Off-roading is a fun pastime that many individuals enjoy. If you are considering going off-roading and you are a beginner, there are a number of things you should keep in mind so that your off-roading experience remains enjoyable. Consider these four tips:
Vehicle Maintenance
First of all, you should check to make sure your tires are in good condition, ensuring they are properly inflated and free of any types of leaks. It also wouldn’t hurt to be aware of your maintenance schedule, including the proper time to change belts, check filters, and inspect hoses. Make sure that all fluids are full and that your vehicle isn’t need of gearbox repairs. Finally, you want to make sure your vehicle is loaded evenly. Excessive loads can not only cause your axle to sag but it also can cause difficulty for the center of gravity of your vehicle.
Environment
One cardinal rule is to avoid blazing a new trail. This is because your SUV will create serious ruts in the environment that could cause erosion and flooding problems later on. Along these same lines, you shouldn’t do anything to tear up the soil, including spinning your tires needlessly. Finally, if you need to pile up stones to get around an obstacle that is fine. Just remember to put the stones back where they were found when you are finished. Of course, be sure not to disturb the wildlife during your off-road adventure.
Tools and Supplies
When it comes to packing tools and supplies for off-roading, it’s hard to overdo it. This is because you need to be prepared for a variety of situations. In addition to food and water, you’ll want to pack warm clothing, gloves, and sturdy footwear. A first-aid kit is always smart to have on hand, in case of injuries. And it’s essential to have recovery equipment in the event your vehicle gets stuck. If you vehicle doesn’t have a winch, bring a tow strap or a chain. Also, it’s not a bad idea pack a flashlight (in case you have to work in the dark) and a fire extinguisher (in case your vehicle gets fiery).
Tricky Situations
It is important to know what to do if you stall or get your vehicle stuck. First of all, if you are about to stall your vehicle out and you are on an incline, try to avoid depressing the clutch. This will only make your vehicle go in a “free wheel” state and you could end up losing control. If you get stuck, be sure to examine the situation first to determine the best course of action regarding getting your vehicle stuck without damaging it. In some cases, you can jack up the vehicle in order to move it out of the way. In other cases, you will need to free your vehicle with a winch.