Owning a 4x4 vehicle is just one of the many steps to enjoy off-roading. It’s just the beginning of your journey. Just because your truck has a 4x4 mode, doesn’t mean it’s already tough enough to endure the rough conditions you will encounter on the trails. There are a few things to keep in mind before you venture into the natural terrain.
When you’re planning to go off-roading, a few things must be considered for your vehicle. Unless you want to risk getting stranded out in the wilderness, you have to know what truck parts and accessories are best to use for your vehicle when you’re driving off the beaten path. Before you ever consider going off-road, check out this list of truck upgrades.
Truck mods for off-roading
Off-roading is not just about crawling over rocks and bumpy roads. It takes many forms such as fording rivers, blasting down a dirt trail, climbing the dunes, as well as driving through deep mud. That’s why the bigger the obstacles, the more modifications your truck will need.
It is extremely important to know the trail conditions of the place you want to visit. This will help you get ready and find out what can be done to your 4x4 vehicle by upgrading, fixing, or modifying it to an absolute beast.
- Wheels and tires
If you select a nice set of wheels and tires for your 4x4, you’ll worry less when you drive on the trail. If the wheels and tires you’re using for your truck are not meant for off-road use, you’ll likely get some problems such you getting punctured or flat tires, as well as bent wheels.
Wrong size and type of tires to be used off-road could also lead you to get stuck on deep mud. It is not advisable to use stock rims and wheels when want to go off-roading. All-terrain tires are good to use for light off-roading. But for extreme conditions, mud terrain tires are recommended for your truck. This type of tire is created with deep grooves to keep the mud off. You can opt to install a lift kit for better tire clearance and allow you to fit 30-inch or bigger tires.
Since there are too many options and you have no idea where to start or what to buy, you can check out stores that offer tire and wheel packages. Check out the specifications of the tire and wheels products to see if they suit your needs and preference.
- Bumpers
Off-road bumpers are different in materials and design compared to factory bumpers. This aftermarket accessory is often made of steel to protect the engine components from damage in case of a collision with an animal. That may also happen when you go hunting. The off-road bumper is an integral part of the truck when you plan to mount a winch and other accessories like CB antennas, winch, and LED lights. It also adds style to your vehicle, making it look more aggressive.
Off-roading can get rough and in just a snap, problems may arise and it becomes dangerous. That’s why it is best to be equipped as you can. OEM bumpers can get easily cracked, scratched, and dented. They are not durable and can’t withstand rough road conditions. It is recommended to install a durable off-road bumper for your truck that can handle the amount of stress with off-roading.
- Winch
Whether you go on rocky, sandy, or muddy trails, there’s a big chance that your vehicle will get stuck. Getting a winch should be on your list of purchases for off-roading.
Having a winch gives you a leg up on other rigs when it comes to self-recovery, especially if you go solo on the trail. Recovery accessories and gears are important in off-roading because they can help in getting you out of many situations. A good winch can pull you or even other vehicles out of the predicament.
If you’re going to travel down muddy and sandy areas, as well as crawl through on regular days. A winch is extremely handy when moving a dead vehicle that cannot be jumpstarted. You can also use it when you’re bringing bulky and heavy items with a trailer.
Trail ready
Are you planning to go on an off-road trip this weekend? Before you step on the clutch, make sure that your 4x4 is properly equipped.
Preparedness in the wilderness is extremely important. These add-ons ensure your safety and will help in keeping you running along the trails. Building an offroad truck with the recommended parts and accessories must be done to ensure that it can withstand the rough terrains. But make sure to look for off-road-worthy upgrades that are specifically for your truck to ensure proper fitment. Functional upgrades mentioned here will also complement the superior performance of your truck.
