Offroading Primer
India’s first 4×4 guide
What’s Offroading/XOL?
Offroading or Extreme Overlanding (XOL) are self-drive expeditions through remote lands that are inherently expeditionary in nature and pegged around self-reliance, adaptability, resilience and resolve. Historically, this domain evolved from the overland journeys from Europe to Asia and Africa, where intrepid adventurers travelled the globe on terrain they did not know, mingling with cultures they had no idea about, while taking uncertainty and ambiguity in their stride. Over time, the tribe has increased, developing into a category in itself. These expeditions are different from mere road trips or overland drives on highways. They are offroad trips rooted in the unknown and involve terrain that is remote, extreme, bereft of creature comforts and luxury. Given the sheer nature of such journeys, they are premised on the fact that vulnerability, being out of comfort, seeds the beginnings of self-growth wherein learning, unlearning and relearning is part of a never-ending loop that makes you not just a better driver but a more balanced individual.
Driving Notes: 10 Commandments
- Get to know your vehicle. Know how the 4x4 system works and how to use it.
- Practice using the low-gear ratio.
- Observe the belly of the vehicle to find out where the lowest point of clearance is located. This will help you place the wheels well while avoiding any damage to the underbelly.
- Know where the engine’s air intake is located, so you’ll know the maximum depth of water you can cross.
- Note the towing points (both front and back) and where they are located.
- Recognize the various jack lift points for each wheel. Know where the jack and tools are kept in your vehicle.
- Know where your tow rope and D shackles are placed in the vehicle. Keep it handy and practice using it so that you are not trying to figure it out when the need arises.
- Every morning before you start, make sure you turn on your engine, keep it running for a while before actually driving off. Observe your tyres for any damage. Check tyre pressure and make sure it is even and in sync with the terrain. Open the bonnet and check levels of all oils, fluids prior to start of the drive and make sure they are at optimal levels.
- If you are in the mountains and the temperature is less than 5 degree centigrade, then a good practice to follow is starting the engine every 3 to 4 hours. Set an alarm, do this religiously, and there is no way the vehicle will trouble you.