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Dear Desert Drivers, @Aser @Misha Puskar @Carl Stanley @Martin M @essam ibrahim @Ahmed Farouk @Bjoern @Michael asir @ChrisW @Abhilash Kottakkal @Zulfikhar Naiyar @Beide Worku @Luke K P Last updates for tomorrow. Meeting at 6:15 am at https://maps.app.goo.gl/r5LPyKms6XuG5Un58 The convoy order will be @Michael asir I've added you form the waitlist. You can join if you are still available. We will use Carnity Radio Channel 5. Enjoy the evening, take a good rest, and see you tomorrow morning !

Dear Desert Wanderers the RSVP is now closed for this drive, @Ishak, @ALEX 0171, @Andreas Riis, @Jose Luis Campos, @Hetal, @Emanuel, @Sam_, @Yurybel, @Arvindraj, @Abhishek Chikara, @Andrei S and @Mehmet Volga, Please read the pre-drive information below: Be ready at the meeting point by 6:30am (or before) with tires deflated and flag up. Please ensure your programable radio is on, fully charged and set to Channel 4 (446,081). For first timers, please complete all of the mandatory readings and watch the video in the main drive post before arriving at the meeting point for this drive. A full pre drive briefing for the drivers will be conducted on the sand before we start moving your full attention will be required. Please ensure everything in the car is tied down and there are no moving objects, please ensure that you are using cargo straps and not bungy type restraints to tie your gear down. Please check all car fluids (Oil, Coolant, Brake Fluid, etc), Tow hooks are essential front and rear and ensure no hanging parts below the chassis. Please ensure you come with a full tank of fuel (as near to full as possible). Ensure you have all the necessary gear for this drive level especially your tire deflator, pressure gauge, compressor, safety flag and radio. (NO FLAG or RADIO = NO DRIVE) Meeting Point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/acreM77zLxB2MRu76 Convoy Order will be:

@Mahmoud Taha, @Bashar Beasha, @Stumpy, @Bravoecho @Mahmut, @RiadJL, @Mahesh_ @Tharun Kumar V, @Cesar Chacon, @Zak_, @Shaun J, @Marek, @Andrew John Melvill, @Amir Amiri @Imteeaz, @GauravSoni Thank you all for joining this drive. Please check your availability for the drive and exit the drive in case you are not going to be able to join the drive. Heads up - we will be driving for relatively long distance and relatively fast as well. Please ensure that: 1. You have enough water and snacks. 2. Your car is in good condition 3. Avoid distraction - we will need full attention to just driving. 4. Make sure that all the stuff in the car is properly tied up. I will be posting the convoy order tomorrow afternoon.

Degree in aerospace engineering and an early career test flying modified aircraft here - I can tell you that one of the glories of off-roading with Carnity is that I’ve never had a moment to think about anything other than what I can see through the window, feel through the seat, and hear from the engine. And sometimes, on a really good day…I’ll remember a wise word or two from our experienced leads. I’ve always ran out of talent before the car ran out of capability. You’ll have a cracking time, and my advice would be to not overthink it!

Thank you all for great signup, that we have to split into three convoys. We will have approx 1 hour of relaxed and easy drive (irrespective of members level) as mostly coming with families and loaded cars. Please find your convoy numbers below with Radio Channel. Meeting time: 3:30 PM (SHARP - Without any exceptions) Starting Point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/4SHjXMF9BYnykHp48 Convoy 1 - Gaurav - Radio Channel 8 @Luke K P @Sam_ @vinayaknam @Vijaya Kumar Doppa @rroker @Imran Asghar @Gilberto @Martin Schwaiger @Michael asir @Bjoern Gaurav Silver Pajero Michael asir 2006 3.8 V6 PAJERO Sam_ Dodge Ram vinayaknam Y 62 2023 Vijaya Kumar 2024 Jeep Rubicon X - Anvil Imran Asghar Toyota, FJ Cruiser Xtreme, White 2013 rroker 2017 Mitsubishi Pajero - 3.5 LWB - White Gilberto 2013 Nissan Xterra Offroad Grey Martin Schwaiger Ford Bronco 2022 4 door Tharun Kumar V 2012 Mitsubishi Pajero sport Convoy 2 - Frederic - Radio Channel 6 @Frederic @Guido Ferriani @Matt - monkeywrench @Jon L @Premjit Vappala @Zubail @Jeandre Bezuidenhout @essam ibrahim @Dan S @Prithvi Raj @Mahmut @Tharun Kumar V @Davie Chase Frederic 1999 Isuzu Trooper - Green Guido Ferriani 2023 Rubicon - 3.6 L - 4 doors - Red Jon L RAM TRX 2022 Premjit Vappala Patrol Safari 21 Zubail 2024 Ford Expedition Timberline - 4 door - Black Jeandre Bezuidenhout 2024 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 4door, Yellow essam ibrahim Land carouser VXR dark gray 2024 Dan S 2020 Mitsubishi Pajero - 4 door - White Mahmut Jeep Wrangler 2005 Davie Chase Red Jeep Rubicon Convoy 3 - Looper - Radio Channel 4 @Looper @Ishak @nithish468 @Yusuf Esaf @Aser @Andrew John Melvill @Gautam Banka @Faraz94 @Mike M. @MUSTAFA hussain @GauravSoni Looper 2019 Jeep Wrangler Sport - 2 Door - Yellow Ishak Pajero - LWB - Black/White nithish468 2011 Toyota fj cruiser - 2 door - white Yusuf Esaf 2009 Nissan Armada Gautam Banka 2023 Jeep Wrangler 392 - Silver Faraz94 2023 Haval H9 - Grey Mike M. The Black Raptor MUSTAFA hussain Jeep overland 2008 GauravSoni 2014 Pajero 3.8 LWB aka “Greyhound”

Agree @Gaurav great insight from @ChrisW and we are still learning today, the beauty of this sport/hobby is it is always throwing up great learnings no matter how little or how much you think you know 😀

Can't wait to meet you guys again, i missed All Carnity family!!

Hi, I'm afraid I won't be able to join on this drive. I completely forget I had it booked as I had a new arrival to the family 😄

Vroom vroom. See you all in the morning 👏

Hi @Looper, on the way back from AD yesterday it looks like I lost my water pump. Thankfully it happened on the E11 and not the desert The garage in Dubai are looking at it as we speak right now so I will be a 50/50 chance for tomorrow. Will provide an update my midday.

Congrats Matt, time to be a monkey again. @Luke K P and @Aser noted, removed you both from the convoy list.

Hi @Gaurav, I will be running a little late and will meet directly at bbq point. See you all tomorrow for a fantastic evening 🤩🤩🤩

Hi @Looper, no chance of getting the car fixed in time so I shall remove myself from the drive. Give it everything and unless the fuel reserve light is on you haven't gone hard enough 😁

If you bought it in Dubai, maybe you can contact Consumer Rights Protection and formally request to wake up a few guys at GAC to get what you want. Selling a new car without an owner's manual is extremely disappointing.

visit Gargash and talk to them directly. This will show you if they are serious selling these or not. The whole Chinese car story is not that great when you read feedback from other brands. But GAC has a strong representation so perhaps it is better (than e.g. BYD)

Ok thanks - there was a bit of a faff (at my end) getting the right combination booked. Looks to be all straight now.

On 1-3, I am very much looking forward to learn the dark arts & sciences of crest and switching 🤓 And you're right of course, in an ideal situation where you're just switching sides on a crest a lift kit shouldn't make too much of a difference since the diffs clearance are likely to be your limiting factor. Technically speaking though (the engineer in me apologizes) a lift kit does lift the whole chassis, not just the body, and with it up goes the engine, exhaust, transmission etc, in other words all that bolt to the chassis (hence why the COG moves substantially with any lift kit like you rightly mentioned before). And although the axles haven't moved, the approach, departure and break-over angles have increased because of the extra chassis clearance. So if you're a newbie like me and haven't done things "just right" the first attempt, that extra break over angle may bail you out that split second later, or if you decide to stay on the crest for longer and experience dips and bumps along the crest, that extra clearance in the middle will make things a little less sticky (which is what I was referring to). Can't wait to make little crests with you guys this weekend and talk physics in the sand like our ancient ancestors! 😅

Skills have no match to mods. By the way, with stock vs. any lift, you still have the same true ground clearance, as only the body gets lift and not the chassis. So technically, people who are cresting at stock height will also get crests with 2-3-4-6 inches of lift if they don't learn how to cross the dune with a mix of art and science. How to cross dune with zero lift: Approach the dune with fluid momentum and leave the gas when the side view mirror reaches the crest. Area ahead of side view mirror, dashboard and steering holds 70% weight of your car. When you gracefully transfer 70% weight of your car to the other side of the dune, you will never get stuck. Let gravity pull you to the other side gracefully until you have a clear view of what is down below. Do not interfere with gravity by proactive braking to avoid getting stuck. Apply the brake according to the drop on the other side. 1+3 = Art + 2 = Science.

Choosing the Right Air Compressor for Desert Off-Roading in the UAE Off-roading in the UAE desert requires lowering your tire pressure to improve traction on soft sand. While some exits conveniently lead to nearby petrol stations where you can reinflate your tires, this is not always the case. For that reason, carrying a reliable air compressor is an essential part of any off-road recovery kit. It is one piece of equipment you do not want failing when it is time to head back onto the tarmac. Depending on your tire size and the type of compressor being used, reinflating tires can take anywhere from 2–4 minutes per tire to more than 25 minutes for a full set. Under the UAE’s intense desert heat, minimizing inflation time becomes more than just a convenience — it is an important factor for both comfort and equipment longevity. In this article, we will look at some of the key technical considerations when using an air compressor and explain what to look for when purchasing one. Heat Management: The Biggest Challenge The primary challenge with air compressors is heat generation. Compressing air creates friction between air molecules, and this process naturally produces significant amounts of heat. The temperature increase is most noticeable around the piston head, but the air hose itself can also become extremely hot during operation. This is why most quality compressors are equipped with cooling fins and a short metal outlet pipe designed to dissipate heat before it reaches the rubber hose. Even so, compressors should always be handled carefully after use, as certain components may become hot enough to cause burns. It is completely normal for a compressor to heat up during operation, especially when running continuously or operating in high ambient temperatures such as those experienced in the UAE desert. To reduce overheating and extend the lifespan of your compressor, it is recommended to: Keep the compressor in the shade whenever possible Avoid running it continuously for extended periods Respect the manufacturer’s specified duty cycle Allow the unit to cool down between inflation sessions when necessary Understanding Compressor Performance One important factor often overlooked is that inflating a single tire at a time can limit most compressors to an effective airflow of approximately 70 liters per minute (LPM). Even if a compressor is rated for higher output, airflow resistance from a single tire valve can restrict performance, forcing the compressor to work harder and generate additional heat. For high-performance compressors with greater airflow capacity, using a dual-hose or four-hose inflation system can significantly improve efficiency. Inflating multiple tires simultaneously reduces overall runtime, lowers operating temperatures, and makes much better use of the compressor’s available airflow. This setup is especially beneficial for vehicles equipped with larger off-road tires, where inflation times can otherwise become lengthy and demanding on the compressor. What to Look for When Buying an Air Compressor Choosing the right air compressor for desert off-roading is about more than simply buying the most powerful model available. Reliability, durability, and real-world performance are far more important when you are regularly inflating tires in harsh desert conditions. Below are some of the key factors to consider before making a purchase. 1. Warranty and Brand Reputation A quality compressor is an investment, and a reputable manufacturer should stand behind its product with a solid warranty. Premium brands typically offer warranties ranging from 4 to 5 years, which helps justify the higher purchase price and provides peace of mind for frequent off-roaders. Unfortunately, long warranty periods have become less common in recent years, making brand reputation and after-sales support more important than ever. 2. Airflow Output (LPM / CFM) Compressor performance is usually measured in either: LPM (Liters Per Minute) CFM (Cubic Feet Per Minute) As a reference: 2.3 CFM ≈ 65 LPM In general, higher airflow means faster tire inflation. For most off-road applications, compressors delivering 50 LPM or more will perform adequately, while larger tires and multi-tire inflation systems benefit from significantly higher output. However, comparing compressor specifications is not always straightforward. Manufacturers do not always use the same testing standards: Some advertise airflow at 0 PSI (free air delivery) Others provide ratings at 40 PSI, which places a much greater load on the compressor This means that published numbers can sometimes be misleading, and real-world performance may differ significantly from what is printed on the box. 3. Duty Cycle Air compressors generate substantial heat during operation, which means most units cannot run continuously without periodic cooling. The allowable runtime before cooling is required is known as the duty cycle. Manufacturers may express this in different ways: Time-based rating: Example: “20 minutes per hour” Percentage-based rating: Example: “33% duty cycle” In both cases, the meaning is essentially the same: the compressor can operate for approximately 20 minutes within a one-hour period before it should be allowed to cool down. This becomes particularly important for drivers who go off-roading frequently or who need to inflate larger tires. Exceeding the duty cycle repeatedly can quickly lead to overheating, reduced lifespan, or permanent compressor damage. 4. Hose and Accessory Quality The quality of the included accessories is often overlooked but has a major impact on usability and durability. Pay close attention to the quality of: The coiled air hose The pressure gauge The clip-on air chuck Poor-quality fittings and hoses are common failure points and can become frustrating during repeated desert use, especially under high temperatures. 5. Automatic Pressure Shut-Off A useful premium feature is an automatic pressure shut-off system. This function allows the compressor to stop automatically when the inflation trigger is not engaged, reducing unnecessary strain on the motor and limiting heat buildup. It also makes operation more convenient and efficient during multi-tire inflation. 6. Electrical Protection Features Quality compressors should include built-in protection systems such as: Inline fuse protection Thermal overload protection These safety features help protect both the compressor and your vehicle’s electrical system in the event of overheating, excessive current draw, or electrical faults. While these protections are generally standard on premium models, cheaper compressors may omit them entirely. Below a typical specs example of a Bushranger Black Max: Duty cycle is 30 minutes @40psi at 24°C ambient temperature. Obviously the ambient temperature will be much higher for us here in the UAE, so you will need to take that into account. Keep the compressor in the shade while using (or even on the inside of the car if possible) and keep your engine running. These compressors are rated to work most efficiently at 13.8 Volts, so your alternator should be running. Below i will be going through most of the brands we have encountered in the club, and how we can rate them: Premium Brands (****) Brands like ARB, Bushranger, TJM, Dobinsons, and Mean Mother, are the most famous premium brands that will be providing a quality unit that should last years. ARB and Bushranger/Viair have the advantage that you will find spare parts for them, so if you are interested and savvy, you can rebuild your compressor later on. Price range of these compressor is from 750 AED upwards up to 2500+AED. The main reason why they cost more is due to the quality of materials used, higher duty cycle of their compressor, and of course marketing as well. ARB ARB has the single cylinder unit for about 1000AED, while its big brother will be around 2,700AED. They have by far the best quality of hoses and gauges, and these units should last many years if being well taken care of. MeanMother The Mean Mother Adventurer is the only brand/model we know of in the UAE that offers 5year warranty, hence this model has become very popular in our off-roading community. You will find the Adventurer III model for around 750AED (150lpm), but now there is also the Adventurer IV which is having slightly better performance (180lpm) and costs about 999AED. We have heard about a few models failing but were replaced within warranty. Bushranger / Viair Bushranger/Viair has a range of different models with output ratings from 52lpm up to 72lpm. (Black Max for 800AED and Max Air III for 1120AED). The Max Air III has an automatic pressure shut-off. Their compressors are extremely reliable, but i have never been impressed with their yellow plastic coiled hoses and clip-on, except for the black hoses they use on the old SuperMax and the newer Max Air III model. Their smallest model (RV Air for 599AED) is the minimum in terms of output flow (52lpm) and will take quite some time to inflate your tires, but should work fine. Dobinsons Dobinsons have the Zenith model (170 lpm) that is being sold for 999AED. Quality looks top notch with good set of accessories and backed by a premium quality brand. Midrange Brands (***) Golden Camel The "Golden Camel" brand with its red compressors, sold in single cylinder and double cylinder models are fantastic performers for the price (200 AED for the single big cylinder 160lpm, and 280AED for the double cylinder compressor (300 lpm). Yes the hoses break, the electrics fail sometimes, and it won't be the most reliable compressor, but for that price it's worth a try if you want it. You will find the hoses also separarely in DM, and if you are a bit handy with a soldering gun you might make an attempt to replace the switches or solder a wire back on. They now even have a mighty big 4-cylinder unit, which pumps out an impressive 300lpm. The problem nowadays is that you have even "fake" Golden Camel compressors, who look 100% identical, but their quality is even more of a question mark. I recently bought one and it started overheating and shutting off after only two tyres. The vibration coming from the compressor makes me wonder about the tolerances used in the manufacturing process. On the other hand i also have a single cylinder Golden Camel that has been going strong for 3 years now and never failed. Vitaly Vitaly is a brand that basically re-labels these Chinese compressors and sells them at a higher price in hardware stores like ACE and Speedex. Again they are a bit of a gamble and the only advantage you will have is you will get at least 1year warranty through these stores. T-Max These compressors are looking very similar to the DM Single big cylinder compressors and the Mean Mother Adventurer. There is a smaller 72lpm unit and a big 150lpm unit. Prices are similar to Vitaly, and T-Max seems to be a reputable Australian brand, so perhaps the build quality will be a slight notch above the DM compressors. Volcano I recently stumbled upon this brand via a shop in Ajman. They are manufactured in Taiwan and manufacture compressors for high end brands as well. Their biggest compressor model is the B850 which is being sold for about 650AED. Have seen them on sale in DM as well. They come in a sturdy box, with decent hose (like the Bushranger top model) and have a pressure gauge with automatic cut-off. Flow rate is 98lpm. Brands/ Models to avoid: -The smaller "Golden Camel" Compressor. Absolutely worthless. Also sold under the "X-Cessories" brand name. -Mini compressors to connect to the cigarette lighter: Will last only a few drives. Not made to inflate weekly from 15 to 35psi, unless you want to wait for 25mins or longer. Will overheat easily because of this. These are made for sedans and bicycles. The Black and Decker and Michelin models seem to work better, but it will take you upwards of 25 minutes to inflate your tires. If you happen to have one of those, i strongly recommend to only inflate to about 25psi you can then drive to the nearest petrol station and use their compressor. If you are in the market of buying a new compressor, i hope this article can shed some light and useful information that will guide you in the right direction. As you can clearly see, inflating tyres on a 4x4 in the summer heat requires a big powerful compressor that can quickly inflate your tyres before overheating or shutting down.

DRIVE PLAN This Sunday, we will meet at "2nd December Cafe" to do have a practice drive geared towards DCT. It will be focused on agility & endurance. It will be a re-run of an invite only drive for the DCT Team Desert Demons with @Bravoecho, @Stumpy Paj, @Bashar Beasha and @Mahmoud Taha done on 23rd October 2023. Drive will start at 2nd December Cafe and End at Shuwaib. Last time around the drive was for 84.2 km and lasted for 3:50 min, and by the time we finished we were running on fumes. We request every member that joins this drive to go through the information below and strictly follow these guidelines, etiquette, and responsibilities. MUST READ AND COMPLY Environmental Policy Offroad Flag Guideline Two Way Radio Guideline Off road Driving Etiquettes Emergency details for all off roaders Off Road Driving - Roles & Responsibilities DRIVE DETAILS Level: Fewbie Plus and above When: 06 October 2024, Sunday Meeting time: 6:00 AM - Sharp (Without any exceptions) Meeting Point: https://maps.app.goo.gl/Ze6hKqcAin3c3Lcv5 Approximate finish time: 10:00 AM Type of Car: Any proper 4x4 with front and back tow hooks and 8-10 inches of ground clearance. What to bring along: Loads of water, snacks (for yourself), smiles, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. RECOMENDED OFF-ROAD GEAR: Tire deflator & Tire pressure gauge Compressor (MANDATORY) Walkie-talkie radio (MANDATORY) Off-road flag (MANDATORY) Shovel, Tow Rope & 2 Shackles First-aid kit Fire extinguisher LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE This drive is limited to 10 cars only. Please withdraw your RSVP, if you find you are unable to join, so your spot can be taken by others in the waitlist. If the RSVP is full, you can add your name to the waitlist, if an RSVP attendee removes themselves, you will be moved from the waitlist to the RSVP list as an attendee. A convoy list will be sent out the day prior to the drive. Latecomers will be returned back - Without any exceptions. Members without RSVP will be returned back - Without any exceptions. Repeated no-show members after RSVP will have their account suspended for a month. PLEASE RSVP ON BELOW CALENDAR

Congratulations!!! Long healthy happy life!

Hi @JeromeFJ, sure, happy to join!

We all learned the same way, I still remember my first two years learning with trial and error, where error superseded always. Thanks @ChrisW for such a bold statement, this means a lot to the whole Carnity team 🙏

1000000%

I've spent so much time finding information on the GAC GS8, mainly on the infotainment system, the OS the car runs, and the spare parts. It almost seems that the company is going out of its way to keep most if not all, information on any of its vehicles. For example, there is no crash test information, safety reports, or material. I got my brand-new GS8 without a user manual! Need I say more? To keep things concise; I'd appreciate any information on the GAC GS 8 2023 infotainment system and the software running on the system. Lastly, spare parts cataloged or resources on the car would be beyond helpful

@Bjoern, I've added you as support, please confirm you are still available. I will issue the convoy order by the end of the afternoon. We still have 2 wait list, so please let me know during the day in case you cannot attend for tomorrow. Thank you !

@Gaurav - Before joining Carnity and during first few drives, I was always an Art student, and now I can call myself a Science student, with Art background, lol - all with No mods so far ! - So cant agree more to what you mentioned above - Having learnt it hard way myself, when Cresting was my unchosen passion in initial days

Dear Desert Drivers, Thank you for signing up for the drive on Saturday in Sweihan. You can expect a well paced drive, with high dunes and soft sand. It will be FB level, but we will have some high climbs, long ridges, and many opportunities to push the throttle. With the height of the dunes, and the higher speed we may have, you will have to be totally focused on your driving, and avoid fighting the gravity in any situation. In preparation for the drive, please check your car and be sure it is fit for a long desert drive, especially if you have not driven for more than a month. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and rear seats area, and secure properly any loose item. We have 3 wait list, so please check your agenda and let me know if you changed your plans to avoid disappointment and empty spots. Thank you !

Good evening @Davie Chase Thanks for organising this drive! - I drive a 2024 JEEP JL 392 (4dr, Grey, 4.5” lift kit, winch and a few extras) - Front and rear tow hooks, 4WD, flag and whip. - Done 15-20 drives in the past 6mth, mostly daytime/mornings, Al Qudra & Sweihan. - Done the reading and will watch the video tonight. - Have radio and can program to frequency. Please advise which of the 10 frequencies will be used on the day as dinosaur me don’t know how to program presets on this thing looking very much forward to it! Alex

Well deserved @Brett Eicher ! Let the XJ roar 🦁

@GauravSoni has graciously agreed to split the convoys; so that we could add more members to the drive. All the members who are on their first drive got automatically added to the drive and the second drive members will get added when appropriate time comes.

Ok

@Siddharth Sai G this is a Fewbie Plus drive; and I see you are still in Fewbie level. I will remove you from this drive. Pls join other drives at Fewbie level.