Bruce was in a bind. While far into the Rubicon Trail, both axles on his Wrangler broke. Inquiring into how that happened, he had no idea. Maybe they were just worn out! Hopping in a buddy’s car, they drove out to get cell coverage. Bruce dialed up a junkyard in… Continue reading
Tires. Axles. Control arms. Body and frame. You name it. Just about anything that could get damaged while off-road will at some point. More than once, for those who drive frequently. And some of those issues can be serious. But a lug nut? Who would think that a humble lug… Continue reading
Every once in a while, a piece of equipment comes along that just makes sense. It’s inexpensive, versatile, and small. And once you have one, you wonder how you got by without it. Such is the case with the 4-way valve tool. Chances are you’ve seen one of these before…. Continue reading
On my way to the North Rim of the Grand Canyon, my vehicle just plain died as I bottomed out from the entrance ramp to I-15. I had just fueled up in Vegas. As I coasted to the shoulder, I contemplated my options – see if I could find the… Continue reading
A student recently emailed asking for advice on how to perform certain repairs while off road. After responding, I realized that others could benefit from similar information. Handling breakdowns is one of the top fears expressed among my 4WD students. It’s impossible to cover every scenario in an article like… Continue reading
This mouth’s article is in response to a request generated by last month’s article. I have a question about tools.” Josh wrote in an email. “I can’t quite figure out what kind of tool kit I should make for off-road. Not necessarily recovery. But wondering if you have a go-to… Continue reading
You probably do a good job of inspecting your vehicle before each 4WD outing. After all, you’re concerned about possible breakdowns while on the trails. But does your vehicle get the same level of attention at the end of the trip? Drivers often are anxious to leave. They figure they’ll… Continue reading
Tires are generally your number one problem driving off-road. Tires, by their nature, take a lot of abuse while off road. Trails are anything but smooth. Stuff happens! A stick jams into the sidewall; a rock that is ideal to skip across a lake slices the sidewall like butter; or… Continue reading
As Trail Leader, you should plan for issues and problems. Some plans are generic since you cannot predict the exact situation. You apply your skills, tools, and techniques to the problem. A first aid kit is a good example. For some issues you can speculate what might happen and develop… Continue reading
In last month’s article, Proper Storage Maximizes Space, Minimizes Down Time, we reviewed various storage methods and explained why it’s important to be neat and compact. This article goes into more detail about what you should carry. Normally we think of in terms of basic supplies. Here we’re focusing on… Continue reading
Breakdowns and broken parts are about as common as dirt in your face and wind in your hair. In fact, considering the abuse a vehicle often takes, it’s a wonder that the breakdowns aren’t more severe. In an earlier column I discuss ways to minimize hazards and therefore potential damage… Continue reading
It’s one of the more frightening experiences you’ll encounter behind the wheel. The vehicle is shaking so badly you think it’ll far apart and that you’re going to die. That’s why it’s called Death Wobble. I hope you never experience it, but if you do, this column may help you… Continue reading
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