JEEP OFF-ROAD GUIDE
BEDFORD CDJR'S OFF-ROAD GUIDE
Jeep vehicles are built for the off-road world. However, there are a lot of first-time Jeep drivers that have not taken their vehicle off-road. So the team at Bedford CDJR thought we would put together a list of frequently asked questions about off-roading with your Jeep. We cover everything from what to bring to how to conquer those massive rocks!
How do I prepare my Jeep for going off-road?
Always check your vehicle before hitting the trail. Check that your battery is fastened, all your vehicle hoses are in working condition and top off your oil and fluids, especially fuel. Be sure that all four tires are in good condition and have the proper tire pressure. Avoid traveling alone, especially into unfamiliar territory.
What should I be aware of when I take my vehicle off-road?
Once off-road, put your vehicle in four-wheel drive for additional traction. A good habit of having is always looking out a bit ahead of you to see what is approaching on the trail clearly. If you're watching the left tire, there's a good chance you'll get the right tire in trouble. Also, keep your head inside the vehicle. You could get hit by a branch or a rock that was kicked up by a tire. Finally, it is recommended you keep your thumbs out of the way of the steering wheel spokes in rough terrain because if your tire suddenly falls off a rock, your steering wheel could quickly rotate and injure your thumb. Typically, vehicles with power steering, like all Jeep vehicles, lessen the chance of sudden steering wheel rotation but is always better safe than sorry.
How fast should I drive when on the trail?
Speed and power are not required in rough off-road driving. When your vehicle is in low-range four-wheel drive, the low gearing and low speed of Jeep 4x4 vehicles at idle will usually pull you over obstacles. If you have a manual transmission, all you will have to do is let the clutch out slowly, and the vehicle will crawl over obstacles in the lowest gear. On the Rubicon Trail, the average speed is a mere 1-5 miles per hour.
How do I maintain momentum if I encounter snow or mud?
If snow or mud is present on the driving surface, you should engage your four-wheel-drive system. If you have an all-time system like Quadra-Trac I, there is no input required from you. In heavy snow, or for additional control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD-LOW if necessary. Over-revving the engine can spin the wheels, and traction will be lost. If you begin to lose traction in snow or mud, turn your steering wheel back and forth rapidly. This will typically help the wheels bite into fresh terrain and pull you through. If traction is lost, STOP. Wheel spinning will dig you in deeper. The key is to maintain forward momentum. The little off-road saying is, “if you're slippin you ain’t grippin.”
What about climbing over rocks and other obstacles?
We call it "rock crawling" for a reason. You will want to put your Jeep in the lowest gear and low-range four-wheel drive, then just let the vehicle crawl using as little throttle as possible. Never straddle rocks. A vehicle with 10 inches of ground clearance will not go over a 12-inch rock! Instead, maneuver your tires so that they are on top of the rocks and crawl over them slowly. If you hear scraping, don't panic. This is what your Jeep's skid plates and rock rails are for! Dropping tire pressure 3-5 pounds will also help improve traction and help avoid tire punctures. Be sure to return to normal pressure after you leave the trail. Remember, the ideal speed for rock crawling is 1-3 miles per hour.
Head to Bedford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram for your next Jeep!
The team at Bedford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram hopes these tips help! If you have any questions about available Jeep vehicles, our sales team would be happy to answer them! Don’t forget to stop in and show us the photos of your adventures! Now get out there and explore!
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