4WDing is a fun and exhilarating way to experience the great outdoors and if it's your first time off the bitumen - you're in for a treat! Now it's not as simple as jumping behind the wheel and away you go, having a grasp of the 4WDing basics is the best way to ensure you not only have a ripper time but stay safe in the process. Check out our beginner's guide to 4WDing and let our BCFing experts point you in the right direction!
1. What is a 4WD?
We know that all cars have 4 wheels, so what's a 4WD? Well, ‘four-wheel drive' refers to a vehicles ability to send power to all four wheels simultaneously, which gives the vehicle increased traction and allows it to navigate tougher terrain like sand, mud, rocks and snow. It's important to know there are two main types of 4WD systems:
- Part-time 4WD: Which let you change between 2WD and 4WD depending on the situation
- Full-time 4WD: Which remains constantly in 4WD, although can usually have its torque distribution adjusted between front and rear axles
2. Understand how to use your vehicle's controls
If this is your first time owning a fourbie, it can be a little tricky getting used to where all the controls are. Spend some time familiarising yourself with how to engage your vehicle's 4WD system so that when you're out on the track you can practically do it with your eyes closed. This can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, but typically, you'll have a switch or lever you can use to toggle between 2WD and 4WD modes.
- Low-range 4WD (4L): This is for very challenging terrain. It provides more torque but reduces speed, making it ideal for steep climbs, deep sand, or thick mud.
- High-range 4WD (4H): This setting is best for moderate off-road conditions, giving you better traction while allowing for higher speeds.
3. What terrain are you driving on?
After getting a good grasp on your fourbie and how it works, the next thing you'll need to consider is the type of terrain you'll be tackling. It certainly isn't one size fits all when it comes to offroad driving, each type of terrain can handle differently and being able to adjust your driving accordingly is essential. One thing that remains the same though is speed, there is no need to rush as it's much easier to maintain control at a steady pace. Setting your tires to the correct PSI is a good place to begin and you can find some pointers for each type of terrain here.
- Sand: Taking a trip on the sandy stuff can be a heap of fun, but it also has its dangers. Whilst you might love going for a swim, your car certainly doesn't. So, it's important to know when the high tide is approaching, and factor that in when going for a drive. Choosing the correct tyre pressure is next on the list! Although sand can be firm it
- Mud: When it comes to driving through the mud, it can be really tricky to find that perfect speed! While a slow and steady approach normally gets the job done, if you drive too slow through the thick stuff you run the risk of getting bogged. That doesn't mean you put the pedal to the metal either. If you do get stuck, avoid spinning your wheels; instead, try to back out carefully or use a recovery board (the fourbie-lovers best bud).
- Rocky Terrain: This one's not for the faint hearted! Rocks can be unforgiving on your vehicle and need to be approached with caution. Driving too fast over rocky terrain is a surefire way to damage your vehicle. Instead, take it slow, keep an eye on your wheels, and use the correct gear ratio for stability. This is where having extra clearance comes in handy and prevents you from bottoming out. If you have a passenger in the vehicle, it is a good idea to get them to jump out and act as your spotter so they can help guide you through.
- Snow: Use your 4WD system and maintain constant speed. Avoid sudden stops, and make sure you have the appropriate tyres for handling snowy conditions. In some states you are required to carry snow chains, which are fitted to your tyres and add even more traction. If you plan on giving snow camping a crack while you're out there here are our 10 top tips for snow camping in Australia
4. Driving Techniques for Beginners
When driving off-road, it's essential to adopt proper techniques to avoid damaging your vehicle and to ensure your safety.
- Take your time: There's no prizes for going fast and It's much more important that you do things properly! Even if that involves getting out of the car so you can get a better look at the terrain and the path you plan on taking.
- Maintain Momentum: In soft terrain like sand or mud, it's often better to maintain steady momentum rather than trying to accelerate quickly.
- Avoid Wheel Spin: If your wheels start spinning, ease off the throttle. Spinning can dig you deeper into soft terrain and make the situation worse.
- Use the Right Gear: Always shift to low-range 4WD when tackling steep inclines or declines, especially when descending, to avoid damaging your brakes.
5. What gear do you need for going offroad?
Before venturing too far off the beaten track, you need to ensure your vehicle is equipped with at least the basic off-road kit:
- Tyres: Having the correct tyres is essential when heading off-road. All-terrain or off-road tyres will assist you on tricky terrain and offer better grip and durability
- Recovery Kit: You can't help getting bogged down from time to time, it's just part and parcel with heading off-road. Having the correct recovery kit will ensure that when the inevitable does happen, you're able to get yourself out of it no dramas! snatch straps, recovery boards, a shovel, and even a winch all come in handy. If you need some pointers on choosing the right recovery gear check it out here!
- First Aid Kit: Safety should always be a top priority, which is why having a first aid kit close at hand is so important. From snake bites to sprained ankles, a good kit will have you ready for almost any emergency.
- UHF/2 Way Radio:A great communications device that comes into its own when travelling on remote tracks where there's no phone reception. Allowing you to contact other vehicles in the area - a must-have when flying solo.
- Tyre deflators:A handy tool used to quickly and easily lower your tyre pressure. tyre deflators come in many shapes and sizes and should be kept close at hand when venturing off-road
- Air compressor: An air compressor is the easiest way to inflate your tyres when it's time to come back to the bitumen. No one trick pony, these bad boys can also be used to blow up many other inflatable items
- Spare Parts:The Aussie bush tends to leave no prisoners and can really do a number on your gear. Having a selection of spare parts with you like filters, bearings, tyre puncture repair kits and fluids can really be a lifesaver.
- Tool Kit: A set of basic tools can come in handy for minor repairs and adjustments on the go.
This is just a few of the must haves, but if you're chasing a comprehensive list of everything you might need check out our 4wd checklist!
6. Words of wisdom
Here are a few things to keep in mind when you get behind the wheel of a fourbie for the first time:
- Use the correct tyre pressure: Over-inflated tires can lead to less traction, which can cause all kinds of grief for the 4WD newbie. Make sure your tyre pressure is suitable for the task at hand. Don't forget to grab a tyre gauge and tyre deflator, so you can make adjustments on the fly.
- Work within your vehicles llimits:“She'll be right!” Something Aussies say far too often. Don't try to tackle terrain that's too tough for your vehicle – or your experience level.
- Select the right range for the task: While high range is perfect for most casual off-roading, don't be afraid to get low when you're dealing with soft sand, steep hills or deep mud – it's all about driving to the conditions!
- Pack the appropriate recovery gear:We've already mentioned recovery gear, but it's that important well talk about it again. Not only is it about carrying the correct recovery gear, but knowing how to use it!
- Go with a buddy:This will help make your offroad adventures a whole lot safer and will also add to the BCFing fun!
Getting behind the wheel of your very own fourbie opens up a whole new world of BCFing fun! That thrill and excitement you can only experience from heading offroad, but it's important to tackle it with the correct preparation and knowledge. From understanding your vehicle and the terrain, to learning the proper driving techniques and what gear to take with you, it all helps put you on the road to success - or maybe we should say offroad!