4x4 Tips For Beginners

Congratulations on taking the plunge and buying a 4X4 for a fantastic off-road experience! As a beginner to the wonderful world of 4-wheel drive, you’ll fall into one of two camps– those who believe they know everything already, and those who are totally terrified and have no idea what to do with their 4×4 first, not to mention get the very best out of it! This short article is for you, whichever side you fall; never be too confident or too scared to discover something new, for your sake and the sake of your guests and fellow off-road track users.

Speed & Momentum

If you’re stuck, DON’T accelerate– it can get you into an even worse position. Decrease acceleration and relax– this helps you to keep traction and your tires will work for you instead of spinning aimlessly.
When approaching an obstacle, you need momentum. The technique is to begin a little way back to acquire the momentum you require. This is a skill which you will master gradually.

Limitations

Don’t try new techniques when you’re out alone. Evaluate your limitations when you’re with more knowledgeable drivers.

Mud

Use a stick to check mud for depth and softness. Keep in mind; soft mud can prove impossible to get away! Get in the mud hole with a little momentum and if you feel that you’re getting stuck turn the wheel delegated ideal to acquire traction. When you’ve gone as far forward as you can try reverse out.

Windows

Keep the windows closed to prevent a mud shower or a face filled with dirt.

Stuck

If you are really stuck, try letting a little air out of your tires for much better traction and when you leave the ditch don’t forget to fill them up again.

Stalling

If you stall with your exhaust underwater, get hauled out and remove the spark plugs before beginning the engine again. A cylinder full of water can destroy an engine. When the plugs are out, nevertheless, the water will be securely ejected.

Obstacles

Go gradually over obstacles. Pull the hand brake a little for tension on the driveline to slow the vehicle and allow you to accelerate carefully over it.

Steering

Always hold the steering wheel with thumbs out when you’re off-road. If you hit a ditch or barrier, the wheel could spin too fast and injure your thumbs. Keeping them out assists avoid injury. Keep your hands and arms inside the vehicle to prevent mishaps.

Tools & Spares

Keep the following with you:
A hi-lift jack
Steel wire
A spare tire and plug kit

Security

Wear your seat belt. Don’t travel alone. Have a cell phone on you. Do not drink alcohol when driving. Get back on the road before dark. Provide fellow 4X4 drivers on the track a lot of space. Don’t race or churn up the earth needlessly.

Respect

Respect the land, the other people utilizing the trail and the car! Douse campfires, do not litter (this includes cigarette butts), stay on the trails so as to prevent harming the plant life.

Leave your ego at home and remember it’s about having a good time!

Contact Majestic 4×4 today for the very best advice on all things 4×4 and 4WD !