Remote touring? Here’s some tips and brake spares to consider

Cape York, the Simpson Desert and the Canning Stock Route, are areas that enthusiastic off-roaders are increasingly tackling, but just because more are travelling to these parts, it doesn’t mean the challenges should be underestimated.

The vast distances and demanding conditions can take their toll on four-wheel drives, which will often be loaded with accessories, supplies, tools and spare parts, not to mention potentially an off-road camper or caravan in tow, making it challenging for brake systems.

Prior to heading off for any remote area touring, Bendix recommends getting a thorough pre-trip vehicle check by a suitably qualified workshop, preferably with experience in four-wheel drive preparation. A complete brake system refresh is also advised; this includes new brake pads and disc brake rotors (or brake shoes in the case of four-wheel drives with rear drums), and a brake fluid change.

If you're planning a long trip through remote locations, pack a spare set of brake pads, additional brake fluid and extra brake hoses.

Brake system spares and tools
For the trip itself, Bendix advises packing spare brake pads, a litre of brake fluid and additional brake hoses, particularly if travelling through muddy areas and bog holes where obtrusions are more difficult to see.

When it comes to having the correct tools on board to allow owners to maintain and complete emergency brake repairs while on the road, the good news is that there’s minimal specialist tooling needed. A brake caliper piston retraction tool will make the process of creating space within the caliper easier for inserting new brake pads. But alternatively, carefully leveraging using a large screwdriver and multi-grips will give the same result albeit with a bit more effort.

Other useful tools and equipment to consider for the brake system – and also relevant as part of a general tool kit – is a socket set, torch, pliers, multi-grips and a hammer. It’s also worthwhile having brake cleaner or degreaser on board, nitrate gloves and rags for clean-up.

Emergency brake repairs are made easier when you have the right tools. Be sure to carry a socket set, torch, screwdrivers, pliers, multi-grips and a hammer at a minimum.

Depending on the terrain in which you’re traveling, it’s recommended you also regularly clean your vehicle and camper’s (if using one) braking systems during the journey. Destinations such as Cape York are notorious for mud, which when pilled on thick will affect braking performance.

Access to water for cleaning can be difficult on the road, so when it’s available, a thorough underbody clean is recommended to clear any mud build up. There’s a more detailed article on conducting a thorough brake system clean here.

And if you are towing an off-road van or camper, also treat it to a brake system clean and check all electrical connections. In the case of electric trailer brakes, corrosion will send the system into high resistance and causing the brakes to lose their effectiveness.

While more travellers than ever are choosing to visit remote locations, the challenges of driving through areas such as Cape York, Simpson Desert, the Canning Stock Route and similar, shouldn't be underestimated.