9 Tips for Keeping Your Jeep Trail Ready
HITTING THE TRAIL
For off-road enthusiasts, there is nothing like a day of rock crawling or trail riding.
Whether you drive a Jeep, truck or SUV, you need your vehicle in top condition to tackle
the trail. Ensuring that your off-road vehicle is ready for your next adventure starts when
you come home. Follow these tips to ensure that your Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, Chevy Silverado, Ford F-150 or Jeep Gladiator is ready for the next trip.
PROTECT THE UNDERCARRIAGE
Rock crawling and trail riding can take a toll on your vehicle, especially the undercarriage of your vehicle where branches, rocks and road debris can damage important components. Protect vulnerable under-vehicle components with Rancho® rockGEAR®. Made from premium materials for strength and durability, rockGEAR offers a wide variety of protective gear for Jeep Wrangler JL, JK, and TJ/LJ, Jeep Gladiator JT, and Ford Bronco. Depending on your application, choose from:
- Differential cover
- Differential glide plate
- Shock & control arm skid
- E-brake line relocation bracket
- Tube doors
- Extended length brake lines
- Lower control arm glide plate
INSPECT SUSPENSION PARTS
Keeping suspension parts like shocks, struts and control arms in proper working condition is critical to ensuring your vehicle is trail ready. Inspect these parts on a regular basis for signs of damage and make any necessary repairs. Replacing worn parts reduces the risk of damage to additional parts.
GREASE MOVING PARTS
Ensure that moving parts like joints and bearings are in working condition by greasing them on a regular basis. This helps your vehicle maintain maneuverability and avoid premature wear.
CHECK ALL BOLTS
Rock crawling and trail riding can cause your vehicle to move and vibrate which can loosen bolts and fasteners. Make it a habit to check all bolts and fasteners after a day on the trail and tighten any that have come out of specification. Don’t forget to check roof racks and other accessories.
CHECK AIR INTAKE SYSTEM
Off-roading can expose your vehicle’s engine to dust and dirt which can clog the air filter, reducing the performance of the engine. Clean air is crucial to the efficient operation of your vehicle. Inspecting and cleaning or replacing the air filter when needed ensures that it takes in clean air and prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine.
BE PREPARED
Make sure your rig is stocked with everything that you might need for a day on the trail. From recovery equipment and tools to safety and survival gear, carrying some basic items is your assurance that you can handle the unexpected.
PERFORMANCE BASIC MAINTAINANCE
Taking care of routine maintenance goes a long way to ensuring your Jeep is ready for your next off-road adventure. Change the oil, rotate the tires, change brake pads, get an alignment, replace windshield wipers and monitor fluid levels. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended service schedule for your vehicle.
ADJUST TIER PRESSURE
Adjust the pressure in your tires to match where you’re driving. For trail riding, consider airing down your tires to soften the ride and improve contact with obstacles. After your adventure, don’t forget to adjust the tire pressure back to recommended levels for road driving.
WASH YOUR VEHICLE
A day on the trail can leave your rig caked with dirt, mud and debris like vegetation, leaves and twigs. Thoroughly wash your vehicle to avoid rust, scratches and premature wear of components.
Learn more about performance shocks, find your performance suspension part, or find where to buy your shock or suspension part today.
The content in this article is for informational purposes only. You should consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have questions relating to any of the topics covered herein. DRiV and its affiliates (including Federal-Mogul Motorparts LLC) will not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.