Tempted by Touareg

[Moonan]

Buy the Touareg. You won't regret moving up a class of vehicle - I have the base poverty pack model '05 with the R5 engine. I won't go back to a Japanese car. You will be driving the "thinking man's 4wd".. I still smile every time I get in mine. I have had 8 of my own 4wd's (continuously since my first 2-stroke suzuki in 1981) and more as company vehicles. I will buy another one.

[Sunshineviking]

Hi There Bobzed57

New to the Forum - Just wondering what a DP chip is?

Just got the same vehicle as yourself.. Looks from the photos like you guys et out and about some in yours! I'm hoping to get out in the Autumn to do some exploring and Camping inland from the Sunshine Coast or perhaps on the Darling downs. Any Tips you'd care to share on taking the Touareg into the rough stuff. I have the rear wheel carrier on mine, but I'll be looking to get a roof tray or pod before we head off. Is a winch a must? looks like you just used a snap strap on that rescue?

any hints gratefully received

viking

[bobzed57]

Hey viking

Welcome. Check a few of the other Treg forums, there's plenty of info about on their performance off road. I'm very happy with my Treg's ability off-road although it could use a bit more clearance.

I don't think a winch is necessary and it would be a bugger to fit. I did see a winch used in Cayenne rally that was slung from the two recovery hooks at the front. I think you'd have to be desperate though.The video you saw of my recovery was in my early days, on half-worn original tyres and me a bit out of my depth. We used the tow hook supplied in the boot, but I have since upgraded my recovery options. I now try to avoid getting stuck.

The DPCHIP is a chip that intercepts calls from the ECU on their way to the engine. They claim the R5 is about the best engine for the chip making some 155kw at 450nm at its max setting. I run mine at the middle setting which gives a good balance between performance and economy. I'd never be without it now. Check http://www.dpchip.com.au/ and ask for Andrew. Great bloke and very knowledgeable on diesel engines. He's at Berrima in NSW, but there are agents for the chip in other states.

Cheers

Bob Z

[Sunshineviking]

Thanks Bob - I'll look into it - Any idea if it voids the VW warranty? or can it be taken off easily for service work...

[bobzed57]

DPChip warrant the drive train when you have one fitted.

I usually remove mine, it's easy peasy, just a couple of small screws. I have had the vehicle in their shop for work with the chip fitted and no one said anything. My dealer has been very good and most of the guys are happy to see me use it as a real 4wd.

Cheers

[Sunshineviking]

Thanks Bob - Going to check with the dealer if mine's had the recall work done yet. I'll get that done and the 15k service them probably get it chipped.

cheers again and happy motoring

[barefoot]

Just got the same vehicle as yourself.. Looks from the photos like you guys et out and about some in yours! I'm hoping to get out in the Autumn to do some exploring and Camping inland from the Sunshine Coast or perhaps on the Darling downs. Any Tips you'd care to share on taking the Touareg into the rough stuff. I have the rear wheel carrier on mine, but I'll be looking to get a roof tray or pod before we head off. Is a winch a must? looks like you just used a snap strap on that rescue?

Sunshineviking, the back of Kenilworth has some terrific tracks complete with a couple of water crossing, though at the moment it might be over the 500mm wading depth of the touareg. But to see the treg really shine go to one of the islands.

Re' winch, I reckon a set of maxtrax would be a safer option, see here:
http://www.maxtrax.com.au

My only other rule of thumb is stay home if it's wet, the road tyres aren't much good in mud (even with all the traction aids), sliding back down a hill can have consequences ........
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=GeYmDOzoibk

btw, we've just got back from sunny coast, and I did see a greenish grey t'reg with spare wheel carrier, I did the statutory wave (mine's a Colorado red), and at the time would have had a surfboard on top.
Cheers
Cheers

[dmm_au]

My only other rule of thumb is stay home if it's wet, the road tyres aren't much good in mud (even with all the traction aids), sliding back down a hill can have consequences ........
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=GeYmDOzoibk

That is a terrifying video, if only because the guy doesn't look like he's doing anything risky, and it just happens so gently and quickly.

I do wonder if the Touareg, being lower and wider than many 4wds, might have performed any differently in the same situation.

[barefoot]

I would say the touareg would fare better having a much lighter rear end, wider track and probably balanced weight distribution than a pajero.
Cheers

[Sunshineviking]

Sunshineviking, the back of Kenilworth has some terrific tracks complete with a couple of water crossing, though at the moment it might be over the 500mm wading depth of the touareg. But to see the treg really shine go to one of the islands.

Re' winch, I reckon a set of maxtrax would be a safer option, see here:
http://www.maxtrax.com.au

My only other rule of thumb is stay home if it's wet, the road tyres aren't much good in mud (even with all the traction aids), sliding back down a hill can have consequences ........
http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=GeYmDOzoibk

btw, we've just got back from sunny coast, and I did see a greenish grey t'reg with spare wheel carrier, I did the statutory wave (mine's a Colorado red), and at the time would have had a surfboard on top.
Cheers
Cheers

Thanks for that -

I think I do remember a red Touareg waving to us as we returned from Noosa the other day. Apologies If I didn't wave back - the kids were probably havinga wobbly in the back. I've been pleased to notice the camaraderie between owners!

We have already beem out to K'worth but as you say the damp weather put us off heading too far off the beaten track this time - Also I'm looking at getting some more suitable tyres. Any Suggestions ? I've heard good and bad about cooper ATR's...but they are guaranteed...

Any time you intend to head this way for a weekend drive/camp give me a shout on here and we'll try and catch up.

All the best

viking