DIFFLOCK.com - Toolbox Talk

A ‘tool box’ talk is the frank discussion with the work force prior to a new contract taking place, in which all matters concerning the new site are discussed. That is what I want to make this column, a frank discussion about the hobby we all love.

Difflock.com has a new-look Forum page which allows you, the reader, to talk to each other and to talk to us at the e-magazine.

In this column I won’t be pulling any punches, I will discuss things as I see them and as such I warn you now, my opinions are not necessarily those of the Editor it is, therefore up to you to let me know if you agree or disagree. Via the Forum the entire readership will be able to read your thoughts….

Have your say!	More things that really get my goat… People who don’t read the whole article – I have had a fair amount of flack about what I said on Marshalling, both generally and at Trentham Gardens 4x4 Show World 4x4 Do Da Thingy. Firstly read the both the flamin’ articles properly – I said the Marshalling was appalling not the show; I loved the show and will be there next year. But the Marshalling was as effective as a chocolate fire-guard, especially on the trialling… Secondly if and when it goes wrong the smelly stuff WILL hit the fan without doubt.
Have your say!	Nasty animosity between owners of different makes of 4x4. Now look, mickey taking and the odd practical joke are OK, but the continual unpleasantness is beyond a joke. So you think your vehicle is better than the bloke down the roads. It maybe but it probably isn’t so what is the point of that elitist attitude or ganging up with your mates to ridicule him when you’re down at the local off-road site – treat him decently and he will be the one to come and pull you out of the mudhole when you’re up to your wings in stinking mud. This world is a difficult enough place already so remember we are all 4x4 enthusiasts whatever the make….
Have your say!	People who use their fog-lights when they don’t really need them (which is an offence, I have recently been told). This is worse than undertaking or driving in the middle lane of the motorway when the nearside lane is free. I have suggested the bringing back of corporal punishment for certain traffic violations – to be undertaken on the spot!
Have your say!	Suppliers of off-road equipment who are rude, unhelpful, ignorant and who don’t know that the customer is always right. Earlier last year I was after some technical information to help me decide on a good competition winch. I rang round almost all of the major winch suppliers. Some were superb, like David Bowyer or Simon Buck, but I distinctly remember the sales ‘rep’ from one large importer whose attitude left me speechless (and that takes some doing). I wouldn’t even buy a nut and bolt of them now…..
Have your say!	People whose attitude to health and safety (both their own and others) is non existent, who seem to think that no matter what stupid thing they do nothing will happen to them and who gives a mares cuss for the rest. Life is precious and being hale and hearty is a blessing. All it takes is a bit of thought and a bit of careful planning and most situations can be as safe as a cheese sandwich in a locked safe. Why take risks?