Convoy - (for death and taxes

[bug_out]

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[Diesel]

while i see a ton of problems with a mini convoy, more exposure, more problems, people getting cut off lost, more fuel etc

I also see the advantages... i'm torn on this one

[Diesel]

Running out the door... But I will say this I agree that more than one vehicle is good, i'm a HUGE beliver in redundancy, in just about anything and everything.

So let's say 2 vehicles are mandatory for bug out/convoy plans.

I really like the idea of one of those being a ex mil vehicle with a white multi fuel engine. Due to the fuel crisis in our country the ability to run just about anything you can find could be priceless. Then for the second vehicle i'm thinking a VERY fuel efficient suv, like one of those kia's or honda pilot type things, blacked out. Pretty low on the radar, fuel efficient, and can carry "some" gear. The other option is your basic older suburban or tahoe but they are not fuel efficient at all. :/

I'll need to put more thought into this.

Also one of the vehicles should also transport a scooter on it, so someone can go for help, scout, or go find fuel.

[das]

If you have trained drivers who have practiced together sure I can see this being beneficial but anything under four vehicles is not a convoy. You need a scout vehicle (think jeep or smaller) that runs a half mile before the group and a trailing vehicle (pickup/SUV) that can all communicate with the convoy vehicles with Single Sideband Radio. There need to be weapons/gunners in each with the best (read heavy and automatic) in the scout and trailing vehicles.

Depending on threat assessment a 2-3 ton vehicle with a reinforced front could be essential in a road block situation and should be used in the lead position. Don't even consider up armored vehicles on civilian frames as the weight would make them prone to failure/overheating/dangerous to drive. Sand bags are one alternative that proved useful to truck drivers in Korea.

If you have the tools or access smoke grenades or smoke generators can be a life saver in a fire fight if you need to devehicle in a combat situation. Similarly crimp and strap engine and snake belts, canned tire sealent and for those with big wallets run flat tires. I recommend everyone have a heavy t-bar lug wrench and a hd jack for changing a spare tire or two. Sometimes just escaping the firefight isn't enough if you are caught a mile down the road with half the convoy broken down.

I could go on for a long time here as getting out of dodge has been nearly the entire focus of my efforts at this point. The truth is unless you have a mechanic with your group then transport is going to well be a one shot deal, make it count.

[Badfoot]

Dont forget the use of vans as survival vehicles for bug out. Badfoot

[Parthenox]

From my humble view...

As a mechanic, I have seen some interesting ideas people have to save fuel.
Instead of using 4-wheeled vehicles( which get stuck on stumps and obstacles rather easily) try bicycles for the scouts. Bicycles are quiet, fast, and incredibly reliable, with the proper maintenance. Plus, they're the only vehicle I can think of that can be carried over a mountain, if need be
(It's painful, but it can be done, if broken down right. Just don't leave any parts behind, like the chain.)
I think that three good mountain bikes are a heck of a lot quieter, more reliable, and more fuel efficient than any automobile. Easier to hide, too.