RV MAIL

CHECK OUT COOKTOWN

When you ’ re doing the big lap , don ’ t bypass historical Cooktown . There is so much to see and experience .

Steve and Angie Paris . Via email

DEVIL IN THE DETAIL

Regarding the article ‘ Dual Cab Dilemma ’ ( GoRV # 48 ), as is often the case , all is not what it seems and the devil is in the detail . The weak point of the RAM 1500 ( all models ) is the maximum rear axle load limit . It is quite light at only 1770kg .

This was not a point of consideration in your article , but it is of critical importance , as this is what the transport inspectors / police weigh when you are stopped at the roadside .

By comparison , the current Ford Ranger and Nissan Navara have a maximum rear axle load of 1850kg and the current Mazda BT50 and Isuzu D-MAX is 1910kg .

It is very much a case of ‘ buyer beware ’ with this US truck . The rear suspension is tailored toward a nice soft ride on the highway , rather than load-carrying .

The RAM 2500 is very much more capable , but pricey .

Bob Murray Via email

Thanks for your letter , Bob . Of course , you are correct . We certainly could ( or should ) have included this in the article . – Ed

HEADLINE DILEMMA

I ’ m writing to take issue with the heading of the article in your recent issue which brings information on dual cab utes .

I am not questioning the accuracy of the statements within the article but rather the alarmist headline , which is simply inaccurate . Yes , dual cabs have limitations of weight and towing and not everyone understands the GCM , etc . – but it ’ s hardly a disaster !

All tow vehicles have limitations and unfortunately many people either ignore them or aren ’ t aware of them . Just read the online forums !

Many people travel Australia in these utes with great confidence , towing caravans , boats and floats , and they do so safely . You should remember not everyone can afford a Land Cruiser 200 ( which have their own limitations , often overlooked ).

Perhaps some clarification regarding the headline might be required in later issues .

Apart from this almighty whinge , I do enjoy reading your usually very interesting and informative reports !

Arnie . Via email

OVERLOOKING THE TOILET ?

Regarding the article ‘ Free to Free-Camp ’ ( GoRV # 46 ,) without self-contained toilet facilities , I would suggest most people would not make it through the night before they would need to use the nearest tree or dig a hole . These days , with emphasis being on protecting the environment and no-trace camping , using the great outdoors as your own toilet is not an acceptable option .

Apart from the health risks , turning up to a camp where human waste is sitting on the ground or inadequately buried is not enticing . Digging holes can lead to erosion and also encourage animals to investigate .

I can go a few days without a shower ( my wife would disagree ) but I can not go that long without a toilet .

Greg Sharkey

DUAL-CAB DILEMMA

FREE-CAMPING ESSENTIALS

If you have an opinion or thought about the RV lifestyle , or about this digital

magazine , we ’ d like to hear it ! Email your feedback to info @ gorv . com . au

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