Mud is the
off road driver's best friend, but what should you do if you get stuck?
We have all been
in a situation of “fight-or-flight”, in which we must make that split-second
decision – “Should I continue ahead or take a detour?” If the ground beneath us
looks treacherous or threatening, we must quickly discern it’s level of risk
and make our decision.
For the more
adventurous spirit, I say go forward. If a problem arises, we’ll deal with it
then.
In the case
of Off-Road Mud Driving, making these decisions is part of the fun. Upon
hitting a deep patch of mud, we spend the first 15 seconds fighting to grind
through it, turning the steering wheel to the right and then to the left with a
desperate attempt to blast through.
Then, slowly
but surely, we come to an understanding that we are here to stay.
So, here is
a list of things we should do before, during and after getting stuck in the mud
- Before we approach an obstacle we have to stop and exit the vehicle. When we are standing on the side of the vehicle we have a better perspective of the obstacle. Don’t think that you can ride over the obstacle like it’s nothing- you will probably get stuck.
- Scan the adjacent area and try to determine the best possible path out.
- Put your vehicle in 4X4, low gear
- Lower your tire pressure on all four wheels.
- If a vehicle rode through the same path before you, use its tire tracks as a trail.
- Maintain a higher RPM to avoid engine stall.
- Hold the steering wheel with two hands and drive with a steady, consistent RPM.
Don’t make any sudden, dramatic changes in speed.
I hope you that this helps you!
Please visit us at GBA Parts for all your Jeep and Off-Road parts. See you soon!
