4X4 Off Road Challenger

2008-07-14T03:50:00.000-07:00

What Does Four Wheel Drive Mean?

The Meaning of 4x4 vs 4x2
• The first digit refers to the number of wheels.
• The second digit refers to the number of driven wheels.

4x4 (four by four):
A vehicle with four wheels that's powered by four wheels (4WD)

4x2 (four by two):
A vehicle with four wheels that's powered by two wheels (2WD)

Today's vehicles offer a number of different drive train systems designed to help out in slippery conditions. For example, a four-wheel drive vehicle may come equipped with "Full-time 4WD", "Part-time 4WD", or "Automatic 4WD".

Things to Always Carry on 4x4 Trips

1. Basic recovery gear (snatch straps, 'D' sahckles, shovel, axe, jack and jacking plate; winch and chainsaw are optional).

2. First-aid kit (antiseptic, burn cream, scissors, eye drops, bandages, dressing).

3. Fire extinguisher.

4. Tools (ring and open spanners, hacksaw, file, wire cutter, tyre gauge, pump and repair kit, battery jumper leads, spray lubricant).

5. Spare parts (radiator hoses, fan belt, fuses, spark plugs, coil, condenser, tyre tube).

6. Extra water, map of area, compass, torch, knife, matches

General 4x4 Offroad Driving Tips

1. Observe all rules and regulations pertaining to the use of public land.

2. Avoid areas which are easily damaged such as swamps and vegetated sand dunes.

3. Carry out all the rubbish you brought in.

4. Always ask permission before entering private land.

5. Leave gates as you find them.

Driving 4x4 in Tricky Sections

1. Don't change gear in the middle of a tricky section.

2. If in doubt, always use a lower gear.

3. A low second or third gear is generally best for going uphill, a low first gear is best for steep downhills. If your vehicle begins to slide sideways, a very slight acceleration and steering into the slide will normally straighten your descent. Use your footbrake sparingly and avoid touching the clutch.

4. Move the steering wheel rapidly from side to side to improve traction in mud; if you become stuck, rock the vehicle forwards or backwards by alternating between first and reverse gears.

5. To get through sand, lower the tyre pressure to 140 kpa (20 psi) and avoid sudden changes in direction or acceleration. Fitting specialist desert tyres may help.

6. When descending a dune, avoid braking, but don't go so slowly that the wheels stop rolling.

7. Before entering a water section, loosen the fan belt, and spray electrical equipment with lubricant. In the water, use a low second gear, keep the speed down but fast enough to create a bow wave, and keep the engine running. Avoid changing gears or disengaging the clutch. If the engine stops, do not restart it but winch the vehicle out.

4x4 Rain Forest Challenge- Malaysia Event

2008-07-13T03:13:00.000-07:00

The biggest internationally represented 4x4 jungle adventure action event takes place annually from end November to early December. With competitors and press coming from 30 countries, this assembly of 4x4 vehicles and enthusiasts from North and South America, Asia Pacific, Africa and Europe will be sharing friendship, teamwork and camaraderie as well as giving their best to win the prestigious Individual Champion, Team Champion, Team Spirit Award, Jungle Man, Most Unique 4x4, Environment Award and Special Awards.

The event format is to test the drivers and co-drivers skills and ability to overcome various obstacles to the maximum along the nearly 800 kms of logging tracks during the rainy season, the North East Monsoon. It will mean overcoming muddy stretches, slippery uphill ascents and equally tough downhill descents, crossing rain swollen and fast flowing rivers, landslides and deep ruts. Conquering all these and completing the entire journey is in itself, an achievement, let alone winning the various awards.

Apart from these, one has to contend with the high humidity, which drains the strength from bodies and legs already soaked with rain and sweat for long hours. One has also got to be self sufficient for the entire 10 days as well as able to take the hardship and beating from whatever Mother Nature throws at them. Everything and everyone going into the RFC must prepared to the maximum possible or they would not be able to complete the journey.

For the competitors, they have to endure the hardship of the transport stage as well as being able to take the rigours of the Special Stages (SS). At the SS, they will be especially tested for their driving and recovery skills to the fullest, and thus earn points that will add up to the championship at the end of the event. These are the very difficult parts of the event, selected by

the organizer to test the teams to their limits and beyond.

The rest of the convoy will have to travel the transport stage from beginning to end. Under rain soaked conditions, even an easy track during the dry season can be transformed into an awesome obstacle which can take hours to go through, even just over a few kms. These include the print and electronic media following the event as well as officials, observers and touring adventurers. They all know the score, nobody is here on holiday, everyone has got to work and assist their fellow adventurers to go through from one place to another, come what may.

For all of the above, the RFC has also earned the recognition as the greatest teambuilding exercise of the 4x4 kind in the world from the foreign media. It is an opportunity for all "true blue" outdoor lovers who wish to live out a jungle adventure to the fullest as well as an opportunity to get to know liked-minded people from around the world.

This is definitely not a rally event, where competitors will have to speed over long distances during the SS. Accelerator and engine power do not rule supreme in a challenge adventure 4x4 competition, but recovery and thinking power to overcome the obstacles in the fastest time to earn maximum points do make a big difference.

A tropical secondary jungle environment is such that the existing and/or disused logging tracks can turn into formidable obstacles during the rainy season. A single day's thunderstorm of high water intensity will make sure of that. Furthermore, the environment is a non issue here as heavy rain will obliterate whatever tyre tracks left behind by the convoy. There is no broaching into virgen jungle. And, last but not least, the adventurers are at the forefront of protection of the eco-system, a strict jungle code of ethics is enforced and everyone looks after the environment as we pass through leaving "nothing but footprints and tyre tracks.

So, come this November, when the wind and rain of the North East Monsoon will be at their height, spare a thought for those extra ordinary breed struggling through endurance and hardship, but in their pursuit for adventure. The Rainforest Challenge is a time to live your passion in 4x4 adventure to the fullest.

How To Drive 4X4 Offroad on Sand, Snow and Mud

2008-07-13T03:12:00.001-07:00

Different terrains can be a challenge. Sand, snow and mud aren't any different. Use these tips to test yourself before going 4X4 offroad and finding yourself stuck in that position you don't want to be in.

1. When riding 4X4 through deep sand, snow or mud, deflate your tires slightly to increase the tire’s footprint and provide better traction. Deflated tires will decrease your ground clearance though. Remember to re-inflate your tires before going on-road again.

2. Use a steady momentum to carry you through. Keep your speed up and use higher gears. Don't spin your tires, and don't stop till you're out of the deep sand. If your wheels start to spin, ease off the throttle just a bit and allow the tires to slow down and regain traction.

3. If you lose traction and the 4X4 vehicle is barely moving, turn the steering wheel quickly from side to side in short strokes (only 1/8th turn) to allow the front tire walls to find extra grip.

4. If muddy conditions force you to drive in the ruts, know where your front wheels are pointed at all times. Your 4X4 vehicle will follow the ruts, even with the wheels turned to the right or left. If you encounter a dry spot with the wheels turned, then the front wheels can regain traction and suddenly throw the vehicle out of the ruts, resulting in a loss of control and possible damage.

5. Remember that hard snow crossed in the early morning can be impassable when soft in the afternoon

Tips For Driving 4X4 Through Water In Off Road Situations

2008-07-13T03:10:00.000-07:00

Most 4x4s can be driven in water that is axle-deep without taking special precautions. (Max. wading depth is about 20 inches.) When the water is deeper, you need to know where your engine’s air intake and engine computer are located and don’t allow water to enter. Switch off headlights and allow them to cool, as sudden contact with cold water will cause the glass to crack.

If you place a tarp across the front of your 4X4 vehicle prior to entering very deep water, you will minimize the water entering the engine bay by creating a bow wave, so long as you maintain a brisk forward momentum. The result: less water will be sprayed over the ignition system by the radiator fan and less chance of water entering the air intake.

When crossing shallow streams, drive slow and steady to create a small bow wave in front of your bumper that will reduce the height of the water behind the bumper and keep the water away from the air intake and electronics. Select low range and first gear, and keep steering straight.
When crossing fast-flowing shallow streams, cross at an angle and drive slightly upstream. This presents a smaller surface area and lessens the force of the stream on the 4X4 vehicle. (Never cross fast-flowing deep streams, as your vehicle can be swept away.)
Apply your brakes several times after crossing water or deep mud to dry them out.

Tips For Your First 4-Wheeling Trip Off Road

2008-07-13T03:04:00.000-07:00

Thinking about making your first off-road riding adventure? Regardless of whether you're heading to your favorite fishing spot that's off the beaten path, or taking the family out for an afternoon off-road picnic, or going sightseeing for a day to a nearby waterfall -- you'll want to be fully prepared for your off-road riding adventure. The type of off-road experience you pursue depends on the size (or toughness) of your 4x4. Many of today's 4x4s are not designed for true off-road activities. For serious off-road adventures, you'll want a 4x4 with a chassis frame that's built to withstand the punishment of off-road obstacles.

Taking your 4X4 vehicle off-road can be one of the most enjoyable things you can do on four wheels. But before you venture off the beaten path, here are some important ways to prepare yourself (and your vehicle!) for a fun, safe experience that you'll look forward to repeating.

This 7-part article covers everything from what to take to what to do after the ride:

Safety Precautions Before Going Offroad
In preparation for your first off-road adventure, here are some things to do before you ever leave home:

1. Make sure you know your vehicle well. It's important to recognize your limits and those of your vehicle and not to exceed them.

• Know how your 4x4 system works and how to use the controls.
• Know where the spare tire and jack are located and how to use them.
• Know your vehicle's dimensions - height, width, length, approach angle, departure angle and ramp angle - so that you can pass through tight areas without damage.
• Know where the lowest point of clearance is - usually the differential casing.
• Get used to driving your 4x4. Get a feel for its size and driving characteristics.
• Practice using the low ratio gearbox.
• If your vehicle is equipped with manual locking hubs, try them out.
• Know where your engine's air intake and engine computer are located so you'll know the maximum depth of water that you could cross.
• Keep track of maintenance on filters, belts and hoses and keep all fluids topped up.

2. Be prepared. You never know when you'll find yourself stuck or broken down, without help around, so be sure to pack all of the appropriate "emergency" supplies. And be aware of changing weather conditions before you go.

3. Travel with at least one passenger, and at least one other vehicle whenever possible.

4. Let someone know where you are going, and set a time to contact them to let them know you are okay. Don't forget to take along their phone number, the local sheriff's phone number, in case of an emergency. And don't follow-through by calling at the pre-arranged time, so they don't send out the search teams for you!

5. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for the off-road experience. Before leaving civilization, do a complete check of your vehicle before leaving. Make sure your tires (including the spare) are in good condition and inflated properly. Look under your vehicle for any leaks or mechanical problems. Make sure all of your fluids are topped off. Check the condition of your steering and brakes. All repairs should be carried out before leaving home.

6. Pay attention to how you load your vehicle. Loads should be distributed evenly within the vehicle if possible. Loads behind the rear axle will sag the rear of the vehicle, limiting your departure angle and clearance. If you have a roof rack fitted, be aware of weights and how they are distributed. Excessive loads will change the center-of-gravity, thus making the vehicle less stable. Also, remember the additional height of your vehicle due to the rack.

7. Always know where you are, where you're going, and which route you intend to take. Be time-conscious... What may look like a short trip on the map may take many hours in 4-wheel drive -- so allow enough time for safe travel.

Trail Etiquette For Beginners & How To Ride Responsibly

Be sure to follow these "Rules of the off-road" when you're out riding.

Environment
Be aware of the damage you and your vehicle can do to the environment.

Trails
Don't blaze a new trail. Instead, stay on the established path. Otherwise:
• If you venture off the road into the woods, you may get lost in an area where no one will be able to find you.
• Your heavy SUV will damage the ground and embankments by leaving ruts that will deepen and erode with each passing rain.
• You will be damaging the surrounding plant and animal life.
• You may do damage to your SUV.
• You will face a serious fine and/or a serious lecture from law officials.

Trash
Don't litter - not even a cigarette butt or a candy wrapper. If you pack it in, pack it out.

Spinning
Don't spin your tires and tear up the soil - it breaks the surface crust and leads to erosion when it rains.

Rocks
Should you need to pile stones up to get over an obstacle, then be sure to put the stones back where you found them afterwards.

Tricks
Leave your ego at home. Every vehicle (and driver, for that matter) has its limitations. Backing off early and accepting that a maneuver is impossible or choosing another approach may prevent vehicle damage and, more important, personal injury. Never try a maneuver that you are uncomfortable with.

Wildlife
Don't disturb the wildlife; this includes plants and animals. We're treading on their turf.

Speed
Slow down. Enjoy the scenery. Live the experience to the fullest. You don't want to spend time repairing damage you wouldn't have caused had you driven a little slower.

Passing
Just as on the street, you should stay right to avoid oncoming traffic, if you can. If common sense tells you it's safer to move left instead of right, then do so. If there is only room for one vehicle to pass, the rule is the more maneuverable vehicle, or the more experienced driver, should yield the right-of-way.

When two vehicles meet on a grade and there isn't a safe place to pull over, the vehicle traveling uphill has the right of way. It is safer for the vehicle traveling downhill to back up, and it will be much easier for the downhill vehicle to get under way.

Difficult Driving Off Road

When riding off-road, you should be familiar with how to maneuver your vehicle on all types of terrain, and under a variety of conditions. Here are a few tips to get you out of some tough predicaments.

For all types of terrain
Off-road driving is a game of finesse. Your goal should be to have minimal impact on the terrain, while managing to get through it.

Riding through tight spots
Keep the driver's side of the vehicle close to obstacles so you can judge distances more accurately. (Just don't forget about the rest of the vehicle!)

Riding through deep ruts
Heavily used tracks often become deeply rutted, to the point where it is impossible to drive without getting the undercarriage hung up. To prevent this, drive with one wheel in the rut and the other wheel on the middle hump. If there is enough room on the side, drive with one wheel on the hump, and one on the far side of one of the ruts.

Riding through sand, snow, or mud
Tips for riding on these surfaces can be easy.

Riding over rocks, logs, ditches, and obstacles
While these obstacles can be trickier they can be traversed with care.

Climbing hills
Check out the hill before you rush over it.
Descending hills on failed climbs
Now what? Know before you go.

Descending hills on successful climbs
OK, you made it, stay alert.

Riding through water
Be cautious and have fun. Riding through water doesn't count for a bath.

What To Do If You Get Stuck Off Road

Sooner or later, your vehicle is likely to get stuck or experience mechanical failure. If you pack the basic tools and supplies, you should be able to get under way again. Here's what to do if you stall, get stuck, or break down.

If you stall
If your vehicle is about to stall on steep incline or decline, DO NOT depress the clutch! This could cause the vehicle to "free wheel" and you could loose control very quickly. Instead, first turn off the ignition and apply the food brake very hard. Then apply the parking brake. After selecting a suitable route back down the hill, slowly depress the clutch, put it in reverse, let the clutch out, and simultaneously release the parking brake and the foot brake slowly. Then start the engine. With an automatic transmission, never shift the gear lever to Park, as this may lock the transmission and you may not be able to release it without the aid of a winch.

If you get stuck
If you get stuck on a rock, stump or log, survey the situation first to determine the best way to free the vehicle without damaging it. If you're stuck on an object that can be moved, jack up the vehicle and clear away the obstacle. If you're stuck on an object that can't be moved, jack up the vehicle and fill under the tires so that you can drive over the obstacle.

Try letting some of the air out of your tires (to about 10psi) -- just remember to air them up again as soon as you can. (Remember that lowering tire pressure also reduces the vehicle's overall height and therefore the vehicle's ground clearance.) Lock the differential locks (if fitted), and use as high a gear as possible. After shoveling away the mud, dirt, sand or snow that is blocking your tires, clear a path in the direction you'll be traveling, so the tires can get enough traction. Carpet strips, wood, floor mats, brush, rocks, clothing or sleeping bags can be placed as traction aids under the tires in the direction of travel.

If you still can't get out, jack up the vehicle and fill the area under the tires with sand, rocks, logs, brush, packed snow or any combination of these. If the jack sinks into the ground, use piece of wood as a base. (Never crawl under a vehicle that is supported by a jack!)
Snow chains are not only a benefit in snow and ice, but can work wonders in mud as well.
Typically, you'll fit them on the rear wheels, especially if you're climbing up a hill or towing. Sometimes it may be necessary to fit them to the front or to all four wheels.

The best way to get unstuck is with a winch. A winch takes the hard work out of vehicle recovery. It also allows a lone vehicle a means of freeing itself. Another vehicle can be used as an anchor, but natural anchors, such as trees, stumps and rocks, are the handiest. When no natural anchors are available, a spare tire, log or any other similar object that can be partially buried can form an anchor. It may be wise to use several items and group them as a single anchor. Never winch with fewer than five turns of cable around the winch drum. With fewer turns, the cable may break loose from the drum under heavy load.

If you can't drive out safely
It's important that you stay with your vehicle, and find a way to make yourself visible to others.
Keep calm -- don't panic and don't waste time and effort wondering "what if?" ("If only I hadn't done that!").

Spend your time constructively. Think through all your options. Take stock of your supplies and situation.

If help doesn't come in a reasonable amount of time, and you choose to hike out, avoid walking during the hottest times of the day. Walking in the morning and evening is best.

If you must leave your vehicle, leave a note telling the direction of your travel, your destination, and the date and time you left.

Seek shelter from the elements, but try to make yourself visible (with smoke or a signal fire, or a brightly colored tarp).

Lowering 4-Wheel Drive/SUV Repair Costs

2008-06-14T21:16:00.000-07:00

The cost of 4-wheel drives/SUVs and their related repairs are expensive. Although the tips provided in this article will not eliminate such expenses, they will help lower vehicle repair costs.

We have all seen commercials on TV touting the "great vehicle service" provided by dealer service departments. They know your 4-wheel drive/SUV better than anyone else, they use original replacement parts, etc. etc ... But at what cost is such great service available? Well, usually at about $75-$95 per hour.

In many instances, 4-wheel drive/SUV repairs can be completed for substantially lower hourly rates. Many independent garages employ ASE certified and licensed mechanics. These garages generally charge about $40-$50 per hour.

To identify a good independent garage, be on the lookout for the names of garages that are recommended over and over by other 4-wheel drive/SUV enthusiasts.
Next, visit a few of the garages, talk with the owner, and ask about the hourly rate charged for vehicle repairs. Inquire if the rate charged for the repairs is a "straight hourly rate" or a "book rate."

A straight hourly rate involves the amount of time that it actually takes a mechanic to do a vehicle repair. On the other hand, a book rate involves the customer being charged an amount of time the book specifies a repair should take.

For example, installing new front and rear brake pads on a 4-wheel drive/SUV could take one hour. Using a straight rate of $50 per hour, the repair would cost $50 for labor, plus the cost of the brake pads. The book rate might specify that it "should" take the mechanic 1.5 hours to do the work. Thus, the customer would be charged $75 for the labor, plus the cost of the brake pads.

When using the book rate method, even if the brake job takes the mechanic only 55 minutes to complete, the customer is still charged for 1.5 hours of time. The book rate method of doing vehicle repairs generally benefits the garage and not the customer.

If the garage owner seems to squirm when you ask about the billing method used for vehicle repairs, it is best to move on to other garages. Mechanic ASE certification, licensure, and the garage owner's response to billing practices will go a long way in your identifying the garage that has earned your business.

In most instances, garages "mark-up" the price of parts used for vehicle repairs. Garages purchase parts at a wholesale prices and then mark-up the parts used for repairs. Although it is becoming rarer and rarer today, some garages will allow a customer to purchase the parts that will be used to repair their vehicle. Such garages will quote the customer on just the cost of labor to install the parts.

It can be to a customer's advantage to get a quote on both the parts and labor prior to having their vehicles repaired. If the customer is so inclined, he or she can check on the cost of parts at retail parts stores such as Auto Zone, or Advanced Auto. In many instances, even better prices on parts can be obtained by getting on the Internet and searching under 4-wheel drive/SUV parts.

When it comes to 4-wheel drive/SUV repairs, taking the time to ask some questions can really help to lower vehicle repair costs. Identifying a garage that specializes in repairing 4-wheel drives/SUVs and a mechanic who is at the top of his profession makes all the difference in the world!