You purchased your Jeep Wrangler so you could tear up the off-road trails. However, before you start exploring off the beaten path, you need to make sure you prepare your Wrangler for off-roading. Discover what you need to know to make sure you and your Wrangler are ready for your next off-road adventure.
Understand Your Wrangler
Before you head out on the trail, you must make sure you know your Wrangler from top to bottom. Check to see how much ground clearance you have so you know whether or not you can safely clear obstacles like rocks, logs, and brush. You also want to make sure you know how to switch your Wrangler into four-wheel drive so you can avoid getting stuck on the trail. Your owner’s manual is the perfect place to learn about all the information you need.
Get Some Practice
Once you know all of the specifications of your Wrangler, get in a few practice runs before heading off to those remote off-road destinations. If possible, try to find some steep hills so you can get a feel for the amount of acceleration and braking your Wrangler needs. If you have any gravel or dirt roads near you, drive on them so you know how to speed up and stop without sliding. You can also look for nearby U.S. Forest Service roads and off-road vehicle parks to practice driving your Wrangler.
Know the Right Driving Techniques
When it’s time to hit the trails, it helps to know the right driving techniques for different conditions. If you think you’re going to need extra traction, switch your Wrangler into four-wheel drive before you hit the rough spots. It’s more difficult to switch if you’re already stuck. On rocky trails, lock your hubs and drive slowly. If the trail is muddy, make sure you keep your momentum going. If you start to spin, put it in reverse and back out. Trying to force your Wrangler forward could cause you to get stuck.
Add Some Helpful Accessories
Your Wrangler already comes with several features and accessories that make off-roading easier. However, you might decide you want to get some additional accessories to make your adventures more fun. Cargo racks and carriers can make it easier to bring along some extra gear. If you like off-road camping, consider an SUV tent. Plus, accessories like floor liners can make it easier to clean up when you get home.
Pack an Emergency Kit
Even with all the right preparation, the unexpected can happen and cause you to become stranded. That’s why you should always have an emergency kit in your Wrangler. Your emergency kit should include everything you might need if you end up getting stuck, such as extra food and water, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a thermal blanket, and flares. Also, don’t forget items like tow straps, a towing winch, chains, and shovels.
Before you head off on your next backwoods adventure, use these tips to ensure that your Wrangler is prepared for your off-road fun. And, to ensure you have the right equipment, the right service, and the right vehicle for the job, stop by your local Jeep experts in Aberdeen, Adams Jeep of Maryland.
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