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4 x 4 Driving tips 

4 x 4 Driving tips

1. Take everything needed in case you get stuck.

Make sure that you have all the equipment you need, should you get stuck, especially in winter. You should always have a tow rope, shovel, shackles and gloves. You can find more information about 4 X 4 winter driving in: Winter driving tips.


2. Make others aware of your location in advance.

Let someone know where you are going in advance. Obtain detailed maps. If possible, don't take trips alone, and travel with another vehicle.


3. Keep distance between vehicles.

Keep your distance from the vehicle ahead of you. Never follow another vehicle closely up or down a slope.


4. Learn to read the surrounding terrain.

It is essential to know what to expect from the ground you're driving on, especially in winter, when features may be concealed under many layers of snow.


5. Check the vehicle when changing between on- and off-road.

Check the vehicle over after off-road driving, before driving on the road. 


6. Know how and when to use the differential lock on rough terrain.

When driving on rough terrain, always lock the differential, because excessive suspension movement can induce wheel spin. On very rough tracks, engage low range to keep a slow, steady speed, without having to frequently use your clutch or brakes.


7. Know how to deal with mud and sand.

Momentum is the key to getting through this kind of terrain. On soft ground and deep sand, keep the vehicle moving at all times. Use the differential lock. Choose the highest appropriate gear and stay in it until you're back on a firm surface. Use low range gears so that you can accelerate without the risk of stopping and not being able to start again.


8. Stopping and starting correctly.

Always park either on a level, firm area or with the vehicle facing downhill. Starting on soft ground or an upward incline can cause problems. Use minimum power and low gear when pulling away. Don't rev the engine once the vehicle is stationary - this can cause wheels to dig in.


9. Know how to deal with sunken wheels.

Always park either on a level, firm area or with the vehicle facing downhill. Starting on soft ground or an upward incline can cause problems. Use minimum power and low gear when pulling away. Don't rev the engine once the vehicle is stationary - this can cause wheels to dig in.


10. Realize the limitations of your vehicle - don't get over-confident.

Remember that 4-wheel drive is really only enhanced 2-wheel drive. All four tyres get some amount of torsional relationship via the drivetrain, but only two really get full benefit of power application from the engine. When in 4WD mode on snowy, icy roads the vehicle cannot stop significantly better than a 2WD vehicle.