NZAP Vehicles

All vehicles were generally in good condition when allocated to the event and the only problems were minor, (see para. on the D5 and Cantago sledge above). The D5 towed 3 Cantago sledges (incl. NZ1) and a TAE sledge. Consumption of JP8 was 230 1/100 km. Detailed checks of these sledges is time consuming but should be done at the end of summer by an engineer so that repairs can be made during as part of the winter work programme.

The NZAP Nodwell performed well in the field especially considering the age and history of the chassis (1962). The new Isuzu engine started easily was fuel efficient and with about 3000lb on the deck and no towed load consumed JP8 at 125 1 per 100 km. The only major problem we encountered with this vehicle was the lack of spare tyre and wheel. USAP use special foam filled tyres for their Nodwell vehicles which eliminates the need to carry a spare. Perhaps NZAP should adopt this practice also.

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Two Alpine II skidoos (AL1, AL2) were used by the event. The machines performed very well for all the purposes we required and no breakages occurred. The use of a low sledge (TAE) for towing the skidoos when they are not in use with the slow moving cargo train is a useful option.

Some fuel (JP8 and MOGAS) was supplied from Scott Base but the majority of JP8 was supplied from USAP at Marble Pt. into 11 209 1 empty drums hauled from Scott Base. This reduced cargo loading to Marble Pt. by 5,000 lb (2270 kg) which is clearly advantageous. The disadvantage is that an extra day was required to traverse over rough ice into Marble Pt., onto land to the air facility to fill the drums. It would be a significant advantage if fuel was pre positioned on sea ice north of Gneiss Pt. to avoid the normal rough ice in Marble Pt. bay (Arnold Cove) and the land travel to the Helo fuelling facility.

Bridging equipment for heavy plant and sledges operating on the sea ice is still required in the NZAP programme. Bridging should be quick and easy to setup to provide safe operation and crossing of several vehicle and sledge types. A long low sledge with drop ramps towed behind heavy plant could be a relatively low cost option. Such bridging equipment will be required for the Cape Roberts programme.