Driving 967 kilometers through the Saudi desert was already a daunting challenge, but for Tim and Tom Coronel, it turned into a nightmare without proper suspension. Despite this, the twin brothers managed to limit their losses in the first part of the 48-hour stage and reached the fourth overnight camp, though their journey was far from smooth.
The day started badly for Tim and Tom. The rear suspension broke, causing the Century CR7 to repeatedly sink under its own weight. On the left rear, two dampers were damaged, while one damper failed on the right rear and the front left. This caused them to get stuck twice, but they managed to continue at their own pace, deciding not to rush.
Upon arriving at the third bivouac, darkness began to fall. Determined to cover as many kilometers as possible, they pushed on to the fourth bivouac. The last half hour of driving was done in the dark and without suspension, which was incredibly tough on both the car and the drivers. They managed to create a temporary fix using hose clamps to keep going.
Tomorrow’s goal is to bring the car back to the bivouac and repair the shock absorbers. Tim and Tom still have 359 kilometers to drive to return to Bisha, where a more detailed update will follow.
Coronel Dakar Team is supported by: LKQ, MPM, Toolspecial, Optimal, ERU, Roordink Bedrijfswagens, Efulfilment.eu, Mascot Workwear, 4Brands, BS Forklifts, JBL, Keukenwarenhuis, DHG, Serengeti, Hella, Brondool, Chassis Parts, FEBO, MyFMS, Frits Dijk, Apple King, SuperB, P1, Copernica
