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STARTING AND OPERATING 269
than a 1/4 turn quickly back and forth for addi-
tional traction. Mud holes pose an increased
threat of vehicle damage and getting stuck.
They are normally full of debris from previous
vehicles getting stuck. As a good practice before
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 is using the appropriate tire pres-
sure, 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 trac-
tion and handling while driving on the soft sand,
but you must return the tires to normal air pres-
sure before driving on pavement or other hard
surfaces. Be sure you have a way to reinflate
the tires prior to reducing the pressure.
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.
Using A Spotter
There are many times where it is hard to see the
obstacle or determine the correct path. Deter-
mining the correct path can be extremely diffi-
cult when you are confronting many obstacles.
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.
Crossing Large Rocks
When approaching large rocks, choose a path
which ensures you drive over the largest of
them with your tires. This will lift your undercar-
riage over the obstacle. The tread of the tire is
tougher and thicker than the side wall and is
designed to take the abuse. Always look ahead
and make every effort to cross the large rocks
with your tires.
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.
WARNING!
Crossing obstacles can cause abrupt steering
system loading which could cause you to
loose control of your vehicle.
CAUTION!
Never attempt to straddle a rock that is
large enough to strike your axles or under-
carriage.
Never attempt to drive over a rock which is
large enough to contact the door sills.
5
20_JL_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 269
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