We’ve been given the honor of observing the International 4-Wheel Drive Trainers’ Association’s (I4WDTA) Training for Certification that is being hosted in Uwharrie, NC.
This is the first time any outside group has been given the privilege to sit in on the rigorous 3 day selection process, and over the next few weeks we’ll be giving you all the details.
Since we’ve been given the opportunity to spend the next few days with Bill Burke, Chris Cole, and 7 other I4WDTA Certified Trainers, we took the opportunity to ask them a few questions in a quick Q&A session.
All of the following quotes have been summarized and we’ve all had a few drinks…
What is your most memorable experience that occurred out on the trail?
“While out four wheeling with a CJ built with a V8, the driver shut off his engine because of a lack of oil pressure. He hops out, removes the oil pump, and primed it with toothpaste to get it fired up again.” – Dave Pullen
“While out camping with a friend in Uwharrie, a friend of mine lost control of his truck on the trail and wet his pants.” – Mike Morrison
When did you first get into 4X4 driving?
“In 1991 my brother went into the military and left me with a Chevette. It was a 4 cylinder with a 4 speed and a manual e-brake. I drove it like the Duke’s of Hazard.” – Kyle Buchter
“45 years ago, my father owned a Land Rover on our farm. I would sit on his knees and drive the truck.” – Chris Cole
Is there any truck you regret getting rid of?
“M38” – Chris Cole
“98 TJ” – Mike Morrison
“It’s not a truck but my BMW 2002.” – Ted Dinwiddie
If you had to buy a new vehicle tomorrow, what would you buy and why?
“Unimog baby, it’s just an amazing feat of engineering.” – Dave Pullen
“It’s a waste of time and money to buy a new truck; I would buy a used diesel Mercedes G Class.” – Chris Cole
What is the most common mistake you see out on the trail?
“People who overbuild their vehicles.” – Tim Bleau
“Too much skinny pedal.” – Mike Morrison
Why did you become a trainer?
“It’s a real panty dropper in bars… but seriously it’s payback for all of the people that had the patience to teach me. I really enjoyed the learning process and I find a substantial amount of satisfaction in teaching others and making it an enjoyable activity for others.” – Tim Bleau
“I became a trainer because of the sincere bond I’ve developed with students that I’ve helped reach that light bulb moment.” – Chris Cole
What do you hope someone does with the training they receive?
“I hope they are able to walk away and share their love for the sport.” – Mike Morrison
“I hope they spread the knowledge that they have learned and change the common misconceptions of our sport.” – Ted Dinwiddie
What modification do you regret the most/would not do again?
“Everyone has wasted money on stupid bolt on parts that they regret, if only I could take it back…” – Kyle Buchter
“I tried to put a Ford 302 into a Toyota…” – Mike Morrison
“I put coil spacers on a TJ, but failed to lengthen the control arms…” – Chris Cole
Where do you want to go that you have not been before?
“Australia, to me it’s the last untamed place in the world, and I’ve wanted to go since I was 10.” – Mike Morrison
“Normandy, France to visit the memorials.” – Dave Pullen
What is your favorite Bill Burke quote?
“I am your worst nightmare, I am a hippie with a gun (In regards to people who leave trash behind on the trails and damage campsites).” – Ted Dinwiddie
“I lead Bill, I tow Bill (in reference to his stickers).” – Chris Cole
“Are you done with your f*cking kumbaya moment?” – Chris Cole
Here’s a couple of photos of what you can expect to see…
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