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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=R._Nathan_Rickaway
Sunday, January 10, 2010
Saturday, January 2, 2010
Caring for Your Jeep: Getting the Right Jeep Parts
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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Terry_Brown
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Responsible Off Roading - How to Be a Better Off Road Enthusiast
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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Josh_Volk
How to Safely Off Road in Your Jeep
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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Samuel_Crasnick
Jeep Off Roading - Be Prepared For Anything When You Go Off Roading
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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=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.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wendy_Pan
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