Not sure if this is the right spot to ask this but here it goes.
I am going offfroading for the first time sunday, if all goes well. I need some tips on what to or not to do. My truck is a 98 f150 4.6 auto stock all the way around, and has geolander tires. I was told it was a 355 rear end when i got it. So any tips would be great i think its mostly some trails on some private property I have two 20 foot straps for getting me unstuck but thats about it. So any help would be nice and thanks

 

1) bring a friend and at least 1 other vehicle.

2) bring recovery equipment (strap, hitch, winches if you have them, jacks, wooden boards, etc)

3) dont go anywhere you're not capable off. check water depth before just plunging into a puddle. Dont drive through mud on a slope. stuff like that.

4) just be smart, and be careful.

5) have fun.

 

One thing make sure it is a RECOVERY strap that has at least a 30k lb breaking strength and bring a buddy with a vehicle similar in size to you. For example don't expect to pull out a stuck superduty with a ranger

 

#1 tip - dont get stuck ; ]

 

getting stuck is part of the fun, just dont panic when you do. And be smart about where you are, dont get stuck in a real hairy situation.

 

dont do this

 

aka if you have a 2wd with open differential, dont drive through mud LOL

 

ahhhemmm (clears throat)

lowered, 2wd, open diff w/ 3.55, tucking 33" tires

 

even worse

 

Lets see if you feel like your getting stuck stop don't make it any worse unless you got something really really big to pull you out the have at it.

If you don't feel comfortable doing it don't, rather be label a baby than to broke.

A recovery strap is your best friend along with a winch.

Don't be stupid

Tread lightly ( meaing don't tear up stuff unless you are allowed)

Pick up your trash

Bring a friend

Bring a camera

Don't be stupid

Have a good time

A C.B. is a good idea to talk amoungest your group.

Only was have a eye on the guy infront of you and behind you

Thats all I can think of just go out have a good time and be smart. OH yeah lots of pics are welcome and wanted!

 

is you a 4x4 or not?

 

tow strap, winch, a hi-jack is very hand as shown on extreme 4x4 not too long ago!

a friend with a truck that has the same or exceedsthe capabilities of yours.

map out your routes know the terrain!

Have Fun Post Pics

oh and the comment about dont burry it might be the best info you will get, the more you dig it in the harder it will be to pull out! keep that in mind!

 

1. Bring a camera, and post pics, preferably vids if possible

2. Have fun

3. If you go into water, enter SLOWLY, and then accelerate out. These vids you see of guys splashing hard into a puddle/pond look cool but that's exactly how you end up with water in your intake and engine compartment.

 

I'd add a way to attach the recovery strap to the rear of the vehicle besides the ball hitch. Breakage is rare but can be deadly when it happens.

Best advise in my book is start on really easy stuff and slowly work your way into harder stuff. That's what I've done with my first 4x4. Spent years in a 2wd and knew a lot beforehand but after 2 years I'm still slowly pushing the truck a little further and learning as I go.

 

cool thanks and i forgot to say it is a 4x4 and my buddy has a dodge 4x4 and its same size as mine i guess and this is his parents place we are going to so he will know it well but thanks will see if i can get some hilift jacks if possible just hope i dont brake anything lol and will try and get some good pics supose to get warmer and maybe rain between now and when i go so should be good and muddy lol