Did this track yesterday and I had to winch from the wombat hole at 12:01. I have no lockers but thank God for the perfect Gum tree in front as a winch point. It was pretty busy and two other cars had to winch from the same spot. Both had no lockers but one had very average all terrain tyres. Having said that my other mates made it no worries with no lockers but a lot more momentum which is not ideal as the vehicle is bouncing all over the place. My other mate, Matt made it without lockers as he picked a perfect line. It is not a track for the faint hearted because it is bloody steep. We left Dargo this afternoon not knowing about the Melbourne lockdown as we had no reception. Dargo Hotel was closed to the public and we literally got told off by the lady at the general store to get out of Dargo as city folk were not welcome because of Coronavirus. So we left empty stomach, luckily I bought a couple of stickers and a fridge magnet when we arrived on friday.
G'day Steve, Yeah Mark in our crew said that it would need to be winched up that last section. Thats why i decided that we dont drive it because i wouldn't be trusting those trees as a solid winch point. Im glad you guys got up ok, i think it's a pretty popular track for the area. Yeah mate, i have heard about whats going on in Dargo. Not good, but they need to do what they need to do i guess. Once this is over, i hope people will be back into those towns. Thanks heaps for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks Tim, I loved the experience and had a great time. My Patrol is an auto which tends to runaway a bit going downhill, had it in 4L 1st gear with the hold button depressed but my mate was saying that a manual holds much better than an auto going downhill. The guy at the general store was ok with us but the lady wasn't impressed. She told us that everyone drove past the town and didn't stop except for us. We apologised and tried to explain that we didn't know about the lockdown until we came back to Dargo just then. She told us we were irresponsible as there are elderly in town and we might expose them to the virus. We apologised once again and left the store. We understood where she was coming from.
Steve 1313 Yeah mate, the manual will hold a lot better when going down hills. You could look into a auto lock up kit. They seem to work well. Wholesale Automatic do a great kit. Might be worth having a chat with. Yeah mate, I’ve only seen recently about what Dargo is doing. You can only do what you can mate. Not everyone is going to know about it. Take care mate during these times. Cheers Tim.
Good clip Tim. Good commentary. Lots of cuts to interesting video angles. Not easy to do. I've made that run many times in my 4WD L300 van, the old 1985 model. Always a load of fun.
Great vid Tim. Just did that track a couple days ago. I drive a 60 series Landcruiser. Unlocked. Lockers would make it a lot more controlled. Pick good lines and you’ll be right.
Hey there Tim, hope you're well and still check in on these old posts. I did Blue Rag today for the first time (09/03/23). It lived up to all of your promises and then some! We tackled the drive in a stock Amarok on AT tyres and it all went very well thanks to Mini-Tim sitting on my left shoulder saying 'Now first gear low range for the descent, diff lock engaged, take it easy etc.' We're at your campsite right now preparing for sunset with a nice fire and a glass of Gippsland Shiraz. Thanks again and looking forward to more of your adventures.
Gday mate, That’s fantastic you had a great trip up along Blue Rag. It’s such a nice drive along the ridge all the way to the summit. That’s a Crackn spot to camp mate. I hope the sunset was nice while enjoying that bottle of Gippy red. Lol Thanks maté for your feedback, I really appreciate it. Cheers Tim
Great video again Tim...only just caught up on my best videos on the Tube....lots of rain in Mansfield before the long weekend !! I might add very welcome rain...well driven as always !! Thanks mate !!
G'day Craig, Thanks mate. Heaps of rain falling over the past few weeks, which is great to see. Thanks for your reply and feedback mate. Cheers Batesy.
@@timbates4wdadventures hi hadn't considered dropping tyre pressures like that in that type of rocky situation. But of course it's obvious to get traction like sand. Just need to be careful of sidewalls. Not sure about my vehicle current model Colorado as it doesn't have a locker. Might do some trial stuff first. Very good in sand but haven't tackled a climb like that.
G'day mate, Both Blue Rag and Billy Goat are fun tracks in that Dargo area. Hope you get to drive them soon mate. Blue Rag is now closed for the winter season. Cheers Tim.
Hi Tim Thx for the upload. I came down the track nearly 2 years to the day. It looks as if a fair bit of the top soil has gone based on how rocky it looked. Some good info there on how steep the track is for the uninitiated- the week before I was last on it a group in a new LC200 went over the edge - the locals seem to think the driver was playing with the downhill descent control, the vehicle got away and the driver couldn’t pull it up. The lesson there is to assess the track beforehand and set the vehicle up for the conditions - going up or down. That area you pulled over for the view, was exactly the spot I met a group coming the other way. I was lucky as it is certainly a bit tight if you meet others. Cheers....
G'day mate, I think i remember the 4wd going over the edge on Billy Goat Bluff Track. It would have been a scary ride thats for sure. Definitely a track for a fairly well set up 4wd and a good amount of off road experience to go with it. Thanks a lot for your reply and feedback mate. Cheers Tim.
the lesson there is sell the 200,get something WITHOUT all that useless tech that gets you in trouble & takes the driving away from you so you LEARN NOTHING.like,2 diffs,real 4wd low.by the owner,NOT a frigin computer that cant see.LC 200,mall crawler.period.like all,IFS 4wd,s..total waste of 85k..go sell it,buy,if you lean that way,,an 80 series,or preferably,4.2 tdi gu....1 sensor on that 200 shits,,you die..think about it..i know a guy was in limp mode for 1500 ks..nice...[ maybe thats why the 200 went off the track,COULDNT SEE !! ]..
Another great Vid! Cheers mate. It's one of my favorite tracks. Great camera angles too, You don't realise how much punishment the under body running gear takes until you see it!
Diesel Dave Gday mate, Yeah the rear camera angle shows the steepness quite well. It’s a steep track, that’s for sure. Thanks a lot for your feedback mate. Cheers Batesy.
Great clip young felah,must have a crack at that trk looking good,l shouldn't have to many problems l am double locked in me old Land rover county. I keen on doing Strickland spur trk Narbethong area,looking at some of the clips it's a bit of a challenge. Be good and kind😁
G'day Greg, It's a heap of fun to drive thats for sure. Front and rear lockers, sure are handy. I haven't driven that track before, but i have heard a lot about it. Cheers Tim.
G'day Albert, Yeah it will be a popular track for the up and coming long weekend, thats for sure. Thanks heaps mate for your reply and feedback. I greatly appreciate it. Cheers Tim.
G'day mate, Yeah it's a great spot to stop over for lunch on a nice day. I have camped a number of times in the big clearing just before the carpark. Great sopt. Cheers Tim.
Top video Tim, its good to see how you show the condition of the track and not just talk about it. Looking at getting out there for the Easter weekend. Well done mate👍
Hi again Tim, just having a look at some of your older vids as I'm relatively new to your channel, that certainly is a long haul up from the heli pad and what a great view point to stop at and let the vehicle cool a bit. I wish I could get over there and experience the high country for myself. I'm not dead yet though mate!! LOL. Regards Paul.
G'day Paul, Thanks mate for checking out my channel. That drive up Billy Goat is a top drive. The second half is steep and keeps going. I hope you can get over here soon. Where are you from? Cheers Tim
Hi Tim, I’m in Southampton in the UK. I lived in South Africa for 30 years and have been back here for 21 years. I miss the wide open spaces of Africa. In the mid 90’s I very nearly moved to Sydney on a business venture but it didn’t happen so I came back here. I would have loved living in Aus. Cheers.
That’s high up on my bucket list Tim. Would love to expirience camping in the bush there. The lifestyle is very similar to SA but I think you have more freedom to camp there in Aus.
I have driven billy goats bluff 6 times in my Subaru Leone and the last time i drove it at 11:50 minutes on this video i got my front wheels on the table drain and had to be snatched a couple meters to get over it. that was the 3rd time iv ever been recovered in my 4x4. Other 4x4s with big lifts didnt get as far as i did. The time before that was in the snow and i drove it easy given that it had snow and ice on allot of the track. Good track. Every time its different.
Was a good drive last week, Patrol walked it like a champ, was a tougher climb than i had expected tho, thats for sure! As you said, you've got to respect the track, its no place to mess about, good video Tim 👍
G'day Gavin, Coils all round on the Patrol is such a great combo for keeping tyres on the ground. It's a track that sure does deserve a very healthy respect. Thanks heaps for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
we came from mansfeild to dargo back in 87 and came across a fella in datsun 180b all loaded up he asked us what the road to mansfeild was like,not wanting to laugh at him we told him he should go back wonder what happened to him, such a great trip comin back down to Dargo
G'day William, One can only hope that the driver of the DatO took your advise and turned around. That kind of thing happens more than you would think. People not knowing the area, just follow a GPS or a map and go with it. Generally heading into danger. Ive been confronted with a late model Commodore station wagon about 4 years ago, trying to get up Billy Goat. He turned around after the advise of not to go any further. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
Love this. It's fun to see a Patrol getting out there. We can still buy the Y61 (petrol only!) here in the UAE. Mine's from 2011. If I hear they stop making them in a couple of years, I'll get a new one so that it'll last another 20 years and I can be sure of having a Patrol in my parking space - and out in the desert and mountains here - for many years to come.
G'day Christopher, Thanks mate for dropping in from the United Arab Emirates, i greatly appreciate that mate. The Patrol is a great 4WD. Nissan have stopped making the Y61 for Australia now. I will be hanging onto mine. That might come your way soon mate. Thanks for your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the video Tim. I drove Billy Goats just afternoon your November trip for the first time In my Hilux with stock suspension and no lift. Made it up no worries. Can completely agree it had changed a lot in 4 months. Went back up at the end of Feb and it was much more difficult even with my 2” Dobinsons kit. Almost made it over the wombat holes. Lucky I had my new winch to test out there. I’ll be back maybe over winter and check it out then too. Keep the vids coming! Cheers. 👍🏻
Adam M Gday Adam, Top stuff that you drove up Billy Goat for the first time. I remember my first time going up, it sure gets the adrenaline going. I look forward to going back up, when this damn virus has past. It will be a great drive again. Thanks for your reply mate. Hope you’re happy with your Dobos suspension. Cheers Tim.
Tim Bates 4wd Adventures Hey Tim. Thanks for the reply. Yes it was an amazing feeling and so worth the drive. Plenty of curly moments but I knew my Lux would be ok. We actually crossed paths on our way up there. Along crooked river track I took video of my crew crossing the deeper river crossing and they left me on the other side with one rig coming back to get me. But a young kid in your group made the comment “how’s he getting across?”. It was amazing to see on the trip in February how silty the rivers were from the fires. It will be great to see how Mother Nature repairs itself while we are locked down. Looking forward to seeing the rest of ur road trip to the snowy mountains. Take care and keep safe!! Cheers. 👌
@@adamm5263 Thats key for sure mate, that you know what your 4wd can do. Really helps with tracks like Billy Goat. Ahh yes, i remember you guys on the Crooked River Track. Always great seeing others out in the bush. Hard to know how Billy Goat will recover after an extended time off without anyone driving it. Thanks heaps for your feedback mate on the Road Trip series. The last ep will be up on Monday night. Thanks again and maybe catch you back in the bush when we can get back out. Cheers Tim.
Tim Bates 4wd Adventures Looking forward to the new ep on the road trip. Definitely will try to hit u up when we get back out there! Will be interesting! Take care mate!!
Wow it has changed so much since new years day 2020. At about 13.40mins is where we rescued a young bloke who had a flat and broken the LHS top link off his rear diff. Also it was pea soup all the way to the lookout.
G'day Drew, Sure has changed a lot since i drove it back in November last year. It's not a good track to get down off when something breaks on your 4wd, even more so when you cant see where you are going. Hope that you got that rescued 4wd down ok. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
Tim, you need to do this track in mid to late June when there is snow. It's incredible and would make a great video for your channel. Dry and dusty and then BAM!! Your surrounded with snow. You will love it. Cheers
Couldn’t agree more. Even though I’m locked, I try my best to keep all 4 wheels on the ground. Although I’m prepared for it to happen, I’m not keen on having to replace cv’s on the beaten track. Gear reduction... I wish!
Gday Phillip, Yeah, keeping wheels on the ground is preferred if you can. Busting CVs on tracks like Billy Goat isn’t ideal. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim
Hey Tim, another great vid and insight into the vic high country. Thanks for all your vids, keeps me motivated for when the covid restrictions release us from insanity
You respect the track but there are others who couldn’t careless of how they drive. I seen some on TH-cam and they are camping . Young ones who think they are heroes but not all young ones are like them thought I just say. Beautiful views but looks scary with the track.Stay safe please as I enjoy your videos.
G'day Kim, Yes, not all young 4wders are doing the wrong thing in the bush. I know a lot of under 30 year olds that do the right all the time. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim.
Great video Tim, you are the only one who shows a really great preview of the drive on these tracks, and as i favor overlanding for the adventure and the epic views, not so much mud slinging and rock crawling, these videos are very helpful. I suspect the answer to my question will be down to track condition, but would you say you could get a camper trailer up this track? I have a 980kg camper trailer (1.45 tonne GTM) id love to get up there so i can continue on to Mt Wellington, but am aprehensive. I drive a 2016 Jeep Wrangler with 2" lift and 285/70/17 AT tyres. Do you know of any resources that provide updates on when the track will be graded?
Gday Steven, Mate, it’s totally up to people in where they tow a camper trailer. But for me, there’s no way I would even contemplate towing a camper up Billy Goat regardless of track condition. If you get into trouble on that track, there’s no where you can turn around. It’s very steep and rocky in sections. But, that’s just my thought on it mate Hope it helps and thanks heaps for your feedback. Cheers Tim.
G'day Stephen, It sure is a great fun track to drive, needs a fair amount of respect, thats for sure. Not really sure yet mate, where the next trip will be. But, something will come up very soon. Lol Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
Awesome video!! Great work Batesy 👍😃. With it being a very steep and narrow track, how do you go meeting someone, or a group, going the other way? Not too many places to pull to the side and let others pass.
G'day Wayne, Most of the track has plenty of room to pass another vehicle or group thats coming the other way. In the tight spots, you will just have to make the call when the time comes. I've never had a bad experience on the track with other vehicles coming the other way. Both groups always seem to work it out. Thanks for your reply and feedback mate. Cheers Tim.
Track Looks great. My poor unloved stock 4WD sits there and wants me to take it places. I just never have the time. Maybe one day I'll get around to lifting it at least. (It has its own factory 'locker' system at least) Until then I'll have to stick with easy stuff like good ol' sand. Though I've had 'friends' drag me along on harder tracks back when I was young and gullible had a stock 1988 Pajero. Come for a drive they said. It will be fun they said. 🤣😂 Great Video very helpful!
G'day Tabatha, Thats great you are still getting with a few friends, and maybe one day you might be better set up to take on tracks like Billy Goat Bluff Track. Your rear factory locker will be handy on that track. Thanks for your reply. Cheers Tim.
G'day David, I find Blue Rag is an easier track to drive than Billy Goat. Both are great tracks to drive if you are up for them. Thanks for your feedback mate. Cheers Tim
Tim - loved this but you’ve shattered me with your comment re: Highway tires. My new vehicle is unbelievably capable but came with highways so that’s what I’m having to learn with until I get some A/T’s. I’ve mostly been around Toolangi and they’re getting me up & down some pretty steep stuff - I just stay away from wet weather. Is it really that bad using H/T’s in the high country on easy to intermediate tracks? I can drop pressure to 20 no problems and 13 if I need to.
G'day mate, End of the day you have to do what you have to do. But, HT tyres are not designed for pressure like you are running. Just be careful mate. Thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim
@@timbates4wdadventures thanks Tim. I haven’t gone to those levels and think I’d only go below 20 on sand to get out of a hole. It’s based on my local tyre guy looking at the bead - apparently it’s tough bead to pop. Limited by big rims. I don’t know why they put big rims on 4wd’s!
That was a savage vid tim , ya just wanna get out bush after that .... some great advice too , notice your tyres still look solid from the under body camera even with 18 up front ..... how much of a lift is on your patrol ???
Gday John Yeah mate it’s a great track to drive. 18 psi works well with those tyres. The lift is 3in mate. Thanks for your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim.
Great vid, cheers Tim. I wonder whether my stock standard 2009 Jeep jk would be good for this track?. She’s wearing great off road boots, no lift, lockers or winch though...
Gday Tony, Whether your Jeep is up for the track is only one part of it. The second and very important part to do this track is. Your off road driving experience. What’s your experience like in steep country to drive your Jeep up? End of the day, the 4wd will only react to the lines you pick on the track. Only you can answer that one mate. Hope that helps. Cheers Tim.
Re your comments at 6:55 regarding highway tyres...couldn't agree more and don't know why these people continue to try "off road" routes whilst relying on them. Sure...great for around town, picking up the kids from school and then delivering them to pony club, but...maybe not for the high country.
Hi Tim, your comments at 10:30 into vid about breaking stuff when you have wheels off the ground with lockers ON is quite incorrect. Since all wheels are turning at the same rate the wheel coming back down to the ground will not be spinning like an open or limited slip diff and will not shock load the drivetrain or CV's - also much less track erosion, and wear and tear on your drivetrain. What I can't understand is why you said you had the rear locker in before arriving at the helipad and negotiating those hairpin turns with it locked? That's where you might break an axle etc due to transmission windup if the surface is too grippy... Just my 2 cents worth...
Gday Tim, Loving this video. You show exactly the steepness of this track. Great camera work especially of the undercarriage. Would an auto be ok in tackling billy goat track Tim?
G'day Paul, Thanks mate, i glad that you found the video of the trip up Billy Goat Bluff Track helpful. As far as about your auto being good enough mate. It's not really got anything to do with your auto. How much off road experience do you have in steep country? How well setup is your 4WD? Auto is fine mate. Hope that helps mate. I greatly appreciate your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim
Hi Tim, love your work. Got a question, would a stock 2017 Prado with BFG KO2 all terrains make it up Billy Goat Bluff? I've done a couple 4wd training courses and a few trips, so perhaps I would be of immediate standard. Another question I had is would u recommend I stay in the ruts in the steep sections or straddle them which may potentially lead me to slip off and over!
G'day Michael, When you ask about if your vehicle will make it up Billy Goat Bluff Tk, thats only one part of your answer. The vehicle is suitable with those tyres. But the important second part is. How much off road driving experience have you had? End of the day mate, your 4wd will only go where the driver puts it on the tracks. Thats where driver experience plays a big part, in particular on tracks like Billy Goat. Plus does your 4wd have all the recovery points and recovery gear? I would always stay in the ruts mate, provided they aren't to deep where your 4wd is only going to belly out and get stuck. But, where possible always stay in the ruts, as they will give you some direction on a steep slippery track. Hope that helps answer your questions mate. Thanks for your reply and questions mate. Cheers Tim.
Nice vid. What are the reduction gears you talk about? I find my Patrol ute is geared slightly too high. Mine's set up as a tourer with an ally canopy which makes it gross quite heavy. Climbing like this is always 1st Low range for me, buy 2nd is too tall.
G'day Chad, The reductions are 42% lower than from standard. Only changes low range and doesn't affect high range gearing. We worth getting for slow steep tracks. First gear before reduction gears is like 2nd gear now in low range. 1st gear is great for slow crawling steep tracks. Hope that helps answer your question. Cheers Tim.
Nissan 1st low is higher than toyotas,but,,theres a box you can buy with better first..IF, you ever get a chance,,find an f100 4x4,302c,as they have 4.11 gears,the 351 have 3.5 gears,but you never use 1st to take off,..in 1st low,,3500 rev,s is about 4 mph..renouned as a stump puller..i have an f250 4.2 tdi,2002,,first low is rediculous.it goes up or down any hill at 800 revs.& weighs 4t..heres a vid for you to watch,,...unimog super low range....it doesnt move..i hope your ute is the 4.2 tdi..nothing else is worth buying..i would not,,buy ,any,toyota..
G'day Peter, Short answer is mate. No, you cant take an AWD up Billy Goats. It's steep, loose rock, high wash out humps. It's a low range gearing track only. Thanks for your question mate. Cheers Tim.
A lot depends on your off road experience mate. End of the day, your 4wd only goes where your experience puts it on the track with correct lines. Hope that helps mate. Cheers Tim.
Gday Daniel, A lot of the HC is open and some of those areas that have been closed, are slowing beginning to open again in time for the long weekend this week. Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the video. Have been wanting attempt this track but, being a novice to 4wding and having seen other vids where they seem to punish their vehicles, I was a bit scared to try. Now having seen this it has given me a little more confidence, especially being able to see the track itself from the low mounted camera. Any advice to a novice like me that has that “give it a go with care” attitude (old on age but young at heart).
G'day Raymond, Billy Goat is a fun track to drive. It has changed a lot since i made that video. I probably wouldn't be driving it for the first time on your own. Better to be safe than something go wrong mate. It's a track that needs a great deal of respect. Take care mate. Cheers Tim.
G'day Jack, Unfortunately, Blue Rag is still on the closed track list. I was in Dargo on the weekend, and talking to a few of the dozer drivers from the area. They are saying that Blue Rag will most likely remain closed for a while yet. I'll get back up that way once the track has opened again. Thanks for your question mate. Cheers Batesy.
Great Video, well worth watching! Can you please tell me what Cameras (Go Pros?) and especially what mounts you used above the bonnet and on the front bar?
Gday George, Great question. Most of the track is no worries with passing another group coming the other way. Only a few sections where it does get a bit tight. You just have to make it up if the time comes that another vehicle is coming toward you. Hope that helps answer your question mate. Cheers Tim.
@@p.a.f.mitasol8071 G'day mate, I have been driving Billy Goat Bluff for around 15yrs, i've never heard anyone mention it being a one way track. Its two way for sure. Cheers Tim.
Great stuff mate it's changed abit from last time I had to watch the first one before this lol. I'm still waiting to try this in the Hilux I'll just have to wait for the muddies to go on instead of the A/TS. I don't wanna get stuck half way up could end in a bad way lol
G'day Chris, Mud tyres sure do help, but nothing wrong at all with a good set of A/T tyres. Wheel placement is key when driving the track. Thanks mate for your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim.
Hi Tim. Great video mate love your content. Do you reakon billy goat bluff be passable with a front locked hilux and a 600 kg offroad camper trailer? I've never been up that end of the high country. Thanks mate!
Jazzaford Gday mate, I wouldn’t recommend anyone take a trailer up Billy Goat, even more so if you haven’t driven it before. I know it’s not an overly heavy trailer you have, but end of the day it’s still another 600kgs on the back. I’d drive it first without a trailer on, then see what you reckon. It’s quite loose and rocky after the heli pad to the Bluff. If you were on that steep section with a trailer on and and 4wd was coming down. You’d want to hope they move over if they can and let you through. My tip is, leave the trailer base camped up and drive up and back down. Thanks for your reply mate and feedback. Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures awesome! Thanks for the advice Tim. Looks like plenty of good spots to camp around there anyway! Look forward to heading over when restrictions are eased! 👌
Jazzaford Yeah it’s best not to tow a trailer up Billy Goat. Heaps of camping video options around the Dargo area on my channel. I hope you can get out soon. Cheers Tim.
G'day Ralph, Never touch the rear diff in a patrol unless you really have to. The Patrol LSD in the rear diff is a wicked setup straight from standard. If you want to get just one locker, just fit the locker in the front diff. Long story why i have a rear locker. Thanks for your question mate. Cheers Tim.
Patrol lsd is about the best there is in a 4wd. Many patrol owners see no need to run a rear locker choosing instead to run only a front locker with the lsd rear.
Hi mate, Wicked video ! I just did that track on 29/2, what day do you do it? We got stuck behind a group winching up where you mentioned the wombat holes that was pretty torn up from them getting stuck. Also did it in late November aswell, amazing how it changes. Was a great drive both times. Very busy track both times! Cheers mate
G'day mate, I drove Billy Goats in early March. Yeah i reckon a few people would be getting stuck on those wombat holes. They will get a lot worse over the coming months, i just hope that we can get back in the high country again this year. The track alone with many of the Hc tracks, change a lot with weather and vehicles driving over them. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures this is the same question I had so thanks for the answer! .Is it free camping there Tim? Or do you have to pay? love the information you have given out Batsey!. I remember you from back in the 4wd monthly days. You were always a genuine fella! Good on ya! Darren.
@@darren5444 Yeah mate, it's all free to camp in the Victorian High Country. Cool mate, they were great days with the 4wd action crew. Worked with a top bunch of people. Thanks heaps for your feedback mate. I do try and give out as much information as i can through my videos. Cheers Tim.
G'day mate, I hear stuff about tracks in the high country just off FaceBook. Vic High Country, Trips, Tips & Info page is a good one to hear about whats going on. Thanks mate for your reply and feedback. Cheers Tim.
G'day Shane, Not really any hard and fast rule for giving way. But having said that. Generally those coming down have right of way. Because, it's harder for a 4wd coming down a steep hill to reverse back up. But, i find its one of those things, that needs to be assed at the time, and make up a plan when confronted with on coming vehicles. I hope that helps answer your question mate. Cheers Tim.
Did Billy Goat Bluff track back in early 1983. In a Nissan 720 Duel cab 2.5 litre non turbo diesel. No fancy gear at all fully stock. We didn't have the benefit diff locks or reduction gears. Anyone could do this track and harder with reduction gears & diff locks.
G'day Chris, I fully respect you driving Billy Goat all of those years ago. Would have been unreal to drive any High Country tracks back in those days. But the track along with all of the High Country tracks can change from one week to another. Don't knock the fact i drove it with front and rear diff lockers and reduction gears. You say anyone could drive it with my set up. I doubt that very much. So, are you saying a complete beginner could drive Billy Goat with my set up?? I severally doubt that without potentially breaking parts of the running gear. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Hello Tim. I'm not having a go at your abilities as a 4x4 driver. What I'm saying is having reduction gears & lockers would give any driver an added benefit as it allows the vehicle to slowly crawl either up or down a steep track. Without additional speed or traction loss without them. Attempting tracks like Billy Goat Bluff track in conditions like your second drive with out these aids would be quite challenging for even an experienced driver. Faster driving speeds & open diffs with steep tracks could be disastrous. I still travel these tracks in a Modified Sixwheeler with front & rear diff locks. Some of my friends that are experienced are not so lucky to have front & rear diff locks & find tracks like this quite challenging still. Do I believe anyone could drive Billy Goat Bluff track with reduction gears, front & rear diff locks in a Nissan Patrol with what I assume is a 4.2 Turbo diesel independent lifted suspension. (Your set up). With some reasonable tutelage & guidance YES.
@@chrishammond4276 Gday mate, i appreciate your reply and feedback. I did mention in the video that without the traction aids that i have, that it will be a very different track to drive, and wheel placement and experience will be key to getting through some sections. My Patrol is a 3.0 Ltr with solid axles front and rear. End of the day, it doesn't matter how modified the 4wd is, if the driver doesn't have the experience to pick correct lines, makes it hard for them and the 4wd to get up any track, not just Billy Goat. Thanks again for your feedback. Cheers Tim.
Gday Craig, Lockers are handy yes. But you don’t need one to see a lot of the high country. Better to learn to drive off road without them before fitting lockers. Once lockers are fitted, it’s a whole new way of driving. You get into trouble very quickly with lockers if you don’t know how to use them. You can break drive line gear very easy with lockers. Having said all of that. Lockers do allow you to drive over some terrain at a lot slower pace. But it’s learning that pace and not still going flat out across rough ground and breaking bits. Hope that kind of helps mate and thanks for your feedback. Cheers Tim.
N A Gday mate, Depends on your vehicle set up and your off road driving experience. Coming down off Billy Goat in the wet, is a mission. Particularly the second half from the heli pad down to the main road. A lot a steep hard packed clay sections. Thanks for your reply mate. Cheers Tim.
Gday mate, That’s totally up to you on that one. Depends what your experience Offroad is like. I’ve driven it many times both up and down in the wet. The worse section is from the heli pad to the bottom. Not much rock in the track and hard packed clay track. Hope that helps mate. Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the quick reply. Hopefully not too much rain this Saturday, can re assess when I'm there. Have been up it years ago, just don't wanna get in a risky situation. Cheers
Gday Jon, Yeah mate, some sections on that track are a bit tight for two vehicles. It’s one of those things that you would make it up at the time and see who can either reverse up or get over far enough to squeeze past each other. Lots of tracks in the high country like that. Thanks mate for your feedback. Cheers Tim.
Darth Vader Gday mate. I’ve never seen anyone one walk up that track. You’d want to be super fit, to attempt walking up Billy Goat Bluff Track. Cheers Tim.
G'day mate, There's some great camping near the start of Billy Goat Bluff Tk. Maybe one day you will get your dad up the track, and check out the views at the top. Cheers Tim.
I cant believe you need a locker to drive that track! I did it 4 months ago with a hilux straight from the showroom floor with a rear locker and never needed it. With highway tyres!! Just deflate and drive it!
G'day Dan, Have you ever driven a 4wd that has a factory rear LSD and then remove that factory LSD for a rear locker? Try it one day and see how you without the rear locker in. Try and drive it now mate and see how you go. As i mentioned, i also drove it 4 months ago. I just hope you dont tear the side walls out of your HT tyres. Cheers Tim.
![Billy Goat Bluff Track - [ Come Along For The Ride ]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/vPTpJLqt0hs/mqdefault.jpg)
Did this track yesterday and I had to winch from the wombat hole at 12:01. I have no lockers but thank God for the perfect Gum tree in front as a winch point. It was pretty busy and two other cars had to winch from the same spot. Both had no lockers but one had very average all terrain tyres. Having said that my other mates made it no worries with no lockers but a lot more momentum which is not ideal as the vehicle is bouncing all over the place. My other mate, Matt made it without lockers as he picked a perfect line. It is not a track for the faint hearted because it is bloody steep. We left Dargo this afternoon not knowing about the Melbourne lockdown as we had no reception. Dargo Hotel was closed to the public and we literally got told off by the lady at the general store to get out of Dargo as city folk were not welcome because of Coronavirus. So we left empty stomach, luckily I bought a couple of stickers and a fridge magnet when we arrived on friday.
G'day Steve,
Yeah Mark in our crew said that it would need to be winched up that last section.
Thats why i decided that we dont drive it because i wouldn't be trusting those trees as a solid winch point.
Im glad you guys got up ok, i think it's a pretty popular track for the area.
Yeah mate, i have heard about whats going on in Dargo.
Not good, but they need to do what they need to do i guess.
Once this is over, i hope people will be back into those towns.
Thanks heaps for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks Tim, I loved the experience and had a great time. My Patrol is an auto which tends to runaway a bit going downhill, had it in 4L 1st gear with the hold button depressed but my mate was saying that a manual holds much better than an auto going downhill. The guy at the general store was ok with us but the lady wasn't impressed. She told us that everyone drove past the town and didn't stop except for us. We apologised and tried to explain that we didn't know about the lockdown until we came back to Dargo just then. She told us we were irresponsible as there are elderly in town and we might expose them to the virus. We apologised once again and left the store. We understood where she was coming from.
Steve 1313
Yeah mate, the manual will hold a lot better when going down hills.
You could look into a auto lock up kit. They seem to work well.
Wholesale Automatic do a great kit.
Might be worth having a chat with.
Yeah mate, I’ve only seen recently about what Dargo is doing.
You can only do what you can mate.
Not everyone is going to know about it.
Take care mate during these times.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Look after yourself too mate.
@@stavio12 Thanks mate.
Will do.
Good clip Tim. Good commentary. Lots of cuts to interesting video angles. Not easy to do. I've made that run many times in my 4WD L300 van, the old 1985 model. Always a load of fun.
Thanks heaps for your feedback.
It’s a great fun track to drive.
I always look forward to it.
Cheers Tim
Been in a traffic jam up on that narrow spot at the top, turned around and had a great time coming down castle hill track.
Yeah mate.
It’s a very popular track for that area.
Castle Hill track is a good option back to Dargo.
Cheers Tim
Listening to the engine laboring and your advoice, so good. Great footage Tim.
Potshot
Gday mate.
Thanks for your reply and feedback
Cheers Tim.
Great vid Tim.
Just did that track a couple days ago. I drive a 60 series Landcruiser. Unlocked. Lockers would make it a lot more controlled. Pick good lines and you’ll be right.
Hey there Tim, hope you're well and still check in on these old posts. I did Blue Rag today for the first time (09/03/23). It lived up to all of your promises and then some! We tackled the drive in a stock Amarok on AT tyres and it all went very well thanks to Mini-Tim sitting on my left shoulder saying 'Now first gear low range for the descent, diff lock engaged, take it easy etc.' We're at your campsite right now preparing for sunset with a nice fire and a glass of Gippsland Shiraz. Thanks again and looking forward to more of your adventures.
Gday mate,
That’s fantastic you had a great trip up along Blue Rag.
It’s such a nice drive along the ridge all the way to the summit.
That’s a Crackn spot to camp mate.
I hope the sunset was nice while enjoying that bottle of Gippy red. Lol
Thanks maté for your feedback, I really appreciate it.
Cheers Tim
Just drove billy goat track on 30th dec in my triton , great track to drive.
Gday Dennis,
Top stuff mate.
It sure is a great fun track. I hope you had nice weather to enjoy the views.
Cheers Tim.
Great video again Tim...only just caught up on my best videos on the Tube....lots of rain in Mansfield before the long weekend !! I might add very welcome rain...well driven as always !! Thanks mate !!
G'day Craig,
Thanks mate.
Heaps of rain falling over the past few weeks, which is great to see.
Thanks for your reply and feedback mate.
Cheers Batesy.
Seriously impressive video. Very few show a seriously steep track and some useful tips. Thanks
G'day Hugh,
Thanks heaps mate for your feedback about the video.
I greatly appreciate it mate.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures hi hadn't considered dropping tyre pressures like that in that type of rocky situation. But of course it's obvious to get traction like sand. Just need to be careful of sidewalls. Not sure about my vehicle current model Colorado as it doesn't have a locker. Might do some trial stuff first. Very good in sand but haven't tackled a climb like that.
Hugh Spencer reduces tyre pressures work well in all conditions.
Well worth dropping them, that’s for sure.
Hi mate. As always, love your work. As you know, this & Blue Rag are on my Bucket List. Good to see you loving life.
G'day mate,
Both Blue Rag and Billy Goat are fun tracks in that Dargo area.
Hope you get to drive them soon mate.
Blue Rag is now closed for the winter season.
Cheers Tim.
Hi Tim
Thx for the upload. I came down the track nearly 2 years to the day. It looks as if a fair bit of the top soil has gone based on how rocky it looked. Some good info there on how steep the track is for the uninitiated- the week before I was last on it a group in a new LC200 went over the edge - the locals seem to think the driver was playing with the downhill descent control, the vehicle got away and the driver couldn’t pull it up. The lesson there is to assess the track beforehand and set the vehicle up for the conditions - going up or down. That area you pulled over for the view, was exactly the spot I met a group coming the other way. I was lucky as it is certainly a bit tight if you meet others. Cheers....
G'day mate,
I think i remember the 4wd going over the edge on Billy Goat Bluff Track.
It would have been a scary ride thats for sure.
Definitely a track for a fairly well set up 4wd and a good amount of off road experience to go with it.
Thanks a lot for your reply and feedback mate.
Cheers Tim.
the lesson there is sell the 200,get something WITHOUT all that useless tech that gets you in trouble & takes the driving away from you so you LEARN NOTHING.like,2 diffs,real 4wd low.by the owner,NOT a frigin computer that cant see.LC 200,mall crawler.period.like all,IFS 4wd,s..total waste of 85k..go sell it,buy,if you lean that way,,an 80 series,or preferably,4.2 tdi gu....1 sensor on that 200 shits,,you die..think about it..i know a guy was in limp mode for 1500 ks..nice...[ maybe thats why the 200 went off the track,COULDNT SEE !! ]..
Did this track in a stock Suzuki Sierra 12 years ago going the other way - no probs whatsoever. Great video Tim, brings back the memories!
Unreal mate. It sure was a different track back then.
A lot more traffic on it these days.
Thanks for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks Tim, makes me a little worried to revisit it :)
@@patroln48 yeah it’s an ever changing track.
great advice on the spinnign wheels and lockers and breaking CVs
Thanks heaps mate for your feedback.
It’s easy to do damage on that track.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks Tim. I needed to see that. Sometimes I need to pull my head in.
G'day mate,
Thats great if you can see the challenge in the track now from the video, and you have decided to wait it out.
Good move mate.
Cheers Tim.
Another great Vid! Cheers mate. It's one of my favorite tracks. Great camera angles too, You don't realise how much punishment the under body running gear takes until you see it!
G'day Mick,
Yeah mate, it's a great track to drive.
Thanks heaps for your reply and feedback mate, i greatly appreciate it.
Cheers Tim.
You could actually see how steep some parts were in this vid. Great angles Batesy. Great advice. Great vid.
Diesel Dave
Gday mate,
Yeah the rear camera angle shows the steepness quite well.
It’s a steep track, that’s for sure.
Thanks a lot for your feedback mate.
Cheers Batesy.
@@timbates4wdadventures Is that a dash cam or another camera
@@nathanreid2974 Just a gopro mate.
Just quietly, I love your work.
G'day Kelvin,
Thanks mate.
I appreciate your feedback and reply.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the video Tim.
Keep them coming mate
G'day John,
Thanks mate for your reply and feedback.
I glad that you enjoyed the video, and more videos are coming.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks for making the video Tim. Great practical advice.
Keith Bird
Gday Keith,
Thanks mate for your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Brilliant Batesy 🍻. Plan to do it around Easter.
G'day Ross,
Thanks mate, you have a great trip over Easter.
Cheers Batesy.
Great clip young felah,must have a crack at that trk looking good,l shouldn't have to many problems l am double locked in me old Land rover county. I keen on doing Strickland spur trk Narbethong area,looking at some of the clips it's a bit of a challenge. Be good and kind😁
G'day Greg,
It's a heap of fun to drive thats for sure.
Front and rear lockers, sure are handy.
I haven't driven that track before, but i have heard a lot about it.
Cheers Tim.
Good onya Tim, thanks for the upload.
Good advice and sensible 4x4 tips as always. And coming into a long weekend the timing is spot on.
G'day Albert,
Yeah it will be a popular track for the up and coming long weekend, thats for sure.
Thanks heaps mate for your reply and feedback. I greatly appreciate it.
Cheers Tim.
Mate, that was fantastic, cheers.
Thanks mate,
Thats great you found the video helpful.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Beautiful, have been up and had lunch on a trip, would love to camp overnight up there.
G'day mate,
Yeah it's a great spot to stop over for lunch on a nice day.
I have camped a number of times in the big clearing just before the carpark. Great sopt.
Cheers Tim.
Tim, thats absolutly brilliant. Keep up these fantastic and very informative videos. we love your stuff, and very envious.
G'day mate,
Thanks heaps mate, im glad that you are enjoying the video content.
Cheers Tim.
Crackin video as always Batesy!
G'day Shannon,
Im glad it was worth watching after your dinner mate. Lol
Cheers Tim.
Brilliant track. Love to see a reg rundown and learn more about your truck.
Gday mate,
I’m going to film a walk around video shortly of the Patrol.
Thanks for that feedback and reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Great information, useful video. I love this track. Been dying to do it in my Ranger. Just waiting to buy a 2" lift and better ATs
Gday mate,
It is a great track mate.
Thanks a lot for your reply and feedback.
Hope you get up soon.
Cheers Tim.
Top video Tim, its good to see how you show the condition of the track and not just talk about it. Looking at getting out there for the Easter weekend. Well done mate👍
G'day mate,
Thanks heaps for your feedback on the video.
You have a great trip when you go in Easter,
Cheers Tim.
Absolute stunning country mate. I recon I wasn't far behind you on this trip. I was there feb 12th
Ahh righto mate. It was a great trip.
Cheers Tim.
Hi again Tim, just having a look at some of your older vids as I'm relatively new to your channel, that certainly is a long haul up from the heli pad and what a great view point to stop at and let the vehicle cool a bit.
I wish I could get over there and experience the high country for myself.
I'm not dead yet though mate!! LOL.
Regards Paul.
G'day Paul,
Thanks mate for checking out my channel.
That drive up Billy Goat is a top drive.
The second half is steep and keeps going.
I hope you can get over here soon.
Where are you from?
Cheers Tim
Hi Tim, I’m in Southampton in the UK. I lived in South Africa for 30 years and have been back here for 21 years. I miss the wide open spaces of Africa. In the mid 90’s I very nearly moved to Sydney on a business venture but it didn’t happen so I came back here. I would have loved living in Aus. Cheers.
@@paulmcmanus8856 far out mate. You have traveled around.
Africa would be amazing to see.
Might see you out here in Australia some day.
That’s high up on my bucket list Tim. Would love to expirience camping in the bush there. The lifestyle is very similar to SA but I think you have more freedom to camp there in Aus.
@@paulmcmanus8856 Yeah mate we are pretty lucky here, The high country is amazing. Hope you can get down soon.
I have driven billy goats bluff 6 times in my Subaru Leone and the last time i drove it at 11:50 minutes on this video i got my front wheels on the table drain and had to be snatched a couple meters to get over it. that was the 3rd time iv ever been recovered in my 4x4. Other 4x4s with big lifts didnt get as far as i did. The time before that was in the snow and i drove it easy given that it had snow and ice on allot of the track. Good track. Every time its different.
G'day mate,
Sounds like heaps of fun on your trips.
Top stuff.
Cheers Tim.
Good bit of info there for the uninitiated. I can see the track is definitely trying to get back to it's former glory !
G'day Geoff,
Yeah mate, it's getting close to Billy Goats of the Ol days.
Well worth the drive.
Thanks mate for your reply.
Cheers Tim.
Great video tim 👍 love your work mate
G'day Alex,
Thanks mate, greatly appreciate your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Can't wait to do this track! I was gonna do it this autumn, but i guess that's off the cards. Once these restrictions lift, i'll be there!
Gday Jimbo,
It’s a great fun drive, that’s for sure.
Hard to know when we can get back out on the tracks again.
Soon I hope.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures i reckon there'll be a lot of track clearing going on once people can hit the bush again!
Gee wiz Batesy, I reckon a few in the comments section are on the cans and have never actually driven it.
Great video mate.
Thanks mate.
Ya can’t please everyone, that’s for sure.
I appreciate your feedback.
Cheers Tim
Wow what a view from the bluff.
Yeah mate, its a stunning view from the Bluff. I could sit at that spot for hours.
Cheers Tim.
Was a good drive last week, Patrol walked it like a champ, was a tougher climb than i had expected tho, thats for sure! As you said, you've got to respect the track, its no place to mess about, good video Tim 👍
G'day Gavin,
Coils all round on the Patrol is such a great combo for keeping tyres on the ground.
It's a track that sure does deserve a very healthy respect.
Thanks heaps for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
we came from mansfeild to dargo back in 87 and came across a fella in datsun 180b all loaded up he asked us what the road to mansfeild was like,not wanting to laugh at him we told him he should go back wonder what happened to him, such a great trip comin back down to Dargo
G'day William,
One can only hope that the driver of the DatO took your advise and turned around.
That kind of thing happens more than you would think.
People not knowing the area, just follow a GPS or a map and go with it.
Generally heading into danger.
Ive been confronted with a late model Commodore station wagon about 4 years ago, trying to get up Billy Goat.
He turned around after the advise of not to go any further.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Love this. It's fun to see a Patrol getting out there. We can still buy the Y61 (petrol only!) here in the UAE. Mine's from 2011. If I hear they stop making them in a couple of years, I'll get a new one so that it'll last another 20 years and I can be sure of having a Patrol in my parking space - and out in the desert and mountains here - for many years to come.
G'day Christopher,
Thanks mate for dropping in from the United Arab Emirates, i greatly appreciate that mate.
The Patrol is a great 4WD. Nissan have stopped making the Y61 for Australia now.
I will be hanging onto mine. That might come your way soon mate.
Thanks for your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the video Tim. I drove Billy Goats just afternoon your November trip for the first time In my Hilux with stock suspension and no lift. Made it up no worries. Can completely agree it had changed a lot in 4 months. Went back up at the end of Feb and it was much more difficult even with my 2” Dobinsons kit. Almost made it over the wombat holes. Lucky I had my new winch to test out there. I’ll be back maybe over winter and check it out then too. Keep the vids coming! Cheers. 👍🏻
Adam M
Gday Adam,
Top stuff that you drove up Billy Goat for the first time.
I remember my first time going up, it sure gets the adrenaline going.
I look forward to going back up, when this damn virus has past. It will be a great drive again.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Hope you’re happy with your Dobos suspension.
Cheers Tim.
Tim Bates 4wd Adventures
Hey Tim.
Thanks for the reply. Yes it was an amazing feeling and so worth the drive. Plenty of curly moments but I knew my
Lux would be ok.
We actually crossed paths on our way up there. Along crooked river track I took video of my crew crossing the deeper river crossing and they left me on the other side with one rig coming back to get me. But a young kid in your group made the comment “how’s he getting across?”.
It was amazing to see on the trip in February how silty the rivers were from the fires.
It will be great to see how Mother Nature repairs itself while we are locked down.
Looking forward to seeing the rest of ur road trip to the snowy mountains.
Take care and keep safe!!
Cheers. 👌
@@adamm5263
Thats key for sure mate, that you know what your 4wd can do. Really helps with tracks like Billy Goat.
Ahh yes, i remember you guys on the Crooked River Track. Always great seeing others out in the bush.
Hard to know how Billy Goat will recover after an extended time off without anyone driving it.
Thanks heaps for your feedback mate on the Road Trip series. The last ep will be up on Monday night.
Thanks again and maybe catch you back in the bush when we can get back out.
Cheers Tim.
Tim Bates 4wd Adventures
Looking forward to the new ep on the road trip. Definitely will try to hit u up when we get back out there! Will be interesting!
Take care mate!!
@@adamm5263
No worries mate. Thanks for following the series.
Very interesting times ahead.
See you on the other side mate.
Stay safe.
Cheers Tim.
Perfect timing for this video. I'll be there in 2 weeks.
G'day Steve,
Sounds good mate.
You have a great trip on Billy Goat Bluff Track.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks for the video mate.
Good video & good tips Tim. Well done 👍👍
Thanks mate.
Greatly appreciate your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Wow it has changed so much since new years day 2020.
At about 13.40mins is where we rescued a young bloke who had a flat and broken the LHS top link off his rear diff.
Also it was pea soup all the way to the lookout.
G'day Drew,
Sure has changed a lot since i drove it back in November last year.
It's not a good track to get down off when something breaks on your 4wd, even more so when you cant see where you are going.
Hope that you got that rescued 4wd down ok.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Tim, you need to do this track in mid to late June when there is snow. It's incredible and would make a great video for your channel. Dry and dusty and then BAM!! Your surrounded with snow. You will love it. Cheers
Beetle Bailey
Gday mate,
I have driven it a number of times during winter.
Filming the next trip this year in snow, is well on the cards.
Cheers Tim.
Couldn’t agree more. Even though I’m locked, I try my best to keep all 4 wheels on the ground. Although I’m prepared for it to happen, I’m not keen on having to replace cv’s on the beaten track. Gear reduction... I wish!
Gday Phillip,
Yeah, keeping wheels on the ground is preferred if you can.
Busting CVs on tracks like Billy Goat isn’t ideal.
Thanks for your feedback mate.
Cheers Tim
Great job mate 👍
Gday mate,
Thanks for your feedback on the video, i greatly appreciate it.
Cheers Tim.
Hey Tim, another great vid and insight into the vic high country. Thanks for all your vids, keeps me motivated for when the covid restrictions release us from insanity
MrCurly05
Gday mate,
I’m glad you’re enjoying the videos on my channel.
Thanks a lot for your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Nice Drive Tim, up the goat track
Thanks mate.
It's a good track Ol Billy Goat.
Always a fun drive up.
Thanks for your reply.
Cheers Tim.
You respect the track but there are others who couldn’t careless of how they drive. I seen some on TH-cam and they are camping . Young ones who think they are heroes but not all young ones are like them thought I just say. Beautiful views but looks scary with the track.Stay safe please as I enjoy your videos.
G'day Kim,
Yes, not all young 4wders are doing the wrong thing in the bush.
I know a lot of under 30 year olds that do the right all the time.
Thanks for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Great video Tim, you are the only one who shows a really great preview of the drive on these tracks, and as i favor overlanding for the adventure and the epic views, not so much mud slinging and rock crawling, these videos are very helpful. I suspect the answer to my question will be down to track condition, but would you say you could get a camper trailer up this track? I have a 980kg camper trailer (1.45 tonne GTM) id love to get up there so i can continue on to Mt Wellington, but am aprehensive. I drive a 2016 Jeep Wrangler with 2" lift and 285/70/17 AT tyres. Do you know of any resources that provide updates on when the track will be graded?
Gday Steven,
Mate, it’s totally up to people in where they tow a camper trailer.
But for me, there’s no way I would even contemplate towing a camper up Billy Goat regardless of track condition.
If you get into trouble on that track, there’s no where you can turn around.
It’s very steep and rocky in sections.
But, that’s just my thought on it mate
Hope it helps and thanks heaps for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Thanks for the feedback much appreciated.
@@stevens8744 no worries mate.
@@stevens8744 No worriers mate.
Awesome track Tim where to next mate 🍺👍
G'day Stephen,
It sure is a great fun track to drive, needs a fair amount of respect, thats for sure.
Not really sure yet mate, where the next trip will be.
But, something will come up very soon. Lol
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Loading now ready to watch after dinner Batesy!
G'day Shannon,
I hope you enjoy it mate.
Cheers Tim.
Awesome video!! Great work Batesy 👍😃.
With it being a very steep and narrow track, how do you go meeting someone, or a group, going the other way? Not too many places to pull to the side and let others pass.
G'day Wayne,
Most of the track has plenty of room to pass another vehicle or group thats coming the other way.
In the tight spots, you will just have to make the call when the time comes.
I've never had a bad experience on the track with other vehicles coming the other way.
Both groups always seem to work it out.
Thanks for your reply and feedback mate.
Cheers Tim.
Track Looks great. My poor unloved stock 4WD sits there and wants me to take it places. I just never have the time. Maybe one day I'll get around to lifting it at least. (It has its own factory 'locker' system at least) Until then I'll have to stick with easy stuff like good ol' sand. Though I've had 'friends' drag me along on harder tracks back when I was young and gullible had a stock 1988 Pajero. Come for a drive they said. It will be fun they said. 🤣😂 Great Video very helpful!
G'day Tabatha,
Thats great you are still getting with a few friends, and maybe one day you might be better set up to take on tracks like Billy Goat Bluff Track.
Your rear factory locker will be handy on that track.
Thanks for your reply.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks Tim
How does this compare in difficulty to the Blue Rag range track?
G'day David,
I find Blue Rag is an easier track to drive than Billy Goat.
Both are great tracks to drive if you are up for them.
Thanks for your feedback mate.
Cheers Tim
Tim - loved this but you’ve shattered me with your comment re: Highway tires. My new vehicle is unbelievably capable but came with highways so that’s what I’m having to learn with until I get some
A/T’s. I’ve mostly been around Toolangi and they’re getting me up & down some pretty steep stuff - I just stay away from wet weather. Is it really that bad using H/T’s in the high country on easy to intermediate tracks? I can drop pressure to 20 no problems and 13 if I need to.
G'day mate,
End of the day you have to do what you have to do.
But, HT tyres are not designed for pressure like you are running.
Just be careful mate.
Thanks for your feedback.
Cheers Tim
@@timbates4wdadventures thanks Tim. I haven’t gone to those levels and think I’d only go below 20 on sand to get out of a hole. It’s based on my local tyre guy looking at the bead - apparently it’s tough bead to pop. Limited by big rims. I don’t know why they put big rims on 4wd’s!
That was a savage vid tim , ya just wanna get out bush after that .... some great advice too , notice your tyres still look solid from the under body camera even with 18 up front ..... how much of a lift is on your patrol ???
Gday John
Yeah mate it’s a great track to drive.
18 psi works well with those tyres.
The lift is 3in mate.
Thanks for your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Great vid, cheers Tim. I wonder whether my stock standard 2009 Jeep jk would be good for this track?. She’s wearing great off road boots, no lift, lockers or winch though...
Gday Tony,
Whether your Jeep is up for the track is only one part of it.
The second and very important part to do this track is.
Your off road driving experience.
What’s your experience like in steep country to drive your Jeep up?
End of the day, the 4wd will only react to the lines you pick on the track.
Only you can answer that one mate.
Hope that helps.
Cheers Tim.
Re your comments at 6:55 regarding highway tyres...couldn't agree more and don't know why these people continue to try "off road" routes whilst relying on them. Sure...great for around town, picking up the kids from school and then delivering them to pony club, but...maybe not for the high country.
Gday Ross,
That’s it mate.
Highway tyres certainly aren’t any good for off road driving.
Thanks a lot mate for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
We were there this weekend just gone and she was pretty rough mate
G'day Jonesy,
Yeah mate, she's pretty full on it sections. Hope you had a good run on the track.
Heaps of fun though.
Cheers Tim.
Hi Tim,
your comments at 10:30 into vid about breaking stuff when you have wheels off the ground with lockers ON is quite incorrect. Since all wheels are turning at the same rate the wheel coming back down to the ground will not be spinning like an open or limited slip diff and will not shock load the drivetrain or CV's - also much less track erosion, and wear and tear on your drivetrain. What I can't understand is why you said you had the rear locker in before arriving at the helipad and negotiating those hairpin turns with it locked? That's where you might break an axle etc due to transmission windup if the surface is too grippy... Just my 2 cents worth...
Gday Tim,
Loving this video.
You show exactly the steepness of this track. Great camera work especially of the undercarriage.
Would an auto be ok in tackling billy goat track Tim?
G'day Paul,
Thanks mate, i glad that you found the video of the trip up Billy Goat Bluff Track helpful.
As far as about your auto being good enough mate.
It's not really got anything to do with your auto.
How much off road experience do you have in steep country?
How well setup is your 4WD?
Auto is fine mate.
Hope that helps mate.
I greatly appreciate your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim
Another good video mate, you should just label these videos
Jealous 1
Jealous 2
Jealous 3 etc 😆😆😆
We’ll get down there one day 👍
Hahah :-)
Thanks mate for checking out the video. Ripper country.
Cheers Tim.
Hi Tim, love your work. Got a question, would a stock 2017 Prado with BFG KO2 all terrains make it up Billy Goat Bluff?
I've done a couple 4wd training courses and a few trips, so perhaps I would be of immediate standard.
Another question I had is would u recommend I stay in the ruts in the steep sections or straddle them which may potentially lead me to slip off and over!
G'day Michael,
When you ask about if your vehicle will make it up Billy Goat Bluff Tk, thats only one part of your answer. The vehicle is suitable with those tyres. But the important second part is. How much off road driving experience have you had?
End of the day mate, your 4wd will only go where the driver puts it on the tracks. Thats where driver experience plays a big part, in particular on tracks like Billy Goat.
Plus does your 4wd have all the recovery points and recovery gear?
I would always stay in the ruts mate, provided they aren't to deep where your 4wd is only going to belly out and get stuck.
But, where possible always stay in the ruts, as they will give you some direction on a steep slippery track.
Hope that helps answer your questions mate.
Thanks for your reply and questions mate.
Cheers Tim.
Hey great video Timbo, is that track best done in that direction or is it ok either way?
Gday Darren,
I find it more fun going up than coming down.
Great track if your up for it.
Thanks for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Nice vid. What are the reduction gears you talk about?
I find my Patrol ute is geared slightly too high. Mine's set up as a tourer with an ally canopy which makes it gross quite heavy. Climbing like this is always 1st Low range for me, buy 2nd is too tall.
G'day Chad,
The reductions are 42% lower than from standard.
Only changes low range and doesn't affect high range gearing.
We worth getting for slow steep tracks.
First gear before reduction gears is like 2nd gear now in low range.
1st gear is great for slow crawling steep tracks.
Hope that helps answer your question.
Cheers Tim.
Nissan 1st low is higher than toyotas,but,,theres a box you can buy with better first..IF, you ever get a chance,,find an f100 4x4,302c,as they have 4.11 gears,the 351 have 3.5 gears,but you never use 1st to take off,..in 1st low,,3500 rev,s is about 4 mph..renouned as a stump puller..i have an f250 4.2 tdi,2002,,first low is rediculous.it goes up or down any hill at 800 revs.& weighs 4t..heres a vid for you to watch,,...unimog super low range....it doesnt move..i hope your ute is the 4.2 tdi..nothing else is worth buying..i would not,,buy ,any,toyota..
IS this the Kingswell Bridge campground on the Crooked River, near the start of billy goats?
G'day Daniel,
Yes mate. It is Kingswell Bridge where this video starts.
Top spot on the Wonnangatta River.
Cheers Tim.
just wondering where abouts it is.On the first section to the helepad could you take an awd up there
G'day Peter,
Short answer is mate.
No, you cant take an AWD up Billy Goats.
It's steep, loose rock, high wash out humps.
It's a low range gearing track only.
Thanks for your question mate.
Cheers Tim.
how do you think a stock gu patrol would go with A/T tires. Thanks
A lot depends on your off road experience mate.
End of the day, your 4wd only goes where your experience puts it on the track with correct lines.
Hope that helps mate.
Cheers Tim.
Min 0.32, the house is vacant now. When I went there Dec 2020 it was still occupied.
Yeah, I've not seen anyone living in that ol farm house for years.
Cheers Tim
How is the high country fairing after the fires? Is there a current list of open tracks?
Gday Daniel,
A lot of the HC is open and some of those areas that have been closed, are slowing beginning to open again in time for the long weekend this week.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the video. Have been wanting attempt this track but, being a novice to 4wding and having seen other vids where they seem to punish their vehicles, I was a bit scared to try. Now having seen this it has given me a little more confidence, especially being able to see the track itself from the low mounted camera. Any advice to a novice like me that has that “give it a go with care” attitude (old on age but young at heart).
G'day Raymond,
Billy Goat is a fun track to drive. It has changed a lot since i made that video.
I probably wouldn't be driving it for the first time on your own.
Better to be safe than something go wrong mate.
It's a track that needs a great deal of respect.
Take care mate.
Cheers Tim.
Tim Bates 4wd Adventures Thanks for the feed back. Cheers.
Can you show us blue rag after the fires?
G'day Jack,
Unfortunately, Blue Rag is still on the closed track list.
I was in Dargo on the weekend, and talking to a few of the dozer drivers from the area.
They are saying that Blue Rag will most likely remain closed for a while yet.
I'll get back up that way once the track has opened again.
Thanks for your question mate.
Cheers Batesy.
Ok cheers Tim
@@jackjanetzki9357 No worries mate.
Great Video, well worth watching! Can you please tell me what Cameras (Go Pros?) and especially what mounts you used above the bonnet and on the front bar?
G'day mate,
The gopros are the Hero 7.
I just use Gopro mounts on suction caps.
They work well.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Great video Tim. Just one question, what happens in the steep narrow sections when you face an oncoming truck? How do you safely pass each other?
Gday George,
Great question.
Most of the track is no worries with passing another group coming the other way.
Only a few sections where it does get a bit tight. You just have to make it up if the time comes that another vehicle is coming toward you.
Hope that helps answer your question mate.
Cheers Tim.
I was always under the impression the track was considered a one way climb by most of the locals
@@p.a.f.mitasol8071
G'day mate,
I have been driving Billy Goat Bluff for around 15yrs, i've never heard anyone mention it being a one way track.
Its two way for sure.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Thankyou Tim for putting that rumor to bed .👍🏾😎
@@p.a.f.mitasol8071 No worries at all mate.
Great stuff mate it's changed abit from last time I had to watch the first one before this lol. I'm still waiting to try this in the Hilux I'll just have to wait for the muddies to go on instead of the A/TS. I don't wanna get stuck half way up could end in a bad way lol
G'day Chris,
Mud tyres sure do help, but nothing wrong at all with a good set of A/T tyres.
Wheel placement is key when driving the track.
Thanks mate for your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
Hi Tim. Great video mate love your content.
Do you reakon billy goat bluff be passable with a front locked hilux and a 600 kg offroad camper trailer? I've never been up that end of the high country.
Thanks mate!
Jazzaford
Gday mate,
I wouldn’t recommend anyone take a trailer up Billy Goat, even more so if you haven’t driven it before.
I know it’s not an overly heavy trailer you have, but end of the day it’s still another 600kgs on the back.
I’d drive it first without a trailer on, then see what you reckon.
It’s quite loose and rocky after the heli pad to the Bluff.
If you were on that steep section with a trailer on and and 4wd was coming down.
You’d want to hope they move over if they can and let you through.
My tip is, leave the trailer base camped up and drive up and back down.
Thanks for your reply mate and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures awesome! Thanks for the advice Tim. Looks like plenty of good spots to camp around there anyway! Look forward to heading over when restrictions are eased! 👌
Jazzaford
Yeah it’s best not to tow a trailer up Billy Goat.
Heaps of camping video options around the Dargo area on my channel.
I hope you can get out soon.
Cheers Tim.
Is the Patrol rear LSD ok, or should I consider swapping out for a full locker? for the rough stuff.
G'day Ralph,
Never touch the rear diff in a patrol unless you really have to.
The Patrol LSD in the rear diff is a wicked setup straight from standard.
If you want to get just one locker, just fit the locker in the front diff.
Long story why i have a rear locker.
Thanks for your question mate.
Cheers Tim.
Rear LSD is awesome in the patrols. But still worth doing the lockers if you gonna be doing some of the rough stuff.
Patrol lsd is about the best there is in a 4wd. Many patrol owners see no need to run a rear locker choosing instead to run only a front locker with the lsd rear.
@@dillydoopsta6090 You cant beat front and rear lockers mate, they are a wicked set up.
Really helps in tracks like that.
Hi mate, Wicked video ! I just did that track on 29/2, what day do you do it? We got stuck behind a group winching up where you mentioned the wombat holes that was pretty torn up from them getting stuck. Also did it in late November aswell, amazing how it changes. Was a great drive both times. Very busy track both times!
Cheers mate
G'day mate,
I drove Billy Goats in early March.
Yeah i reckon a few people would be getting stuck on those wombat holes. They will get a lot worse over the coming months, i just hope that we can get back in the high country again this year.
The track alone with many of the Hc tracks, change a lot with weather and vehicles driving over them.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Hey Tim, great video once again, what's the first campsite you were at at the start of the video? Cheers Tim!
G'day mate,
I started the video at Kingswell Bridge.
It's a great spot on the Wonnangatta River.
Thanks for your reply and feed back mate.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures this is the same question I had so thanks for the answer! .Is it free camping there Tim? Or do you have to pay? love the information you have given out Batsey!. I remember you from back in the 4wd monthly days. You were always a genuine fella! Good on ya! Darren.
@@darren5444
Yeah mate, it's all free to camp in the Victorian High Country.
Cool mate, they were great days with the 4wd action crew. Worked with a top bunch of people.
Thanks heaps for your feedback mate. I do try and give out as much information as i can through my videos.
Cheers Tim.
Timmy, where do you get all your info about the tracks changing from other people? Forums? If so which ones? Thanks mate, great video
G'day mate,
I hear stuff about tracks in the high country just off FaceBook.
Vic High Country, Trips, Tips & Info page is a good one to hear about whats going on.
Thanks mate for your reply and feedback.
Cheers Tim.
would you make it up with only Nissan's LSD in the rear?
Gday mate,
Absolutely you would.
The standard LSD rear in the Patrol is a great setup.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
Land Rover series 3 swb early 90s.... memories!!!
G'day Robert,
Good memories i hope.
Cheers Tim.
What’s the 4WD rules if you meet somebody coming down in those narrow sections?
G'day Shane,
Not really any hard and fast rule for giving way.
But having said that. Generally those coming down have right of way. Because, it's harder for a 4wd coming down a steep hill to reverse back up.
But, i find its one of those things, that needs to be assed at the time, and make up a plan when confronted with on coming vehicles.
I hope that helps answer your question mate.
Cheers Tim.
Did Billy Goat Bluff track back in early 1983. In a Nissan 720 Duel cab 2.5 litre non turbo diesel. No fancy gear at all fully stock. We didn't have the benefit diff locks or reduction gears. Anyone could do this track and harder with reduction gears & diff locks.
G'day Chris,
I fully respect you driving Billy Goat all of those years ago. Would have been unreal to drive any High Country tracks back in those days.
But the track along with all of the High Country tracks can change from one week to another.
Don't knock the fact i drove it with front and rear diff lockers and reduction gears.
You say anyone could drive it with my set up.
I doubt that very much.
So, are you saying a complete beginner could drive Billy Goat with my set up??
I severally doubt that without potentially breaking parts of the running gear.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures Hello Tim. I'm not having a go at your abilities as a 4x4 driver. What I'm saying is having reduction gears & lockers would give any driver an added benefit as it allows the vehicle to slowly crawl either up or down a steep track. Without additional speed or traction loss without them. Attempting tracks like Billy Goat Bluff track in conditions like your second drive with out these aids would be quite challenging for even an experienced driver. Faster driving speeds & open diffs with steep tracks could be disastrous. I still travel these tracks in a Modified Sixwheeler with front & rear diff locks. Some of my friends that are experienced are not so lucky to have front & rear diff locks & find tracks like this quite challenging still. Do I believe anyone could drive Billy Goat Bluff track with reduction gears, front & rear diff locks in a Nissan Patrol with what I assume is a 4.2 Turbo diesel independent lifted suspension. (Your set up). With some reasonable tutelage & guidance YES.
@@chrishammond4276
Gday mate, i appreciate your reply and feedback.
I did mention in the video that without the traction aids that i have, that it will be a very different track to drive, and wheel placement and experience will be key to getting through some sections.
My Patrol is a 3.0 Ltr with solid axles front and rear.
End of the day, it doesn't matter how modified the 4wd is, if the driver doesn't have the experience to pick correct lines, makes it hard for them and the 4wd to get up any track, not just Billy Goat.
Thanks again for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
I’ve watched a lot of your videos in the last week or so and I’m starting to feel like I need a locker even though I’ve never used one before
Gday Craig,
Lockers are handy yes.
But you don’t need one to see a lot of the high country.
Better to learn to drive off road without them before fitting lockers.
Once lockers are fitted, it’s a whole new way of driving.
You get into trouble very quickly with lockers if you don’t know how to use them. You can break drive line gear very easy with lockers.
Having said all of that. Lockers do allow you to drive over some terrain at a lot slower pace.
But it’s learning that pace and not still going flat out across rough ground and breaking bits.
Hope that kind of helps mate and thanks for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
did the patrol come with dif locker
Gday mate,
Mine didn’t.
The factory diff lock started in 2010.
Mine is 2009.
Cheers Tim.
Would you advice against this track in winter?
N A
Gday mate,
Depends on your vehicle set up and your off road driving experience.
Coming down off Billy Goat in the wet, is a mission.
Particularly the second half from the heli pad down to the main road.
A lot a steep hard packed clay sections.
Thanks for your reply mate.
Cheers Tim.
@@timbates4wdadventures cheers, Tim. I got a lifted Prado and a winch but I doubt my level of experience. I'll stick to the drier months.
N A yeah that might be a good idea mate.
Thanks for your replies.
Cheers Tim.
Do you reckon id be mad going down this if it's raining? I run a 79 series with 33" muddies
Cheers
Gday mate,
That’s totally up to you on that one. Depends what your experience Offroad is like.
I’ve driven it many times both up and down in the wet.
The worse section is from the heli pad to the bottom.
Not much rock in the track and hard packed clay track.
Hope that helps mate.
Cheers Tim.
Thanks for the quick reply. Hopefully not too much rain this Saturday, can re assess when I'm there.
Have been up it years ago, just don't wanna get in a risky situation.
Cheers
@@skinfoot that’s it mate. See what it’s like at the time and decide from there.
Have a top weekend.
Cheers, you too
@@skinfoot Thanks mate.
Some of the steep sections look like they’d be fun if another vehicle came the other way, where and how are you supposed to pass each other.
Gday Jon,
Yeah mate, some sections on that track are a bit tight for two vehicles.
It’s one of those things that you would make it up at the time and see who can either reverse up or get over far enough to squeeze past each other.
Lots of tracks in the high country like that.
Thanks mate for your feedback.
Cheers Tim.
The short answer is 'very carefully'
On ya Batesy 👍
Good on ya Phil.
Thanks mate.
Cheers Batesy.
Do you get walkers going up there? Be a bit of a challenge even if you're fit. Guess they'd hear you coming and clear the track for you.
Darth Vader
Gday mate.
I’ve never seen anyone one walk up that track.
You’d want to be super fit, to attempt walking up Billy Goat Bluff Track.
Cheers Tim.
r8 video Timmy
Thanks mate.
Cheers Tim.
Its funny i camped just down the road and i tryed to get my dad to go up billy goat but he wouldent
G'day mate,
There's some great camping near the start of Billy Goat Bluff Tk.
Maybe one day you will get your dad up the track, and check out the views at the top.
Cheers Tim.
Always seems like you're running a marathon. Do you speed up the video?
No, what you see is how it is.
Cheers Tim
I cant believe you need a locker to drive that track! I did it 4 months ago with a hilux straight from the showroom floor with a rear locker and never needed it. With highway tyres!! Just deflate and drive it!
He said he drove it 4 months ago too and it was easy. Was looking to see how the rain had rutted it out.
G'day Dan,
Have you ever driven a 4wd that has a factory rear LSD and then remove that factory LSD for a rear locker?
Try it one day and see how you without the rear locker in.
Try and drive it now mate and see how you go.
As i mentioned, i also drove it 4 months ago.
I just hope you dont tear the side walls out of your HT tyres.
Cheers Tim.
Bush Tucker man
Should do it in 2wd like all the young blokes Ripping donuts the whole way up on muddies worn down to slicks.
2wd is for Commodores mate on the road, not trying to drive up that track.
Walk in the park compared to Burgoyne.
G'day mate,
I have driven both tracks and the West side of Burgoyne Tracks is a heap of fun.
Cheers Tim.