These off-road adventure tips have served us well and we hope they help you.
- If you have read “The Checklist Manifesto” by Atul Gawande you know how valuable checklist can be to jog your memory and prevent you from forgetting an important step. We laminate our checklists in clear plastic to protect and keep them clean when using them on an adventure. Make your own personalized checklist or download and use our off-road adventure checklists so that you don’t forget something important on your next big adventure.
- Every time you wash your truck or at least once a month exercise your winch. Spool ten or 15 feet of rope out and back in about a dozen times. This will make sure the gears stay lubed and any moisture that finds it’s way in is evaporated off of the drum and winch motor. By regularly using your winch you can ensure it is operationally ready if needed on your next off-road adventure.
- Look inside of your engine compartment. You will certainly find a few nooks and crannies perfect for stowing a few quarts of engine oil and gear lube. Make sure oil bottles are kept snug and avoid any sharp edged areas. This trick will keep a spare quart or two handy where and when you need it.
Do you have a tip that you find extremely useful when exploring the road less traveled? Let us know.
My son recently purchased a new offroad vehicle but we have never been offroading as a family before. I like your idea of using the winch often, even if it’s just to stretch it out so that it stays in good shape. I’ll keep your article in mind as we plan a fun adventure for later this year.