Operation Manual

Off-road driving
183
TRAVERSING A SLOPE
Before crossing a slope, ALWAYS observe the
following precautions:
• Check that the ground is firm and not
slippery.
• Check that the wheels on the downhill side
of the vehicle are not likely to drop into
any depressions in the ground and that the
’uphill’ wheels will not run over rocks, tree
roots, or similar obstacles that could
suddenly increase the angle of tilt.
• Ensure that passenger weight is evenly
distributed, that all roof rack luggage is
removed and that all other luggage is
properly secured and stowed as low as
possible. Always remember; any sudden
movement of the load could cause the
vehicle to overturn.
• Rear seat passengers should sit on the
uphill side of the vehicle or, in extreme
conditions, should vacate the vehicle until
the sloping ground has been safely
negotiated.
NEGOTIATING A ’V’ SHAPED GULLY
Observe extreme caution! Steering up either
of the gully walls could cause the side of the
vehicle to be trapped against the opposite
gully wall.
DRIVING IN EXISTING WHEEL TRACKS
As far as possible allow the vehicle to steer
itself along the bottom of the ruts. However,
always keep a light hold of the steering wheel
to prevent it from spinning free.
Particularly in wet conditions, if the steering
wheel is allowed to spin free, the vehicle may
appear to be driving straight ahead in the ruts,
but in actual fact (due to the lack of traction
caused by the wet ground) is unknowingly on
full right or left lock. Then, when level ground
is reached, or if a dry patch is encountered,
the wheels will find traction and cause the
vehicle to suddenly veer to left or right.
CROSSING A RIDGE
Approach at right angles so that both front
wheels and then both rear wheels cross the
ridge together - an angled approach could
cause traction to be lost (if Traction control is
not fitted) through diagonally opposite wheels
lifting from the ground at the same time.
CROSSING A DITCH
With the DIFF LOCK engaged, cross ditches at
an angle so that three wheels always maintain
contact with the ground (if approached head
on, both front wheels will drop into the ditch
together, possibly resulting in the chassis and
front bumper being trapped on opposite sides
of the ditch).