Dust Control

[barnesy01 Lurker Find all posts View Profile Close barnesy01]

Hi All,
Just got back from a couple of weeks away in the bush, and after numerous hours spent cleaning the car, was wondering what is the best way to minimise the dust.

A mate of mine told me today, a bit late, but to turn the ac from recirculate to open vent, from time to time, to "de-pressurise" the vehicle.
Does this work?

Anyone else got some tips.
By the way, first trip away, towing the camper, and very impressed with the Prado.
Handled all the tracks that we went on with ease, and still at stock standard.

[winniliss Avid PP Poster! Find all posts View Profile Close winniliss]

Yes it does work, having your air vent set to open.

I wonder thou if following in a convoy if you crack the back side windows will they help to keep the dust out? When I was in the army in the back of mogs we used to open the side flap a bit and keep the back one down.

Some say, if following in a convoy, have you air on recirculate and crack your drivers or front passenger window. I tried this and I don't think it works...

[stevensr34 Senior Member Find all posts View Profile Close stevensr34]

After 4000km of dirt roads during our trip to the Kimberleys this year, I can say the following works in dusty conditions:

1. ALWAYS have all windows closed.

2. If you are driving in clear air (ie not following someone, or passing someone): Set the Vent to Fresh, and turn the fan on (at least to the 2nd speed) A/C can be on or off, depending on temp, but this does not effect things.

3. If another car coming, or you are following someone: Set the Vent to Recirculate, have the fan on, and get past the dust ASAP! Once in clear air again, set vent to Fresh Air.

Reasoning: The fan pressurises the cabin, when the vents are on Fresh, and this minimises the dust entry. On Recirculated, there is NO pressurisation in the cabin, and dust WILL get in. So this is only for when there is more dust outside than inside!

Results: A very minor amount of dust got in. Just a fine coating - nothing more.