CHECKLIST Before you go Off-Road

[mudrunner88]

Prior to embarking on a trip have your vehicle serviced by your dealer in accordance with its servicing schedule and the 4-point off-road check. If you are a regular maintainer you may be able to perform most of these tasks yourself. Keep a record of all work performed so you know when it was done last.

The 4-point off-road check covers the following areas which are critical to the performance of your vehicle and to the ultimate enjoyment of your trip:

1) Mechanical and electrical
2) Suspension
3) Transmission
3) Wheels and tires

Mechanical and electrical

Oil change
Engine analysis, fuel and electrical system
Replace oil and fuel filters (in the case of a diesel unit, fitting of an extra water trap and fuel filter will obviate problems caused by contaminated diesel).
Inspect all ‘V’ belts
Pressure-test and check radiator and all hoses; if necessary flush, clean and refill, not forgetting coolant/antifreeze
Check engine and gearbox mounts
Check electrical system:
– spotlights
– spare batteries/charging systems
– winch and winch cable (check operation, winch control and water damage)
Check brake fluid.
Check battery fluid level.
Check windscreen washer fluid level.

Suspension

Check shock absorbers and coil springs, upgrade to gas shocks if necessary.
Check leaf springs, shackle bolts and bushes.
Check and adjust torsion bars.
Check wheel balance/alignment.
Carry out general inspection of chassis, nuts, bolts, brackets, ‘U’ bolts, etc.

Transmission
Change oil in gearbox/transfer box and differentials.
Check all seals and plugs.
Check breather pipes on differentials if fitted or locate breathers for closure
if using vehicle for extended periods in water.
Check driveshaft universal couplings and fastenings.

Wheels and tires

Check rims (steel or alloy) for damage.
Check tires, tread, sidewalls, valves, etc. for wear or damage (do not forget the spare wheel)
Check brakes, hydraulic fluid, brake leads, cables, discs, drums, pads, shoes, etc. (and do not neglect load sensors).
Check bearings and freewheeling hubs for water damage, lubrication and function).
Check that you have selected the correct tire for the application, sand, mud,
shale, rocks, etc. All tires must be of the same circumference.

Tools and emergency items

Tools
Do not forget the basic small tools, jack, wheel 4-way, air pump and your emergency kit. It's best to take a basic emergency kit, but you will develop your own as you go along.

Spares
obviously, your destination and the type of vehicles in your group will determine your requirements – avoid duplication and split your requirements amongst your fellow off-roaders. Many dealers will offer to refund you for spares purchased from them, if you return them after a trip in their original packaging and condition. But it is always good to have them on-hand all the time. Buy one item a year until you accumulate extras.

Running repairs
Despite having serviced and checked your vehicle, a variety of emergencies may arise while in the bush. Your emergency kit and ingenuity will often be all that is required to get you going.

Rough terrain can puncture fuel tanks and drain plugs can also drop out. Ensure that you carry spare oil if you are far from civilization and have an adequate supply of cork, leather and self-tapping screws to effect makeshift repairs.

Baling wire will enable you to clear blocked fuel lines, clamp and repair broken hoses and splice rods and bars to repair leaf springs in an emergency.
Improvisation is the name of the game. Utilizing ingenuity and available material will keep you on the road until you can purchase the necessary replacement parts or reach a service centre.

On your return
You should steam-clean your engine, chassis, suspension, etc. as soon as possible, to remove accumulated mud and dust, thereby enabling a visual inspection.

Bear in mind that extensive sand travel may make it necessary to have torsion bars and wheel alignment reset. Water and mud with fine silt particles can play havoc with clutches, starter motors and brakes. Radiator cores may also become blocked, affecting the cooling capability. Immediately check for water in transmission, transfer case and differentials. Oil may have to be changed while on a trip.

Check for Frame Cracks, Torque Axle U-Bolts, Torque Lug-Nuts, Grease Steering/U-Joints, Check for Straight Winch Cable and/or frays and damage.

Tip: Oil that is water-contaminated takes on a milky white color.

Upgrades:
At least 31" tires for Basic Off-Road 33"-38" for more advanced
Front and Rear Tow Hooks
Skid Plates under Tranny/T-Case/Gas Tank/Diffs
Lockers Optional
Winch 8,000 Lbs min.
Adjust Tire Pressure According to your terrain
Sand/Dirt 8-12 psi
Rock/Dirt 15-18 psi
Snow/Mud Depends on tire tread but cand go as low as 8psi with large mud style tires.
If you run anything below 15psi I would be prepared to have a bead break off. Always have a way to air your tires back up.

[missouriman]

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