Basic Convoy Best practice
- Use a call sign on the 2 way that reflects your positioning in the convoy
- The convoy leader will usually do a radio check at the start of each day to be responded to in sequence of your position in the convoy.
- Eg Walkabout 2, 3 or 4 etc
- Headlights on low beam always in convoy
- Better to see you my dear
- When on a highway or major road leave room between vehicles to allow for passing cars to slip in between
- Advise the rest of the convoy of a passing car.
- As the passing car passes you advise ahead so all are aware that they are about to be passed.
- When on dusty roads the convoy will spread out to avoid to much dust, so sometimes messages may need to be relayed to those behind. dust and distance affect 2 way range.
- Communicate all actions, eg if you want to stop for a picture or what ever call up and advise
- Acknowledge other calls with a roger to confirm you have heard
- When turning or changing direction make sure the person behind you has seen you turn, either an acknowledgement on the 2 WAY or visual, in a larger convoy a Visual is best, so wait till they are visible in your mirror before making the turn.
- When the convoy leader advises a change in direction reply when you have made the turn.
- This way the convoy leader is sure that all have followed
- Maintain a constant speed and gap between you and the vehicle in front.
- If you vary your speed an effect called lacky band occurs where the whole convoy has to slow down and then speed up, it is much better to concentrate on a set comfortable distance to the car in front depending on conditions and maintain it.
- If your tail end Charlie you must have a good radio and arial as this position is responsible for keeping the convoy together and watching that any don’t stray
- As in 8