not on the Sunday if you return knowing you’re going to do it. After all you’re doing every user a favour by removing it whatever day of the week it is - but the law is what it is.

When it comes to any applications to downgrade byways we can all help out by keeping an eye out on local council websites, and opposing any proposed status downgrades, such as byway to restricted byway, bridleway, or footpath.

As we see on social media regularly private individuals do this all the time, but from a national organisation’s perspective we run no official GLASS projects without permission and insurance. We have to protect the safety and rights of our members, and all users of the lanes, so we cannot afford to cut corners where the law is concerned.

GLASS is hot on the case to ensure that we oppose the unnecessary loss of any of our network, and that where possible applications for byway status are submitted. Thanks to NERC there won’t be large numbers of BOAT applications compared to other status RoWs, but where possible applications will be submitted for NERC exempt lanes.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Can I drive past this sign?

The two main signs that are queried are the round ‘no motor vehicle’ and the blue ‘unsuitable for motor vehicles’ sign. The first one is easy to answer - it simply means no vehicles past this point.

Round signs with red borders are prohibitive, they tell you what you cannot do, and are often accompanied by a second message such as ‘except for access’ which means no motor vehicles unless you are heading to your home/business/land beyond that point in the road. It does not mean recreational users can pass. The blue ‘unsuitable for motor vehicles’ sign is an information sign, it is advisory.You’ll often see messages such as ‘dual carriage way ahead’, or blue parking signs informing drivers there is a layby ahead, they give us information, what we do with that information is another matter. Roads with the unsuitable for motor vehicles signs at either end are unlikely to be much fun if you’re driving your nan’s Honda Jazz, but in a 4x4 are often exactly what a laner is looking for. They are usually used because the road is unsurfaced, or is in some way, shape or form more difficult to drive than the average road in the area. We just need to remember that while such a sign would suggest vehicular rights that this may not be the case, always double check to be sure, but the sign itself is not prohibitive.

Sustainability of driving lanes in winter regardless of the surface. This is something I’d like to see addressed. (from Nick, via Mega Mud Lifers facebook page) This is a contentious issue and one that many have very strong feelings about. Lanes are public roads that like any other are legally open 24/7, 365 days a year, and therefore anyone has the legal right to drive them whenever they wish to. But, ok, just because we can doesn’t mean we should, in fact doing so can cause them to become closed to us, which is why GLASS has a code of conduct to follow. Most responsible users (whether members or not) would probably choose to avoid soft surfaced lanes in wet weather, but those who go out and cause the most damage

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

don’t even respect permanent legal closures let alone temporary or voluntary ones. If GLASS were to put a blanket voluntary restraint on all lanes from say November to March, it wouldn’t stop those who cause the most problems and damage, it would only prevent a those who already think before they drive from going anywhere over winter. Many particularly sensitive lanes are subject to seasonal TTROs or VRs already, these are adhered to by the vast majority of our members, but sought out by those seeking a challenge.

Winter/very wet weather is a time most laners concerned with sustainability choose not to lane, or think more carefully about where they lane, but both are peak time for mud pluggers. I see the arguments for and against, but in my area where the majority of lanes are rocky, often bed rock, wet weather isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a factor in sustainability. I do lane in all seasons (but much less frequently in winter), and use winter for clearances as we cannot address significant cut backs during nesting season. November is peak hedge cutting season for GLASS and farmers alike. One argument we use when facing TROs is that closure is not management, and I think it is pertinent here. The reason closure isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t management is that people who drive irresponsibly, illegally, or wantonly cause damage will continue to do so irrespective of the legal status of a lane, whether land is public or private, and theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll continue to do so more often in the wet. This boils down to being a case for pushing for more prosecutions of those who spoil our hobby rather than inflicting more restrictions on those who enjoy it responsibly.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Is GLASS a cult?

A strange one that’s popped up a lot over the last couple of months! I love this question and loathe it in equal measure! I can’t help but instantly giggle when it is asked. I find the notion of our next exec. meeting being carried out in a clearing around a bonfire, while we all wear robes and silly hats and bow down to Matt our supreme and fearless leader, whilst chanting his teachings over and over in a monotone while prostrated at his feet, beyond hilarious! Although it does sound more fun than sitting around a table discussing the latest TRO proposals and project budgets! On the other hand it’s can be a difficult one as often any ensuing dialogue tends to take an unpleasant turn when the questioner is corrected; some people seem genuinely rather paranoid. I’m not sure of the origins of this question to be totally honest! GLASS is a national user group, has circa 5000 members, and, at an educated guess, around 20,000 affiliate members. These members are spread all over the UK and abroad, so it’s not a club and we don’t have mass gatherings where we hand out Kool Aid to those in attendance.

Many people join to get access to TW2, and never contact the organisation once, let alone don a robe and come chanting with the rest of us. Reps are spread in every county of the UK, and have little opportunity to meet each other to form covens or dance around waving the skulls of our enemies, and I promise our new videos do not contain subliminal messages - take a look at our latest video on the next page and check out our YouTube channel for more. We have to maintain an air of professionalism in order to remain a full member of LARA, and to continue our work with local authorities, national parks, and the police force. It would seem fairly obvious that cult status would be difficult to maintain under the circumstances! Members join online, and may never once speak to any of us, and if that is their choice so be it. They’ll receive emails, bulletins, magazines, access to reps and any events they organise, and be welcome on our social media groups just as any non-member would. I’m not sure where we’re all supposed to be secretly communicating with thousands of others, but the main thing is I can assure you that we’re not planning on lane domination, in fact quite the opposite - we fight to keep them open for everyone, not just our members!

• Regular digital bulletins • 2 printed magazines per year • Members website and forum • TW2, the essential green lane route planning tool • • Access to area reps for route planning and advice • Member discounts from selected suppliers • Legal challenges • Extensive knowledge base •

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

That’s all from me this month folks! Thank you for following me throughout what has been a trying year for us all! The plans I had for this column pretty much went by the wayside within the first few issues thanks to Covid, just as all our plans for what this year would bring did, but the support and feedback has been great, as have things where it really matters for our hobby.

Despite us not being able to get out as much as we’d have liked our membership has grown beyond all expectations and we will start 2021 with a larger fighting fund than we could have ever hoped to have put aside for projects and legal challenges. We couldn’t have done it without every single one of you, huge thanks from all of us at GLASS!

We wish you all a very merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year! See you in 2021! Stay safe and happy laning!

Lauren & Celyn (the overlanding dog) x

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

jeep wrangler sahara

Jeep Wrangler Sahara

What is it?

The ‘new’ JL model Wrangler has been with us a few years now, and according to a lot of Jeep folk, it’s leaps and bounds better than the JK Wrangler it replaced. I’m not suggesting of course that the the older JK was a bad vehicle, it isn’t, it’s just that this new model includes many, many improvements.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

On road

I had to laugh the other day, I overheard someone saying that this new version was sluggish and docile, and not very good at all. My rebuttal was simple, with 272bhp on tap from the 2.0 litre petrol engine, it’s anything but sluggish and docile! Press the accelerator and it certainly puts a smile on your face, but I had to keep reminding myself that despite its instant umph, it’s still a short wheel base Jeep on a proper chassis and coil springs underneath, and to ‘take it easy’ on certain roads. Saying that, for a traditional 4x4, the Sahara handles really well, considering. Yes the steering is a tad heavy and a bit numb, and the ride is inevitably choppy for a short wheel base over certain roads, but it’s never uncomfortable, it’s just as you expect, really. We took the Sahara on quite a few decent trips, from Wales to Yorkshire and not once did we find it tiresome, in fact I was smiling for most of the time, as it’s a fun vehicle to drive, it’s far nicer and comfier than the old Defender, as was the outgoing JK, and TJ before that.

Off road

Even with road biased tyres the Sahara took me where I wanted to go. If I needed to go further afield there’s always the Rubicon with its dislocating sways bars and front and rear lockers. Granted, the latter make tackling the rough stuff a lot easier, but that doesn’t mean a Sahara isn’t capable of epic stuff. When four-wheel power is required, the Command-Trac 4x4 System, standard on Sahara, shifts into action to help you get through with ease. Command-Trac is a proven shift-on-the-fly system, with a 2.72:1 low range for rock crawling, and neutral for available flat towing.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Interior

Let’s get the usual negative out of the way first, the drivers footwell is annoying as the transmission tunnel encroaches on where your left foot naturally rests, just where the clutch pedal should be. Annoying as it initially is, it’s something you get used to, and after just a few days you adjust yourself to accommodate the lack of space.

Even with the rear seats in place and folded forward, there’s a surprising amount of space to be filled. On one trip to Wales we packed it with my 1650 Peli case, Robens Vista 400 tent, 2 camp chairs, a couple of tables, 3 BBQs, my Lifesaver 20 litre jerry can and a load of other bits and bobs that would slide between the internal roll cage and removable hard top.

The seats are very comfortable for a fat lad like me, but they lack lateral support. Normally this wouldn’t be a problem, but as I mentioned earlier, with 272bhp on tap you’re tempted to use it. Although the Wrangler itself remains upright when tackling twisty roads, the seats didn’t do too well keeping me in one spot!

Back up front there are 2 cup holders behind the gear stick, all the buttons and switches are within easy reach and there’s a decent amount of cubby space. Add to that a great driving position and you’ll find yourself quite happy behind the wheel.

Being the short wheel base model, clambering into the back wasn’t the easiest for a 6ft 2” 19 stone fat bloke, but let’s be honest, how often will the average owner want to cart someone like me around in the back? To be honest, if I was to buy one I’d remove the rear bench seat completely, which is easily done using two clips, ready for the weekend.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Safety and tech

Wrangler features over 65 available safety features including Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection and Parkview rear back up camera with dynamic grid lines. Keeping things upright there’s also electronic stability control (ESC) with electronic roll mitigation and four standard air bags, in case things go pear-shaped! The instrument cluster features a 7” thin-film transistor (TFT) information LED display in full colour and allows the driver to configure information in more than 100 ways. Integrated buttons on the steering wheel control audio, voice and speed functions, allowing you to keep your hands on the wheel at all times, and of course the Uconnect 8.4” touchscreen system has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

No matter which Jeep you drive, they have the best wash wipe system of any vehicle I’ve ever driven. Pull the stalk and you are momentarily blinded by an ocean of water that’s shot onto the windscreen. To be fair, with the windscreen being at such a steep angle, you need a good washer as the amount of bugs you’ll kill is astronomical!

Engine ’n’ transmission

For the UK market the Wrangler gets 2 engines, a 2.2ltr turbo diesel and the 2.0ltr turbocharged petrol, both are Euro 6/D compliant and linked to an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The former delivers 200bhp and returns around 29mpg whilst the latter delivers 272bhp and returns around 26mpg. Both feature Stop Start technology.

Conclusion

You buy a Wrangler because you want a Wrangler, it’s as simple as that, and you accept its misgivings, though to be fair, there aren’t many of ‘em. Does it drive like a car? Of course not, expecting that, is like buying a kitten and being surprised that your couch has been ripped to shreds, or living off McDonalds for a month and wondering why you’re suddenly fat. That said, the electronic stability control does a really good job of making it easy to live with on a daily basis. At some point I’d love to own a one, a short wheel base Rubicon, whether it’s a an TJ, JK or newer JL, I don’t care, I just want one. price: 2-door starts at £46,315 more at » https://www.jeep.co.uk/wrangler-jl

AUDI Q2

Audi Q2

35 Quattro S Line

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

What is it?

It might be the smallest member of Audi’s range of SUVs, but nearly 5 years after its release, not only is the Q2 the best selling vehicle within of Q range, it’s also Audi’s third best selling car overall, just behind the A1 and A3 hatchbacks. With its compact dimensions, plush interior and a level of build quality that Audi is renowned for, it’s hardly surprising it’s doing rather well for them.

On the road

As well as the odd commute, during my week with the Q2 I took it on a few long motorway journeys, and a fun trip to Llyn Brenig in Wales. Badged as the ’35’, it comes with the 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 148bhp on tap, so it’s a bit nippy. It turns out that the Q2 isn’t the quietest Audi I’ve driven in the way of road noise, I guess I can blame the 19” tyres for that. If overall comfort is important to you, I’d probably avoid both the 18” and 19” wheels. Compared to its competitors, the Q2 has firmer suspension than most and overall feels very sporty, though it never becomes uncomfortable. Whilst enjoying myself around the ‘Evo Triangle’, I found Dynamic mode a bit too harsh, I much preferred the ride when I switched it back to Comfort mode, even when I was pushing it a little.

Despite it’s solid feel, the Q2’s relatively firm suspension does a splendid job of propping up its body through corners, and add to that Audi’s progressive steering and Quattro 4WD system, the Q2 is a car you can drive quickly along country roads with real confidence whilst wearing a huge grin. Fuel wise, zooming around Bolton I was seeing figures around the early 30s, and on a long run around 47mpg.

Off road

I’ll hold my hands up here, I didn’t venture that far off the beaten track with the Q2. However, it does have a fairly decent approach angle and ground clearance for an SUV in its class, so deepish ruts and the odd rock step shouldn’t be a concern, you’ll just be limited to whatever traction your tyres will offer.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Interior

Getting comfy in the Q2, no matter what size or shape you are, will unlikely be a problem as both the manually adjustable seats and chunky flat bottomed sports steering wheel that comes as standard with the Technology pack both offer a huge amount of adjustment. Speaking of the seats, they’re quite firm, not uncomfortably so, and keep you well ‘seated’ around corners with their lateral supports. Apparently, the dashboard was recently updated with buttons and switches that are clearly marked and positioned within easy reach, and digital instrument dials (or a 12.3in Virtual Cockpit in Audi speak) are standard from Sport trim upwards. If you’ve read my reviews in the past, you’ll be aware that a design bugbear of mine are the loss of knobs and dials for heater controls, but full marks to Audi, the Q2 has ‘em! The Q2 offers plenty of head, shoulder and leg room, even for tall fat blokes like me!

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

On the practical side of things, the Q2’s interior offers a couple of cupholders in front of the gearstick, a decent-sized glovebox and door bins that are each large enough to hold a one-litre bottle of whatever you fancy. Six-footers won’t feel claustrophobic in the back, especially if you have six-footers up front, and leg space is decent enough, too. The Q2 comes with 60/40 split-folding rear seats as standard, and the backrests are easily dropped using the levers by each of the rear headrests.

Interestingly, the Quattro versions have a slightly smaller boot space than the 2-wheel drive models as the floor is higher to accommodate the four-wheel drive gubbins underneath it. Whilst out and about, the boot swallowed my huge Peli 1655 Protector case full of my camp cooking equipment that slotted in the back easily enough. Audi has a fine track record of creating smart and well built interiors, and the Q2 is no different, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not going to say that itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plush inside, but it still puts most other small SUVs to shame.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Conclusion

I really enjoyed my week with the Q2, it’s small enough to be nimble in town, and with 148bhp up front along with Quattro tech, it’s a blast everywhere else.

Like most manufacturers, Audi only offers a three year, 60,000 mile manufacturer’s warranty, which includes breakdown cover. You can extend this for up to five years or 90,000 miles, for a cost of course.

As I mentioned earlier, if comfort is important to you, avoid both the 18” and 19” wheels as they give quite a hard, sporty ride, as well as road noise, but if that’s your thing, then you’ll have a lot of fun with the Q2.

price: £37,095 (including options) more at » www.audi.co.uk

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

WARNING

Clothing so FABuLOUS that extreme 'insta' pouting may occur!

livethemudlife.co.uk

ISUZI D-MAX BLADE

Isuzu D-Max Blade

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

What is it?

I think it was around 2017 when Isuzu invited me on the launch of the new D-Max. Whilst some manufacturers in this highly competitive sector opted to increase the size of their engines, Isuzu downsized. The old 2.5ltr diesel was discontinued, and an all-new 1.9ltr had replaced it. On paper it had improved power and fuel consumption and lower emissions, and large selling point was that unlike other pick ups, it didn’t need AdBlue. There are currently seven different models in the D-Max range, starting with the Utility, Eiger,Yukon, Utah and the Blade. After that there’s the XTR and the huge AT35, and a few special editions, like the Huntsman that I took to Marquenterre, France last year. The Blade is the top of the standard range, and comes with tinted windows, illuminated aluminium door sill covers, front footwells and ’Blade’ puddle lamps. Then there is 18” alloy wheels, side steps, heated front seats, keyless entry and a tailgate damper.

On the road

I’ve driven far too many D-Max’s over the years to remember, and with every one I get the same sense of dependability. Despite the D-Max acing the working pick up world, it still hustles along offering comfortable and relaxed drive. Wind the windows down and the 1.9 litre diesel does rattle a bit, and isn’t necessarily the smoothest on the market. That said, it moves along nicely when asked and quietens down when cruising along at speed. Producing 162bhp and 360Nm of torque, it never feels underpowered, unless of course you compare it to the likes of the V6 X-Class and Amarok, but then it’s significantly cheaper. It wasn’t a scientific test, but I reckoned I was getting around the 40mpg with the auto, which I thought was decent enough. THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Off road

Turn the dial to 4WD and wait for the icon on the dash to stop flashing, which is usually accompanied by a clunk from the transmission and the D-Max is ready to take you wherever you want to go. Just watch any episode of Australian 4WD Action on Youtube, or 4WD24/7, as it’s called these days, and you’ll see Graham in his D-Max with a modest 2” suspension lift and rear locker go almost anywhere his colleague goes in a huge 80 Series Land Cruiser. Over the years I’ve taken the D-Max along some gnarly lanes, and apart from some bangs and scrapes from underneath, I’ve never lost forward motion. Well, I may have in the AT35, but a quick shuffle around and a tad more momentum usually sees me over or through most obstacles. I want to say the D-Max is let down by the fact Isuzu don’t offer a rear locker, but then I’ve driven the XTR variant around two off road sites that included a forest and loose slate quarry, and not once did it fail because of it.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Interior

Isuzu have tried to plush up the interior over the years, but there’s no denying where its root lie, the D-Max is a working truck, so you can expect workman-like interiors. Amongst the plastic panels you do get lots of cubby space with practicality abound. The seats are particularly nice, yes they’re leather and heated, but they’re also firm and supportive. The Blade also has Bluetooth connectivity, DAB Radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with a 9" multifunction colour touchscreen. There’s also sat-nav, 9 speakers (2 x Front Door, 2 x Rear Door, 2 x Tweeters, 2 x Roof Mounted & 1 Subwoofer) and front and rear USB port and a HDMI Port. There’s ample space in the back for tall and long legged passengers, even if the front seats are pushed right back.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Conclusion

There’s a reason why the D-Max is such a popular pickup amongst farmers and other hard workers, it’s an honest truck that doesn’t pretend to be anything else. Sure, the Blade offers some luxury, but its a workhorse to the core and still offers a 3.5 tonne towing capacity and 1 tonne payload. Warranty wise, Isuzu gives you 125,000 mile / 5-year warranty (whichever comes first) and 5-year roadside assistance in the UK and across Europe. Of course, I can’t end it here without mentioning the elephant in the room, and that’s as most of you reading this will know, 2021 sees the new D-Max coming to the UK. As far as I know, the UK version will still have the 1.9 litre, whether it’s new or fettled I’m not sure, but I’m reliably informed it’ll now require Adblue. The better news is that it has scored a full five-star safety rating in ANCAP’s updated, and tougher, crash test programme and includes a front-row centre airbag for added occupant protection, a first for the segment (there’ll be a full review coming soon). price: from £29,134 CVOTR + VAT more at »https://www.isuzu.co.uk/blade

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

New Stuff we've discovered this month XS POWERPACK - MULTI-FUNCTION JUMPER STARTER This handy XS Power Pack is only 230 x 87 x 27mm in size (just a tad longer than a big bar of chocolate), but don't let it's size put you off, it packs quite a punch. It comes in a neat carry case which contains a selection of cables, ports and plugs for 12 volts power supply, and it also has other output options including 5V and 19V. The XS Power Pack takes 8 hours to fully charge to its 18,000 mAh capacity, which means you can fully charge a mobile up to 14 times before recharging, and they say it can jump start a vehicle a whopping 40 times when the battery is fully charged. This is the perfect accessory for taking camping or just out and about, especially with kids that like to play power hungry gadgets, as this power pack can charge laptops, phones, portable games, tablets, portable refrigerators and DVD & music players with no problem, and can be recharged via the cigarette lighter power point. Technical Specifications • Output - 5V = 1A (smart phone/tablet fast charge) • Output - 12V = 10A • Output - 19V = 3.5A (laptops & notebooks)

• Input - 14V = 1A • Starting current - 350A • Peak current - 700A • Weight - 615g

price: £119.15 more at » https://www.britpart.com buy in the UK » https://www.brit-car.co.uk

Britpart are delighted to now be an approved stockist for the entire ARB range of products in the UK. For nearly 40 years Britpart has been synonymous with parts for Land Rovers and now we are expanding our range of quality aftermarket parts with the introduction of the ARB catalogue for a multitude of 4x4 vehicles.

ARB’s range of products for the off-road and pickup market includes Air Lockers & > Compressors

Recovery Points & > Equipment

> Canopies

> Roof Racks

> Drawers

> StealthBar Bumper

> Lights

Steps & Side > Protection

Upgraded > Suspension > Rear Protection

arb4x4uk.co.uk

> Tyre Accessories > Underbody Protection

ARB accessories & suspension products for a wide range of manufacturers & models Ford Ranger / Isuzu D-Max / Jeep Cherokee & Grand Cherokee & Jeep Wrangler Land Rover Defender & Land Rover Discovery / Mitsubishi L200 / Nissan Navara & Pathfinder / Toyota Hilux / VW Amarok

sales@britpart.com

20" 45W DLX LIGHT BAR ECE This slim line light bar is only 45mm tall, the smallest of the range from ORE4x4.com and is totally road legal. Incorporating a great a 10° spot and 60° flood light, it’s powerful enough to reach 825m ensuring you can drive with better clarity at higher speeds.

READER OFFER

Measuring only 526 × 52 × 45 mm, and with an IP67 waterproof rating, the 15 x 3W high-quality OSRAM LED chips ensure an enhanced life even after thousands of hours of use. The Daylight series is their new development for road-legal light bars.

LTPRTZ offer a 30 day money back guarantee alongside a three year warranty for their EU recognised and certified Light Bars. ORE4x4.com also provide free next day delivery to addresses in mainland UK. price: £163 more at » www.ore4x4.co.uk

Use the code MUDLIFE5 at the checkout for 5% discount off ALL products at ore4x4.co.uk

New Stuff we've discovered this month GEAR & GO DELUXE DOUBLE SWAG

Weighing in at 16kg and measuring 2.1m(L) x 1.55m(W) x 1m(H), the Deluxe Double Swag is certainly one of the largest available in the UK. It also boasts a 50mm thick, open cell foam mattress that’s comfy to sleep on, even on stony ground. Because they’re freestanding with quick attach pole loops, swags are easy and fast to set up and take down again, making them versatile for many uses from off-roading, fishing and weekend camping trips. The outer fabric is made from 400gsm Ripstop poly cotton canvas, and a heavy duty PVC bucket floor offering excellent waterproof properties. The swag comes with a hard wearing waterproof compressible carry sack. The end poles are 10.2mm diameter for extra strength, and the centre/ spreader pole is a tough telescopic alloy design. They’ve also added an additional centre support to prevent sagging. The Swag has a large openings on both sides with outer door and inner mesh anti-bug lining, allowing for plenty of room to get in and out. There are large storm flaps and vents located at the top and bottom, giving protection and ventilation whatever the weather. price: £299 (incl. UK shipping) more at » gearandgo.online THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

FG FABRICATIONS BUMPERS & ROOF RACKS FG Fabrications is a small home run fabrication business that produces high quality products that are designed and made to protect your prized 4wd. Dave Price, FG Fabrication’s owner, has designed a range of products specifically for early Toyotas,

but can accommodate anything you may have, and will always work with the customer to achieve their needs. As well as a heavy duty front winch bumpers and rear bumpers, Dave also produces a slim line aluminium roof rack for the 3rd Generation Toyota Surf that can be customised to fit additional lights and any accessories that you may want, as well as a Raptor coat finish. FG Fabrications are constantly growing and expanding to produce the best products they possibly can for the discerning 4x4 owner. Prices start from £470 depending on designs and finishes. Facebook fgfabrications or email; Fgfabrications@ hotmail.com

New Stuff we've discovered this month DEFENDER DEFENDER With exposed fixtures and an appalling alarm system, most people are aware that Series Land Rovers, 90 /110s and Defenders are probably the easiest vehicles to steal and strip for parts. With this in mind, it makes sense to fit your Land Rover with a tracker. Defender Defender is a GPS/GSM based motion sensor security system that provides: pinpoint tracking accuracy, automated responsive alert notifications, unparalleled service levels and the best customer controls on the market. Their proactive system will activate and alert the user the moment any disturbance is detected in the vehicle. Movements without the key in the ignition, forced entry through doors or windows, or if your vehicle leaves a predetermined geo-zone, will all trigger the device. price: from £75 (without subscription) more at » www.defenderdefender.co.uk 54

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

This one little set of bamboo cutlery can replace 1,300 single use utensils throughout its life. Even the case is made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, so its ecocredentials are pretty strong.

TO-GO WARE BAMBOO UTENSIL SET

A handy carabiner on the back lets you clip and carry a fork, knife, spoon and chopsticks wherever you may roam. The cutlery is heat and stain resistant, and finished with top grade natural, food-safe wood oil, and contains no BPA or Phthalate nasties. Its also dishwasher safe, so what more could you want,: its the perfect bit of kit for life on the go . Colours: Indigo or Avocado price: £11.95 more at » whitbyandco.co.uk

New Stuff we've discovered this month 7" WIRELESS REVERSE IR CAMERA

READER OFFER

Never have trouble reversing again. These cameras are ideal for Land Rovers, SUVs and vans. • 7" TFT LCD monitor • Wireless or 10m video cable for long vehicles • Full color display. auto white balance • Automatic back sight function for reverse • 100% waterproof IR camera with 160 wide view angle • 18 infrared lamps, night vision up to 5-10meters price: £95 more at » www.4x4obsession.co.uk

(use code - MUDLIFE5 to get 5% OFF) THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

GOODS & GEAR F U N FURN ITU RE COLLE CTI ON CAR T HEMED BE D S (& TOY B OXE S ) Fun Furniture Collection by The Art of Seeing combines a passion for motor vehicles with the love of furniture design, resulting in a unique collection of bespoke, hand-made furniture for children. Inspired by a visit to Gaydon Classic & Vintage Commercial Show back in 2008, their passion for vehicles of all types and combining it with the love of furniture design resulted in a unique fun and off the wall furniture collection thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s based around vehicles from all around the world. From their studio and workshop in Stoke on Trent, they design and hand make each piece, from Land Rovers to Jeeps, a Ford Anglia to a Ferrari 250GTO, and pretty much anything in between! All their furniture is handcrafted to order in plywood, and can be left unpainted or painted to your own choice of colours taken from their extensive colour chart. The beds are detailed with lots of bodywork features to make it look as close as possible to the real thing right down to panel lines and grill details, and in the case of the Land Rover Bunk Bed (above) there is also a snorkel, sand ladders and jerry can. prices: varied more at Âť www.funfurniturecollection.com

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

GOODS & GEAR

FR OZ EN ROPE S SOFT SHA CK LES Earlier on in the year Andy from Frozen Ropes kindly sent me a couple of his soft shackles to review, and since then I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to arise to test them, and take some cool photos. Sadly however, each time I’ve been out laning no one has yet to find themselves stuck and in need of recovery! I’m glad I have them at the ready, though. Soft Shackles are made from high-quality Dyneema d12, and are rapidly replacing conventional steel shackles as they are lightweight, strong, and far safer to use. Being lighter and made from rope allows them to float in water, plus they will never suffer from corrosion, nor will they become a deadly missile causing serious damage or injury should they

break. I’m not saying that a soft shackle speeding through the air at a substantial rate of knots won’t hurt you, but it’ll do immeasurably less damage than an equivalent steel shackle. Andrew from Frozen Ropes is a 4x4 and off road rope designer and manufacturer, and all his products are handmade using the best of British ropew. Along with winch ropes, kinetic recovery ropes and FR-Rings, Andrew produces soft shackles in a range of sizes that are rated differently. So if you’re serious about green laning and messing around at Pay and Play sites, then recovery should also be your top priority, if that’s the case, check out Andrew’s Facebook shop. price: £60 for 2. (incl. P&P) more at » https://www.facebook.com/pg/UkFrozenRopes

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

s a m t s i r Ch e d i u G t Gif

ink we've family, and I th e th l al r y... fo stockings. Enjo me gifts ideas r so u r yo fo ll d fi n u to o look ar fun stuff We’ve had a teresting and in l, fu se u e m so come up with

LAND ROVER DEFENDER MOVIE EDITION This 1:18 collectors scale model is a replica from one of three Defender TD5 110 vehicles converted by Land Rover Special Vehicles for film use. The original cars had 3.5 V8 carburettor engines and automatic transmission and were given a custom paint finish. This model is a faithful reproduction with all the accessories and finishes of the original. price: £199.99 buy in the UK » shop.landrover.com

THE LAND ROVER STORY This hardback book tells the story of Land Rover, from its humble beginnings in 1948 to recent times under the ownership of TATA (as it was originally published mid-2019, it doesn’t go into the new Defender). Written by Dave Phillips, who you may know as the former editor of both Land Rover Owner International and Land Rover Monthly, and what he doesn’t know about Land Rover’s history can be written on a gnat’s kneecap. Amusing in parts, serious in others, Dave takes you on a ride through the decades 58

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

and discusses development, expeditions, military models and much more. Even though he digresses into political history at times, he still manages to keep it all relevant to the brand. Even for people like me, who can identify a Land Rover just by looking at its door hinges, you’ll end up learning something new about the marque. Overall it’s a smashing book that at times I found difficult put down, and I reckon it’ll make a good Christmas present for the Land Rover enthusiast. price: £18.34 buy in the UK » amazon.co.uk

Stocking Fillers

TOVI SORGA LEATHER CONTACTLESS PAYMENT KEY FOB Forgot your wallet? Tired of rummaging for your purse?

BUCK LOCK KNIFE COLLECTORS TIN

Well these stylish key fobs means easy payment is always close at hand. They have a touch-free removable contactless payment chip discreetly hidden in the 100% leather key fob, and has a gold-plated split ring for attaching to your keys or bag. They come in 11 different colours & designs. price: from £40-60 buy in the UK » tovisorga.com

HERITA

GE S D A B N PI

Enclosed in a Limited Edition Collector's Tin, this pair of co-ordinated folding knives is a great little handy. gift The tin contains: Buck 216 Lock Knife - 2.6" (6.7cm) Clip point, 420HC stainless steel blade

uddy Madam is a bit of a fan of enamel badges, and has spent many an ARC National scouring stalls for them, and when she saw these brass pin badges featuring a range of iconic Land Rover vehicles and logos she did a little happy dance. The set includes - Series I, Classic Range Rover, Heritage logo, oval badge and Heritage Station Wagon logo.

Buck 217 Lock Knife - 3.1" (7.9cm) Clip point, 420HC stainless steel blade Both knives also have a grey anodised aluminium handle, and come with the Buck Forever Warranty. price: £39.95 buy in the UK » www.whitbyandco.co.uk

price: £20 buy in the UK » shop.landrover.com THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Distinctive designs that you can't get on the high street.

Take a look at Live The Mud Life our new online shop where you can buy cool clothing and art for men, women and children. There are quite a few to choose from already, and more being added every week.

E F I L D U M E H T LIVE o.uk .c fe li d u m e h t e www.liv

gifts for her

LAND ROVER ADVENTURE JACKET This Land Rover logo'd jacket is made, as the name states, for adventure in differing climate, and will keep you comfortable and protected.

Breathable, water resistant & flexible - this jacket utilises a water resistant, breathable fabric which assists in keeping you dry, and allows evaporation to cool your body naturally. It also features a stow away hood, and detachable arms to allow you to adapt to the environment and conditions. Sizes 8-20 price: RRP £125 - currently £100 buy in the UK » shop.landrover.com

GRUBS FROSTLINE 5.0 BOOTS Frostline boots are insulated and waterproof, with excellent grip, made for all day comfort. They have: - 5mm INSU-FOAM ULTRA that gives all round foot comfort and insulation. - 6mm NITROCELL footbed which provides a soft cushioning for an athletic shoe feel & insulate the wearer from cold surfaces. - an UNDERFOOT CHASSIS to give a sure footed platform. - HEXZORB technology which absorbs heel strike shock. - SUPERDRI lining that wicks moisture away from the wearer’s foot, and is fungus and rot proof . - a TRAX outsole which creates superior grip, and the tread is designed to work with the action of the foot - a comfort rating of -20ºc to +20ºc. price: £84.95 buy in the UK » grubswarehouse.com

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

s t f i g g n i m o o gr ELTHAM MACH3 RAZOR & STAND This gorgeous Art Deco influenced razor handle, manufactured in Great Britain from British stainless steel, is polished to an impeccable mirror finish by hand, and is compatible with the Gillette Mach3 cartridges. The handle is weighted to improve the shaving experience, and the paperweight-style razor stand is the perfect solution for storing your razor in a space efficient upright position in your bathroom. price: £170 buy in th UK » wildeandharte.co.uk

SCARAMANGA GROOMING ROLL ORGANISER This leather roll, made from top quality Hunter leather, is the item you never knew you needed, but may soon become something you can't live without. The roll opens to reveal five pockets which are perfect for combs, scissors, razors and more. It can also be used as a make up organiser, being the perfect size for make-up brushes. Size: 44cm x 20cm (17' x 8') rolled & empty price: £44 buy in the UK » scaramangashop.co.uk

BAMBUKA BAMBOO RAZOR A beautifully designed bamboo razor made from sustainably-sourced bamboo and high quality stainless steel is an effective zero waste alternative to plastic disposable razors. With this unisex reusable safety razor you've got much more control over the shave and it requires fewer passes. This results in a better shave with skin that won't be left irritated. This razor set comes in a lovely gift box with 10 astra razor blades. price: £28.97 buy in the UK » wearthlondon.com

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

E F I L D U M E H T LIVE dlife www.livethemu

.co.uk

Kids Stuff Soft & furry LAND ROVER'S HUE TEDDY BEAR

Hue comes dressed in heritage HUE 166 overalls, and a tweed flat cap, and is sporting a Land Rover logo on his foot. price: £35 buy in the UK » shop.landrover.com

JAGUAR'S TEDDY CUB This slightly cross-eyed Jaguar cub is so damn cute that I had to include it. I love that it's furry tail sticks out of the Jaguar racing gear clothing, and it also has their logo on it's paw. price: £35 buy in the UK » shop.jaguar.com

MINI'S BULLDOG COOP BENTLEY'S BIRKIN TEDDY BEAR This luxury bear is inspired by Sir Henry 'Tim' Birkin, perhaps the most famous of the 'Bentley Boys', and is dressed in his signature Birkin spot scarf and Bentley club jacket, and features the Bentley 'B' on it's paw. price: £42 buy in the UK » shop.bentleymotors.com

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

This is the new version of the MINI Bulldog, back in a beautiful, heritage-inspired cord edition with a. With its cute bulldog jowls, MINI Wing Logo branded bandana and movable legs it's the perfect companion for young MINI fans. price: RRP £25 (currently £22.50) buy in the UK » shop.mini.co.uk

MY FIRST RADIO CONTROLLED JEEP

THE LITTLE TOWN OF MARROWVILLE This book from award-winning stand up comedian John Robertson is a fantastic read which can be summed up by its many 5 star reviews:

Everyone needs a remote controlled car in their formative years to get them into the mud life early on, and starting them with a Jeep is a good move (Muddy Madam had a VW Love Bug, which may explain why we now own a Doon Buggy).

"Officially nephew approved (and he's not easily pleased)." "Perfect for anyone who appreciates the weird and creepy." "A children's book, but also great for adults to read as well." "I loved this book. Very, very, VERY funny and I forgot it was for children..is it for children? Yes it's for children. It's for everyone and the fact it's emotionally very moving was a huge surprise. A lot of heart, a lot of the kind of disgusting gore kids like."

This l Jeep features motion control, horn sound button and working lights, and is for children over 2 years. price: £14.47 buy in the UK » www.jeep.co.uk

price: £5.94 buy in the UK » amazon.co.uk

Kids Stuf

PRINCETON TEC BOT KIDS LED HEAD TORCH These fun and brightly coloured 30 Lumens head torches, are designed with ergonomic features, ruggedness and reliability built in. They have a large push button making the simple to operate, and the battery compartment on the Bot screws shut to ensure that the batteries will not be accidentally accessed by little fingers. In addition, the Bot’s headstrap is equipped with a safety buckle that will release under excessive pressure. They are resistant to splashing water, have a run time of 9 hours and come with a 5 year warranty. price: £19.95 buy in the UK » whitbyandco.co.uk

THE SOGGY LITTLE BEE The Soggy Little Bee book, by Simon Henderson & Samantha Webb, is the perfect gift for Christmas. It tells the story of Sophia a bee who heads out on a beautiful day in the forest where she lives, but her fortunes change when she is knocked from the sky by a huge raindrop. Will anyone come to help her? Will she ever find her way back to the hive? price: £6.99 buy in the UK » shookbop.com

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

ART PRINTS

Muddy Madam likes get all artistic by creating funky original Art Prints for your walls. These prints can be pinned straight on your walls, or if you want to hang them, they come in 3 framefriendly sizes - A3, A4, A5.

www.livethemudlife.co.uk

YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE TRUST

FOR THE PUN OF IT COLLECTION We all need a bit of laughter at the moment and this range is designed to raise a smile. If you know anyone that loves wildlife, the great outdoors or just needs a giggle these will fit the bill. Available in mugs, tea towels & art prints prices: from £12.50 buy in the UK » ywtshop.org.uk

a bit of fun

DICK WINTERS TRUNKS With five naughty names such as Clever Dick, Rock Dick and Old Dick these luxury trunks are bound to get some sniggers when unwrapped in front of the family on Christmas Day. These Dick Winters' trunks are made in Britain with an Actisystem that acts like a super-soft second skin, creating underwear that is breathable, and will retain their shape and colour wash after wash. price: £28 but in the UK » sirgordonbennett.com

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

WREN & RYE ORIGINAL DOG ACCESSORIES Named after the designer's & her parent's dogs, Wren & Rye produces on-trend accessories for dogs, big or small, dainty or rough and tumble. All the products are designed and made in the UK, using materials sourced from within the UK. They attach to your dog’s collar in the same way as a pet tag or collar charm and pack all the punch of a bow tie, but are smaller and infinitely more durable! prices: from £6 buy in the UK » wrenandrye.com

Pet Presents ECO-FRIENDLY WOODEN PET BOWLS These really cute wooden pets bowls are designed and hand-finished by husband and wife team, Jimmy and Hazel in Norfolk. Made using Beech wood, as it is native to the UK, and Beech has been used for cooking utensils for many generations. They are designed for both wet and dry food, and is anti-bacterial finished with a food grade mineral oil. price: Cat Bowl - £20 Dog Bowl - £25 buy in the UK » madeinb.co.uk

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

E F I L D U M LIVE THE o.uk .c fe li d u m e th e iv .l w w w

History of Jeep Part 5 The 1980s

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Written by Simon Hastelow

1980-1990 THE 'X' FACTOR: As the American auto industry limped into the 1980s in the midst of full-blown recession, Jeep Corporation was hard at work designing, researching and testing an all-new sport wagon that by the end of the decade would become the most successful and most profitable Jeep vehicle in history - the XJ. "Market studies indicate that more than half of the sales of 4WD vehicles by 1985 will be in the compact segment, compared with only two percent in 1978," said then-marketing group vice president Joseph Cappy in the fall of 1983.

With those words, Jeep introduced the 1984 Cherokee 2-door and 4-door models, and 4-door Wagoneer sport-wagons measuring in 21 inches shorter, 6 inches narrower, 4 inches lower and weighing 1,000 pounds less than the senior Jeep Wagoneer first introduced in 1963. The senior model did not retire from the Jeep lineup, but rather was renamed Grand Wagoneer.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

The $250 million AMC invested to bring the new XJ sportwagons to market proved to be a wise investment. The XJ models brought many Jeep exclusives to the market, including the only compact sport utility available in four-doors and two 4WD systems - shift-on-the-fly CommandTrac and SelecTrac. It took the competition six years to match the Jeep exclusive of four doors. The XJs, particularly the Cherokee, were more than overnight success stories, as they became the only utility vehicle to be named '4X4 of the Year' by the three major off-road magazines.

The XJ success eclipsed Cappy's market prediction of 1983. By 1985, more than 70 percent of 4WD vehicle sales were in the compact segment. While the 1984 model year is remembered for the introduction of the XJ, it was also the year that the great CJS, first introduced in 1954, was discontinued in order to concentrate on production of CJ-7 and the Scrambler, the first small 4X4 pickup introduced in 1982 and known internationally as the CJ8. This was also done to reduce production complexity at Toledo Assembly.

While this was accomplished, it didn't mean the new product blitz was over. Off the XJ platform came the Autumn 1985 introduction of the Jeep Comanche pickup. A short wheel base version of the Comanche was added one year later. The Comanche represented the first completely new generation of Jeep pickup trucks since the introduction of the 1963 J-Series. In January of 1986, Jeep said goodbye to the CJ7. As the growing market for compact 4WD vehicles sought the utilitarian virtues of the Jeep CJ, consumers also were seeking more of the 'creature comforts' associated with the typical passenger car.

Jeep responded that spring with the introduction of the Jeep Wrangler. While the Wrangler did share the familiar open-body profile of the CJ7, it contained few common parts with its famous predecessor. (In fact, mechanically, Wrangler had more in common with the Cherokee than it did with the CJ7). What Wrangler did was improve the comfort, ride quality and appearance, whilst preserving the durability and unrivaled offhighway utility of the CJ.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Less than one year after Wrangler's introduction, Jeep changed hands again as Chrysler Corporation acquired American Motors on August 5, 1987.

Championship in the SCCA Racetruck Challenge, while Mike Lesle added a second Comanche championship in HDRA/Score Desert Racing Series.

Chrysler didn't hide the fact that it considered the Jeep lineup the jewel of the deal.

In 1988 and 1989, Jeep vehicles continued winning with four more Manufacturer's Championship.

While Chrysler did not change the Jeep lineup, Jeep vehicles today are part of the Jeep/Eagle Division of Chrysler Corporation. As Jeep was preparing to finish the 1980s, Jeep vehicles were often finishing first in a revitalized motorsports campaign. Jeep CJs and J-series pickups, under the driving expertise of Don Adams, Larry Olson, Roger Mears, Bob Gary and the late Jason Myers, dominated off-road and desert racing in the 1970s and early 1980s. Then, after an absence of several years, Jeep vehicles re-entered the racing scene in 1987 with six fully sponsored race vehicles in three series. The Archer Brothers in Jeep Comanche trucks won the Manufacturer's

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

The 1990s

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

1990-2000

SETTING NEW BENCHMARKS

The Jeep vehicle lineup entered the 1990s in its strongest position in history. On March 22, 1990, the one millionth Jeep XJ, a red 1990 Cherokee Limited, was driven off the line at Toledo Assembly. In its seven years of production, not only had the Jeep Cherokee become the preeminent vehicle of its kind, but also Chrysler Corporation's best seller among its exports to Europe.

As Jeep entered its 50th year Cherokee strengthened its leadership role with the addition of the new 190 horsepower high-output 4 litre PowerTech Six engine. The 1991 model year also marked the reemergence of a Jeep performance model from the early 1970s. The 1991 Jeep Renegade represented the ultimate Wrangler. It's 180 horsepower high-output 1.6 engine, optional on other Wrangler models, was easily the most powerful in its class. As Jeep entered its second fifty years, two vehicles were retired: Grand Wagoneer, with it's roots and looks dating back to 1962, in 1991; and the Comanche pickup truck in 1992.

Meanwhile, new and innovative products were in the works to keep Jeep king of the hill. None was more important than a vehicle Chrysler had codenamed ZJ. While relatively few all-new Jeeps have been introduced over the past 50 years, each one has raised the ante for other manufacturers in the sport utility marketfrom CJ to Grand Wagoneer to Cherokee. ZJ represented the eighth new platform of Jeep vehicles and the second vehicle developed under Chrysler's Platform Team Approach. Chrysler's platform teams bring together, at the genesis of the project, the designers, engineers, manufacturing experts, suppliers and marketeers - all of the people and talents needed to completely develop a vehicle. The Jeep Platform Team's challenge was to create a vehicle that represented the new benchmark in sport utility vehicles. ZJ's real name would be Jeep Grand Cherokee, and the target audience would be an exacting audience of typically upscale buyers with high expectations, who often based vehicle requirements, including safety, handling, ride and comfort, on the other cars in their garage. Those vehicles were most often high-priced luxury import and specialty cars. 76

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

While other sport utility vehicles continued to be derived from truck platforms, the Grand Cherokee would represent an all-new, built from the ground up sport utility.

vehicle. While half the size (about 1.75 million square feet) of its predecessor, Jefferson North can produce roughly the same volume (more than 300,000 units) of far more complex vehicles. At its media introduction on January 7, 1992, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee was poised to not only take on the sport utility world, but a convention center as well. Chrysler President, Robert A. Lutz drove the first official vehicle off the line at Jefferson North, through the streets of Detroit, up the granite steps and THROUGH the glass walls of Cobo Center, site of the 1992 North American International Auto Show. "That was one helluva ride!," Lutz told the hundreds of journalists on hand. "but that's to be expected, because Grand Cherokee is one helluva vehicle!" Soon after the introduction, Chrysler learned that Grand Cherokee was indeed the success it had planned, including winning Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year Award, Four Wheeler magazine's Four Wheeler of the Year and 4Wheel & Off-Road magazine's 4x4 of the Year for 1993. However, as targeted, the Grand Cherokee appealed to a different audience than it's truck-oriented competitors, with a significantly higher preference among import car owners and a higher preference among women. The latter was especially important as women buyers represented one of the fastest growing segments of the sport utility market. The Team had six objectives with Grand Cherokee: » make it the highest quality Jeep vehicle ever » create a fresh new appearance while maintaining a strong Jeep identity » improve the interior package without creating an unsuitably large exterior » maintain Jeep performance superiority and four-wheel-drive system leadership » improve on-road ride and handling without compromising off-road capability and performance » provide premium safety and convenience features expected by those upscale buyers. Setting a new benchmark also meant holding true to a heritage of 'Jeep exclusives' with the world's first standard driver-side air bag in a sport utility vehicle, and the new Quadra-Trac allthe-time, four-wheel-drive transfer case. To help the Grand Cherokee achieve its lauded goals, Chrysler decided to pull out all the stops when it came to where the vehicle would be built. The company invested a total of $1 billion in constructing, equipping and preparing the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in the heart of Detroit, Michigan for the new Grand Cherokee. The state-of-the-art facility was built adjacent to the site of Chrysler's former Jefferson Avenue Assembly Plant. Ironically, the old Jefferson plant had first assembled Chalmers Motor cars way back in 1907, the year Willys-Overland built its first THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

As Chrysler approached the mid-part of the decade, the Jeep Platform Team set its sights on the next major challenges: reaffirming Grand Cherokee's position as the benchmark in the compact sport utility market and replacing Jeep Wrangler. For the 1996 model year, Grand Cherokee was virtually redone in terms of powertrain, chassis and steering, electrical and electronic systems, as well as the interior. The most visually evident changes were made in the cabin with an allnew instrument panel and displays. The switches and controls were better positioned within the driver's sightline and reach, while the overall ergonomics were greatly improved. Safety enhancements included standard dual air bags with a 'seamless' passenger-side design and adjustable front and rear outboard shoulder belt height. Powertrain refinements were highlighted in the 4 litre 1.6 engine and the Quadra-Trac all-wheel-drive-system. The engine received new state of the art aluminium pistons, a stiffer block, a revised camshaft profile and valve cover isolation. The net result for the customer was a quieter and more responsive engine.

In its ninth year, Wrangler continued to capture about half of the U.S. small sport utility market. Although it was enjoying a unique and powerful image versus its international competition, as well as a record sales year in 1994, those competitors were beginning to up the challenge with a growing number of new models. The goal of a Wrangler replacement would be the same as the one set for the Grand Cherokee, to set another new benchmark in the industry, but the circumstances were different. Wrangler is the direct descendent of the original World War II Jeep and is recognized around the world as an American icon. It's appeal is unique in the market, defining 'Jeepness'. A replacement would have to maintain the legendary heart and soul position as the icon of the Jeep Brand, only better. The challenge for the Team was twofold - reaffirm the vehicle's position as the ultimate, no-compromise, go anywhere off-road vehicle and American icon, while at the same time significantly improve the safety, overall refinement, off-road capacity and on road ride, handling and performance. One thing though would remain the same, the name Wrangler. The benchmark for performance and functional capability was a look inward to the original Wrangler, and the prior CJ models.

The Quadra-Trac all-wheel-drive system was improved to make it capable of providing any ratio of power 'on demand' - virtually from 0 to 100% - to the front and rear axles. Under normal, dry-pavement operating conditions, the system delivers 100% of power to the rear axle. Before the improvement, that power split was 50-50. The increased flexibility improved driveability on road and increased traction in both on and off road driving. With the successful completion of the Grand Cherokee redo, the Team prepared for the launch of the replacement for Wrangler, the quintessential Jeep vehicle.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

The objectives were greater off-highway capability with increased operating comfort and improved ride quality on normal paved roads. Competitive sport utility vehicles were bench-marked for comfort and convenience attributes, and the objectives included a more ergonomic interior that was both friendlier and easier to use, better accommodations for front and rear passengers, and improved rear entry and exit. To improve vehicle safety, the Team followed the benchmark established by the Grand Cherokee.

The result is a Wrangler with an all-new suspension, improved ergonomics, an all-new easy-to-operate soft top, an all-new instrument panel and standard dual air bags. Production of the new Wrangler began in January 1996 in Toledo, Ohio, in the same facility that in 1941 began building one of the most unique, legendary and loved vehicles in history. In the spring of 1996, the men and women of Toledo also began building right hand drive versions of the new Wrangler for sale in Japan, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia and other countries. The new Wrangler was further evidence that Jeep vehicles are Chrysler's lead brand in opening international markets. In nearly every new market Chrysler entered, Jeep vehicles are first onto shore. In fact, the first American-made right hand drive vehicle exported to Japan was the 1993 Jeep Cherokee and today, one out of every three Cherokees built in Toledo are exported. Replace 'Willys' with 'Chrysler', and the World War II slogan, 'The sun never sets on the Willys-built Jeep' is as relevant today as it was more than half a century ago. Jeep is the most recognized brand worldwide, with sales in more than 100 countries. As Chrysler approached the 21st Century, it did so with the newest, most competitive Jeep vehicle lineup in one of the fastest growing segments of the worldwide market.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

acebook Page of the Month Once, not so long ago, if you wanted to catch up with like minded enthusiasts, you’d join a forum. It appears these days however that Facebook has taken over the mantle for the place to go for information. So, in the aptly titled ‘Facebook Page of the Month’ every month I will invest hours of time, effort and energy searching Facebook for interesting and relevant groups so you don’t have to. It’s serious work, or so I tell Muddy Madam!

Toyota Land Cruiser 150 UK Group

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3344512178997614 WHO STARTED IT IT? Me, Russ Dykes from Ardventures.co.uk. WHEN? October 2020. WHY / PURPOSE? Abroad it's called a Prado, and sadly, many other Land Cruiser owners don't think it is a Land Cruiser, but having bought one in March this year, I believe it is. 80

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

The Toyota 150 is part of a big family of Land Cruisers, but it looks like the poor relation, compared to the other models. I was on a Radio program with Mark Stone 18 months ago and he asked me what the best 4x4 / overland vehicle was, I said the one I would never own, a Land Cruiser. However, earlier this year when my Discovery 4 hit 100k I did my homework, and the only vehicle that kept coming up was the

LC150, or a pickup. I would not buy a pickup as I need a permanent 4-wheel drive system, not part time. There was nothing else that didn’t cost £10k more, so I bought one. With the lack of any dedicated 150 forums in the UK, I thought the LC150 deserved its own page with which fellow LC150 owners could share stories, ask for help and build a friendly community. HOW MANY MEMBERS SO FAR? 130+ AREA? UK, with a few members creeping in from Europe. ARE THERE PUB MEETINGS? Not yet due to Covid-19. CAN MEMBERS ORGANISE THEIR OWN TRIPS? Yes they can. ANYTHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO ADD? I’m going to add a LC150 camping weekend for next year, some training days in Devon & Yorkshire, as well as some green laning weekends. I’m also hoping to include some overseas treks, if there’s enough interest. So far the group is growing well, I’ve only had to ban one person so far! As well as owners, I’ve also invited business’s to the group that have an interest in the Land Cruiser brand as well as camping equipment. YOU CAN FIND US AT https://www.facebook.com/ groups/3344512178997614

If you, or your group, would like to be featured as FB Page of the Month send us a quick email to:

POTM@themudlife.co.uk THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Where am I ? is the way to find out There are still many people who can grab a compass, a map and tell you within a matter of seconds their precise whereabouts, yet despite being quite easy to do, it’s sadly another skill that’s being lost due to technology. Don’t get me wrong, technology is great, and can help save your sorry backside when you have injured yourself, or have messed up and are stuck up to your chassis rails somewhere remote. One of the best and most common apps to locate yourself is What3Words. Putting it simply, What3Words is an app designed for your smartphone that divides the entire world into 3 metre squares, and each square has a unique three word combination.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

This means that wherever you are in the world, the app will give you three words, and anyone else using the app will know exactly where you are within a 3 metre square. What3Words isn’t just useful for locating stranded vehicles or injured parties, it’s also useful for finding friends and family in city centres, or at big events. Imagine trying to find someone outside a football stadium, or at the maze that is the NEC. Simply get them to text you the 3 words and you’ll be able to walk straight to them, because the app uses Google Maps, Apple Maps and Waze, so you can get directions straight to their 3 metre square. Another important fact is that many emergency services now accept 3 word addresses from 999 callers who would otherwise struggle to say exactly where they need help. Telling the operator that you’re in the park, next to the bench that’s got graffiti on it, when you’ve twisted your ankle and can’t walk, isn’t going to help! Being able to read a map is still incredibly useful, and definitely worth learning in case your phone battery dies. That said, if your phone is dead you can’t phone anyone for help! Apart from being incredibly clever, the best part about it is that it’s totally free, all you need is a suitable smartphone/watch on which to download it. So what's stopping you, download it now, it could actually save your life, or someone else's! Download it from their website at what3words.com

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

h c o Mo

a pootle around bootle It’s all change in the pick up world at the moment. As I wrote last month, the X-Class and Amarok are ceasing production, and Ford are working with Volkswagen to create a new Ranger and Amarok. Not only that, but there’s a new Hilux out now, and the new Isuzu D-Max is due on UK soil in a few months time. Phew. On the subject of pick ups, the other month my friend and colleague Andy, who writes for the Yorkshire Times, told me he had Isuzu’s AT35 on test and wanted to go laning, so it seemed reasonable for me to give Ford’s press office a call to ask if they had a spare Raptor sat around doing nothing during the same week, and they had, so we arranged a day out laning in the Lakes. Meeting just off the M6 at junction 36, we drove for another hour, heading west towards a small village called Bootle, that isn’t far from Sellafield nuclear plant. Our plan for the day was to beging with a lane I explored in last month’s issue when I had the Toyota Extra Cab Hilux.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Lane 1 SD1188-02 & SD1288-02 (Trailwise 2 references) During the past couple of weeks the weather had been quite dismal with heavy rain and wind, but on this day we were fortunate as the weather had changed, and with blue sky and the sun showing its face, it was actually quite warm. The first section of Bootle fell is fairly steep and narrow with a solid base, and therefore quite easy. Upon reaching the tricky section of the lane, Andy and I jumped out and had a look at what lay ahead. The constant heavy rain over the last few weeks hadn’t made much of a difference to the condition of the deep ruts that zigged-zagged across our path. Due to the huge ruts I guess it would be quite easy to go wide on the tricky bits of this lane, but that only creates more damage,

so engaging the Raptor’s rear locker I eased it into the first of the deep ruts. Despite having enough traction I had to reverse back out of because the front tyres couldn’t find any directional grip, and I ended up grounding the front end. That wasn’t a problem, although the lane at this point is still fairly narrow there are a few lines that I could still take. Andy followed my original line in the AT35, and he had to reverse out, too. His reason was both the lack of a rear locker and not having any weight in the back. From there on we climbed further and the views became more spectacular, it was as though we’d booked the perfect weather!

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

• • • • •

PC, smartphone and tablet friendly Toggle between BOAT, UCR and Legacy layers Information on restrictions and closures Multiple mapping options including OS Easy to zoom in and out

• • • • •

Add comments and photos against routes Extensive coverage of England and Wales Share a lane on Facebook or Twitter Available exclusively to GLASS members TW2... TrailWise, but smarter!

WHERE WILL YOU PLAN YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE? 86

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

During some of the following sections, where I had to be a bit careful where I placed the Raptor’s front tyres as not to ground out again, the huge 35” tyres and extra 4” body and suspension lift meant that Andy didn’t care, the mighty AT35 simply drove over and through everything with ease.

Nearing the top we stopped, shared a mug of tea, soaked in the views and put the world of automotive journalism to rights, then set off towards our next lane.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Lane 2 SD3186-05 & SD3186-06 Last time we drove this lane together, Andy was in a Discovery Sport and I was in Deux Smurf. There’s a bit of a hole half way up the first section as you drive from south to north that caused us a bit of an issue in the ‘Sport, as its low front bib was in danger of being ripped off. This time Andy barely knew it was there, and our only concern was the narrow gate mid way along that we had to somehow squeeze the two huge pickups through. Turns out the gate wasn’t a problem, but was I imagining it or was the Raptor actually wider that the AT35? Driving up and through the forest section towards a clearing, we stopped for another brew and butties, and pondered over which we'd choose, the Raptor or the AT35. There’s no doubt that the Raptor is the pick up of choice for road use and the AT35 is the one you’d choose for ‘laning. We agreed that was obvious, and carried on towards our next lane. 88

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Lane 3 SD3387-02 Heading out of Bouth on a single track lane was fun in these two pick ups. I hadn’t realised how tricky it was going to be, as the last and only other time I’d driven this lane I was in Deux Smurf, my ‘96 Toyota Surf. Back in the 90s they made cars a lot narrower! The left hand turn into SD3387-02 is narrow, and as I eased the Raptor into it I felt the sturdy steel steps rub against something. Turned out to be a couple of large stones laid on the corner, and after reversing a little and I managed to get a better angle, but it was still narrow Within ten yards or so my next challenge was a left hand kink in the lane. It isn’t necessarily tight, unless you happen to be driving two of the biggest pick ups available in the UK.

Over the radio, because I couldn’t actually open the door to get out, I suggested to Andy that I may need his expert eye to guide me around the kink that was between a high bank with large rocks and a stone wall. It was a tight squeeze, but I managed without damaging either the walls or the Raptor. Andy’s turn next and he managed to make it look easy. He did say that where the AT35 had at least 6” of space on either side, the Raptor was only millimetres! Once through the next gate the lane widens up and offers more wonderful views across the hills, and despite being around 3.00pm, we could see the sun beginning to set, so I decided to miss the next couple of lanes and head straight towards Grizedale.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Lane 4 SD3394-05 I love this lane, it offers such a variety of terrain, from large rocks to steep steps, or it did have until it was recently graded. Grizedale, or The Fox as it’s also known as weaves its way through the heart of Grizedale forest. Heading from west to east, which is the recommended route, the lane is quite narrow and rocky with the odd overhanging branch to contend with. The supple suspension on the Raptor and 35” tyres on the AT35 made the going easy for both of us over the large rocks that dominate the first section. The only problem both of us had was when we reached the top and I stopped for a photo of both pick ups climbing a couple of large rocks, we both had to reverse a bit to gain a little momentum to crest them. After the obligatory photograph parked by the Fox, we continued towards the downward section of the lane. It’s still has a few fun sections, but if you haven’t driven it for a while you’ll be quite shocked at both how easy it is now, and the amount of tree felling that’s occurred.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

The Fox

Lane 5 SD3499-01 Heading from east to west, the beginning of Arnside Intake can be a little bit scratchy with trees and foliage encroaching on the narrow lane, so I stopped a few times to perform a little lane maintenance with the loppers, no one wants scratch marks down the sides of brand new press cars. Another lane that was graded this year, Arnside now only has one rocky section that requires care.

Arnside Intake is a nice long lane with some fantastic views over Tarn Hows, but just like Grizedale, and indeed Parkamoor, it’s another lane that was graded this year by Kankku 4x4 Tours. Previously you may have needed a spotter to get over some of the rocky sections if you were in a smaller 4x4, now there’s only one. As I’ve written previously, I’m not moaning about it, as with all the politics going on up there it was something that arguably needed to be done to save the lanes, and our rights to drive them.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

Lane 6

NY3101-04

Oxon Fell has one great obstacle, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a technical rocky hairpin that climbs quite sharply. To be honest it sounds worse than it is as Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen a 4x4 struggle, not even slightly as the solid rock offers plenty of grip. Overall, Oxon Fell has a good hard surface, but the real obstacle, for me at least, was the middle gate that I swear gets narrower each time I drive through it! It was a very tight squeeze for both of us, but it proved that the Raptor is ever so slightly the wider vehicle.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Lane 7 After Oxon Fell I’d usually bear left heading towards another epic lane, Tiberthwaite, but instead we turned right for NY310103 which is less than a minute away.

Usually when I explore a lane that I’ve never driven before I prefer to do it in Deux Smurf in case any damage occurs, but this time I’d read on Trailwise 2 that it was a nice, straight forward lane that’s suitable for most 4x4, so we went for it.

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

The GLASS members who’d written the reports were spot on, it was plenty wide enough for the Raptor and AT35 and afforded us some cracking views over an old Quarry on the left. It isn’t a long lane, but I thought it was worth it. Our next lane was due to be Breasthigh, but it was getting dark,

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

and with all the rainfall Cumbria had had recently I was a bit concerned about the depth of the river crossing at the start, so with that in mind we decided to call it a day and headed back towards the M6 and home to our ever patient wives. To be honest, Muddy Madam was glad to get rid of me for the day. I’m not sure why…

We want to keep the mag free to read, though it costs quite a bit for the two of us to put it together each month. If you like what we do, we'd love it if you'd chip in for a hot

chocolate every now and then, to help support us whilst we put together the next mag. Everyone who buys us a hot choc each month will get a name check in the mag.

Buy us 2 hot chocs at one time, or become a regular monthly hot choc provider then you'll get a even bigger mention.

Laf Lauren E. Gadget Mike H. Marco

All these lovely people to the left bought us nutters a hot chocolate or 2 this month. Thank you all so much, every penny is really is appreciated, and we just wanted to say ...

Jim H. LRAsser Billy F Chris J Matt S. Edward P. Chris 4wd Overland & 1 anonymous

love from ee ren L a K & n a Dami THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

IN OUR GARAGE

Outdoor Carcoon Some people were amused, and a little dumfounded when for my 50th birthday Muddy Madam and I decided to buy a beach buggy, I mean, we live in Lancashire which isn’t best known for its sunny climate and tropical beaches. Anyway, we did. To make it worse, we don’t have a garage and as you’ll be acutely aware, our winters are long and very, very,VERY damp, and for the last three years our Bugster, as she’s affectionally known, has lived under a variety of tarps, which haven’t proved to be the best solution.

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

We looked into shelters and renting out garages, but nothing seemed to work out as all the shelters were too big for our mid-terrace back yard, and rentable garages were miles away in rather insalubrious neighbourhoods. Anyway, cutting a long story short, Carcoon had always been on my radar, but deemed a tad expensive. It wasn’t until I noticed certain parts of the Bugster beginning to rust that I realised I really needed to protect her from another dank and damp Lancashire winter, so I bit the bullet and ordered the outdoor version of the Carcoon.

IN OUR GARAGE What is a Carcoon?

more at Â» www.carcoon.com

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

wri t es Simon says

by Simon Hastelow

"I hate LEGO!"

That’s quite a statement for someone who grew up sticking little plastic bricks together, and who still owns a box full of LEGO that I had as a child. But let me explain… LEGO sells itself on ‘stimulating creativity’, but if you look at it properly they have done the exact opposite. Sure you can still buy a box of generic bricks but 99% of their business comes from selling kits, often conveniently themed to a popular movie or game of the time.You open it, blindly follow the instructions and build the kit. Then what? I look back at the various kits my boys have had over the years, most of them sit unplayed with, and unloved once the kit has been assembled. I should have really given them a pile of wood, plus hammer and nails, if I wanted to truly stimulate creative construction. The moment of realisation for me was the first LEGO movie. Characters and vehicles which featured in the movie, ostensibly all built from scratch with random parts and a creative mind, suddenly appeared in kit form on the toy shop shelves. The company had translated ‘free-form creativity’ from the film into 'do-as-you-are-instructed' kits. Hardly creative!

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Which leads me onto a very tenuous link with 4x4s ... We’ve had a few new vehicles added to the collective wish-list recently: Suzuki Jimny, New Defender, New Bronco, etc. which has spawned myriad reviews, and many thousands of comments from armchair experts. But one theme I have seen repeated recently that attracted my attention is judging the vehicle’s performance or usefulness ‘as it left the showroom’. Sure, we can all argue about the best off-roader, but almost everyone will modify their vehicle at some point, so you can’t say Vehicle X is the best car ever, if you’ve basically redesigned it and re-kitted it with a massive list of accessories.

I could drive a Vauxhall Corsa anywhere your Toyota Hilux will go if I modified it enough.

Building an overly expensive LEGO kit and locking it away in a display case never to be touched again is NOT what LEGO should be about.

I did say the link to LEGO was tenuous! Vehicle manufacturers are like the suits at LEGO HQ, they want you to leave your cars alone, you’re encouraged to order over-priced options in the showroom, but your DIY spanners must then be locked away. Manufacturers have been pushing for years to prevent us from modifying our vehicles. They win some battles and lose others, but their determination to kill the aftermarket industry has not gone away, even if it isn’t being reported. Some EU countries already have strict anti-modification laws which will ultimately be suggested again here, even after we’ve left the EU. So keep modifying and keep arguing that your rig is better than all the others. It’s how it was meant to be. All photographs courtesy of Lego & Lego House

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

es d i R s ' r e Read

Who are you, where are you from and what do you do? My name is Pàdraig Seàn Eachaidh, I am a foreman and machine operator on civil engineering working on the roads. I am from Armagh in Northern Ireland and currently residing in Swindon Wiltshire. History of cars leading up your present 4x4 My first motor was a Mini when I turned 16, and since then I’ve been proud to own a Ford XR2, Cavalier 130, Metro GTi, Ford XR3i,Vauxhall Calibra, Ford Orion 1.6 Ghia, BMW 330 and a Suzuki Vitara. I've actually owned a few more! Present 4x4(s) I own a Mitsubishi L200 2.5 turbo, and won't sell swap or get rid of her! Modifications done I’ve done a lot of mods over the past 2 years and its been a great experience. I have nearly finished except for a front bumper that I’m getting built, but so far I have a FrontRunner Slimline 2 roof rack, Amarok tub rack, custom ladder, 5" stack pipes and custom made rock sliders. There’s an F150 bonnet scoop, sun visor, snorkel, angel eye

100

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

lights which was also custom to change colours via voice control and by phone! I’ve fitted LED back lights, custom brackets to hold my 270° awning, OME+ full suspension and 4" body lift with custom shackles and heavy duty leaf springs. She sits on 17" modular-32 shod with 315/70/17s tyres. In the back there’s a custom wheel holder to hold my spare in the tub. Incidentally I’ve galvanised the tub, and fitted a roll bar, wide arch flares, and to finish her off I have had a full respray in Raptor paint tiltable "jet black" through a smooth gun. Favourite Modifications My favourite mod on the truck is the set up on the tub and how it looks, the custom wheel holder was the best buy though. Modifications to do Hopefully not much left to do on her. I’m having a front bumper made from bar by a member of my group, so I am looking forward to that, it should stop any more mods on the front, apart from lights and winch. 'There's no end, lol.”

Favourite green-laning trip My favourite trip green laning is around Wiltshire, the Ridgeway and Calne and a lot of other places, defo my favourite days out. Lottery win 4x4 If I was to have enough money I'd actually like to have the F650 and still jack her up more, if there was a second I’d buy the meanest Ford Ranger Raptor! Favourite car related film John Wick in that beauty of a 1969 Ford Mustang Boss 429. Favourite biscuits Orange chocolate Hobnobs.

Where can we find more details? I post pics of my truck on both the L200 Owners UK and L200 Owners Club (International) Facebook pages. I’ve just started a new Facebook group - 4X4 Meet'up Page Instagram - 4X4 Meetup

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

101

es d i R s ' r e Read

Who are you, where are you from and what do you do? I am Cameron, 26 and I live in Tynemouth, Newcastle. I work in clothing manufacturing. History of cars leading up your present 4x4 First car started with a fully modified Jimny when I was 17. 50,000 miles and 5 years later I sold this to buy the Jeep TJ, which was completely standard. I also had to get a daily driver, so I bought a Mk7 Ford Fiesta Zetec S Diesel. Later that was replaced with a Mk7 Ford Feista ST which was modified for speed. Now I run a Mk2.5 Mazda MX5 1.8VVT which is fully track day ready, with a cage and adjustable suspension, etc. It’s possibly one of the most unpractical daily drivers due to how low it is, but it's honestly so great to drive on a backroad. Couldn't be any more different from the Jeep.

102

is pretty extensive, and it has been a constant evolution and development finding what works out well and how and what we want the vehicle to be. It has changed to be a focused off-road weekend toy, with two seats set up with recovery equipment in the rear. But it's still capable of the long drives to South Wales and back for Play Days. It sits super nice on the motorway at 60/70mph, and can be surprisingly quick on the backroads. - Front + rear recovery bumpers, with side sill bars. - Axle re-gear to 4.10, ARB air locker in the rear, limited slip in the front, ARB diff guards - Come-up Winch - 255/85/16 33" Toyo Open Country mud terrains - Standard 4.0L straight six petrol, Snorkel

Present 4x4(s) Jeep Wrangler TJ 4.0L. 60th Anniversary model and just gone over 100k miles. I’m also insured on a modified Gen 4 Suzuki Jimny (@jimny_storm on instagram). My Dad has a Jeep JKU which he has had from new, so we have a few different options available in the family.

- Bowless soft top, which we run an open back in summer with half doors

Modifications done After owning the Jeep for over 5 years the list of modifications

- Brembo disks and pads

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

- Custom 4" OME Suspension lift, with slip yoke, adjustable arms, anti-rock anti roll bar - Short shifter, and 2WD low conversion - Warn spot lights and LED rear lights

business on the roads in the UK, especially as they haven't been released in the UK properly yet. Towing my TJ on a trailer behind, wow that would look cool. Favourite car related film The 2019 film 'Le Mans 66' really impressed me. Can't forget 'The Italian Job' either, I would love an original Mini just like they used in the film. Favourite biscuits Caramel chocolate digestive Where can we find more details? Personal Instagram: cameron_harry_walker Jeep photos: stormjeeps Jimny photos: jimny_storm Favourite Modifications This might not be what people would expect, but it's actually the short shift. Like many other 4x4's the gear leaver was very vague, whereas now it's so direct and short (obviously). It makes it such a pleasure to drive, you can bang through the gears pretending it's a sequential box in a rally car and I absolutely love it. Modifications to do Obviously, no car is ever completely finished, but the TJ is nearly there. It has the perfect combination of capability vs road practicality. I think it's more a case of replacing or keeping on top of the maintenance side of things and updating any parts to better quality items. Favourite green-laning trip With my parents living on the outskirts of the North Yorkshire Moors it has to be the lanes around that area. We have travelled them so many times all of the routes are etched in our brains and have many fond memories taking different friends around these areas. Lottery win 4x4 I would have to stick with the Jeep brand, a fully modified Jeep Wrangler Gladiator would look the

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

103

es d i R s ' r e Read

Who are you, where are you from and what do you do? Hi I'm Craig Evans, I'm lock Smith from Wolverhampton. History of cars leading up your present 4x4 I’ve had many vehicles during my 16 years of driving, mostly Jeeps. My first cars were a Peugeot 309 1.9ltr diesel, a Renault Williams Clio and an Escort estate, then onto my Jeeps. My first was a Jeep Cherokee, then a Grand Cherokee (I had two of those), then onto the Jeep Commander that had 7 seats and was a great machine, which leads me to the… Present 4x4(s) … Jeep Wrangler JK that I have today. Modifications done I love my Jeep JK, I’ve put a lot of time (and money) into getting to were it is today. I’ve fitted new steel front and rear bumpers, a Superwinch Exp winch, flat fenders and roof rack. Suspension wise it sits on a 4” teraflex springs and rough country shocks. Inside I have a draw system that's for my camping trips that takes up the boot and half the back seating area makes a nice flat area.

104

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Favourite Modifications The Bearmach fridge and camping stove was great on my favourite ‘laning trips. Modifications to do Next on the list is a set of Rubicon wheels and fitted with 37” tyres. Favourite green-laning trip Elan Valley great two days of lanes with Ant from Timeless Overland. In fact, it was featured in October’s issue of The Mud Life Magazine. Lottery win 4x4 If I won the lottery I'd get my self a jeep gladiator and kit that out with the best of the best Favourite car related film Favourite film is ‘Gone in 60 seconds’. Favourite biscuits Favourite biscuit are Custard Creams. Where can we find more details? Place to find me is Facebook, but I have Instagram as well - craigevans1234

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

105

RETRO SNAPS

106

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Classicow h S r o t o M NEC

nov 2016

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

107

Fancy an off-road challenge? Want to get your 4x4 filthy?

Don’t ruin our ancient byways, try out your local P&P site, join a tour or brush up your skills on a driver training day instead. Over the next few pages we have listed many of the business that you can play, train and holiday with. If you fancy going along, always find out what you'll need to bring along or which vehicles are allowed: • Does your 4x4 need to be road legal? • Do you need to show proof of age, vehicle MOT and insurance documents? • Are your recovery points secure? • Do you even have any recovery points? Always check with the individual site before you set off. Remember, as well as a good quality tow rope, it’s always useful to bring along some rags and a bottle of water to clean your lights and reg plates, so you can stay legal whilst driving home!

108

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Pay & Play Directory

NORTH

SOUTH

Hill ’n’ Ditch

Essex Rochford & District 4x4 Club

Mouldsworth, Cheshire http://www.hillnditch4x4.com 07974 398201

Explore Off Road

Crewe, Cheshire http://www.exploreoffroad.co.uk 07970 286881

Kirton Off Road

Hibaldstow, Gainsborough https://www.korc.co.uk 01652 245022

Frickley 4x4 Off Road Centre South Elmsall, West Yorkshire https://www.frickley4x4.co.uk 07881 590593

Cowm Leisure

Whitworth, Rochdale https://cowmleisure.com 07970 101 879

WALES Ultra Adventure Driving

Wrexham, Wales http://www.ultraadventuredriving.co.uk 01978 358 444

Canewdon, Rochford http://www.4x4er.co.uk

Devils Pit

Barton Le Clay, Bedfordshire http://www.devilspit.co.uk 07764 159478

Avalanche Adventures

Market Harborough, Leicestershire https://avalancheadventure.co.uk 01858 880613

4x4 Without A Club

Aldermaston, Berkshire http://www.4x4-withoutaclub.co.uk 07887533168

John Morgan 4x4 Driving Slindon, West Sussex http://www.4x4driving.co.uk 01903 812195

Piccadilly Wood

Bolney, West Sussex http://www.piccadillywood4x4.co.uk 07984 543886

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

109

4x4 TOURS DIRECTORY

Highland All Terrain

Trails and Tracks 4x4 Adventures

Single & Multiple Day Tours with Wild Camping 100s of miles of Off-Road Tracks Access to Private Estates

Cambrian Way

The Old Filling Station, Kinlochlaggan, Newtonmore, PH20 1BX

tel: 01528 544 358 mob: 07708 819 157 email: info@highlandallterrain.co.uk www.highlandscenicsafari.co.uk

Ardent Off Road

Activities: 4x4 Tours, 4x4 Experiences https://ardentoffroad.com Tel: 01405 947 001

One Life Adventure

Activities: 4x4 Tours & vehicle prep training https://www.onelifeadventure.co.uk Tel: 01347 830188

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.cambrianway.com Tel: 01550 750274

Roam Free Adventures

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.roamfreeadventures.co.uk Contact via website

Timeless Overland

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.facebook.com/tloverland Tel: 07508 833 899

Land Tracks and Trails Green Lane Adventures Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.lanestracksandtrails.co.uk Tel: 07855 213355

Ardventures

Compass Adventures

4x4 Adventure Tours

Battlefields by 4x4

Activities: 4x4 Tours, 4x4 Experiences https://ardventures.co.uk Tel: 01757 638 479

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.4x4adventuretours.co.uk Tel: 07769 336 099

110

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://trailsandtracks.co.uk Tel: 07976 393 838

THE MUD LIFE MAGAZINE

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.compassadventures.co.uk Tel: 07508 708 588

Activities: 4x4 Tours https://www.battlefieldsby4x4.com Tel: 07014 241 418

Off Road Driver Training & Experiences NORTH

SOUTH

North Yorkshire Off Road Centre

Wild Tracks

Explore Off Road

True Grip off Road

WALES

Protrax

Activities: Off Road Driver Training Tours http://www.nyoffroad.co.uk 07787 555060 Activities: Off Road Driver Training 4x4 Experiences http://www.exploreoffroad.co.uk 07970 286881

Bala 4x4

Activities: 4x4 Driver Training https://www.bala4x4.co.uk 01536 772238

SCOTLAND Scottish Off Road

Activities: Off Road Driver Training http://www.scotoffroad.co.uk 07711 217759

Far X Four

Activities: Off Road Driver Training 4x4 Experiences http://www.farxfour.com 01450 860275

John Morgan 4x4 Driving

Activities: Pay & Play Off Road Driver Training http://www.4x4driving.co.uk 01903 812195

Activities: Off Road Driver Training 4x4 Experiences https://www.wildtracksltd.co.uk 01638 751918 Activities: Off Road Driver Training 4x4 Experiences http://www.truegripoffroad.co.uk 01233 662251 Activities: 4x4 Driver Training https://www.protrax.co.uk 01536 772238

Avalanche Adventures

Activities: Pay & Play 4x4 Experiences https://avalancheadventure.co.uk 01858 880613

Ash 4x4

Activities: Off Road Driver Training 4x4 Experiences http://www.ash4x4.com 07581 030331

UK WIDE All Terrain Services

Activities: 4x4 Driver Training 4x4 Experiences Self Drive Tours https://www.allterrainservices.co.uk 01792 862669

THEMUDLIFE.CO.UK

111

Click here to get The Mud Life magazine sent straight to your inbox every month!

Raise Brand AWARENESS!

Advertise your services & products with fully clickable links to your own website. email us to find out more:

ads@themudlife.co.uk

The Mud Life - 21 - December 2020

Articles inside

SIMON SAYS

WHAT 3 WORDS

AUDI Q2

JEEP WRANGLER SAHARA

LANING LIFE

TURNER'S TORQUE

NEWS