Before Hitting the Trail
- Inspect vehicle for loose or missing parts
- Check all fluid levels including
- fuel
- engine oil
- coolant
- transmission
- window washer
- Identify the vehicle's tow points
- Examine undercarriage to determine clearance to terrain
- Fold in mirrors
- Tie down all equipment within the vehicle
- Adjust air pressure as required
- manufacturers recommendation for paved roads
- 15-20 psi for soft ground
- 5-15 psi for sand
- Adjust the seat for an upright position for maximum visibility
On the Trail
- Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt at all times
- Drive slowly, if possible
- Try to limit the damage to the trail by driving carefully
- Drive with your thumbs outside the steering wheel
- Pay attention to three places
- In front of the vehicle
- At the vehcile
- Behind the vehicle
- Shift into low range as required
- Scout ahead on foot or use a spotter if unsure of an obstacle
- Avoid obstacles on the trail
- Try to drive over rocks and stumps with the tires (don't straddle)
- Cross ditches and logs at an angle
- Always keep the vehicle behind you in the rear view mirror
- Check the gages often
- When driving down steep hills
- Shift transmission to low for engine braking
- Point vehicle straight down the incline
- Avoid using the brakes
- When driving up steep hills
- Drive straight up the hill
- Maintain a steady speed
- If you don't make it, put vehicle in reverse and back down to the bottom
- If you slide backward out of control, shift to forward gear and use throttle
- Try to go just fast enough to keep momentum
- When driving through mud
- Some momentum is good
- Avoid stopping unless it is necessary
- Try carving the wheel back and forth to maintain forward movement
- avoid excessive wheel spin
- Stop as soon as you are stuck and get someone to pull you out
- When driving through water
- Try to avoid water that will be above the bumper
- Never cross moving water deeper than the top of the tires
- Cross very slow and steadily
- Avoid stopping and do not shut off the engine
- If you slide backward out of control, shift to forward gear and use throttle
- When your vehicle gets stuck (it will happen)
- Don't get burried, stop and get some help
- Use winch or strap to pull vehicle out
- Stay out direct line of the pull in case of cable or strap failure
- Keep bystanders clear of vehicles
Returning to Paved Roads
- Inflate tire to manufacturers recommended air pressure
- Inspect vehicle for damage (including undercarriage)
- Remove mud and loose material that may be a hazard to other vehicles on the road
- Check for leaking fluids
- Shift back to high range
- Unlock differentials
- Gently apply brakes while moving to dry and clean out mud