How to Ferry Dogs Properly in 4x4 Trucks

Have you noticed that most dogs love 4x4 trucks?

This is especially so when they hear the words "Let's go!" and see you walking out the door and to your truck, because this can mean only one thing... they are going out for their beloved walk!

Yes, 4x4 trucks are great for ferrying dogs around, but it can also be a very dangerous activity. According to some estimates, more than 100 thousand dogs get killed from falling off trucks every year.

Some fall off because the truck swerved suddenly to avoid an obstacle in the middle of the road. Others may be flung out of the truck bed because of an unexpected bump in the road. No matter what the cause, the end result is sure to be serious injuries to the dog, permanent disability, or even death in the worst case scenarios.

Unfortunately, keeping your dog safe is not a simple matter of tying his leash firmly to a metal support structure at the back of the truck. Indeed, there is no leash or dog harness that can keep your dog safe. On the contrary, using a leash or harness may lead to even more harm to your dog. If your dog slips or is thrown about, the leash can end up choking and strangling him instead of protecting him.

That's why you need to use a proper pet carrier if you want to transport your dog around in the bed of your 4x4 truck.

Specially designed to be safe for your dog, pet carriers ensure that your dog can travel in the truck bed without any risk of being flung out of the truck. Not only that, it can also shelter your dog from the hot weather, and prevent your dog's paws from being burnt by the hot metal truck bed.

So not only is it safer for your dog, it's also more comfortable for the dog too.

And as an added bonus, some pet carriers come with special ramps to help make it easier for your older dogs to get into the truck. As your dogs gets older, they are no longer so agile and probably won't be able to jump into the truck like they used to. These ramps help make it easier for your dog to get into the truck by himself, so you don't have exert any strenuous effort to lift your dog in.

But what if you want to transport your dog in your truck's passenger compartments?

In that case, you will want to use dog seat covers or pet pads. These are simple covers made of strong cloth-like materials that can withstand being scratched by your dog's sharp nails. The covers help to protect your truck's seats from being scratched, and they also prevent your dog from dirtying the interior of your truck after a long walk.

If you want more tips on choosing the right pet carrier or pet pads for your 4x4 truck, you can read all the experts' tips at: 4x4 Trucks.

Tonneau Covers For Your 4x4 Trucks

Tonneau Covers For Your 4x4 Trucks


4x4 trucks are not only very fun to drive around (especially in the mud!), but they also offer a very practical solution if you are the sort of person who has to ferry a lot of stuff around.

With a big empty bed at the back of the truck, it is really easy to load all your things onto the truck and lug them everywhere you go.

But this convenience comes at a potentially heavy price if you don't know what you are doing, and by that I am referring to the high possibility of losing all your prized possessions to theft.

Just think about it... If you load expensive and desirable stuff onto your truck bed, you are in essence issuing an open invitation to the thieves to come and make off with whatever they fancy. After all, your stuff is just lying there for the taking, right?

So that's why it is very important that you invest in tonneau covers for your truck.

What's a tonneau cover? To put it simply, it's a cover for the originally-open bed at the back of your 4x4 truck.

But a tonneau cover is more than just a pretty aesthetic cover. It will help to prevent your things from being stolen by thieves as everything is now kept "under wraps" and out of sight.

Plus, the tonneau cover will also help protect your stuff from the elements. You do not have to worry about having your cargo drenched by the heavy rains, or be scotched by the burning mid-day sun.

And if that wasn't enough, tonneau covers can help your 4x4 truck get better gas mileage. To put it mildly, 4x4 trucks are not exactly known for superior mileage. And indeed, there are many people who lament about having to pay so much for gas so frequently.

If you use a cover, you can potentially expect about an 8% savings in fuel expenses. And at today's prices, every bit helps!

The good thing is that you have a lot of choices when it comes to covers for your trucks. Regardless of the make and model you have, you are sure to find a good cover that suits your needs.

You can choose from retractable covers, folding covers, aluminum covers, fiberglass covers, roll-up covers and drop-down covers, amongst others. Depending on what you end up choosing, you can expect to pay anything from around $100 (if you make your own cover) up to $2000 for something custom-made.

But what's important is that you install a cover for your truck. It's an investment that will pay off in spades in terms of security, peace of mind, and fuel savings.

If you want more tips on how to choose the right covers, go find out exactly what to look out for at: 4x4 Trucks.

Why Does Your 4x4 Truck Need a Bed Liner?

Why Does Your 4x4 Truck Need a Bed Liner?

Many people love 4x4 trucks because they are great workhorses when it comes to transporting big and heavy equipment around.

With a big truck bed, it is a convenient and practical way to haul around your motorbikes, furniture, or heavy work machinery.

But if you actually make a lot of use of your truck bed, you will notice that it doesn't stay in its original condition for long. In the span of just a few short trips, the paint will start to peel, scratches will surface everywhere, and dents can be found where you least want them to.

It's no surprise that all truck beds require regular maintenance or further enhancements if you want them to last and function properly for the lifetime of your truck.

A very simple way to prolong its lifespan is to use a proper bed liner or bed mat to protect your 4x4 truck's cargo area.

A bed liner is an additional coating that covers and protects the original bed surface. With a liner in place, your truck bed is protected from dents, scratches and dirt. And the original paint will also last longer as it's not subjected to oxidation caused by the hot sun, and thus it will not peel or flake so easily.

Bed liners are very popular, so you are now spoilt for choice as the manufacturers have come out with a whole array of different liners for all the different makes and models.

You can choose from a few different types of bed liners. These can be in the form of spray-on polyurethane liners, roll-on liners, or custom installed liners. Of course, each has its own pros and cons.

Spray-on polyurethane liners are a cheap form of bed liners. As the name implies, these are sprayed onto the truck bed, and are a durable and affordable way to extend the life of your truck bed. Once sprayed on and cured, it forms a tough and skid-resistant finish that will not flake, peel or chip. And the good thing is that if there is any damage at all to the bed, you can just spray on more of the coating after you have done the repairs, and the coating will adhere to itself to form a new protective layer. This greatly simplifies repairs if they are ever necessary.

Roll-on liners are another very affordable type of liner. It's usually made of rubber (or a synthetic material that feels just like rubber), and you can roll up your sleeves and install the liner yourself.

However, these spray-on and roll-on types of liners do have a few drawbacks. They are practically impossible to remove once installed, and some cheap brands may feel sticky and tacky when exposed to the hot summer sun.

To get around these problems, you may want to look into using a custom installed liner. These heavy-duty liners are custom-molded to fit your individual truck bed specifications, and are constructed from special compounds that won't crack or break even in extreme temperatures.

With so much choice, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right type of liner for your 4x4 trucks. Thankfully, you can get some useful and practical tips to help you make the right choice at: 4x4 Trucks.

Maximum Traction Tires For All Terrain

When you are out for a ride in your 4X4 truck you have to make sure everything is perfect. You need the right lift, right shocks, right brakes. When you are going to take your 4X4 truck off road you need to make sure you have the right tires. Tires that fit and work for what you need.

There are many tires out there that will help with off road driving. You just have to make sure you are getting a set of tires that is right for you. Here are some things to look at when you are choosing off road tires.

1. Brand: Is it a brand you have heard of and trust?
2. Tread: Is it the right tread for what you are looking to do?
3. Size: Are you even going to be able to fit it on your 4X4 vehicle?
4. Type: Is this an all terrain tire or something that is off and on road? Also, does this type of tire fit with your type of vehicle?
5. Look: Is it going to look good on your truck?

The top 4 items are obviously the most important things for you to be looking at. You will want to make sure you are looking around at different brands and types. But, always keep in mind that you want to look good while you are rolling around in the dirt and mud. I don't know of one person who is not concerned about the way their tires look on their 4X4 truck.

Don't give up on going off road just because you have to look harder for the tires. They are not that hard to find! Just make sure you are using the right ones.

Importance of 4x4 Offroading For Team Building

Importance of 4x4 Offroading For Team Building

Team building is being accomplished in various forms these days. Some of the common activities include 4x4 offroading, archery, and clay pigeon shooting and blindfold driving. If you look carefully among these, you will be able to pinpoint that 4x4 offroad driving seems to be the most viable option. The sport is widely preferred by corporate all over the world for the same reason, ease of organizing. Besides, it doubles up as a challenge too, to rule the unknown terrains and with the help of the fellow team members, it can be beautifully accomplished. In this article, we shall be discussing 4x4 offroad driving practices.

Like mentioned in the previous passage this activity is all about challenges. You will be given a stretch of terrain to cover and a 4x4 vehicle will be provided. Your objective is to cover the distance at the shortest possible time, without any mishaps. Mind you, the terrain will be rocky and slippery and it is very easy to loose control of the vehicle in such situations. The member who is piloting the vehicle must be adept in controlling the power of the vehicle when not required and unleashing the beast when required.

It might take sometime to gauge the exact amount of power required, but the result is simply thrilling. Usually in such events, the piloting job will be given to the most experienced of the drivers. Now if everyone in the team is novices, they will be asked to do nominal climbs over small hills with the vehicle, so make sure you have someone who is really into driving, so that the rest can enjoy the adventure trip of the lifetime. Before starting the event, the team will be assembled by an experienced instructor and will be shown the map of the terrain.

Special mentioning will be provided regarding the spots that should be maneuvered with extreme care and caution. Instructors might also accompany the team, or might lead the team in his own 4x4. The team members will be experiencing something adventurous for the first time in their lives and they will have to coordinate themselves all through out the session, so that they can successfully make out to the other end. You will be required to climb rocky mountains, hairpin bends with steep valleys which require precise concentration. Streams will have to cross and the vehicle should not be driven to the shallow parts of the stream.

Sufficient protection will always be provided to all the team members both inside and outside the vehicle. The safety mechanisms which has been incorporated within the vehicle must be employed by the occupants. The vehicle will also be equipped with remote engine immobilizers and special sensors that will warn the driver of obstacles ahead. Driving the vehicle through such a terrain will induce much weakness so make sure to invest on lots of protein diet bars to keep you stable. The choice of the terrain will be provided to the different team and it is up to them to choose the most appropriate ones.

Choosing the right hitch for 4x4 trucks

Choosing the right hitch for 4x4 trucks


One of the trucks 4x4 is good is their ability to tow really heavy things behind the vehicle.

If you own a 4x4 truck, and you want to be able to handle things as well, so you will need to invest in a hitch. Trailer hitches are available in several sizes and styles and are designed to be used in different situations.

So before you get started and buy a trailer hitch, you'll need to sit down and think about what you're towing and take into consideration the type of truck you have. Doing your homework is the first thing you should do.

For example, if you want to tow a trailer, or if you have a semi-trailer, then you will need to use what is known as a "fifth wheel" hitch. These are the heaviest couplers money can buy, and they can carry much more weight than your typical ball hitch. It is not even a close fight when it comes to towing capacity.

Unfortunately, this heavy coupling is mounted in the truck, and they take a lot of space. Once installed, you will find May and there is enough space left on the bed to other equipment or goods.

The good news is that apart from the increase in towing capacity, fifth wheel hitches also have a number of other advantages over other types of fasteners.

First, it is easier for you to maneuver the truck with trailer attached, because the coupling is mounted inside the truck. Most beginners have a difficult time driving the truck, once there is a trailer because your turning radius is considerably larger. The way a coupling is fitted, it is easier to drive you around corners, then there is less danger to pedestrians and other goods.

Second, you will find that it is more stable than using other types of fasteners. And when it comes to heavy transport, more stability is always welcome. More stability means that it is safer for you if you are a beginner tour.

If you are a beginner, maybe you want May to consider using a coupling. Once you have some experience under your belt, you can try other types of fasteners too to see which suits you best.

Choosing the right trailer hitch can be a laborious process, but it is useful to the end. To ensure you make the right choice, remember to use the rest of the advice, consult: 4x4 Trucks.

4X4 Trucks

4X4 Trucks


Four-wheel drive, 4WD, 4x4, all wheel drive, and AWD are different phrases used for describing a four-wheeled vehicle with a powertrain that allows all four wheels to receive power from an engine at the same time. Powering all four wheels gives better control on smooth ice and is a main part of rally racing on cemented roads.

These are truck-like motor vehicles in which a driver can manually switch between a two-wheel drive mode for streets and a four-wheel drive mode for low grip conditions such as ice, mud, or loose gravel. These vehicles do not cause poor control and too much tire.

Although, the term "four-wheel drive" refers to a capability that a vehicle may have, it is also used to represent the whole vehicle itself. The term 4x4, read as four by four, is used to indicate total number of wheels on a vehicle and is frequently applied to vehicles equipped with either full-time or part-time four-wheel-drive. This term is common in North America.
The first four-wheel drive vehicle, Spyker 60 HP, was manufactured in 1903 by Dutch brothers Jacobus and Hendrik-Jan Spijker of Amsterdam. 4X4 designs in the US came from the Twyford Company of Brookville, PA in 1905. The first US four-wheel drive vehicle was made in 1911 by the Four-Wheel Drive auto company (FWD) of Wisconsin. Some of the earliest four-wheel drive cars were various rally cars, such as the Ford RS200 made from 1984-1986. In 1989, Panther Westwinds built a four-wheel drive, the Panther Solo 2. Today, sophisticated all wheel drive systems are found in many commuter vehicles and sports cars. In a 4X4 truck, when one wheel spins out of control, a brake can be automatically applied to that wheel. Torque will then be matched, causing power to be divided between a roadway and a brake. It can cause brake wear, but it is effective.

Hit-and-run-Police search for driver

Police search for driver in fatal hit-and-run


Police are still searching for the unidentified driver in a fatal hit-and-run collision in Arcata at about 2 a.m. Sunday.

The Arcata Police Department has contacted witnesses and the suspect vehicle was described as a large black or brown 4x4 truck with big tires and tinted windows, according to an APD press release. It was last seen driving westbound on Samoa Boulevard toward Manila.

There is a sticker in the rear window with white writing, possibly the “FOX” racing logo and the truck possibly has large mirrors.

The driver is wanted in connection with the death of a 55-year-old Arcata man in a hit-and-run collision. The victim's name is being withheld pending family notification.

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Arcata Police Department at 822-2428

The best Dodge Dakota 4x4 truck

The best Dodge Dakota 4x4 truck

For all indications, the best Dodge Dakota 4x4 truck, in all its forms. The Dodge Dakota has been a favorite since the beginning. This article discuss the specifications of a 2007 Dodge Dakota, which is a favorite because it is the only truck of its class that offers a V8 engine. Those who are dependent on the vans and drive to appreciate, since, in general, especially people who use trucks for work, they are transport and a lot of towing heavy loads. A powerful engine has the benefit of this, but according to many reviews is Dakota in 2007, this vehicle is much more advantageous reasons.

2007 Dakota is considered a high quality 4x4 Dodge truck in part because of its engine, the same standard, it comes with a 3.7-liter Magnum V6, which is two Hundred and ten horses 5200 rpm, which is two Hundred and thirty-five pounds Friday leg of torque is 4000 rpm. It is also possible that the high-performance 4.7-liter V8 engine, which is one of the best engines currently in the market. It creates a two hundred sixty-three hundred horses and ten pounds feet of torque. Since most of the fans used to load trucks to transport heavy loads and difficult to articles, this type of engine is not only necessary, but is considered to be the largest possible level. It offers three p.m. miles / gallon city driving and nineteen miles per gallon on the highway.

2007 Dodge Dakota is also worthy of praise for the way it handles, and its braking capabilities. It comes with the steering rack, and a well-developed that the hydroformed frame rails. This gives a solid driving experience and handling, which makes it a good choice for Dodge 4x4 truck drivers, who rely on their trucks to tow or carry heavy loads of passengers and freight. It was also an investment several lists to produce the best fuel for medium-sized truck. Generally, it is always in the classification of the five lists in general to a certain position between the number two and number four positions. Environmental Protection Agency has an important role in determining gasoline and the amount of miles per gallon, truck-east of the city and route.
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Guide to the Latest Off-Road Electronic Gadgets Gear

Guide to the Latest Off-Road Electronic Gadgets Gear from Lowrance, PCI Race Radios, ProComm Radios, Racer X Motorsports and Spot


While many off-road enthusiasts and Dirt Sports readers may think of massive bypass shocks or grippy new tires before they think of electronics for their vehicles, the electronic components can be a vital part of the entire modern off-road experience. There are many electrical components that go into your off-road machines, and the conditions that you race, compete or play in will have a huge impact on the ones you choose. This month, we will turn our focus to the “on-board” electronics typically found in a modern off-road cockpit including GPS, cameras and video equipment.

Racers and weekend adventurers alike can enjoy the benefits of knowing where they are, where they are going and where they have been thanks to modern GPS and mapping systems. Family and friends can even track you online and receive updates about your safety and progress. We can also use camera and video systems to record our racing, testing and play riding or driving. The recorded footage can be used for promotional efforts like Web sites and sponsor meetings, as well as coaching, driver improvement and even for vehicle dynamics testing.

We have pulled together a selection of various on-board electronics products that should help you to get the most out of your dirt adventures. Keep in mind that this is not an all-inclusive list as manufacturers are developing new product and constantly updating and improving their offerings, so check their Web sites for the most up-to-date products.

LOWRANCE
In the last few years GPS systems have gone from top secret military technology to something so ubiquitous that it is even included in many cellular telephone handsets. Of course, GPS has found its way into off-road racing and adventure riding where drivers and riders rely on the magic box and screen to give them directions and warn them of hazardous situations. In the off-road market the biggest name in the GPS game is Lowrance, who now offers dirtready versions of their GPS units in the Baja series including their new HDS (high-definition) models. Lowrance has been a leader in outdoor electronics since 1957 and GPS navigation since 1992 so they are surely a name that is familiar to many.

HDS-5 BAJA
Carrying a suggested retail price of only $749, the HDS-5 Baja is a 5-inch GPS unit designed to meet the high-stress and high-impact demands of off-road racing and hardcore off-road recreation. This new GPS chartplotter supports
Lowrance FreedomMaps EX, high-detail topographical electronic maps as well as the standard features that we have grown accustomed to with our GPS units. New options include LWX-1 ($399) Sirius satellite weather and radio receiver and LGC-4000 Baja ($299) external GPS receiver.

Its compact chassis is easy to mount and measures in at a scant 7.24-inches wide by 5.27-inches high and 3.46-inches deep. The unit is designed with a special dampening material on the inside for unparalleled shock absorption. An easy to read 480 X 480 pixel 5-inch color display incorporates the exclusive Lowrance SolorMax PLUS sunlight-readable enhancements for ease of viewing in all conditions. It also uses a new menu that provides quicker and easier access to the most-used features in addition to an improved backlit keyboard design. Fast screen updates and redraws combine with great waypoint management and a huge selection of marker icons to make this a great GPS unit for the serious offroader.

For optional map display and GPS data recording the HDS-5 Baja uses a highspeed micro SD card slot. When connected to the optional LGC-4000 Baja antenna it offers a true 5 Hz satellite signal update rate that provides superior real-time locational accuracy by updating position 5-times per second.

The HDS-5 Baja is backed by an unprecedented two-year warranty and is designed to handle the bone-jarring conditions that we subject ourselves to on a regular basis. It is fully water and dust protected to make sure it can bring you home even in the worst conditions.

LOWRANCE ENDURA HANDHELD GPS UNITS
If you thought you couldn’t afford to use GPS technology for your off-road adventures maybe you should think again. With the introduction of its new Endura handheld GPS line Lowrance delivers high quality GPS units starting at just $230 MSRP for the entry level Out&Back (yellow) moving up to $385 for the Safari (gray) and topping out at just $549 for the flagship Sierra (blue). All three units share the same lightweight 5.1-inch high by 2.3-inch wide and 1.1-inch deep chassis that weighs less than 6-ounces without its two AA batteries. They also use an innovative 2.7-inch color touch screen display for easy viewing and operation. The rugged housings feature rubberized armoring that protects the unit and provides a comfortable grip.

The Lowrance Endura line consists of three innovative touch-screen GPS handhelds for the outdoor market: the flagship Sierra – the most powerful and complete out-of-box GPS experience available, the Safari – the most versatile navigator for any outdoor experience, and the Out&Back – setting a new standard in affordability and ease of use. The Out&Back offers straightforward GPS functionality while the Safari adds the capability to view photos and play MP3 audio through the micro SD expansion slot. The Sierra builds upon that capability with 4 GB of built in storage capacity. Contact your nearest Lowrance retailer to decide which unit is best for your needs.

Why you want to lift your truck?

There are many reasons why you want to lift your truck. You may wish to take up 4x4 truck for the simple fact that it looks good. When you see a lifted 4x4 truck that can not stop watching. Also, lifted trucks can reach more types of environments. From sand to snow. Why not water and rock.

Another important reason why you want to remove your 4x4 truck tires. May want to put big wheels and tires on. Large wheels and tires to increase the performance of your truck. But in order to be able to do so, you need to remove. In order to fit the biggest wheels and tires or a lift truck 4x4 absolutely necessary.

One thing to consider though. Each country has different regulations regarding the removal. First you need permission to perform lift. Then, you can not raise as many times as you want. You have to match between borders. We must therefore make very precise measurements before making your decision. Make sure the tires are not very high. Nor wheels.

In addition, the foil for fenders may be removed. Removing the foil to remove the fenders truck 4x4 you will improve the picture. Besides the introduction of, will improve performance. Also, you leave more space for wheels and tires. But to protect your vehicle to get all muddy new fender flares should be appointed. You do not want your car to get all dirty and muddy after removal of the old sheet metal, you want to put new fender flares.

Overall, 4x4 lifted trucks are great, but before making the lift, you should consider all aspects.
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The annual TrailRex (Trail Riders Expo)

The Largest Trail Riders Expo

The annual TrailRex (Trail Riders Expo) promises to be the largest North OHV festival of the year! The four-day mega-event is scheduled for August 20-23 at the expansive grounds of the Indian Lookout Country Club in Pattersonville, NY (20 miles west of Albany). Although the family is the primary objective of TrailRex, the festival is also important for alliances in an attempt to ride in the northeastern states. Many riding clubs, dealers and sponsors are already on board with the festival a success.

Highlighting TrailRex are numerous riding / driving events, classes, function for a large number of OHVs, including airport transit visas, UTVs, Dirt Bikes, Jeeps, 4x4 trucks, rock crawlers, and there's even a great snow mobile grass drag event is scheduled (see web site for event details). But the festival offers much more than racing competitions, as it will be eight bands playing on weekends with professional sound and lighting systems, and fireworks every night. To all the family happy, there is also a mechanical bull on page one TrailRex Miss Contest, Dale Earnhartd Jr.s # 88 (you can switch to a NASCAR tire too!) And a special "surpise" - Exhibition of the Army National Guard and U.S. Marines, as you've never seen before.

Event highlights include: Enduro Cross, Moore ATV/4x4 Mud Truck, ATV pull, ¼-mile flat oval track, rock crawling, Snow Mobile Grass drag, 4x4 Truck obstacle, ATV pull sled, FMX exhibition, Miss TrailRex competition, Mechanical Bull Contest, Show Trials, Custom Truck / Jeep, ATV and motorcycle show, Dale Earnhardt Jr. 's # 88 and tire change challenge, Children / Family Entertainment Area, Bounce Rate Ride Tours and slide, water-Pong competition, Toy haul / RV Dealers Show Youth Trail Ride, manufacturer demo rides, vendor area, "Surprise" issue of the Army National Guard and U.S. Marines, Big Fireworks Night, 8 bands rock the house!

Great progress has already been made in relation to an extension of the northeast horseback trail opportunities. Over the past two years, the New York State Power Sport Dealers Association (a major sponsor of TrailRex) has helped, riding clubs open more than 800 miles of OHV routes are insured through private land. More than 70 dealers and 26 OHV clubs are TrailRex extravaganza this year with dozens of major sponsors on board.

For more information and buy tickets online, go to or call www.trailrex.com 888-OHV-EXPO. Most importantly, have fun!

Some of the many sponsors and race leaders include: Can-Am, Moose Racing, Full Tilt MotoComm production, 4-Wheeling 4 Healing, Capitol City Truck Center, Electric City Riders, New York State Power Sport Dealers Association, Nytro eastern Baden-Württemberg , Quad X Rock Maple Racing, Upstate New York Extreme, Collar City Auctions Realty & mgmt Inc., OK Auto 4WD & Tire, Pit Bull Tires Tamarack ATV Accessories, want it now ad Digest.com, Tom Wood's Custom Drive shafts, mud Tech Inc

Tips For Your First 4-Wheeling Trip Off Road

In preparation for your first off-road adventure, here are some things to do before you ever leave home:
1. Make sure you know your vehicle well. It's important to recognize your limits and those of your vehicle and not to exceed them.

Know how your 4x4 system works and how to use the controls.
Know where the spare tire and jack are located and how to use them.
Know your vehicle's dimensions - height, width, length, approach angle, departure angle and ramp angle - so that you can pass through tight areas without damage.
Know where the lowest point of clearance is - usually the differential casing.
Get used to driving your 4x4. Get a feel for its size and driving characteristics.
Practice using the low ratio gearbox.
If your vehicle is equipped with manual locking hubs, try them out.
Know where your engine's air intake and engine computer are located so you'll know the maximum depth of water that you could cross.
Keep track of maintenance on filters, belts and hoses and keep all fluids topped up.
2. Be prepared. You never know when you'll find yourself stuck or broken down, without help around, so be sure to pack all of the appropriate "emergency" supplies. And be aware of changing weather conditions before you go.
3. Travel with at least one passenger, and at least one other vehicle whenever possible.

4. Let someone know where you are going, and set a time to contact them to let them know you are okay. Don't forget to take along their phone number, the local sheriff's phone number, in case of an emergency. And don't follow-through by calling at the pre-arranged time, so they don't send out the search teams for you!

5. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and ready for the off-road experience. Before leaving civilization, do a complete check of your vehicle before leaving. Make sure your tires (including the spare) are in good condition and inflated properly. Look under your vehicle for any leaks or mechanical problems. Make sure all of your fluids are topped off. Check the condition of your steering and brakes. All repairs should be carried out before leaving home.

6. Pay attention to how you load your vehicle. Loads should be distributed evenly within the vehicle if possible. Loads behind the rear axle will sag the rear of the vehicle, limiting your departure angle and clearance. If you have a roof rack fitted, be aware of weights and how they are distributed. Excessive loads will change the center-of-gravity, thus making the vehicle less stable. Also, remember the additional height of your vehicle due to the rack.

7. Always know where you are, where you're going, and which route you intend to take. Be time-conscious... What may look like a short trip on the map may take many hours in 4-wheel drive -- so allow enough time for safe travel.

Safety Precautions Before Going Offroad

4WD vs 2WD

The common assumption is that 4x4 means all four wheels are driven at the same time. However, this isn't necessarily true. When a vehicle negotiates a bend, the differential in the axle compensates for the fact that the outside wheel travels further than the inside one does. Thus, it allows a speed differential to exist between the two wheels.

Being a mechanical device, the differential abides by the laws of physics which state that energy always takes the easiest route. So, if one wheel is on a slippery surface (like ice) then all the energy will be sent to that wheel and away from the wheel with traction. The end result is that you lose all forward motion!

When four-wheel drive mode is engaged, the front and rear axles are locked together, so at least one wheel on each axle can be driven by the engine effectively.

You can force a 4x2 vehicle to act similar to a 4x4 on occasion by gently pressing the brake pedal to slow down the wheel that's spinning and transfer energy to the wheel with traction.

4 x 4 (4WD) - Describes a vehicle with four-wheel drive. The first figure is the number of wheels. The second is the number of powered wheels.

4 x 2 (2WD) - Refers to a two-wheel drive vehicle with four wheels. The first figure is the number of wheels. The second is the number of powered wheels. With a 4x2, engine power is transmitted to only two wheels, usually the rear.

Part-Time 4WD - Refers to a four-wheel drive system that operates on-demand and drives all four wheels by locking front and rear axles together via a shift lever. It usually includes two speed ranges (Hi and Lo). Part-time 4WD systems must be operated in 2WD mode on dry pavement, as they're designed to be used only in specific situations when extra traction is required.

Full-Time 4WD - Describes a four-wheel-drive system that can be operated continuously on all surfaces. A full-time four-wheel-drive system may include the option of part-time operation (allowing you to shift into 2WD on dry pavement for example), and may or may not have Hi and Lo speed ranges.

Automatic Four-Wheel Drive (A4WD) - This type of drive system automatically engages 4WD as needed. When internal monitors sense differences in individual wheel speeds, indicating that a tire is slipping, then 4WD is automatically engaged.

Shift on the Fly - This type of system allows manual shifting from 2WD to 4WD Hi without coming to a stop. Most systems have a speed limit at which you can engage the system; typically it's under 60 mph.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) - A full-time single-speed system designed to supply drive power to all four wheels. The percentage of front/rear power delivery varies from system to system.