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04 Apr 2019

Middle East - 4/4 is Jeep® 4x4 Day

Since 2016, the Jeep

Middle East - 4/4 is Jeep® 4x4 Day

 

  • April 4 is Jeep® 4x4 Day, a special event dedicated to all Jeep fans and off-road enthusiasts.

 

Since 2016, the Jeep® brand has officially celebrated Jeep 4x4 Day on April 4. The date was not picked at random and is dedicated to all fans of the brand and enthusiasts under the banner of the number four, which, in this instance, is particularly significant. So April 4 (or 4/4) is the logical date for Jeep 4x4 Day. 

 

There are also four letters in the name “Jeep” and there are four key brand values - authenticity, freedom, adventure and passion. There are also four natural elements - water, air, fire and earth. And it is on earth that Jeep SUV’s have no limits courtesy of the legendary off-road capability that has always distinguished the entire range. An array of advanced four-wheel drive systems deliver unmatched 4x4 performance on all terrains and in all weather conditions and the sophisticated Jeep Selec-Terrain traction control system with four or five modes which is available on all 4WD versions of Jeep Renegade, Jeep Compass, Jeep Cherokee and Jeep Grand Cherokee provides the best performance needed to tackle any driving challenges.

 

In addition to being able to rely on the unparalleled structural, technical and technological features of the most awarded SUV range ever, it is recommended to follow a few key basic tips when driving off-road. Below is a short guide and helpful glossary for safe 4x4 driving.

 

Jeep tips for off-road driving

 

How fast do I drive? Speed and power are not required in rough off-road driving. In low-range 4WD, the low gearing and low speed of Jeep 4x4 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 (1.6 - 8 km/h).

 

How do I handle hills? When climbing or descending hills ALWAYS go straight up or down. 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 when using a manual transmission. When descending a hill in low-range, do not disengage the clutch and allow the vehicle to coast. 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. Never get sideways on a steep slope as this can lead to vehicle instability. Off-roading can be very challenging - remember, go as slowly as possible. Use common sense with safety as the foremost concern. 

 

What about climbing over rocks and other obstacles? 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. Manoeuver the tyre on top of the rocks and crawl over them slowly. If you hear scraping, don't panic. Your Jeep 4x4 vehicle's skid plates and rock rails (this equipment varies depending on what Jeep 4x4 vehicle and packages have been purchased) will take the brunt of the beating. Dropping tyre pressure 3-5 pounds (1.3 - 2.2 kg) improves traction and helps avoid tyre punctures. Always reflate your tyres to normal pressure after use in these conditions. Remember, the ideal speed for rock crawling is 1-3 miles per hour (1 - 4.8 km/h).

 

How should I behave on the trails? Always leave the trail in better shape than you found it. Observe posted signs and stay on trails and recreation areas approved for off-roading. Use your judgment in protecting the beauty and solitude of the area. And if the terrain looks especially fragile, take an alternate route.

 

Glossary

Approach Angle: The maximum incline to ascend before body or suspension touches

Break-Over Angle: The maximum angle to drive over without bottoming-out

Departure Angle: The maximum incline to descend before body or suspension touches

Wheel Articulation: The maximum distance each wheel can move up or down

Wheelbase: The centre-to-centre distance between the vehicle’s front and rear wheels

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