Operation Manual

Off-road driving
175
WARNING
Off-road driving can be hazardous!
• DO NOT take unnecessaryrisks.
• Be prepared for emergencies at all
times.
• Familiarise yourself with the
recommended driving techniques in
order to minimise risks to yourself, your
vehicle AND your passengers.
• Always use a seat belt for personal
protection in all off-road driving
conditions.
• DO NOT drive if the fuel level is low -
undulating ground and steep inclines
could cause fuel starvation to the
engine.
• Driving off-road with a loaded roof rack
is not recommended. If it is necessaryto
stow luggage on the roof-rack while
driving off-road, all loads MUST be
removed before traversing side slopes.
BASIC OFF-ROAD TECHNIQUES
These basic driving techniques are an
introduction to the art of off-road driving and
do not necessarily provide the information
needed to successfully cope with every single
off-road situation.
We strongly recommend that owners who
intend to drive off-road frequently, should
seek as much additional information and
practical experience as possible.
Gear selection
Correct gear selection is possibly the single
most important factor for safe and successful
off-road driving. While only experience will tell
you which is the correct gear for any section
of ground, the following basic rules apply:
1. NEVER change gear or de-clutch while
negotiating difficult terrain - the drag on
the wheels may cause the vehicle to stop
when the clutch is depressed and
restarting may be difficult.
2. Generally, and especially where slippery or
soft ground conditions prevail, the higher
the gear you select the better.
3. When descending very steep slopes
always select 1st gear in LOW range.
Inexperienced drivers are advised to stop the
vehicle and carefully consider which gear will
be most appropriate for each manoeuvre
before continuing.
Slipping the clutch
Use of excessive clutch slip to prevent the
engine stalling will result in premature clutch
wear. Always select a gear low enough to
enable the vehicle to proceed without the need
to slip the clutch.
DO NOT drive with your foot resting on the
clutch pedal; driving across uneven terrain
could cause you to inadvertently depress the
clutch, resulting in loss of control of the
vehicle.