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Off-Road Tires - A Beginner's Reference

2012-02-13T21:16:00.000-08:00

By Billy Han

Choosing the Right Off-Road Tires
Looking to buy some new off-road tires? Hold it right there. If you're just looking to grab the biggest, most wicked-looking off-road tires available, there are a few things you should probably know before you go about doing so.
The Truth about Off-Road Truck Tires
Whether you're sand-racing, rock-crawling, mud-plowing, or whatever other off-road activities conceivable, it's important to understand precisely why you need a set of off-road truck tires.
A common misconception with regard to off road tires is that you need them for improved traction on rugged terrain, and naturally, the general consensus suggests that larger tires equate to more traction. While such an assumption makes sense, it is not entirely accurate.
True, the right off-road tires can provide some additional traction in off-road conditions, but there are better, more efficient ways to improve traction than simply bulking up the rubber. If traction is your primary concern, trucks parts like a traction differential (locker) with stock off-road tires is more beneficial for your rig than just adding a set of taller, more aggressive offroad tires. Or for that matter, a winch is probably a smart idea before anything else. A locker or other 4x4-related truck parts could inspire excessive boldness, causing you to get caught in some real jams and then you'll wish that you opted for the winch instead.
The point is larger off-road tires are meant first and foremost for the purpose of raising the height and ground clearance of your rig to enable steeper ascent and descent in off-road terrain. Simply put, when driving over boulders, slogging through mud, coasting across the desert, or even just making your way through the occasional forest trail, higher ground clearance facilitates negotiating certain obstacles.
Not to downplay the traction aspect of off road tires, as a set of mud terrain bias off road tires will most definitely perform better in the mud than a set of all-season radials. Rather, improved traction is more of a secondary function that still bears importance, but should not the sole consideration when it comes to buying truck tires, as there are far better truck parts available for meeting that goal.
Are you ready for taller off-road truck tires?
Buying a set of taller off-road tires for your 4x4 is like making a marriage work; it involves sometimes drastic changes, sacrifices, and commitment, along with constant care and maintenance. On the other hand, at least you won't have to remember anniversaries.
The first thing to keep in mind is that upgrading to taller truck tires means upgrading a number of other truck parts in your vehicle as well. Additional inches of vehicle clearance are needed for the truck tires to fit without rubbing against the vehicle fenders. Truck parts like a suspension lift, body lift, or a combination of both can provide those additional inches. For off-road purposes, a suspension lift is preferable for the increase in wheel travel ability, whereas a body lift simply allows for the fiting of larger off road tires without any off road performance enhancements.
Larger truck tires also mean that your vehicle will be working harder to tote additional weight, which can result in significant strain to your axles and shocks, and also alters the gear ratio set by the manufacturer. To compensate for these changes, new ring and pinion gears and performance shocks (many complete lift kits typically include shocks) are strongly recommended. To counteract the additional weight and loss in performance, custom intakes, exhausts, computer chips, or any other performance-enhancing truck parts are also advised.
Bias Truck Tires versus Radial Off-Road Tires
Any driver will tell you that radial truck tires have innumerable advantages over bias ply truck tires. In fact, the tire industry has almost completely abandoned manufacturing bias truck tires, save for a few exceptions. Yet despite that bias truck tires come attached with a number of disadvantages, they still have their advantages when it comes to off road conditions.
The Case for Bias Off-Road Tires
Bias off-road tires provide unmatched performance in extreme off-road situations, such as deep mud, jagged rocks, and rough trails. The tread is designed to self-clean and release mud or foreign objects much easier to assist in maintaining traction and the rubber compounds are softer to produce better grip on rough terrain. Additionally, the tire sidewalls are typically reinforced to prevent damage.
On the downside, however, the ride and wear characteristics of bias off road tires on pavement are rather poor. High speed street driving is an uncomfortable and noisy endeavor, and a set of bias ply truck tires won't last much more than twenty to thirty thousand miles. Even for off-road situations, while low air pressure bias off road tires will deliver excellent performance, the center tread will still take a beating.
The Case for Radial Off-Road Tires
Although Bias off-road tires are ideal for the extreme off-road enthusiast, this is not to suggest that radial off-road tires aren't effective on harsh terrain. On the contrary, the latest radial truck tires perform quite well in off-road situations, and are designed with versatility in mind to produce better road handling characteristics, even at high speeds.
While radial off road tires may not provide the same traction or performance as a set of low air pressure bias off road tires, their longevity, handling, and smooth ride on paved roads makes up for it. Radials are perfect for the weekend off-road enthusiasts who see a lot of driving time on paved roads.
Sizing
Tire sizing can be a tricky thing, mostly because the size of off road tires you have in mind is dependent upon a number of factors. The most obvious question is first whether your vehicle is capable of handling the size of off-road tires that you want, and if not, what modifications do you need to make in order for the off-road tires to fit? Unfortunately, there aren't any universal, all-authoritative guides available to simplify the process, since customization and modification is vehicle-specific. Your best bet for getting a better idea of your vehicle's specifications is to contact the manufacturer. This will give you a general sense for what your vehicle is capable of so that you don't exceed its limits, or that you have the right parts installed in case you do.
In terms of choosing the right lift kit, accessories, and knowing what modifications to make, factory service manuals, off-road magazines, internet message boards, manufacturer's guides, and a number of other resources are available to assist you.
Choosing the Right Type of Tires
Before plunging headfirst into the sea of off road truck tires and coming out with the meanest, most intimidating monsters you can find, you have to at least know what type of monsters will best suit your off road needs. First and foremost, you need to ask yourself a few questions. What type of off-road activities will you be doing the most? How much on-road and off-road driving will you do? What qualities in particular are you most concerned with -- durability, performance, traction, appearance, or ride quality? How much are you willing to spend? Taking some time to consider these important questions can help to narrow down what type of off-road tires are best for you.
All Season Tires
All season truck tires usually have no business going off-road, as their composition and tread designs are not built to handle beatings from off-road conditions. They do, however, provide long-lasting tread that excels on wet or dry paved roads and offers tremendous longevity. Most stock vehicles come equipped with all season tires. For vehicle enthusiasts adding larger truck tires just for show, all-season truck tires are likely the most efficient way to go. Granted, you won't get that aggressive look that's quite popular as of late, but that may be a small price to pay for truck tires that will last you tens of thousands of miles longer than more aggressive truck tires.
All Terrain Off-Road Tires
Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to all terrain off road tires, which typically makes them a jack of all trades but a master of none. As a result, a broad range of all terrain truck tires are available, based on whether a tire's focus is on or off road performance. Typically, all terrain truck tires are built with off-road standards in mind and then are modified in certain areas to improve street performance. The end result is truck tires that can handle everyday driving, as well as some light to moderate off-road conditions. For the most extreme off-road performance, all terrains won't perform as well as specialized off-road tires, but on the road, they offer peerless longevity, even wear, and excellent durability.
Extreme (Rock Crawling/Mud Terrain/Sand/Deep Snow) Truck Tires
Designed for extreme off-road conditions and little else, rock crawling and mud terrain truck tires employ aggressive tread designs that extend to the sidewalls, giant lugs with deep voids, and reinforced sidewall construction to create tires that will grip any surface and remain durable in the process. Extreme terrain off road tires typically carry many of the same features, and consequently many mud terrain tires make excellent rock crawling tires, and vice versa. Extreme terrain off road tires come in either radial or bias ply, but do their job best in a low air pressure bias ply, which allows the tread to conform to surfaces for increased traction. Yet despite that extreme terrain off road tires are composed of durable, cut and puncture resistant compounds, they usually do not produce very much mileage when driven on the street, particularly at high speeds. In addition, due to the wild tread designs and huge lugs, extreme terrain tires can cause a bumpy ride and are quite noisy on the road.
Need More Help?
Getting new off-road tires can be a complicated process if you don't know how to go about doing so. It is strongly recommended that you do some research and take advantage of the many available resources before making a purchase. Yet in the end, if you still have doubts, by far the best way to determine the right off-road tires and modifications for your vehicle is to consult an experienced and knowledgeable person who has a vehicle similar to yours, and has customized it in a similar manner to what you want to do. Not only can such a person suggest the correct products, but also likely has experience with installation and general drivability.

Billy Han lives in La Palma, CA and currently works as a Web Copywriter for TransAmerican Auto Parts.
Transamerican Auto Parts is a leading retailer in offroad tires wheels, lift kits, suspension, and other truck parts and accessories, and has over 40 years of experience with off-road tires

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2012-02-07T17:15:00.001-08:00

Off-Roading For Beginners - Things to Check Before You Go

2012-01-24T15:41:00.001-08:00

By David Thorson

Off-roading can be a great deal of fun as long as you are organized before you go. It's a great way to see out-of-the-way beauty spots and an interesting way to plan a family picnic, as long as you are prepared.

The type of off-road experience you can expect depends largely on both the size and toughness of your vehicle. If your 4x4 is a fairly new model it may not be up to serious off-roading; many new models are more into off road appearance rather than capability. If you are really serious about this challenging hobby, buy an older model and keep it strictly for that purpose; you need a chassis frame built to withstand all the punishment of the off-road obstacles that you will certainly encounter. Prepare your vehicle and yourself so this experience is one you'll look forward to again and again.
Before leaving home think carefully about the following:

· How well do you know your vehicle? You need to know both its limits and yours.
· You must know how to use ALL the controls and know how the system works.
· Know where the jack and the spare tire are and how to use them.
· Know the approximate size and dimensions of your vehicle so that you can get through tight areas with ease.
· Know where the lowest point of clearance is, probably the differential casing.
· Practice using the low ratio gearbox and if it is equipped with manual locking hubs, try them out also.
· It is wise to know where your engine's computer and air intake are so that you will know the maximum depth of water you can get across.
· Keep your hoses, belts and filters well maintained and remember to top up all your fluids.
· Be sure to pack emergency supplies as you never know whether you will find yourself stuck without help.
· Try not to go it alone, try to travel with at least one other vehicle, the more the merrier, and have at least one other passenger with you.
· Make all the necessary checks on your vehicle, check tires for correct pressure including the spare, check underneath for leaks and check steering and brakes.
· When you pack distribute the weight evenly and if you have added a roof rack make sure you take into consideration the extra height.
· Make sure you know where you are at all times and be aware that what may look like a small journey on a map could take hours in a Four Wheel Drive - allow plenty of time for safe travel.
· Never try a maneuver that you have any misgivings about, backing off early is the wise thing to do and that accepting that a maneuver is impossible will probably prevent damage to your vehicle and more important still, personal injury.
· Get a weather forecast for the area you intend to go to and be sure to carry some means of communication. A CB radio equipped with the weather service is ideal
Finally, always let someone know where you are going and arrange a time to contact them. Take the Sheriffs number in case of an emergency, and if you do find yourself in this situation DO NOT make the pre-arranged phone call as they might not send out the emergency teams, thinking you no longer need them.
As long as you make the right preparations, you'll find off-roading is an enjoyable hobby as well as something you can share with the whole family.

Always think safety first and make sure your primary ATV vehicle is equipped with a CB Base Station. Having a base CB radio will allow you to monitor the weather or call for help if necessary.

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Equipment To Bring On Your First Off-Road Trip

2010-01-10T11:46:00.000-08:00

By R. Nathan Rickaway

So you've got a Jeep or other OHV and your ready to Step into the offroad world, you've hooked up with local club or Internet forum and going to a local Offroad park or National Park.

Before you take off there are some things you might want to consider purchasing for your vehicle before you go. Do you have proper Recovery hooks at the front and rear of your vehicle, if your vehicle isn't lifted do you have any body protection or Skid plates to keep things straight under your Vehicle?

The first trip offroad I went on was so embarrassing, first I backed up onto a rock and pinched my exhaust system to where it would not flow any longer, I didn't have any tools, a jack, and no way to work on my Jeep, Later on that day I got myself into an off camber situation and almost put my Jeep on it's side if not for my awesome club members to come to the rescue and figure out a way to get me back to earth. Luckily I was with a great group and everyone jumped in to help, but I still felt bad that I'd held up their day.

Having the right equipment in and on your vehicle is important for safety reasons and to improve your day of fun. Now I know a lot of you don't have play money just to go throw at your truck, so don't think you've got to go run out to buy a winch right away (not a bad thing to have though). The first thing I did was I made a tool box that fits into the back of my Jeep with some of the necessary tools for the trail, which includes.

A bag of hand tools (Metric and standard wrenches and Sockets)

A couple Recovery straps, be sure to get looped ends, you don't want to be in the way of a projectile Metal hook if the rope snaps or comes loose.

• A Flashlight (yes even if it's a Day trip)

• Either a Hi-Lift Jack or regular Bottle or scissor jack

• A Pry bar

• A Cheater bar if you don't have power tools

• You're Electric Drill with some extra batteries from home

• Duct and Electrical tape

• A Spare tire of equal size

• And any extra Tools you can get in there.

• A First Aid Kit

This list is a rough list for a starter, as your OHV starts growing and getting more serious the time will come to bring spare parts like axle shafts Engine parts, Drive shafts, Steering and Suspension Joints the list goes on and on.

On your first trip be sure to pay close attention to what the experienced club members are bringing and how they use the tools they brought in certain situations. You never know, you could save the day for someone on your first trip.

Nathan Rickaway is an avid offroader and loves teaching people the in and outs of his hobby. For more Articles and information please visit http://www.rockrunneroffroad.com -The new trend in Offroad Motorsports.

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Caring for Your Jeep: Getting the Right Jeep Parts

2010-01-02T11:45:00.001-08:00

By Terry Brown
For over six decades now, Jeep has been one of the most popular car makes in the history of the automotive industry. Jeep has successfully established its niche as an excellent sport utility vehicle, with excellent Jeep Auto Parts, even before SUV's became commonplace. When people think of Jeeps, they picture rugged vehicles traveling through rough terrains. Jeep has created an image of fun, spontaneity and ruggedness. Yet, through the years, innovations and add-ons have made Jeep more than just a vehicle for rugged terrains. Today's Jeep models not only retain the aspect of fun, and functionality that earlier Jeeps have been known for, but have added technological advancement, convenience and enhanced performance to its long list of winning characteristics.

A tough, hardworking, and reliable vehicle like a Jeep deserves special care and attention. Because Jeeps are most often used in off-road conditions, it requires extra care so that its functionality will be maintained. A little care will go a long way to make your Jeep work excellently all the time. Frequent off-road driving can take its toll on your Jeep's auto parts. Frequent oil and oil filter changes are necessary because of the muddy or dusty conditions. You should check those auto parts that are prone to wear and tear such as air filters, brake linings, PCV valves and other Jeep parts. Jeep parts such, as Jeep Wrangler Parts and Jeep Cherokee Parts require the utmost in car care and protection. Check for signs of damage on the chassis and undercarriage. You should also inspect your Jeep's parts for loose bolts and connections. Look over your Jeep Exhaust, Jeep Radiator, Jeep Bumper, Jeep Tail Lights, Jeep Mirrors, Jeep Catalytic Converters and Jeep Fenders for signs of damage. It is wise to repair or replace damaged Jeep parts as soon as possible to prevent further damage or accidents.

Replacement Jeep Parts are easy to find nowadays. If ever you need a replacement Jeep bumper or a new Jeep headlight for instance, you do not have to pay a visit to a good auto parts dealer across town. All you need is a computer, an Internet connection and you can now access some of the most reliable, and excellent auto parts wholesalers and suppliers online.

Inner Auto Parts is one of the most trusted online Jeep Parts suppliers. They offer a very comprehensive array of aftermarket Jeep parts and Performance Jeep parts ranging from high quality Jeep accessories, Jeep bumpers, Jeep car mats, Jeep fenders, Jeep grilles, Jeep catalytic converters, Jeep headlights and others. A visit to Inner Auto Parts is worth the while of any Jeep owner. The site also has an excellent resource section offering extensive information about the automobile. Getting the right Jeep Parts – those that are durable, long lasting, reliable and budget-friendly - is a great way to care for your Jeep.

Terry Brown is a 32 year old from Houston Texas, and an enthusiast for anything auto related. He is currently employed as a market analyst by one of the top car parts company in the area.

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Responsible Off Roading - How to Be a Better Off Road Enthusiast

2009-12-13T11:37:00.000-08:00

By Josh Volk
Being an off road enthusiast is a great thing. But how can you go about being a responsible off road enthusiast? In this day in age it seems like everyone is out to get the off roaders. Politicians are passing ever more stringent environmental laws, formerly large plots of land are being reclaimed and many trails are being closed because of environmental concerns. But if you are serious about your off roading, here are some steps to make your off road adventures safe and fun without doing much, if any, environmental harm.

The first way to make sure your pavementless excursions are safe is to do a complete check of your vehicle before you go on the trails. This means checking that there are no leaks from your engine and that your tires are properly inflated. You should also make certain that your vehicle is in a good enough condition to actually be taken off road. If you have a rusty or dilapidated vehicle, it is not a good idea as the rough surfaces can potentially cause parts to fall off your vehicle from the shaking.

When you go off road, be sure to be aware of where you are going. If the trails are used by other people or animals, you will want to take it easy and go slowly. Not only will this be much easier on the environment, but it will also give you the opportunity to take in your surroundings the sights. Also be sure to stick to the path. Venturing off of the marked trail is prohibited in most areas and can lead to environmental concerns for both the plant and animal life. You should also make sure that you take out what you bring in. Leaving trash from your vehicle, campsite or hiking is absolutely prohibited and is one of the main reasons that these concerns are raised in the first place. If you are going to be heading off road, make sure that you are responsible for everything that you bring in.

You should also be aware of your surroundings when you venture onto trails. Many of these trails are in remote areas, so it will be helpful to have a phone and emergency kit with you. Be sure to never venture off road alone either. You never know when your vehicle might get stuck or worse and you will want to have another vehicle there to help you out of trouble.

By following these simple tips, your journeys into the wilderness will be more rewarding and less hazardous to the environment. If you take care to do your best in preserving the earth, the trails and sites that comprise much of the off road world will still be there for years to come and many more generations can take in the same sights.

Off roading is a great way to make use of your car truck or Jeep. If you want the Jeep parts to help your vehicle be better on and off the road, be sure to check out http://www.myhotjeep.com.

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How to Safely Off Road in Your Jeep

2009-12-13T11:20:00.000-08:00

By Samuel Crasnick

Safely off-roading in a jeep: is it possible? It sure is as long as you know the precautions and measures to take it will be a fun and exciting adventure. Off-roading has been done for many years and there are some people that pay to go off-roading when they travel. This is to see what all different places the world has to offer. There are many steps to take to make sure an adventure in off-roading is done safe.

There are two kinds of off-roading, one being wet and muddy and the other being dry. When going on trials and off roads that are muddy make sure to know the exact location and what it consists of. You will need to make sure of how deep mud holes are and how far they go. Make sure you know where you are at all times and your exact location just in case of an emergency you will need this information. Never go alone off-roading because this can be very dangerous. If something were to happen to you there would be no one to help you out.

It would be better judgment to have a couple of people go rather than one or two. Make sure you have a roll bar on your jeep if you like extreme off-roading. This bar will keep major protection over your head just in case of a rollover. Always wear your seatbelt and know your surroundings. There are many maps online that show nearby trails that are safe for off-roading. Local phone books will also have a list of many trials to explore. There are even 4 x 4 clubs to join so you can share your off-roading experiences with others that enjoy the same thing.

Some other great tips for your off-roading trip are to make sure you pack food, warm clothes, boots, flashlight, and of course a first aid kit. Just in case your jeep were to break down you will need to make sure you have food to eat, warm clothes for the night, and a flashlight. Boots are a must because those tennis shoes just will not make the cut for hiking up those long trails. The first aid kit is an obvious need and especially if the trails are miles from any help or hospital. Take an extra spare tire with you as well; this can come in very handy if you were to have a flat. GPS devices can get very pricey but it is not a bad device to have with you so that you know your location. Make sure you have everything you need and you can have a fun, safe off-roading experience.

For more Jeep tips head over to http://www.jeep4x4center.com, where our knowledge base is sure to contain some useful information to the Jeep owner.

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Jeep Off Roading - Be Prepared For Anything When You Go Off Roading

2009-12-13T11:11:00.001-08:00

By Wendy Pan

Off roading is an adrenaline rush like no other, except jeep off roading in snow. However, when off roading it is important to plan well and think of safety first, as with any extreme sport, injuries are always a possibility. With winter off roading, one has to take into account the severe cold temperatures and possibility of being stranded in such conditions. If hurt and stranded, this could be fatal.

When planning an off roading winter adventure there is some precautionary things to keep in mind and bring along. Recovery gear is essential in any off roading adventure, but even more so important with winter conditions. Make sure you have packed tow hooks, snatch straps, and winches. These will be your lifeline if stuck in 6 feet of snow. Snow shovels are also important to bring. When stuck in snow, sometimes it can be as easy a digging the snow away from around the tires, frame and axel for relief.

Make sure you know what you are driving into before charging in. It is easier to maneuver and get on top of packed or wet heavy snow then deep dry snow. Therefore, when facing 6 feet of dry snow, it is wise to reconsider unless your intent is to see how deep you can bury your jeep. Pay attention to the terrain around the trail as you go in and the weather. If it gets warm and snow begins to melt and get slushy, make sure your exit route is suitable for those conditions.

Have you ever heard the saying 'spinning your wheels in place gets you no where'? Well in jeep off roading, that saying could not be truer. When spinning your wheels you are digging your jeep in deeper then it already was. Let up on the throttle, try to back up turning wheel to find new track, if all else fails pull out the shovel or other recovery gear.

Make sure your jeep is equipped with tires to handle the snow. Wide flexible tires work well under snow off roading conditions. Bring along a mobile air tank for re-airing your tires. When off roading in snow, lowering the air pressure in your tires helps with surface contact. Keep all unnecessary stuff at home or off the trail. Keep your jeep as light as possible to stay on top off the snow. Dependent upon conditions you may even want to remove your hardtop.

Locking differentials are an advantage on snow. The ability to turn them on and off according to terrain needs will help in keeping your tires from spinning, or jeep from sliding down a hill. Make sure your coolant system is up for the challenge. Jeep off roading in snow is hard on an engines coolant system, especially if breaking new ground. Periodically check to make sure the radiator does not become packed with snow and coolant level is appropriate for temperatures of off roading location.

Make sure to dress appropriately for weather conditions. Bring along a sleeping bag, extra water, and some food. Always inform someone outside of your group what trails you intend on hitting and your expect arrival time home. Go jeep off roading with others for safety.

By following these simple tips, you can have an exciting time jeep off roading in the winter at exotic places such as Iceland, the Antarctica, Colorado, Maine, Canada, or Alaska. The locations are limitless for great times off roading in the snow.

Wendy Pan is an accomplished niche website developer and author. To learn more about jeep off roading [http://offroadrecreationvehiclestoday.info/jeep-off-roading-be-prepared-for-anything-when-you-go-off-roading], please visit Off Road Recreation Vehicles Today [http://offroadrecreationvehiclestoday.info] for current articles and discussions.

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