4-Wheeling Basics: ALWAYS ON THE LOOKOUT

You should always lookout to where you are heading. It is strongly advised that you have a co-driver to assist you giving directions on the trail.

Exercise some hand signals with your partner so both would understand each other by just using hand signals. Shouting will not work well in off-road situation due to the engine noise, wind and other noises.

When traveling to new areas that you don't know, find the trail master to give you directions. Even an advanced off-roader would find locals that really knows the area when opening new trails.

So, shift into 4x4 once you start hitting the trail. Shifting to 4x4 when you are already stuck is not a wise thing to do, it will be far more difficult for you to get out of the obstacle. Engage into 4x4 Low Range is strongly advised since in this mode your vehicle is much easier to control and you get more traction whether on dirt, mud or rock.

It is so important that you don't put your thumbs inside the steering wheel, between the spokes. Your wheel might suddenly turned when hitting an obstacle and I can guarantee you will crack the thumbs if they are inside the steering wheel.

Stop n Check! Whenever you are facing an obstacle and you are not sure what is inside and after that, stop the vehicle, engage the parking brake, get out and see the obstacle. Try to figure out how to overcome the obstacle. If you think it is too difficult, might break the car or too dangerous, try to avoid it. Usually your gut will tell the right thing to do. Discuss the obstacle with the rest of the party so everyone knows the recovery plan when things go wrong.

When driving, always scan the course you are taking, sweep your view like a radar scan, from side to side. Don't just put attention on one wheel, say the front right wheel. Remember, when doing this, avoid placing your head outside the car's protective body, you might be hit be a tree trunk or rocks. Always fasten your seatbelts, rollover might happen anytime.

Enjoy the ride the right way and you will experience the real fun. Safe driving!