I have seen a few rookie, and even experienced offroaders approach a unfamiliar obstacle. They stay in the vehicle, think f....it, punch the gas pedal and quickly learn they have screwed up. Several times over the years I've approached a obstacle. Got out, and walked the intended path. On foot your perception is vastly improved. Maybe that's why I've always made it home intact. Couple of minutes on foot could save you hours of misery, and expense damage.
100%. Underrated and advice that seems obvious, and most people don't ever think about it. First time in Moab I got a lot of exercise by walking 1st. The other thing to do is follow the line of a more experienced friend.
Fire extinguishers!! Especially with some of the janky wiring I see coming from some peoples light bars and stuff!!! I have had to use my extinguishers on other rigs TWICE! They are well worth the $20 for a basic ABC 2.5lb and can save rigs and forests.
Indeed, in California vast majority of 'wildfires' are ignited due to human activity, particularly in dry periods when thunderstorms are absent. Be great to eliminate 4 wheeling as a component of that
If you have manual hubs don't forget to lock them. I ran across 2 guys that were stxuk trying to dig them selves out for a long time because they didn't know to lock in their hubs. I just showed them how to lock them and they drove right out.
I was going to say this also. A few years ago I came across a couple kids in a first gen Tacoma stuck in a mud hole. They looked legitimately stuck so I pulled out my tow strap and ran several hits attempting to get them out, then I noticed... the front wheels weren't spinning. Explained how the hubs work and they drove right out without my help.
If you’re new and going out with a group, still pair up with another buddy/rig in case you get separated. Went for a first-time snow run with a local group. Met at the designated spot and about 50 rigs were there. Started introducing myself and everyone headed out a short time later. Close to the trailhead, the large group splintered into several smaller groups as some aired down while others drove on. This continued up the trail and I got totally lost in the mix. Turns out there were multiple groups who all knew each other but were actually separate driving partners. Ended up solo with no way to turn back since the trail was essentially one-way (up in morning, down in the afternoon). Had to winch twice due to slippery packed snow and ice. Still had a great time but the experience would’ve been much better and safer with a partner.
@@tinmansolo5855 maybe but I’ll take some blame for poor planning and to make sure I know who I’m talking to during introductions. Also, having a buddy would’ve smoothed things out a bit while getting stuck/winching with a new group
My first time off-roading I wasn't nervous, scared or anxious even. I already know what to do thanks to videos like this that I watched beforehand that teaches you what to do on the trail. I drove an FJ cruiser that I just borrowed and wasn't even familiar with the rig. The best thing to do while off-roading is keep your cool, relax and enjoy the ride and apply what you learned and use plain and simple common sense.
I'm in Michigan where we don't have a lot of rocks. The most common mistake I see people making, even experienced off roaders, is using low lock in mud and snow where wheel speed is needed. By the time the trans shifts to a high enough gear to generate enough wheel speed to clean the tread out, they are already framed up.
I would say the only rookie mistake I made was not airing down. But I wasn't doing anything intense at the time. Airing down is a major way to gain more traction. You just need a compressor to air back up afterward which can be a pretty big expense.
You can get those little lighter socket plug in compressors for dirt cheap. They take a while, but they do the job. I bought mine over a decade ago, and though I don't use it regularly, it has more than paid for itself.
@@MOTO809 yeah with 33's those things take FOREVER. I don't think they would last very long with any regular use. I got a cheaper viair one and it was $120. The nice ones can be more like $400.
@@ProjectXJ Yeah I see what you're getting at. I've used it several times for airing back up, but it is definitely a 40+ minute job. Usually when I air down I come off the trail within 20 miles from home or town where I can get air. Sometimes I'll just pump up from 10 to 15 to feel better about it until i get home.
@@ProjectXJ They take a few minutes for 29s to air up. My buddy bought one of those new Cherokee Trailhawks and it took a bit to air up. Surprisingly good offroad those things, not a Wrangler or an XJ but they're not shit.
How about realizing you are in a natural environment,leave nothing behind and don't cut trails!!!we are constantly working to keep trails open!oh and it never hurts to pack out some other jerks trash!
Sir: Thank you most sincerely! You, Sir, are one of the very few highly responsible, honorable men extent. There are far too many of these selfish, narcissistic 'girly-boys' of mature years but immature mentality. How I wish that there were vastly more people of your level of evolution. Col. Gary Gerlach, PhD USMC
Always some pig ruining outdoor recreation off roading, hunting, fishing you name it. Trashing the place is the fastest way to kill the fun for all. Pack it in pack it out. 👍👍
I never had friends who had off-road vehicles or would off-road with they’re vehicles so it was me and my passenger trying not to get stuck but have fun
Search and rescue had to come get me! I slid off a trail,had no winch which would have saved me, tried to hilift my way out with my recovery straps but was a no go...since then I always bring all of my gear and leave a travel plan with someone if I don't return by a set time...
Travel plan is smart. My parents drilled that into my head growing up riding dirtbikes. If I go out alone I always let someone know what area I'll be in, and as much as I'm tempted to go explore I force myself to stay in that area.
Reading some of the comments is sometimes the fun part of the videos, I have a 2016 hardrock Rubicon JKU, yes I have the light bars, limb risers, warn winch and high lift jack. But I never messed with the suspension as it is still stock height. Been off roading many years, even prior to this purchase never messed with the suspension. Center of gravity and all that stuff, and rarely have I been to the point of not getting where I want to go. Love 4x4ing at night, there for the lighting, and waking up the next morning to see the new discovery that awaits me. Night time is when you see the mountain lions and other elusive wild life on the trail
I agree with #5 the most. I see so many guys who haven’t ever wheeled that go out and outfit their new JK or JL with one tons and 40s or even buy a crawler and don’t know the basics of driving. It’s their money and their choice, but a $2,000 XJ would be a better option or even just a budget boost with 33s or even bone stock 4x4. Learn how to drive and learn what you really need to hit the trails you want to wheel. Great video!!!
I'm conflicted on the 'buying stuff' topic. I agree if it's just you by yourself or one other, then buy a cheaper vehicle that already does a good job of offroad. I tried not to spend too much money, but finally gave in. We are a family of 6 + dog using a single vehicle to 'overland/offroad'. I decided to spend the money to make things more convenient, especially for storage/spare tire...and also some 'insurance' items like rock sliders, a lift, winch, and a rear locker. Those items are definitely expensive, but give me peace of mind knowing I can make a mistake or two and not have us left stranded because of damage to the vehicle, or not being able to pull ourselves out of a stuck situation.
All great points. I really like the last one, a good set of tires with proper offset wheels will take a factory proper offroad vehicle like a 4Runner TRD offroad/PRO, Jeep Rubicon, RAM Power Wagon, Rebel, Ford Raptor, ect ect pretty far. Rather buying thousands of dollars worth of suspension stuff and lighting, see what your OEM capabilities are and take a measured approach to improving your vehicle from there. I’ve taken my Power Wagon build pretty slow and found from weekend one it is very capable off the lot. After a year of wheeling it pretty regularly and through some challenging trails, I’m still rocking a completely OEM suspension, 37’s, proper offset wheels combined with some trimming to clear them, a OEM speedo recalibration for exact tire height, frame mounted rock sliders, and some after market beefier skid plates. I follow all kinds of tricked out beed locked light bar covered scratch free jeeps up trails and then proceed up the extra credit obstacles while they watch down below.
Seeing how many driveshafts are busted on some of these older rigs, carrying a spare driveshaft and ujoints seems to be a good idea. especially if your rig is modified so you know you'll have the right part when you need it. I'm new to this offroad lifestyle myself. Looking to get a newer Ram, but prefer to drive my 84 Jeep J10. Overland Bound has a lot of newbie events for folks to learn how to offroad safely. I'm looking forward to participating in a few of those.
I agree. In today's world term lift has lost its meaning. I prefer to call it suspension upgrade, as that usually by default provides the needed ground clearance due to upgraded suspension and larger tires raising the axle point a few inches. Most people look for a lift in ALL the wrong ways and completely ignore articulation and proper clearance that has a real purpose besides looks.
#1. Beginners: Make friends with a serious off-roader, then ask them to come along on one of their adventures. You can learn a lot from them and the areas they off-road at and learning what different vehicles will do and not do. Like heavy vehicles don't do well in sand for example.
they have the experience they don't need some random guy on the trail telling them what to do. its also very important for the spotter to know how the rig drives
I go off road by myself all the time, because if I had to wait for others I would never get out. I'm not foolish about it though and I'm well prepared. My vehicle is very capable, I have decades of experience, and I'm fully equipped with all the self recovery gear required. Even if I don't have my camping gear (which would be unusual), I have everything needed to survive a few days in the bush. I always have water, MREs, emergency shelter and blankets, and the tools and material to start a fire.
THIS, plus a good first aid kit, we recently had a family in our area that got stuck without cell service, unfortunately they'd passed by the time anyone found them due to lack of food and exposure. I guess my point with that is that even if you go alone, try to tell at least one person or group where you'll be going and when you expect to be back.
I've been off roading a bit and this is my second jeep. This new jeep I'm not very use to yet. I would rather play dumb as far as being a newbie because it's better for me to save my jeep from damage then to be puffed up with owner pride and trash my jeep. I've pretty much always errored on the side of caution. Not made of money keeps me cautious (usually).
It’s actually a really good idea to upgrade the weak links first so you don’t break on a trail and mess up everyone’s vacation days helping you fix your unprepared Jeep because someone told you to wheel it stock first. I honestly don’t think that’s a great idea especially if you are getting into rock crawling.
I'd politely disagree. I wheel'd my stock 4cyl TJ for many years, including doing trails that were above where it should've been. It taught me a great deal about finesse. I was humble enough to take a bypass or winch when needed though
Gotta disagree there slightly. I think YES it is a good idea to upgrade the weak link, but you can’t figure out a weak link unless you have experience. Also don’t take a stock vehicle on a hard trail. Start off on easy to moderate trails then work your way up. Keep it stock until you learn what to upgrade.
Good points all. I've had my Jeep WK for 3 years now and only now I'm planning on putting OME lift on it and do a complete control arm overhaul. Might as well slap a winch on it too, since why not. It took me this long, since I wanted to become familiar with my WK and what it can do while overlanding and a bit more room between transfercase and bottom overall (might put some armor there too) seems to be what it's lacking for my use mostly. Winch just for added security, since some places can get a bit soft when driving around 😁 Not planning to go nuts on the lift, so OME is all I need. And yeah, not good idea to go alone, unless you absolutely know the place and your vehicle and you can call help relatively easy. Always have some sorta back up plan 👍
Take those factory chrome cap lug nuts off and put true lugs on as soon as you buy your rig or have the dealer replace them as part as the purchase agreement. Buy a good 4 way. If you do enough off roading you are going to break a bead or puncture a tire 100% guaranteed, and there is nothing worse than stripping that last lugnut and taking an unexpected time out on the trail.
One semi-experienced mistake is to think that off-road experience on one type of terrain translates to another. Some experience does, other experience just lends to over confidence. My personal embarrassment was my first encounter with really seriously wet clay. I'd successfully negotiated similarly wet areas in a two-wheel drive pick up. What could go wrong? This time the base was at least six inches of really wet, really fine clay, like grease. Luckily it was just off an easily driveable stretch and a tow operator could just reach my rear bumper with the winch. He was also an off-roader and had lots of experience in really wet clay, and as he was getting me out gave me some really good pointers that I never have forgotten.
I rolled my Bronco in the 80's at 19 years old trying to fly around some BMX berms. Squishy suspension and then... Slow motion upside down. Quite an odd feeling. I wanted to reach out the window and try to stop it. Stoopid! And when I went to shut off the motor , I couldn't find the keys because they wereon the other side. hahahahahaha
I'm a mountain biker and every time I get passed (or sometimes I pass!) one of these I think three things: 1. Man, that looks like a lot of fun 2. Man, that looks expensive 3. Man, I bet that takes a long time to master I can barely find enough time to bike but if I ever hit the lottery and find a lot of free time/money, I'll give this a try.
I've been wheeling for only about a year and a half. If I don't feel confident doing something I won't do it. If people don't know the trail or offchutes get out the rig and walk it to see if you are capable of doing it. In SoCal there's a popular trail called Cleghorn. Those who know it know about " The Chute" it appears very easy until you get part way down and there is no way of backing out once you get in it. Major body damage, rigs flipping on there sides and mechanical breakdowns have happened in the chute. Last thing just because a person's rig is capable doesn't mean their offroading skills are capable of getting them through things.
should do a mid level video. i used to have 4x4 trucks 12 years ago but am only getting back into it. almost have my rig built up then time to learn how to crawl instead of mud.
I've been offroading for a while. A friend just got his first one and he want to go in a run with me. I am comfortable with it but I wish there was a video on "teaching offroad to beginers" 😂
Generally don't go without atlest one other person, but I have gone alone once on trails that I had done before without the help of recovery gear... but had a 13k winch and a hand crank "winch" just incase.
Yep! You can get more Insta Likes, with lights! lol My Taco is locked front and rear and I don't even have aux lighting. By the time the sun sets, I better have camp set up and a few beers in me. lol
Never drink and drive, save adult beverages for after run. Never get egged on to the point where you try an obstacle you don't feel safe on. When you find buddies to run with, don't lose sight of other rigs. Get in between rigs. Get either cb radio or ham unit, don't trust cell phones in the hills, lose reception quickly. Cell phone is good for taking pictures, use it to see what is going on.
So everyone needs to change their jeeps into Rubicon's, and it doesn't matter if you've been mudding in a square body for 40 years, your in your first JK so it makes you a green horn, and lastly I always go alone, maybe I might meet someone somewhere who wants to tag along
"It's better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it." This mantra has saved my butt AND allowed me to buy a LOT of neat little toys.
Thought It was odd that your 5th point was not having the correct upgrades.........Funny you showed Lite Britt, who everyone knows how equipped his JL is. I understand your point , but still had to laugh.
great video. i wish they didn't end this channel. i understand on the business side but this part of their business has the highest growth potential in my opinion. just look at the views
I Was Eighteen, young and stupid. Got my first four-wheel drive pickup truck, a 2004 Ford F-150 I was so damn proud of it and treated it like it was a trophy truck beat the ever-loving shit out of it. All the towing and Hauling Way Beyond its towing and payload capacity and driving like an ass hat and going 10,000 miles without an oil change aside. What finally broke the truck was going off-road by my lonesome. Found a very muddy back road and was rippin' it for hours. Eventually got stuck and had no recovery gear and nobody within less than an hour with a vehicle capable of pulling me out. No true knowledge or experience off-roading and I ultimately blew my engine and transmission and broke one of my four-wheel drive shafts.
How I know I'm no longer a rookie. I know all this stuff already. I'm still relatively new to off roading. I've only had my jeep for 2 years. That's not a lot compared to those guys who have been wheeling for decades but I feel that I know my jeep really well and I know I have a lot to learn but I've learned the beginner stuff.
Josh, I like your videos but man oh man are you the "Most Improved Off Roader"! Ha. It's great that you're preaching humility and safety. Things can get hairy real quick and carrying a case of water, snacks, GPS nav, recovery gear aren't that expensive and can literally save your life depending on how remote you're going.
I can say I wanna go with a group of people that have nice rigs to help if stuck bc for me it’s only me and a few friends and that’s enough but we go to private land that my buddy knows the owner of so it just us and we hit this one trail all the time and it’s just mud so just as fun but I wanna try some different ones
Good list, but… airing down should require more critical thinking than a blanket statement of airing down as soon as you hit dirt. Solo wheeling isn’t for beginners, but there’s ways to do it… however you have to accept risk when doing it. If you aren’t willing to accept risk when wheeling, you’re likely never going to improve as an off-roader.
Got a question you just said don’t spend thousands and thousands of dollars upgrading your rig if you got no experience. I just bought my first jeep I love it it’s basically stock. But I plan on doing quite a bit with it. I’m going to go off-road and rock crawling, I don’t like redoing things that I just did. So if you can why shouldn’t I build a Jeep how I want to finish product to be
Yup. Wheeling solo is cool. Just gotta be prepared with proper recovery gear. A plan that others know. Phone or emergency gps locater. Also skills too. Best not go off and wheel solo if a rookie.
Airing down is overrated. Good in certain situations but you are more likely to rip out a sidewall. Tires aren’t cheap. I only air down if I absolutely have to. What’s hilarious is how telling this to other off roaders is akin to praising satan during church service. Rookie mistake #6. Blindly doing what everybody tells you to do and not figuring out what works for you.
Be careful of that, one day your wish may come true. 5 point seat belt/ safety harness is better than ordinary seat belt. Hold on tight, don't stick arms out the window. Make sure tools and supplies are tied down, they can become flying objects. How well built is your roll cage?
@@gotitfirstshot6848 you know who else has well build cages? People like me. My jeep is only thing I own, and in 46 years of wheeling, have never rolled over. I use the cage to tie on camping gear, grab on to get in and out, and all the body armor keeps me going when there is no choice but rub or go home. But to each his own, and stock is a great way to go. did it for years. All depends on types of trails and risk factors. 4 wheeling , however you go is a personal love, however we do it. ENJOY!
Question? What is a barrody? I may have spelled that wrong. If you know then you are old! haha like me Could be we made it up here in Southern Ca in the 70's
I have seen a few rookie, and even experienced offroaders approach a unfamiliar obstacle. They stay in the vehicle, think f....it, punch the gas pedal and quickly learn they have screwed up. Several times over the years I've approached a obstacle. Got out, and walked the intended path. On foot your perception is vastly improved. Maybe that's why I've always made it home intact. Couple of minutes on foot could save you hours of misery, and expense damage.
in the trucking industry, there is an acronym for that. It's called GOAL Get Out And Look
100%. Underrated and advice that seems obvious, and most people don't ever think about it. First time in Moab I got a lot of exercise by walking 1st. The other thing to do is follow the line of a more experienced friend.
Best advice ever! Always get on foot and see what you are about to approach,
I don't have any friends so I got recovery gear and a satellite communicator before anything else. lol.
Exactly
Your recovery gear is more reliable !
Where do you live?
Well that sucks. I would’ve gone with you back in the day when I had time. I always wanted to go but my friends never wanted to ☹️
I know the feeling... the local 4x4 clubs are too elitists... I have only a showel, air down and avoid mud if i can! Salutes!!!!
Fire extinguishers!! Especially with some of the janky wiring I see coming from some peoples light bars and stuff!!! I have had to use my extinguishers on other rigs TWICE! They are well worth the $20 for a basic ABC 2.5lb and can save rigs and forests.
Indeed, in California vast majority of 'wildfires' are ignited due to human activity, particularly in dry periods when thunderstorms are absent. Be great to eliminate 4 wheeling as a component of that
Thanks
1. As slow as possible, as fast as necessary.
2. When in doubt, send your buddy first.
😂
If you have manual hubs don't forget to lock them. I ran across 2 guys that were stxuk trying to dig them selves out for a long time because they didn't know to lock in their hubs. I just showed them how to lock them and they drove right out.
I was going to say this also. A few years ago I came across a couple kids in a first gen Tacoma stuck in a mud hole. They looked legitimately stuck so I pulled out my tow strap and ran several hits attempting to get them out, then I noticed... the front wheels weren't spinning. Explained how the hubs work and they drove right out without my help.
Off Roading : Himalayas
th-cam.com/video/_0u_BhFrExk/w-d-xo.html
If you’re new and going out with a group, still pair up with another buddy/rig in case you get separated. Went for a first-time snow run with a local group. Met at the designated spot and about 50 rigs were there. Started introducing myself and everyone headed out a short time later. Close to the trailhead, the large group splintered into several smaller groups as some aired down while others drove on. This continued up the trail and I got totally lost in the mix. Turns out there were multiple groups who all knew each other but were actually separate driving partners. Ended up solo with no way to turn back since the trail was essentially one-way (up in morning, down in the afternoon). Had to winch twice due to slippery packed snow and ice. Still had a great time but the experience would’ve been much better and safer with a partner.
Not conscientious group for those not in the group following. AKA bad group to follow.
@@tinmansolo5855 maybe but I’ll take some blame for poor planning and to make sure I know who I’m talking to during introductions. Also, having a buddy would’ve smoothed things out a bit while getting stuck/winching with a new group
My first time off-roading I wasn't nervous, scared or anxious even. I already know what to do thanks to videos like this that I watched beforehand that teaches you what to do on the trail. I drove an FJ cruiser that I just borrowed and wasn't even familiar with the rig.
The best thing to do while off-roading is keep your cool, relax and enjoy the ride and apply what you learned and use plain and simple common sense.
I'm in Michigan where we don't have a lot of rocks. The most common mistake I see people making, even experienced off roaders, is using low lock in mud and snow where wheel speed is needed. By the time the trans shifts to a high enough gear to generate enough wheel speed to clean the tread out, they are already framed up.
Automatics suck...
Or get a locker..
Rule 1 - when in doubt stay the hell out.
Rule 2 - see Rule 1
This simple principle kept me out of trouble many time were my friend not so much
I ended up taking an off road beginners class before actually wheeling my Jeep. I highly recommend that.
Great suggestion. Thanks!
Learning how to brake with your left foot so you get maximum traction when going uphill/over an obstacle after stopping is a good one too.
I would say the only rookie mistake I made was not airing down. But I wasn't doing anything intense at the time. Airing down is a major way to gain more traction. You just need a compressor to air back up afterward which can be a pretty big expense.
You can get those little lighter socket plug in compressors for dirt cheap. They take a while, but they do the job. I bought mine over a decade ago, and though I don't use it regularly, it has more than paid for itself.
@@MOTO809 yeah with 33's those things take FOREVER. I don't think they would last very long with any regular use. I got a cheaper viair one and it was $120. The nice ones can be more like $400.
@@ProjectXJ Yeah I see what you're getting at. I've used it several times for airing back up, but it is definitely a 40+ minute job. Usually when I air down I come off the trail within 20 miles from home or town where I can get air. Sometimes I'll just pump up from 10 to 15 to feel better about it until i get home.
Harbor freight has a decent compressor for only 80 bucks or so
@@ProjectXJ They take a few minutes for 29s to air up. My buddy bought one of those new Cherokee Trailhawks and it took a bit to air up. Surprisingly good offroad those things, not a Wrangler or an XJ but they're not shit.
How about realizing you are in a natural environment,leave nothing behind and don't cut trails!!!we are constantly working to keep trails open!oh and it never hurts to pack out some other jerks trash!
Sir:
Thank you most sincerely! You, Sir, are one of the very few highly responsible, honorable men extent. There are far too many of these selfish, narcissistic 'girly-boys' of mature years but immature mentality. How I wish that there were vastly more people of your level of evolution.
Col. Gary Gerlach, PhD USMC
Always some pig ruining outdoor recreation off roading, hunting, fishing you name it. Trashing the place is the fastest way to kill the fun for all. Pack it in pack it out. 👍👍
Off Roading : Himalayas
th-cam.com/video/_0u_BhFrExk/w-d-xo.html
I never had friends who had off-road vehicles or would off-road with they’re vehicles so it was me and my passenger trying not to get stuck but have fun
Search and rescue had to come get me! I slid off a trail,had no winch which would have saved me, tried to hilift my way out with my recovery straps but was a no go...since then I always bring all of my gear and leave a travel plan with someone if I don't return by a set time...
Travel plan is smart. My parents drilled that into my head growing up riding dirtbikes. If I go out alone I always let someone know what area I'll be in, and as much as I'm tempted to go explore I force myself to stay in that area.
Reading some of the comments is sometimes the fun part of the videos, I have a 2016 hardrock Rubicon JKU, yes I have the light bars, limb risers, warn winch and high lift jack. But I never messed with the suspension as it is still stock height. Been off roading many years, even prior to this purchase never messed with the suspension. Center of gravity and all that stuff, and rarely have I been to the point of not getting where I want to go. Love 4x4ing at night, there for the lighting, and waking up the next morning to see the new discovery that awaits me. Night time is when you see the mountain lions and other elusive wild life on the trail
I agree with #5 the most. I see so many guys who haven’t ever wheeled that go out and outfit their new JK or JL with one tons and 40s or even buy a crawler and don’t know the basics of driving. It’s their money and their choice, but a $2,000 XJ would be a better option or even just a budget boost with 33s or even bone stock 4x4. Learn how to drive and learn what you really need to hit the trails you want to wheel. Great video!!!
I'm conflicted on the 'buying stuff' topic. I agree if it's just you by yourself or one other, then buy a cheaper vehicle that already does a good job of offroad.
I tried not to spend too much money, but finally gave in. We are a family of 6 + dog using a single vehicle to 'overland/offroad'. I decided to spend the money to make things more convenient, especially for storage/spare tire...and also some 'insurance' items like rock sliders, a lift, winch, and a rear locker. Those items are definitely expensive, but give me peace of mind knowing I can make a mistake or two and not have us left stranded because of damage to the vehicle, or not being able to pull ourselves out of a stuck situation.
All great points. I really like the last one, a good set of tires with proper offset wheels will take a factory proper offroad vehicle like a 4Runner TRD offroad/PRO, Jeep Rubicon, RAM Power Wagon, Rebel, Ford Raptor, ect ect pretty far. Rather buying thousands of dollars worth of suspension stuff and lighting, see what your OEM capabilities are and take a measured approach to improving your vehicle from there. I’ve taken my Power Wagon build pretty slow and found from weekend one it is very capable off the lot. After a year of wheeling it pretty regularly and through some challenging trails, I’m still rocking a completely OEM suspension, 37’s, proper offset wheels combined with some trimming to clear them, a OEM speedo recalibration for exact tire height, frame mounted rock sliders, and some after market beefier skid plates. I follow all kinds of tricked out beed locked light bar covered scratch free jeeps up trails and then proceed up the extra credit obstacles while they watch down below.
Seeing how many driveshafts are busted on some of these older rigs, carrying a spare driveshaft and ujoints seems to be a good idea. especially if your rig is modified so you know you'll have the right part when you need it. I'm new to this offroad lifestyle myself. Looking to get a newer Ram, but prefer to drive my 84 Jeep J10. Overland Bound has a lot of newbie events for folks to learn how to offroad safely. I'm looking forward to participating in a few of those.
Keep your momentum,listen to your spotter and when in doubt throttle out.
Too many people right away lift their jeeps and put tires and lights but carry no gear not even a tire gauge or shovel or strap.
I agree. In today's world term lift has lost its meaning. I prefer to call it suspension upgrade, as that usually by default provides the needed ground clearance due to upgraded suspension and larger tires raising the axle point a few inches. Most people look for a lift in ALL the wrong ways and completely ignore articulation and proper clearance that has a real purpose besides looks.
So.... You knew me when I got my brand new 85 Jeep Laredo cj7. Did absolutely all those mistakes. Great hints. 36 years too late lol.
Among the most memorable 4x4 improvements: Beer lockers, and Lincoln lockers (where people welded their diffs locked)
#1. Beginners: Make friends with a serious off-roader, then ask them to come along on one of their adventures. You can learn a lot from them and the areas they off-road at and learning what different vehicles will do and not do. Like heavy vehicles don't do well in sand for example.
#6. Pay attention to what the the guys with years of experience are doing not spending your time trying to spot them and tell them what to do.
they have the experience they don't need some random guy on the trail telling them what to do. its also very important for the spotter to know how the rig drives
I go off road by myself all the time, because if I had to wait for others I would never get out. I'm not foolish about it though and I'm well prepared. My vehicle is very capable, I have decades of experience, and I'm fully equipped with all the self recovery gear required. Even if I don't have my camping gear (which would be unusual), I have everything needed to survive a few days in the bush. I always have water, MREs, emergency shelter and blankets, and the tools and material to start a fire.
THIS, plus a good first aid kit, we recently had a family in our area that got stuck without cell service, unfortunately they'd passed by the time anyone found them due to lack of food and exposure. I guess my point with that is that even if you go alone, try to tell at least one person or group where you'll be going and when you expect to be back.
That Raptor with the Ford GT Livery is really cool!
Pick the right spotter a bad spotter can sometimes intentnaly try to get you to cause body damage.
I've been off roading a bit and this is my second jeep. This new jeep I'm not very use to yet. I would rather play dumb as far as being a newbie because it's better for me to save my jeep from damage then to be puffed up with owner pride and trash my jeep. I've pretty much always errored on the side of caution. Not made of money keeps me cautious (usually).
It’s actually a really good idea to upgrade the weak links first so you don’t break on a trail and mess up everyone’s vacation days helping you fix your unprepared Jeep because someone told you to wheel it stock first. I honestly don’t think that’s a great idea especially if you are getting into rock crawling.
I'd politely disagree. I wheel'd my stock 4cyl TJ for many years, including doing trails that were above where it should've been. It taught me a great deal about finesse.
I was humble enough to take a bypass or winch when needed though
Gotta disagree there slightly. I think YES it is a good idea to upgrade the weak link, but you can’t figure out a weak link unless you have experience. Also don’t take a stock vehicle on a hard trail. Start off on easy to moderate trails then work your way up. Keep it stock until you learn what to upgrade.
Good points all. I've had my Jeep WK for 3 years now and only now I'm planning on putting OME lift on it and do a complete control arm overhaul. Might as well slap a winch on it too, since why not. It took me this long, since I wanted to become familiar with my WK and what it can do while overlanding and a bit more room between transfercase and bottom overall (might put some armor there too) seems to be what it's lacking for my use mostly. Winch just for added security, since some places can get a bit soft when driving around 😁 Not planning to go nuts on the lift, so OME is all I need. And yeah, not good idea to go alone, unless you absolutely know the place and your vehicle and you can call help relatively easy. Always have some sorta back up plan 👍
Great Review
Need to go up on your volume
The Vermonter
Love the feedback on this channel. Thank you for the personal response. I recommend everyone who watches to subscribe. Very helpful!
Thanks, Johny! We second this comment
Take those factory chrome cap lug nuts off and put true lugs on as soon as you buy your rig or have the dealer replace them as part as the purchase agreement. Buy a good 4 way.
If you do enough off roading you are going to break a bead or puncture a tire 100% guaranteed, and there is nothing worse than stripping that last lugnut and taking an unexpected time out on the trail.
One semi-experienced mistake is to think that off-road experience on one type of terrain translates to another. Some experience does, other experience just lends to over confidence. My personal embarrassment was my first encounter with really seriously wet clay. I'd successfully negotiated similarly wet areas in a two-wheel drive pick up. What could go wrong? This time the base was at least six inches of really wet, really fine clay, like grease. Luckily it was just off an easily driveable stretch and a tow operator could just reach my rear bumper with the winch. He was also an off-roader and had lots of experience in really wet clay, and as he was getting me out gave me some really good pointers that I never have forgotten.
Don’t let your ego drive you. You’ll pay for it.
I rolled my Bronco in the 80's at 19 years old trying to fly around some BMX berms. Squishy suspension and then... Slow motion upside down. Quite an odd feeling. I wanted to reach out the window and try to stop it. Stoopid! And when I went to shut off the motor , I couldn't find the keys because they wereon the other side. hahahahahaha
I'm a mountain biker and every time I get passed (or sometimes I pass!) one of these I think three things:
1. Man, that looks like a lot of fun
2. Man, that looks expensive
3. Man, I bet that takes a long time to master
I can barely find enough time to bike but if I ever hit the lottery and find a lot of free time/money, I'll give this a try.
I have a 2020 Jeep gladiator and new. I'd suggest long wheel base and making turns + best way to "straddle" a line.
I've been wheeling for only about a year and a half. If I don't feel confident doing something I won't do it. If people don't know the trail or offchutes get out the rig and walk it to see if you are capable of doing it. In SoCal there's a popular trail called Cleghorn. Those who know it know about " The Chute" it appears very easy until you get part way down and there is no way of backing out once you get in it. Major body damage, rigs flipping on there sides and mechanical breakdowns have happened in the chute.
Last thing just because a person's rig is capable doesn't mean their offroading skills are capable of getting them through things.
The chute claimed way too many vehicles
@@mall_crawler_t4r321 Cleghorn claimed 2 more rigs on the weekend. A 4 runner and a Tacoma
Nice that you finished with the LiteBrite Jeep at the end. The thing is a beast and Kevin and Brittany are very cool peoples.
What I lack in power and traction, I make up for with speed and finesse! Skinny Pedal South!
should do a mid level video. i used to have 4x4 trucks 12 years ago but am only getting back into it. almost have my rig built up then time to learn how to crawl instead of mud.
I've been offroading for a while. A friend just got his first one and he want to go in a run with me. I am comfortable with it but I wish there was a video on "teaching offroad to beginers" 😂
Generally don't go without atlest one other person, but I have gone alone once on trails that I had done before without the help of recovery gear... but had a 13k winch and a hand crank "winch" just incase.
Thanks for the info as I fit right in with all the points u made. Just got my rig a month ago.
Lights before lockers!
Yep! You can get more Insta Likes, with lights! lol
My Taco is locked front and rear and I don't even have aux lighting. By the time the sun sets, I better have camp set up and a few beers in me. lol
Never drink and drive, save adult beverages for after run. Never get egged on to the point where you try an obstacle you don't feel safe on. When you find buddies to run with, don't lose sight of other rigs. Get in between rigs. Get either cb radio or ham unit, don't trust cell phones in the hills, lose reception quickly. Cell phone is good for taking pictures, use it to see what is going on.
Recommend your guest to get practice in with an axial scx10 it will answer a lot of off-road questions
So everyone needs to change their jeeps into Rubicon's, and it doesn't matter if you've been mudding in a square body for 40 years, your in your first JK so it makes you a green horn, and lastly I always go alone, maybe I might meet someone somewhere who wants to tag along
"It's better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it." This mantra has saved my butt AND allowed me to buy a LOT of neat little toys.
That's something my dad always said.
@@michaelwier1222 Your dad was right.
Lol, shows lite bright! Classic!
Yea I giggled at the timing of it too :D
@@AirborneVet Exactly Lol
Pretty funny timing to say not to overbuild a Jeep and get passed by a $500 Jeep since you don’t know how to drive and use video of our Jeep. Lol
A well-placed clip followed by a well-placed post. I got another giggle out of this :D
@@boughtnotbuiltoffroad7784 everyone that knows you knows better bud! I think you're an amazingly skilled driver. Big fan of you and Brit!
Wish my truck was 4x4 so I could offloading, and I wish there were trails near me😭
@Dillon Bishop I am, it's just taking forever lol
@Dillon Bishop I've got the transfer case in! Now for the front axle lol
Rookie Mistake.. wearing your hat, pinning your ears down. Ball caps are designed to wear above your ears.
That's subjective. Some people like to streamline...
Thought It was odd that your 5th point was not having the correct upgrades.........Funny you showed Lite Britt, who everyone knows how equipped his JL is. I understand your point , but still had to laugh.
Small wheels and tires with tall sidewalls = good
Big wheels and tires with short sidewalls = bad
I love out-wheeling all those new "bolt on" rigs in my '81 CJ5!!! SO SATISFYING!
great video. i wish they didn't end this channel. i understand on the business side but this part of their business has the highest growth potential in my opinion. just look at the views
I have some great news! Starting already this year in 2024, we are going to continue publishing long videos. So hopefully, we'll see you around.
I Was Eighteen, young and stupid. Got my first four-wheel drive pickup truck, a 2004 Ford F-150 I was so damn proud of it and treated it like it was a trophy truck beat the ever-loving shit out of it. All the towing and Hauling Way Beyond its towing and payload capacity and driving like an ass hat and going 10,000 miles without an oil change aside. What finally broke the truck was going off-road by my lonesome. Found a very muddy back road and was rippin' it for hours. Eventually got stuck and had no recovery gear and nobody within less than an hour with a vehicle capable of pulling me out. No true knowledge or experience off-roading and I ultimately blew my engine and transmission and broke one of my four-wheel drive shafts.
it's most always the long skinny pedal on the right
How I know I'm no longer a rookie. I know all this stuff already. I'm still relatively new to off roading. I've only had my jeep for 2 years. That's not a lot compared to those guys who have been wheeling for decades but I feel that I know my jeep really well and I know I have a lot to learn but I've learned the beginner stuff.
How I know I am not a rookie is I ask people for their advise ;)
Best advice I can give is
As slow as possible
As fast as necessary
Great information, looking forward to viewing more of your videos.
Thank you! We have plenty more coming down the line
Good spotting goes a long way too!
Josh, I like your videos but man oh man are you the "Most Improved Off Roader"! Ha. It's great that you're preaching humility and safety. Things can get hairy real quick and carrying a case of water, snacks, GPS nav, recovery gear aren't that expensive and can literally save your life depending on how remote you're going.
Looks like a good portion of the wranglers in your video have Dana 60's
Here's a question, what are some scenarios where it would be appropriate to use 4- low or lockers?
Just did my 1st off road in moab! Hell's revenge
That's awesome! Love it there!
if your going wheeling and ARENT planning on getting stuck, you arent going wheeling...stuck is where the real fun starts
First mistake is going 4x4ing with a 2x4 lol
Depends on who is driving.
@@TubeRLH not a good idea either way. 2x4s tend to tear up tracks needlessly because they give excessive wheel spin and can’t get traction
I can say I wanna go with a group of people that have nice rigs to help if stuck bc for me it’s only me and a few friends and that’s enough but we go to private land that my buddy knows the owner of so it just us and we hit this one trail all the time and it’s just mud so just as fun but I wanna try some different ones
Good list, but… airing down should require more critical thinking than a blanket statement of airing down as soon as you hit dirt. Solo wheeling isn’t for beginners, but there’s ways to do it… however you have to accept risk when doing it. If you aren’t willing to accept risk when wheeling, you’re likely never going to improve as an off-roader.
Got a question you just said don’t spend thousands and thousands of dollars upgrading your rig if you got no experience. I just bought my first jeep I love it it’s basically stock. But I plan on doing quite a bit with it. I’m going to go off-road and rock crawling, I don’t like redoing things that I just did. So if you can why shouldn’t I build a Jeep how I want to finish product to be
I can barely afford a car to get me to work. Why am I watching a video about people who buy expensive off-road vehicles and tear them up for fun?
Yup. Wheeling solo is cool. Just gotta be prepared with proper recovery gear. A plan that others know. Phone or emergency gps locater. Also skills too. Best not go off and wheel solo if a rookie.
When airing down, aren't bead locks required?
After a point, yes, but not if you stay somewhat conservative
@@drewlinton3472 Thank you.
You need a six inch lift, bead locks, two different locks just to drive on grass. Or just commonsense.
@@rawnature8148 Sounds like you got them all....except one!
@@michaelwier1222 my 4wd does the job I need it to do easily. If you think I was serious then you need everything I listed.
I knew I saw this off-road footage before fuller from custom off sets was in the white chevy it was in an old video they had
My truck is manual low gear is mandatory lol
I would hope a beater would win, after all they don’t usually make it off the trail in the end 😂
What happened to the jeep xj build?
Always remember you have to drive the rig back home...
Rule that rules over any other rule: listen to the experienced off-roaders. Prove me wrong.
Airing down is overrated. Good in certain situations but you are more likely to rip out a sidewall. Tires aren’t cheap. I only air down if I absolutely have to.
What’s hilarious is how telling this to other off roaders is akin to praising satan during church service.
Rookie mistake #6. Blindly doing what everybody tells you to do and not figuring out what works for you.
A winch will take you farther than suspension lift will
Thank you 😄🤙🏾
Great video man
Thanks Lucas!
Pretty sure white GMC is Fuller's truck from custom offset
Great advice🤙🏽
Thanks Black Betty! Appreciate the support!
Nice video 👍💪
That Jeep needs more lights IMO
I like to try and get my car as close as I can to tipping over.
Be careful of that, one day your wish may come true. 5 point seat belt/ safety harness is better than ordinary seat belt. Hold on tight, don't stick arms out the window. Make sure tools and supplies are tied down, they can become flying objects. How well built is your roll cage?
Have you ever been on your roof? Or are you a troll...
I’m with Jeff, get tippy 👌. You know who has well built cages? People who roll over 😂
@@gotitfirstshot6848 you know who else has well build cages? People like me. My jeep is only thing I own, and in 46 years of wheeling, have never rolled over. I use the cage to tie on camping gear, grab on to get in and out, and all the body armor keeps me going when there is no choice but rub or go home. But to each his own, and stock is a great way to go. did it for years. All depends on types of trails and risk factors. 4 wheeling , however you go is a personal love, however we do it. ENJOY!
@@MOTO809 Staying rubber down is better than being on your roof and most of the time, being on your roof means you don't know everything.
nice info
Dif breathers are a mush if you don't like soup.
Interesting video 👍🏻. But why I am watching this? I have only a city minivan. So wat the heck?
Question? What is a barrody? I may have spelled that wrong. If you know then you are old! haha like me
Could be we made it up here in Southern Ca in the 70's
Good Question! Send an email over to info@trailbuiltoffroad.com and maybe they can help you!
Nice
My #1 fear is flipping my 3rd Gen hahaha. How does one not flip.... like everrr !! hahahaha
stop building your rig to the hilt to do the same trails a stocker can, the right skinny thing on the floor called the gas is your friend
Hey....@LiteBrite!
Lost me at high lift jack, do you really think rookie’s should have a high lift jack? Oof
LOL. How about knowing what 4 Lo is before you buy one.
But I like riding high!
Or learn like everyone else...