The modern four-wheel drive vehicle is both a lifestyle statement and a symbol of true independence. As we’ve moved away from the strictly utilitarian beginnings of the first 4x4 vehicles, people have retained their love of nature and the wilderness. Vehicle manufacturers have responded by refining all-wheel drive from its analogue beginnings. In the past, everything had to be controlled manually, accompanied by the accompanying sand and dirt, but now there are comfortable seats and electronics everywhere. For all the challenges we may encounter off-road, we now have a series of simple push-buttons to respond to them.
In order to keep up with this trend, the tire industry produces a range of special tires that cover all possible uses; from 100/0 use
only on road surfaces to special tires for
extreme off-road use – and of course for all uses somewhere in between these extremes.
Staying safe while driving a 4x4
You should always wear a seat belt, except when driving through deep water. All windows should be closed 2/3 of the way to keep the passengers safe in the vehicle and to protect them from branches. The only time the windows should be opened is before driving through water. Adjust your seat
closer than normal to the steering wheel (approx. 60 mm) so you have a good grip on the steering wheel and a better view around the vehicle.
When driving off-road, it is important that you do not place your thumbs
on the inside of the steering wheel. When driving over large ruts or potholes, the wheel may suddenly turn, causing you to bruise or even dislocate your thumb.
Four-wheel drive vehicles do not behave in the same way as conventional passenger cars when cornering. Due to the
higher centre of gravity, 4x4 vehicles can tip over more easily than conventional passenger cars when cornering very fast. This applies to both gravel and paved roads.
Tire pressure for off-road vehicles
Reducing the tire pressure increases the tire's ground contact area. The pressure exerted by the tire on the surface is reduced as the weight of the vehicle is distributed over a larger area. This reduction in tire pressure leads to an improvement in traction. However, keep in mind that this will
reduce ground clearance and increase the risk of damaging tire sidewalls. In addition, reducing tire inflation pressure changes the steering and handling characteristics of the vehicle.
It is important to know your vehicle from the ground up. You should even get down on your knees and take a look
under your vehicle:
- What are the lowest points?
- What could be damaged?
- How high are the air intakes and vents for the gearbox and differentials?
Keep these things in mind when driving off-road.