OFF ROAD "HOW TO" GUIDE... A "MUST READ" FOR FIRST TIMERS!

  
Club Info, Meeting Info, Minimum Club Requirements, Off Road "How To" Guide, Safety Topics, and Tread Lightly

OFF ROAD "HOW TO" GUIDE... A "MUST READ" FOR FIRST TIMERS!

Postby LOBSTER » Fri Aug 02, 2013 12:39 pm

OFF ROAD "HOW TO" GUIDE... A MUST READ!

Note: Original author was JeepBob in our old forum

Wow, lately, I've had a lot of questions from people who have never off roaded before for tips on what they should know and bring.

So, here is the beginning of what you want to think about/learn. This is not a full and comprehensive tutorial to off roading, it is just the beginning and you should research and learn proper techniques yourself. Please understand that while I have tried to provide an outline/guide, you are ultimately responsible for your driving/riding decisions and no guide is an absolute instruction for every possible scenario. Please refer to real experts, I'm just a guy trying to help a bit by passing along some info I've come across.

Operate or ride in any vehicle on or off road, at your own risk.

(Thanks to Jeep.ca for some of the content)
______________________________________________________________________________________

Basic Off Road "How To".

BE PREPARED
Always check your vehicle before going off-road. Make sure your battery is fastened, all hoses are in good condition and oil and fluids are topped off, including fuel. Also be sure that all five tires are in good condition and have the proper tire pressure. Start with a roadworthy vehicle.

Do not travel alone, especially into unfamiliar territory.

BE ON THE LOOKOUT
Once off-road, put your vehicle in 4WD whenever you anticipate a situation that will demand the additional traction. It's difficult to engage 4WD after you get stuck. You'll also want to get into the habit of looking over your hood, scanning left to right so you can clearly see what you're approaching on the trail. If you're just watching the left tire, there's a good chance you'll get the right tire in trouble.

Avoid putting your head outside the vehicle to see what's coming (that's what Wrangler's folding windshield is for). Also, many trail masters recommend keeping your thumbs up and out of the way of the steering wheel spokes in rough terrain. For example, if your tire suddenly falls off a rock, your steering wheel could quickly rotate and catch your thumb with a spoke — ouch! Generally, vehicles with power steering, like all Jeep® vehicles, lessen the chance of sudden steering wheel rotation.

To enhance safety a spotter may be used to guide you over, through or around an obstacle. The spotter is your pair of eyes outside of your vehicle and will give you directions to guide you over your challenge and spot and advise of any hazard.

While hand signals are often used, keep one window on each side open or partially open to be able to hear verbal directions from the spotter. It is wise to choose an experienced off road driver to be your spotter.

TAKE IT EASY
Speed and power are not required in rough off-road driving.

In low-range 4WD, the low gearing and low speed of Jeep® vehicles at idle will generally pull you over obstacles.

In many cases, with manual transmissions, letting the clutch out slowly and allowing the vehicle to crawl over obstacles in the lowest gear is the best scenario. As a matter of fact, on the Rubicon Trail, the average speed is a mere 1-5 miles per hour.

AIR DOWN
You want maximum traction when you venture off road. One of the most effective techniques to increase off-road traction is to air down your vehicle's tires. A simple drop in pressure can be the difference between making it up and over, or simply spinning your wheels.

Airing down will give you more traction off road, whether you're in sand, snow, dirt, rocks, or mud. It is recommended going down to as low as 15 lbs. of air for wheels without bead locks when going off road. When running a lower pressure, you'll want to keep an eye on things, just to be on the safe side. After all, popping a bead won't be much fun on the trail.

The most important thing about airing down is actually airing back up. You do not want to drive on the paved roads with tires that have been aired down below the recommended pressure. Driving at speed on aired-down tires can cause damage to the tire, and possibly cause a blow out. So, be sure to air those tires back up before returning to the pavement.

Do not air down if you have not made arrangements or have the equipment to air back up. Do not rely on others to air up as the portable compressors heat up a lot and can only do so many tires.

The group will drive to a off-roading area, and air down at the entrance to the area or trail-head.

Watch on youtube.com


AIRING UP
There are a number of high volume portable 12V air compressors and air accessories that you can take use to air back up. Such a compressor is a very wise investment if you plan on offroading.

Many people have different opinions as to how much to air down when off roading, so find what works for you and your setup. But be sure to be careful, and air up before venturing back onto the pavement.

image.jpg
12V High Volume Portable Air Compressor

SNOW AND MUD
Generally, when snow or mud is present on the driving surface, it is the right time to engage your on-demand or part-time 4WD system.

In heavy snow, when pulling a load, or for additional control at slower speeds, shift the transmission to a low gear and shift the transfer case to 4WD-LOW if necessary.

Don't shift to a lower gear than necessary to maintain momentum. Over revving the engine can spin the wheels and traction will be lost. If you begin to lose traction in snow or mud, turn your steering wheel back and forth rapidly (1/4 turns). This will generally help the wheels bite into fresh terrain and pull you through. If traction is lost, STOP.

Wheel spinning will just dig you in deeper. The key is to maintain forward momentum.

Snow will make some climbs like rock ledges more percarious because of reduced traction.

Deep mud creates a great deal of suction around the tires and is very difficult to get through. You should use second gear (manual transmission), or DRIVE (automatic transmission), with the transfer case in the 4L (Low)position to maintain your momentum. If you start to slow to a stop, try turning your steering wheel no more than a 1/4 turn quickly back and forth for additional traction.

Mud holes pose an increased threat of vehicle damage and getting stuck. They are normally full of debris from previous vehicles getting stuck.

As a good practice before entering any mud hole, get out and determine how deep it is, if there are any hidden obstacles and if the vehicle can be safely recovered if stuck.

Snow or Mud can reduce the cooling system effectiveness by depositing debris onto or around the radiator. After going through snow or mud, it is wise to ensure there is no restrictive buildup around your radiator.

SAND
For better traction in sand, drop air pressure 10-12 pounds below normal pressure on conventional tires. (Return to normal pressure after use in these conditions).

Try high-range 4WD to maintain forward momentum. Depending on the condition of the sand, low-range 4WD and alternative gear selections may be necessary. Consider using 4 Lo if you are driving a standard and find you are clutching and shifting often.

Make wider turns where possible. Tight turning slows the vehicle abruptly and can get you stuck.

Again, maintaining forward momentum is key. Make gear and transfer case selection in accordance with the conditions you encounter.

Watch on youtube.com

Watch on youtube.com

HILLS
When climbing hills ALWAYS go straight up or down.
Let's say that again...
When climbing hills ALWAYS go straight up or down.

That is, perpendicular to the grade and not diagonally.

It's also smart to know what's on the other side before going up.

At the base of the hill you should apply more power. Ease up on the power as you approach the top and before going over the crest. If you stall on the ascent, back STRAIGHT down the hill in reverse.

For downhill travel, always use the lowest gear with a manual transmission. When descending a hill in low-range, do not disengage the clutch and allow the vehicle to coast. Severe damage to your clutch disc may result. Allow the gears and engine compression to slow you down, using the brakes only to fine-tune your speed.

If equipped with an automatic transmission, use low-range and the lowest drive setting.

The foregoing is different if the slope is traction compromised. For example, if you are in the lowest of gears and are going down a slippery, icy, or wet slope, being in too low a gear may cause your wheels to lock and slide. Match your gear and transfer case settings to terrain conditions.

Do not shift down in mid decline for additional engine braking on a slippery surface going down hill. The drive wheels could lose their grip and the vehicle could skid, causing an accident or personal injury.

NOTE: NEVER drive up or down a hill at an angle. If the hill is very steep and you don't feel confident that you or your vehicle can make it up, don't attempt it.

Do not go down a hill in neutral.

Never get sideways on a steep slope as this can lead to vehicle instability (rollover). Off-roading can be very challenging. Remember, go as slow as possible. Use common sense with safety being the foremost concern.

Leave enough time/room between yours and another vehicle that is completing an obstacle. For example, if one Jeep is starting up a steep hill, wait until it has cleared the top before proceeding to attempt the same climb. If the first vehicle stalls or loses traction, it may roll or slide backward an collision may occur.

Do not stand or park downhill to a Jeep attempting a hill climb or decent. Don't stop or park just past of a hill crest.

ROCK CRAWLING
We call it "crawling" for a reason.

Use a low gear and low-range 4WD and just let the vehicle crawl and idle (with as little throttle as needed) when going over obstacles like rocks or logs.

Never straddle rocks. A vehicle with 10 inches of ground clearance will not go over a 12-inch rock! Maneuver the tire on top of the rocks and crawl over them slowly. If you hear scraping, don't panic. Your Jeep® 4x4's skid plates and rock rails (this equipment varies depending on what Jeep 4x4 and packages have been purchased or leased) will take the brunt of the beating. Be aware of your vehicle's undercarriage vulnerabilities, skid plates recommended.

Dropping tire pressure 10 - 12 pounds improves traction and helps avoid tire punctures. (Return to normal pressure after use in these conditions).

Remember, the ideal speed for rock crawling is 1-3 miles per hour.

Watch on youtube.com

Watch on youtube.com

WATER
Plain and simple, if you don't know, don't go.

Water depth can change rapidly and be precarious. If there is a row of Jeeps taking a line through some water, dont cut a corner sharp or move out of the line. Under water terrain can change quickly, which can result in your doing instant submarine impressions. This is dangerous to your safety, and can be very damaging to your vehicle and property.

Also consider fast moving currents when attempting to do a water crossing.

Refrain from using your clutch while in water.

Be aware or your engine air intake location, water in your air intake will likely result in serious engine damage.

Muddy waters can reduce the cooling system effectiveness by depositing debris onto the radiator. If this occurs, clean the area.

Image
Image

TREAD LIGHTLY!
Leave it better than you found it.

Observe posted signs and stay on trails and recreation areas approved for off-roading. Use your good judgment in protecting the beauty and solitude of the area.

Don't leave anything behind and, better yet, pick up and remove any trash that others have discarded. And if the terrain looks especially fragile, take an alternate route.

If you come across obvious construction areas or areas where there is activity from another group or user of the land, be respectful, steer clear. For example, there is often a large sand hill at the entrance of one of our regular off roading destinations. It is there for use by the municipality for road maintenance. Do not drive up the hill and knock down the pile they have created.

Tread Principles

OTHER TRAIL USERS
Yield to other users of the land. Be aware of other traffic from All Terrain Vehicles, dirt bikes, mountain bikers, snowmobiles, hikers, horses etc. If you are aware of the presence of other traffic in your area, ensure your headlights are on, (highbeams even) and exercise extra caution cresting hills and around blind spots.

Give consideration to position you may stop or park your Jeep relative to other traffic. For example, do not park just down from a hill crest or around a blind corner. If you become stuck in such a position, place your shovel standing up or some other object at the blind approach to warn others of your location/the hazard. Or, have a friend stand in a position to warn the others.

Explore Jeep Capabilities | 4x4 Off Road Guide

ASK QUESTIONS
Educate yourself on off road driving techniques, watch, listen and learn. Do not be afraid to ask questions. There is no shame in not attempting anything you are uncomfortable with. If you are becoming uncomfortable, ask another driver if you can park your Jeep and ride along with him/her for a while, it's ok... we all rather get in safe and leave safe. Seek information from multiple resources, and formulate your opinion of how you want to off road.

NO ONE GETS LEFT BEHIND
It is customary to also never leave another behind if they are stuck or in trouble. No matter your skill or resources, when you participate in a off road run, you commit to being there, staying to help others as they may need. The same will be extended to you.

RECOVERIES
Stand clear of straps, winch lines or ropes when a recovery is in progress. If one of these break free, they can become dangerous projectiles.

Do not use chains or ropes with metal hooks for recoveries.

Follow the instructions of the tools/products you use.

Kinetic Energy straps are recommended. Typical straps are nylon web with loops at both ends no chain ends or metal hooks. Ideally at least 3" x 30' long, recovery strap with a 27,000 lbs or higher rating.

Watch on youtube.com

image.jpg
Recovery Strap
image.jpg (18.23 KiB) Viewed 22354 times

CHILDREN AND PETS
Keep children and pets safely away from moving vehicles, and recovery scenarios. If vehicle repairs are required, keep childten away from jacks and jack lifted vehicles.

If you decide to bring the kids or pets, you are responsible for them for the duration of the run.

STAY WITH A GROUP
Stay with the group or if the run has broken off into smaller groups, stick with one of the groups. If you are going to leave a group, let others know, and let them know your plans. This is where a CB comes in real handy.

WHAT TO BRING
This is a basic list of things to consider/bring off road. This is really only the basics, and you should step up your "preparedness" dependent on the destination, and it's terrain...

MANDATORY:
-Tow hooks front and rear - ball type hitches do not qualify - clevis mounting locations OK, tow hooks must be bolted - not welded. Example: Factory Wrangler Hooks Acceptable. Do not use chains for any portion of the recovery.

-Prepare to pack out what you brought in. No littering, no cig butts left behind.

-Do not drink/consume drugs and drive.

-All vehicles must have valid registration, insurance, licensed driver... ORV plate is acceptable off road.

-Recovery strap - For example, a nylon web strap, with loops at both ends no chain ends or metal hooks. Ideally at least 3" x 30' long, recovery strap with a 27,000 lbs or higher rating. Kinetic energy straps are often used.

-Wear your seat belts

-Open top Jeeps must have at a minimum the factory roll-over bar protection

-Be aware of your vehicle's undercarriage vulnerabilities, skid plates recommended.

Acceptable stock front JK tow hooks:
Image
Rear trailer hitch clevis mount:
Image
Image
Alternate trailer hitch hook:
Image
Jeep Wrangler JK with factory tow hook, see it toward the left there...
Image
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED:
-CB radio (avoid stainless steel whip type antennas) If you're just trying out offroading for the first couple times, it is acceptable to not have a CB, but if you're getting into more runs, this becomes more of a mandatory.

-Pack a lunch, bring drinking water for the day.

-Bring a roll of toilet paper.

-Tires of the type and condition suitable for off road travel.

-Items in your passenger compartment should be secured.

-First Aid Kit (Costco has a great kit for around $30., if they don't have them in store, go to Costco online)

-Fire extinguisher (If you need one see Travis at Reliant Action Ltd. "real. Safety Solutions" 1708 St. James Street, club discounts)

-A spare ignition key in case you lose your key or lock it in your vehicle

NICE TO HAVE, BRING AS MUCH OF THE FOLLOWING THAT YOU CAN:
-Basic hand tools/tool box
-Extra fluids oil/coolant/trans fluid, fan belts, hoses, spare alxes, u-joints, zip ties, penetrating oil (know your vehicle weaknesses) etc
-Rags or paper towels
-Full size spare tire
-Ratchet straps
-Axe
-Booster cables
-Clevis
-High lift jack
-Your wheel lock key
-Shovel (spade)
-Tire pressure gauge
-High Volume portable air compressor for tires
-Change of footwear and socks
-Change of pants
-Rubber or waterproof boots
-Work gloves
-Winch /tree saver /snatch block
-Flashlight
-Clothing suitable to the conditions. In the winter, this means more than runners and a jacket. Snow suit, waterproof pants, boots, gloves, hats etc. In the summer, layers as it can be cool in the mornings, but very warm in the afternoons. Sun/cloud/wind can change how a day feels. Footwear suitable to the terrain.
-(Seasonally) Sunscreen/bug repellent

ON ROAD CONVOY
If the group is travelling on highway together, please be courteous to other users of the road. Following distance should be such that a vehicle overtaking would have room to return to the right lane between any of the vehicles in the convoy. Drive in a manner that helps facilitate traffic flow. Assist other drivers in completing a pass if they want to go faster by giving them room.

Keep to the right lane, except to pass or for left turns.

Use signals and ensure your headlights are on.

Wear seatbelts and observe the rules of the road.

See also: Equipment & Rules

Some of our members on a trip to Moad, Utah...
Watch on youtube.com

From a 2012 Wrangler's owner's manual...

FOUR–WHEEL DRIVE OPERATION

(COMMAND-TRAC I OR ROCK-TRAC)
Operating Instructions/Precautions
The transfer case provides four mode positions:
• 2H (Two-wheel drive high range)
• 4H (Four-wheel drive high range)
• N (Neutral)

In the event that additional traction is required, the transfer case 4H and 4L positions can be used to lock the front and rear driveshafts together, forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. This is accomplished by simply moving the shift lever to one of these positions.

The 4H and 4L positions are intended for loose, slippery road surfaces only and not intended for normal driving. Driving in the 4H and 4L positions on hardsurfaced roads will cause increased tire wear and damage to the driveline components.

The “4WD Indicator Light” (located in the instrument cluster) alerts the driver that the vehicle is in four-wheel drive, and the front and rear driveshafts are locked together. The light will illuminate when the transfer case is shifted into the 4H position.

NOTE: Do not attempt to shift when only the front or rear wheels are spinning. The transfer case is not equipped with a synchronizer, and the front and rear driveshaft speeds must be equal for a shift to take place. Shifting while only the front or rear wheels are spinning can cause damage to the transfer case.

When operating your vehicle in 4L, the engine speed will be approximately three times (four times for Rubicon models) that of the 2H or 4H positions at a given road speed. Take care not to overspeed the engine.

Proper operation of four-wheel drive vehicles depends on tires of equal size, type, and circumference on each wheel. Any difference will adversely affect shifting and cause damage to the transfer case. In other words there needs to be 4 tires of identical size, and with similar wear.

Because four-wheel drive provides improved traction, there is a tendency to exceed safe turning and stopping speeds. Do not go faster than road conditions permit.

You or others could be injured if you leave the vehicle unattended with the transfer case in the N (Neutral) position without first fully engaging the parking brake. The transfer case N (Neutral) position disengages both the front and rear driveshaft from the powertrain, and will allow the vehicle to move regardless of the transmission position. The parking brake should always be applied when the driver is not in the vehicle.

SHIFT POSITIONS
For additional information on the appropriate use of each transfer case mode position, see the information below:

2H Position
This range is used for normal street and highway driving on hard-surfaced roads.

4H Position
This range locks the front and rear driveshafts together, forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. This range (4H) provides additional traction for
loose, slippery road surfaces and should not be used on dry pavement. The “4WD Indicator Light” (located in the instrument cluster) will illuminate when the transfer case is shifted into the 4H position.

N (Neutral) Position
This range disengages the front and rear driveshafts from the powertrain. It is to be used for flat towing behind another vehicle. Refer to “Recreational Towing” in “Starting and Operating” section of your owners manual for further information.

4L Position
This range locks the front and rear driveshafts together, forcing the front and rear wheels to rotate at the same speed. This range (4L) provides additional traction and
maximum pulling power for loose, slippery road surfaces only. Do not exceed 25 mph (40 km/h). The “4WD Indicator Light” (located in the instrument cluster) will illuminate when the transfer case is shifted into the 4L position.

NOTE: When in 4WD, the “ESC Off Indicator Light”
will display in the instrument cluster.

SHIFTING PROCEEDURE
2H to 4H or 4H to 2H
Shifting between 2H and 4H can be made with the vehicle stopped or in motion. With the vehicle in motion, the transfer case will engage/disengage faster if you momentarily release the accelerator pedal after completing the shift. Apply a constant force when shifting the transfer case lever.

4H to 4L or 4L to 4H
With the vehicle rolling at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift an automatic transmission into NEUTRAL (N), or press the clutch pedal on a manual transmission. While the vehicle is coasting at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h), shift the transfer case lever firmly to the desired position. Do not pause with the transfer case in N (Neutral). Once the shift is completed, place the automatic transmission into DRIVE or release the clutch pedal on a manual transmission.

NOTE: Shifting into or out of 4L is possible with the vehicle completely stopped; however, difficulty may occur due to the mating teeth not being properly aligned.

Several attempts may be required for clutch teeth alignment and shift completion to occur. The preferred method is with the vehicle rolling at 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h). Avoid attempting to engage or disengage 4L with the vehicle moving faster than 2 to 3 mph (3 to 5 km/h).

Warning: Failure to engage a position completely can cause transfer case damage or loss of power and vehicle control. You could have a collision. Do not drive the vehicle unless the transfer case is fully engaged.

TRAC-LOK REAR AXLE — IF EQUIPPED
The Trac-Lok rear axle provides a constant driving force to both rear wheels and reduces wheel spin caused by the loss of traction at one driving wheel. If traction differs between the two rear wheels, the differential automatically proportions the usable torque by providing more torque to the wheel that has traction Trac-Lok is especially helpful during slippery driving conditions. With both rear wheels on a slippery surface, a slight application of the accelerator will supply maximum traction.

WARNING!
On vehicles equipped with a limited-slip differential, never run the engine with one rear wheel off the ground. The vehicle may drive through the rear wheel remaining on the ground and cause you to lose control of your vehicle.

AXLE LOCK (TRU–LOK) "LOCKERS" — RUBICON MODELS
The AXLE LOCK switch is located on the instrument panel (to the left of the steering column on newer models, lower on the center stack on older models).

This feature will only activate when the following conditions are met:
• Key in ignition, vehicle in 4L (Low) range.
• Vehicle speed should be 10 mph (16 km/h) or less.

To activate the system, press the bottom of the AXLE LOCK switch once to lock the rear axle only (the “Rear Axle Lock Indicator Light” will illuminate), press the bottom of the switch again to lock the front axle (the “Front Axle Lock Indicator Light” will illuminate).

When the rear axle is locked, pressing the switch again will lock or unlock the front axle.

NOTE: The indicator lights will flash until the axles are fully locked or unlocked. To unlock the axles, press the top of the AXLE LOCK switch. Axle lock will disengage if the vehicle is taken out of 4L (Low) range, or the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position.

Watch on youtube.com


ELECTRONIC SWAY BAR DISCONNECT — IF EQUIPPED
Rubicons only. Your vehicle may be equipped with an electronic disconnecting stabilizer/sway bar. This system allows greater front suspension travel (articulation) in off-road situations.

This system is controlled by the SWAY BAR switch located on the instrument panel (to the left of the steering column on newer models, lower on the center stack on older models).

Press the SWAY BAR switch to activate the system. Press the switch again to deactivate the system. The “Sway Bar Indicator Light” (located in the instrument cluster) will illuminate when the bar is disconnected. The “Sway Bar Indicator Light” will flash during activation transition, or when activation conditions are not met. The stabilizer/
sway bar should remain in on-road mode during normal driving conditions.

To disconnect the stabilizer/sway bar, shift to either 4H or 4L and press the SWAY BAR switch to obtain the off-road position. Refer to “Four-Wheel Drive Operation” in Starting and Operating” of your owner's manual for further information.

The “Sway Bar Indicator Light” will flash until the stabilizer/ sway bar has been fully disconnected.

NOTE: The stabilizer/sway bar may be torque locked due to left and right suspension height differences. This condition is due to driving surface differences or vehicle
loading. In order for the stabilizer/sway bar to disconnect/reconnect, the right and left halves of the bar must be aligned / on level ground.

This alignment may require that the vehicle be driven onto level ground or rocked from side to side. To return to on-road mode, press the SWAY BAR switch again.

Do not disconnect the stabilizer bar and drive on hard-surfaced roads or at speeds above 18 mph (29 km/h); you may lose control of the vehicle, which could result in serious injury. The front stabilizer bar enhances vehicle stability and is necessary for maintaining control of the vehicle. The system monitors vehicle speed and will attempt to reconnect the stabilizer bar at speeds over 18 mph (29 km/h). This is indicated by a flashing or solid “Sway Bar Indicator Light.” Once vehicle speed is reduced below 14 mph (22 km/h), the system will once again attempt to return to off-road mode.

HILL DESCENT CONTROL (HDC) - IF EQUIPPED
HDC is only intended for low speed off-road driving.

HDC maintains vehicle speed while descending hills in off-road driving conditions by applying the brakes when necessary. There is a symbol on your dash that indicates the status of the Hill Descent Control (HDC) feature. The lamp will be on solid when HDC is armed. HDC can only be armed when the transfer case is in the “4WD LOW” position and the vehicle speed is less then 30 mph (48 km/h). If these conditions are not met while attempting to use the HDC feature, the HDC indicator light will flash on/off.

When enabled, HDC senses the terrain and activates when the vehicle is descending a hill. HDC speed may be adjusted by the driver to suit the driving conditions. The speed corresponds to the transmission gear selected.

Gear Approximate HDC Set Speed
1st 1 mph (1.5 km/h)
2nd 2.5 mph (4 km/h)
3rd 4 mph (6.5 km/h)
4th 5.5 mph (9 km/h)
DRIVE 7.5 mph (12 km/h)
REVERSE 1 mph (1.5 km/h)

However, the driver can override HDC operation by applying the brake to slow the vehicle down below the HDC control speed. If more speed is desired during HDC control, the Accelerator pedal will increase vehicle speed in the usual manner. When either the brake or the accelerator is released,

Enabling HDC
1. Shift the transfer case into 4WD LOW range. Refer to “Four-Wheel Drive Operation” in “Starting and Operating” for further information.

2. Press the “Hill Descent” button. The “Hill Descent Control Indicator Light” in the instrument cluster will turn on solid.

NOTE: If the transfer case is not in 4WD LOW range, the “Hill Descent Control Indicator Light” will flash for five seconds and HDC will not be enabled.

Disabling HDC
1. Press the “Hill Descent” button or shift the transfer case out of 4WD LOW range. The “Hill Descent Control Indicator” light in the instrument cluster will turn off.

For more information
Want to read more, or have something to contribute of your own? Fantastic! Please post it under the Articles, tips, tutorials, and info about off-roading topic.
"...because without pictures/videos, it didn't happen."
| Gary (plus Teresa, Jack, and Amelia) | Club Treasurer | 2013 JKUR in Rock Lobster |
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Re: OFF ROAD "HOW TO" GUIDE... A "MUST READ" FOR FIRST TIMER

Postby WAMPA » Tue Oct 28, 2014 9:30 am

Here is a great video that shows the benefits of disconnecting your sway bar. If you have a JK Rubicon its just a button press away, however manual sway bar disconnects are available for all Jeeps or you can just unbolt your sway bar links.

Make note of how tipsy the Jeep is climbing the first obstacle with with sway bar connected.
Watch on youtube.com
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