Have to agree with Sam on paras 1, 2 and 3 ('CTIS' sounds like some kind of infection ;-). Before I sold them after several trips the only time I ever used mine (in my 4WD with a great compressor) was getting deliberately stuck for the Dez Driving dvd.

Dont forget that within a couple of boggings you get a feel for your machine's power, weight and responsiveness and learn how to react to various surfaces. It's recognising how to avoid getting stuck (experience, technique) or backing off/backing out before you are too stuck (admitting defeat) that is the key. Like RAIs, plates look the part but are surprisingly unnecessary in the desert.

For a more extreme off-piste scenario things might be different. I've just bought us all a pair of cheap and light Soltracks
(http://www.horizonsunlimited.com/hub...-ladders-20206)
to try out on SEQ. We'll see how they work out

Chris S

best to take 'something'
 

First serious trip on sand we used plates frequently. Subsequent trips – virtually never. Last trip in Mauri/Mali, both compressors conked out (don't ask ) and even with just a foot pump, there was no real need for traction aids...

...BUT there was just one rock-topped, steep sandy incline where I was grateful for the plates. The digger (sorry, navigator) and the clutch were happy about it too.

A few things worth remembering:
* compressors can break,
* sidewalls can get damaged
* vehicles don't always have 100% of their mechanical strength
*...and sometimes even experienced drivers end up in the wrong place at the wrong angle etc. etc.

Bottom line: plates, mats, ladders, rugs etc. extend the abilities of your vehicle - even your fully deflated vehicle.

I think it's a good idea to have 'something' effective to stick under the wheels for traction. How much weight, space and cash that's worth is another matter.

As for CTIS, I want it, I want it!

isn't that what the missus is for?!!!
(or is that why I am still single!)

I have only used my ladders once, but when I needed them, boy did I need them!!
don't rely on a compressor, take a foot pump as well. it's light and doesn't take up too much room, as against a winch which isn't really necessary in the sand. the more weight you have, the more work you make for yourself.

The only time I ever needed sand ladders was when stuck in a bowl, we were lucky to have a winch equipped vehicle on this occasion too. Otherwise low tyre pressure are the key to traction in soft sand. Have ran for miles on 10 psi with no problems, the tyre were XZY's so pretty immune to damage.

Andrew.

Knobs in the cab
 

Get yourself an old Tatra 813, they've got it as standard.
Cheaper than a decent defender (until you get to the petrol station :-((

Winch?
 

A winch is almost completely useless in the desert - it's of possible use if you are two vehicles but debatable even then.

Sam.

Just a word of warning.... i'd only got to scrap-iron, i mean, scorpion, as a last resort....

a) if i was desparate,

b) if i was exeedingly well off that week...

They're pretty expensive compared to other suppliers, and their after sales support leaves something to be desired. check out LR4x4 and do a search on them.
I've bought some bits from them in the past, and tried talking to them at Billing show, never again.

just my personal view you understand, but thought you better know!

Matt savage does sand ladders and air pumps, and he is much more experianced in desert driving than the London boys!

Winching in sand is possible, just hard work, bury the spare wheel in a hole about a metre deep, with the winch cable attached. Try and get the cable as flat as possible and hey presto you can pull yourself forward so that you can get bogged again!!

no pressure
 

Well, almost!

Sam.