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Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 2002-03: VUWAE 47

FIELD TRANSPORT

FIELD TRANSPORT

Vehicle

Generally all vehicles were in good condition.

Final drive noise in the D6 that developed during the early was an initial concern because without this vehicle this program could not be deployed into the field. This was monitored by the mechanic but was probably getting progressively worse.

The Hagglund and Kassbohrer PB100 allocated K042 were operated without incident. Of concern in the H2 was the lack of a functioning engine pressure gauge and odometer when the vehicles were allocated to the event.

The Kassbohrer PB170 was vital for our operation and was not in good condition. It was serviced back at Scott Base by expert engineers during the field period but returned no better that before. Both the Hiab crane hydraulic hoses and the vehicle hydraulic transmission controllers had problems. The stub axel on the front right was also damages when the wheel fell off driving back to Scott Base. This was temporarily repaired but need further maintenance.

Two Alpine (model 2) and a new Skandic skidoo were allocated to the event. The new skidoo performed faultlessly but it is unstable on rough ground and potentially dangerous if rough ground is encountered at speed. The engine of one of the old Alpine 2 skidoos failed and the vehicle was towed back to Scott Base.

Aircraft Operations

Helicopters was used on two occasions:
  1. Gonville and Caius Range.
  2. New Harbour and Black Island ANDRILL site familiarisation. At New Harbour the Rig Point site used for storing MSSTS drill equipment was located. A small amount of equipment and rubbish still remains and this could be cleaned up within a few hours during the snow free period of the year.
page 6

Ship Operations

Science cargo was prepared for ship cargo return to NZ on 5 February.