You’ve shopped all the Jeep Wranglers for sale near you, and now you’ve finally found your dream Jeep. It’s your turn to take on the road less traveled. The task of taking your Jeep off-road for the first time looks different for all Jeep owners, so our team of Jeep experts here at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM is here to give you some pointers.
Read on to learn more tips for off-roading beginners!
Why the Jeep Wrangler is a Great Off-Roading Vehicle
The term “off-roading” is practically synonymous with Jeep and has been an iconic off-road vehicle since the 1940s. To do this day, drivers are still choosing rugged, reliable Jeep models like the Wrangler, Gladiator, and Renegade over the competition.
The Wrangler’s wheelbase ranges from 96.8 to 118.5, the Gladiator’s wheelbase comes in at 137.3 inches, and the Jeep Renegade rides on a 101.2-inch wheelbase. The Wrangler’s short wheelbase allows for quicker, tighter turns and greater stability which makes it the popular choice for trail riding or rock climbing. For a two-door Jeep Wrangler, the wheelbase still comes in at about four feet shorter than other SUVs on the market.
The Jeep’s solid axle is ideal for off-roading, and while this setup is popular on 4x4 vehicles, Jeep has been perfecting this suspension system for decades. The solid system is designed for durability and can hold up against the hazards of rough terrain.
In addition to its hardy suspension system, the Jeep can defy gravity while rock climbing, thanks to its highly capable drivetrain. The Jeep Wrangler’s drivetrain system consists of its transmission, drive shaft, axles, and wheels, and it works together with the engine to give the wheels optimal power.
Jeep outfits its 4x4s with only the best technology in off-roading, which is just part of their dedication to producing quality off-roading SUVs. It’s easy to see why there are so many loyal Jeep drivers on and off the road. Plus, you can up the ante on your Jeep and personalize it with TopLift Pros’ Jeep hardtop cover, lift tools, and other modifications. Your Jeep Wrangler can be whatever you want it to be.
Basic Equipment Needed for Off-Roading in a Wrangler
Before you take your Jeep Wrangler off-road, make sure you’re prepared with the right gear and equipment in case you end up in a bind. Here are a few pieces of basic equipment that you might find helpful to have:
- Recover straps: These straps will be helpful in safely getting your Jeep unstuck.
- Recovery points and shackles: Recovery points are safe locations on your vehicle to hook your recovery strap into and avoid damage to your Jeep. Recovery shackles are what you use to connect your recovery straps to the recovery points.
- Traction boards: Traction boards provide grip for your tires if you’re stuck in mud, snow, or sand. You simply put them right under your stuck wheel in the direction you’ll be moving to give your tires a grippy surface to gain traction and keep moving.
- Shovel: Having a shovel on hand can help you remove mud, snow, or sand away from your vehicle and get unstuck.
- Spare tire: You can never predict when a flat or a blowout will occur, so make sure your spare tire is in good condition and ready to go in a moment’s notice.
- Maps and navigation tool: Cell service can be spotty when you’re driving through the backcountry. It’s handy to have a map and compass on hand in your Jeep just in case you find yourself disoriented.
- Leather gloves: Leather gloves are hardy and can protect your hands while handling rope, wire, or rocks during your ride.
- Emergency supplies: Always be prepared for an emergency. This includes having extra water, food, warm clothes, toilet paper, blanket, a first aid kit, a thick blanket, and a way to make a fire.
- Good company: The best part of off-roading are the friends who come with you! Having good company in tow makes going off-road more fun, but it’s also a safety mechanism. Also, don’t forget to let someone else who isn’t on the trip know where you’re going and check in with them periodically.
It may be helpful to have a 12-volt air compressor to keep your tires pumped up on the go to get the most out of your ride. Also, keep some D-rings on hand to successfully recover your Jeep. These are essential for rigging your gear and making the rest of your equipment work for your recovery.
Consider putting a CB radio in your Jeep Wrangler if you’re heading to more remote locations. This is a great back-up tool for communication in the case of an emergency. Plus, don’t forget to pack an extra phone charger or a battery pack to keep your phone going.
Safety Precautions
When it’s time to hit the trails, it’s important to always put safety first. Before you head out, do a thorough inspection of your vehicle to make sure everything is in working order. Check your oil, coolants, wiper fluid, and tire pressure to lower your risk of running into problems during your ride.
It’s important to understand your Jeep and its capabilities before taking it off-road. Know your Jeep’s clearance both overhead and underneath, so you can confidently take on the terrain without damaging your Jeep. Also, make sure you have the right recovery gear for your Jeep and take inventory of your gear before your trip.
Both your personal limits and the limits of the trail are important aspects of your off-roading adventure. You don’t have to push yourself or your Jeep - just have fun doing what feels comfortable. Get familiar with your trail before heading out so you know what terrain to expect and what might be considered dangerous for a particular trail.
When you’re off-roading, it’s important to know how to approach hills and obstacles. For hills, always drive directly over the hill. If you try to go at an angle, you may run the risk of rolling over. As for obstacles, cross at an angle. You want to take on obstacles one wheel at a time.
Remember, take your time, and pay attention at all times. Make sure the items inside your Wrangler are secure to avoid any flying objects during your ride. Every time you hit a trail will be a different experience, so treat each ride as something new to you.
Have More Questions About Off-Roading with the Jeep Wrangler? Call Today!
Here at South Strand Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM, we’re here for all of your Jeep needs. Whether you’re shopping for New Jeeps for sale or Jeep lease deals, or you’re on the hunt for expert Jeep financing or new Jeep incentives, we’ve got what you need.
Next time you’re searching for SUVs for sale near you, pay a visit to our lot! We have all the latest Jeep SUV models perfect for your family road trip or next off-roading adventures. We’re conveniently located in Pawleys Island, just a quick drive from Myrtle Beach, Murrell’s Inlet, and Georgetown, SC. Start shopping for your next Jeep today!