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Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 1977-78: VUWAE 22
F. Recommendations
F. Recommendations
| (a) | After two field seasons dependent on motor toboggans, personnel of Event 12 considered that the best type of toboggan would be a combination of a 4-stroke engine with OMC bodies. The reasons being (i) good 4-stroke engine performance under cold conditions, (ii) slower idling speed of 4-strokes enables better and safer manoeuvrability in rough and crevassed ice areas, also better traction on flat icy surfaces and (iii) the stronger construction of the OMC body, tracking and suspension. |
| (b) |
Sledging on icy surfaces requires a lot of 'sledge braking'. Experience indicates the full dog sledge to be far superior in its braking abilities. The handles and stand, plus foot brake enable confident and speedy travel even with full loads and difficult terrain. Shorter sledge towing ropes are suggested. This is a necessity during downglacier travel and double-sledging. Towing ropes which can be rapidly adjusted to suit snow and ice conditions, would enable better handling of sledges. This would prevent major damage to sledges as it reduces the amount of 'jack-knifing' of towed sledges. |
| (c) | Unpleasant quantities of kerosene fumes with possibly some carbon monoxide were experienced in the early stages of the season from the new VUW primuses which had in fact, been tested and double filtered fuel used. Defective washers proved to be the main offenders and showed the necessity for careful checking, particularly when being used in poorly ventilated conditions such as in tents. |
| (d) | A potentially dangerous primus fuel mixup occurred with containers of DFA being forwarded to Vanda. These were not the containers left on the pad at Scott Base and as small containers were at a premium it is possible the original kero was "borrowed" from the resupply stockpile, and replaced later. Such a practice should not be encouraged.page 18 |
| (e) | Toboggan rear-vision mirrors can be relatively easily rigged up by field parties who want them and are extremely useful as a large part of tobogganing time is pulling loads. |
| (f) | As previously mentioned, the helos should carry radios which provide effective communication with McMurdo whilst the helo is on the ground. |