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entering any mud hole, get out and determine how deep
it is, if there are any hidden obstacles and if the vehicle can
be safely recovered if stuck.
• Sand –
Soft sand is very difficult to travel through with
full tire pressure. When crossing soft sandy spots in a trail
maintain your vehicle’s momentum and do not stop. The
key to driving in soft sand using the appropriate tire
pressure, accelerating slowly, avoiding abrupt maneuvers
and maintaining the vehicle’s momentum. If you are
going to be driving on large soft sandy areas or dunes,
reduce your tire pressure to a minimum of 15 psi (103 kPa)
to allow for a greater tire surface area. Reduced tire
pressure will drastically improve your traction and han-
dling, while driving on the soft sand, but you must return
the tires to normal air pressure before driving on pave-
ment or other hard surfaces. Be sure you have a way to air
the tires back up prior to reducing the pressure.
CAUTION!
Reduced tire pressures may cause tire unseating and
total loss of air pressure. To reduce the risk of tire
unseating, while at a reduced tire pressure, reduce your
speed and avoid sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.
Crossing Obstacles (Rocks And Other High Points)
While driving off road, you will encounter many types of
terrain. These varying types of terrain bring different types
of obstacles. Before proceeding review the path ahead to
determine the correct approach and your ability to safely
recover the vehicle if something goes wrong. Keeping a
firm grip on the steering wheel, bring the vehicle to a
complete stop and then inch the vehicle forward until it
makes contact with the object. Apply the throttle lightly
while holding a light brake pressure and ease the vehicle
up and over the object.
WARNING!
Crossing obstacles can cause abrupt steering system
loading which could cause you to loose control of your
vehicle.
Using A Spotter
There are many times where it is hard to see the obstacle or
determine the correct path. Determining the correct path can
be extremely difficult when you are confronting many ob-
stacles. In these cases have someone guide you over, through,
or around the obstacle. Have the person stand a safe distance
in front of you where they can see the obstacle, watch your
tires and undercarriage, and guide you through.
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STARTING AND OPERATING 449
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