As we moved deeper into the desert, the track got rougher. Through patches of corrugations, then a rocky stretch that threatened to slice the sidewalls of Ned's tires. Then washouts, where storm waters had rushed along, or across the track, and gouged out holes and rocked us threateningly as we rolled over them.
Soon the track closed in, mulga, on both sides hugged the track, giving Ned a brush and a scratch on the sides on the way through. He is a tough old boy, and we squeezed through quite a few tight patches without damage, but with the marks to remember it.
A large rock cairn, at the side of the track had us wondering who had built it and why. There was a bit of work involved by the look.
Further along, a camel came into view, a big guy, looked like he had a slight limp. After checking us out for a bit, he moved on, probably wondering what we were doing in his back yard.
Another sight, which was to become familiar, was, trailers, of different sizes, abandoned, with various broken bits, testifying to their demise. A good, well-built trailer could, and have, done this track, but it is a punishing drive and only the tough equipment will survive.
The next bore was coming up, and I had a couple of containers to top up, so we pulled in and got the old girl working, the pump too.
Corrigations were back, some say to speed over them, to reduce the rattle and bang, it can feel a bit smoother, but believe me your suspension feels it all, and will distruct sooner than later. I find a slower pace, with well reduced air pressure in your tires is kinder to the vehicle, and you, in the long run.
Another day was closing, so, a clear area was chosen and that was home for the night, where checks were made over the truck and another desert sunset was enjoyed.
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