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160 STARTING AND OPERATING
Snow – In heavy snow or for additional control and trac-
tion at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low
gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD LOW if neces-
sary. Do not shift to a lower gear than necessary to
maintain headway. Over-revving the engine can spin
the wheels and traction will be lost. If you start to slow
to a stop, try turning your steering wheel no more than
a quarter turn quickly back and forth, while still
applying throttle. This will allow the tires to get a fresh
"bite" and help maintain your momentum.
Mud – Deep mud creates a great deal of suction
around the tires and is very difficult to get through. You
should use 4WD LOW with a gear low enough to main-
tain your momentum without shifting. If you start to
slow to a stop, try turning your steering wheel no more
than a quarter turn quickly back and forth for additional
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 obsta-
cles 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 appro-
priate 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 handling, while driving on the
soft sand, but you must return the tires to normal air
pressure before driving on pavement or other hard
surfaces. Be sure you have a way to air the tires back
up prior to reducing the pressure.
CROSSING OBSTACLES (ROCKS AND
O
THER 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. Determining the correct
path can be extremely difficult 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 with your tires. This will
lift your undercarriage 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!
On icy or slippery roads, do not downshift at high engine
RPMs or vehicle speeds because engine braking may
cause skidding and loss of control.
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 lose control of your
vehicle.
CAUTION!
Never attempt to straddle a rock that is large enough
to strike your axles or undercarriage.
Never attempt to drive over a rock which is large
enough to contact the door sills.
23_DJD2_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 160
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