When up and over the Wayfarer in Wales on Sunday, great day out.
Freelander impressed me considering it didn't have low range etc. Stayed in first gear about 95% of the way, so clutch smelt a little bit burny by the end. Traction Control hardly even kicked in despite all the wet conditions and the grip was very impressive. The car seemed to 'walk' itself up steps and over rocky paths very well. Used HDC a couple of times on the way down. The car seemed easy to manoeuvre and remained quite responsive.
Biggest problem was clearance. After first five minutes, I was having a nervous breakdown listening to to knocks and bumps from underneath, as the ruts are quite deep all the way. I kept getting out and checking the exhaust, but what seemed to be catching all the time was the under-engine tray, also a u-shaped metal bar that seems to be behind that, under the IRD from what I can see, and finally the recovery points at the back, which also seem to be lower than any part of the exhaust system.
Just 3 more inches would have made all the difference
Stressing about damage took the edge off it slightly, but I was impressed with the way the vehicle handled everything else. I guess the Wayfarer is quite a tame route really, and I don't think the Freelander would handle a lot more, but then someone else might be able to prove otherwise?!
Would definately go out again though. We went as prepared as poss, and also went with a mate from work in a huge Land Cruiser to pull me out if/when I got stuck!
James
Freelander impressed me considering it didn't have low range etc. Stayed in first gear about 95% of the way, so clutch smelt a little bit burny by the end. Traction Control hardly even kicked in despite all the wet conditions and the grip was very impressive. The car seemed to 'walk' itself up steps and over rocky paths very well. Used HDC a couple of times on the way down. The car seemed easy to manoeuvre and remained quite responsive.
Biggest problem was clearance. After first five minutes, I was having a nervous breakdown listening to to knocks and bumps from underneath, as the ruts are quite deep all the way. I kept getting out and checking the exhaust, but what seemed to be catching all the time was the under-engine tray, also a u-shaped metal bar that seems to be behind that, under the IRD from what I can see, and finally the recovery points at the back, which also seem to be lower than any part of the exhaust system.
Just 3 more inches would have made all the difference
Stressing about damage took the edge off it slightly, but I was impressed with the way the vehicle handled everything else. I guess the Wayfarer is quite a tame route really, and I don't think the Freelander would handle a lot more, but then someone else might be able to prove otherwise?!Would definately go out again though. We went as prepared as poss, and also went with a mate from work in a huge Land Cruiser to pull me out if/when I got stuck!
James
