4x4 Mag - Readers Rides - Blackpool Trooper

Reader's Rides - April 1999

This is a new section of the magazine which we are offering space for readers to send to us details of their 4x4 and modifications, adventures and general interest items, together with all those muddy photographs. We hope that this section will inspire some people to have a go at driving off-road and encourage others who already go off-road to think about modifications and accessories which can really make the whole activity of off-road driving more pleasurable. So, let us know about you and your 4x4 and send that e-mail now ! richard@4x4mag.co.uk

Blackpool Trooper

Meet Martin Cordwell, self-employed Joiner from the land of the golden sands, the Fylde Coast and Blackpool Tower.

When choosing his four-wheel-drive he was looking to be able to tow a 3 ton trailer for work, his mobile workshop. He wasn't a fan of either the Range Rover or the Discovery models, for he preferred the Japanese offerings impressed by their track record of reliability and "all the extras which come as standard". Martin wasn't looking to spend vast sums of money on a brand new shiny motor, he wanted a clean and reliable second-hand motor, no more than three years old and under 50,000 miles.

After researching the various models available, he had a shortlist comprising Daihatsu Fourtrak, Toyota Landcruiser and the Isuzu Trooper. They appeared to be good workhorses and looked to meet the specification he required. On closer inspection the Fourtrak was found to be "too basic" and the Landcruiser "absolutely superb", but "who could afford the high purchase cost and the potentially expensive running costs ?" So the Trooper looked the best option.

Investigating further Martin found that the LWB offered greater internal space, and that the Citation model had "all the bells and whistles" he desired. Accordingly a very tidy 1995 model with 36k miles was found, negotiated after, deal agreed. Then at the last moment someone else came in did the deal faster and it was sold ! So off again on a Trooper hunt.

Well a visit to the Main Agents was the answer and there at White's of Blackburn was a long wheel base Citation, with seven seats, ideal for the four children. After a test drive and approval from the wife the vehicle left for Blackpool.

Martin had been used to towing and working with Transit vans so the high driving position was nothing new, however, the handling and comfort have been welcome enabling Martin to take on work further away from his home base. His wife Gill also find the Trooper "great for general driving around town" and "it's great for the kids and all their stuff".

Well of course, owning a 4x4 the urge to drive off-road was soon to manifest itself. Having convinced his friend who owns a Jeep Cherokee that driving in the mud would be fun, they suitably found an organised event and went off to enjoy. What an occasion, that first climb looked daunting, but "we had a go and succeeded", little knowing at that time that the first climb was only the entrance to the course ! He was hooked. Off Road mud tyres on a set of steel rims followed and at a cost of only £260.00 all in that was "the biggest improvement anyone can make to their off-roader for reasonable money". With these new tyres and a steady approach Martin finds he can go most places on off-road open-days "without drama".

After 10,000 miles of trouble free motoring Martin highly recommends the Trooper, it's been 100% reliable and "a pleasure to drive", and the off roading has been a great opportunity to "learn more about vehicle control" and meet "some of the friendliest bunch of people around".

If you want Craftsman Joinery you can ring Martin on 07970-602371