Badlands Off-Road Adventures

Make Outdoor Resolutions You Can keep

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2012-01-02

Make Outdoor Resolutions You Can keep

Photo by Frank at South Bay Truck

Well, it�s that time of year again. Time for handing out gifts, partying, stuffing our faces, having a jolly good time (too good, sometimes), and then the customary New Year�s resolutions. You know, that list of promises for the coming year that don�t last past Super Bowl weekend.

I�m here to add a new twist on that: a list of resolutions designed to get you more enthusiastic about outdoors and more involved in our exciting hobby. So while shedding pounds and cutting down on sweet are good for you, these steps are fun and have a higher probability of success!

As you know, we�re frequently under pressure by those who want to deny us access to public lands. By becoming more involved in our hobby, you help protect our privileges.

Please don�t be intimidated by the length. I don�t expect you to do all of them. Instead, pick three or four that you can accomplish. Some go quicker than others. Perhaps after accomplishing those you�ll want to add another one. Good for you. The more the merrier, as we say, and not just during the holiday season.

The key to accomplishing a goal is to make it �SMART�.

A SMART goals is:

Specific: It�s a well-defined task.
Measurable: Results are quantifiable. For example, 10 camping nights completed, 25 geocahes found, new bumper installed. You did it or didn�t do it.
Achievable: It�s good to set high expectations, but be sure you can accomplish the task. Otherwise, you will become unhappy and give up.
Relevant: It is a worthwhile use of time; not some busy work. You need to accomplish this task, and you will benefit from it.
Time-bound: The task is accomplished within a particular period of time. It has a deadline.

Here is an example of a SMART resolution: �I will update the expired meds in my first aid kit by the end of March, 2012.� It is very specific on what you will do, it is not hard and you know how to do it, therefore achievable, the result is an updated first aid kit. We know the deadline -by the end of March and it is easy to measure the results. It was done or not done

In no particular order, here are suggested resolutions for 2012:

Take more 4WD trips. Be specific � for example, schedule one day (or weekend) per month. Mark those on your calendar, so you commit yourself now.

Do one of the big adventures. Go on the Rubicon Trail or Moab trails.

Finish those vehicle upgrades. Pick one or two that are doable. Could be a new front bumper, swing-away rear bumper, roof rack, new axle, whatever you need.

Purchase necessary additional equipment for your vehicle. There are a lot of possibilities: navigation equipment, extra recovery gear, first aid kit, onboard air, a winch, and so on. What can you add this year?

Buy a new (or new to you) vehicle or another one you can take off road.

Become more disaster prepared. This applies to home and vehicle. Perhaps you could use a 72-hour kit for home or a go-bag for the vehicle. Refer to the FEMA website www.fema.org or these columns for more suggestions: Urban Disasters No Match For a Prepared 4-Wheeler and Your Gear Is Not Complete Without An Emergency Packet!

Obtain more training. Become a Tread Lightly! trainer. Take a first aid course or renew your accreditation if necessary. Sign up for one or two of my off-road skills courses. Find a course on GPS. The key is to schedule it now. Don�t put it off, or you�ll never do it.

Take your kids out. Commit to spending more outdoors time with your kids. Try to incorporate four-wheeling (they�ll enjoy it), but it�s important to enjoy more quality time with your kids.

Along those lines, teach your kids age-appropriate outdoor skills. These can include how to camp and start fires safely; how to use a map, compass, and GPS unit; knife safety; backpacking, tying knots; and so on.

Join all of these associations. Well at least one or two. These include
- California Association of 4WD Clubs www.Cal4wheel.com,
- California Off-road Vehicle Association www.corva.org ,
- Blue Ribbon Coalition www.sharetrails.org ,
- Tread Lightly! www.treadlightly.org,
- United 4Wheel Drive Associations www.ufwda.org.
Your support of and membership in helps keep public lands open to 4-wheelers.

Get a ham radio license. Ham radio gear is quite useful off-road. Plus, you can use it to participate in charity event and disaster training in your home community. Hamming is just plain fun - go to www.arrl.org. For a related column, see Communication Equipment is Critical for Off-Road Driving .

Once licensed, consider joining the Outdoor Adventure USA net www.oausa.net. We meet on VHF frequencies every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. PST to discuss outdoor related topics, including maintenance and repair, disaster preparedness, and useful gear, to name a few. Though we�re located in California, you can participate in our nets from anywhere in the country via IRLP (Connect to the Western Reflector node 9251).

Go geocaching; This is a great activity to get the kids involved. You can combine kids, 4-wheeling and navigation into every outing. Set a goal to find a certain number of geocaches. For example a SMART goal might be �With the kids, find and log 6 geocaches each quarter in 2012�. Start at the geocache web site http://www.geocaching.com/ and start with geocaches close to home.

Commit to bring back a full Trasharoo each outing. Pick up trash you see on the trails. http://www.trasharoo.com/iWeb/TRASHAROO%20/About.html

Give talks to area groups about 4-wheeling. Help dispel the myths, and encourage others to join the fun hobby (or at least support it). Talks to service clubs (Rotary, Lions, etc.), Chamber of Commerce meetings, and civic clubs.

Write about our hobby. Use blog posts, tweets, Facebook comments, letters to editor of local papers, and other venues.

Contact radio and TV stations and offer to be interviewed. This is especially important when negative stories break. Our hobby needs eloquent people to present a good side to four wheeling.

This may seem like a daunting task, but once you accomplish a few of these, you�ll find it�s a lot easier than shedding pounds and giving up doughnuts. Try it!

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Did you miss the previous articles?

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Major Events Planned for 2012

While we are on the subject of planning, Badlands Off-Road adventures, Inc. has a number of significant events on the schedule for this year. If you wish to participate, you need to start making plans soon. Some events have early due dates, may require significant preparations, have limited positions and require time off from work.

Easter Safari April 2 - 6 (registration cutoff Feb 15)

Wilderness Advanced First aid June 28- July 1 (WAFA)

Rubicon Trail a week in August

And of course we will have our Mojave Road and Death Valley Adventure Trips.

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Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

You still have time - but not much - to get into the Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Certification Clinic Jan 7, 2012. This year it will be held in Anaheim. You are encouraged to sign up for the Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Certification Clinic. This is a one day course. There is a minimal fee of $25 to cover class materials and handouts. It requires a commitment to teaching and spreading the word about Tread Lightly! Principles and outdoor ethics.

You can find out more details on line at http://www.4x4training.com/TrainingClinics/Tread.html .

And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Tread.

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GPS Adventure Weekend January 28th

This is a hands-on class combined with a weekend of camping and 4-Wheeling! You need to bring your own self-contained GPS receiver unit. The focus of the class is how to operate your GPS unit and how to use it for basic navigation in the field.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: GPS Adventure Weekend:

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#GPSAdventure

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Getting Started Off-road Driving Clinic January 14, 2012

The clinic is held in Hungry Valley State Vehicle Recreation Area near Gorman CA. This clinic is specifically designed to meet the needs of novice off-highway drivers or someone with a bit of experience who is looking for a more complete understanding. This is a one-day session. The session includes classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction. More Details...

You can register directly here

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Advanced Beginner Clinic January 15, 2012

The clinic is held in the El Paso Mountains near Mojave CA. The goal is to help you get a "better feel" for tire placement and to visualize the obstacles as they move into your blind zone. You will gain more behind the wheel experience combined with picking lines. The difficulty level is one step higher than the basic class and you can expect some pin striping. More Details...

You can register directly here

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Tire Repair & Hi-lift Jack Mini Clinic February 4, 2012

This 3 hour clinic will provide you with the knowledge and skills to repair the most common tire problems and to use a Hi-lift jack safely to aid you in the process. To drive confidently off-road learn how to:

Fix a bead
Plug a puncture
Break a bead
Replace a valve stem

You can find out more details on line at Tire Repair & Hi-Lift Mini Clinic:.

And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TireRepair.

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Additional February Clinics

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4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

These 2 four wheel drive radio shows you can listen to on-line or download as a podcast.

http://ernlive.com/shows/4-wheel-and-off-road-radio.html
On the left find a drop down called SHOWTIMES to select the podcast you want to listen to or down load.

http://www.the4x4podcast.com

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The Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Click here if you cannot see the full store

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
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If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2012, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

How to Survive Death Wobble

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-12-15

How to Survive Death Wobble

Caked on mud

It�s one of the more frightening experiences you�ll encounter behind the wheel. The vehicle is shaking so badly you think it�ll far apart and that you�re going to die. That�s why it�s called Death Wobble.

I hope you never experience it, but if you do, this column may help you survive with your wits intact (though you may still need a change of underwear).

Typically occurring between 45 and 55 mph, death wobble is caused by one or more problems with the front end or tires. That�s part of the problem. Drive train and suspension systems are so complex nowadays, it can be tough to pinpoint what caused the death wobble.

What to do if death wobble occurs

Before going into troubleshooting, we should review some of the steps to take in case you encounter death wobble and still need to get home.

The first step is to maintain your composure. Death wobble, as I mentioned above, is a terrifying experience. Slow down immediately and, if possible, pull off to the side of the road. Brake calipers will help slow down the death wobble too. Inspect your vehicle for any parts that are ready to fall off - tie rod ends, track bar, etc. You�re trying to determine if you can drive the vehicle home. If not, have it towed. Otherwise, you should be able to drive it, but keep your speed under 45 to prevent death wobble from reoccurring or try driving quickly thru the 45-55 trigger point. In most instances death wobble will not occur if you maintain a speed above the trigger point.

The tires deserve a quick check to see if you can solve the problem.

Mud caked on the tire creates an unbalanced tire.
Check that tire pressure is equal side to side on the front tires and that the tires are holding pressure. A loose valve stem can be leaking and is difficult to detect � so is a small stone wedged in the bead.
Check for wheel weights that are missing.
Check that the lug nuts are tight.

How to fix death wobble

Talk about complex!

In a 4WD vehicle, a contributing factor is the lift kit and large tires. They throw off the caster angle and other elements, thereby making the vehicle more prone to death wobble. There are ways to get around that, but first we need to thoroughly inspect the tires and front end.

We�ll assume first that you�ve had the lift kit on for some time with no problems. If death wobble occurs, it means something�s not right but we don�t suspect caster initially.

Determining the cause of death wobble requires a thorough inspection of the suspension and drive train, as well as the front tires.

Tires: Make sure there is no mud caked on them, especially on the inside. Mud causes a wheel to be unbalanced. If they�re relatively new and were balanced, you should be able to discount them. Also, check the tire pressure. Improper pressure side to side can cause a tire to wobble. Run through the same list above that you checked in the field
Steering links: Start the vehicle, and have someone roll the steering wheel back and forth about � turn continually while you watch each joint one by one. There shouldn�t be any movement on one side of the joint before the other moves.

Look at each end of the track bar. There should be no movement in either. (The track bar is one of the top suspects. Not only may the bushing be worn but also the bolts and the hole maybe elongated. All will need to be repaired)
Check tie rod ends at each wheel and at the pitman arm.
Look at each of the adjustment joints on the drag link and tie rod. There should be no movement where the rods are treaded into the joint. A telltale sign is if the joint lifts up and down as you rotate the steering.

Check the bolts that hold the steering gear box in place. Inspect the frame under the steering gear box for cracks.
Check the toe in. With a lift kit and big tires, you generally have almost no difference from front to back. In the absence of real specs, I would set the toe in to a maximum of 1/16 in.
Inspect the tires. Are they mounted properly? Is there any problem with the tire beads? Spin balance each tire even if you just had it done recently.
Check the caster angle. A lift kit tends to change the caster angle toward zero degrees, and sometimes even a positive angle position. Casters must be at a negative angle to operate properly. A minus 4 or 6 degree angle is generally required. Research the caster spec for your vehicle.

Dig deeper to solve a stubborn problem

Inspect the axle U-joints. They could be worn and have some play in them.
Check the wheel bearings. Lift each front wheel off the ground to check the wheel bearing. When you push and pull on the top and bottom of the tire you should have no play.
Check the ball joints. With a floor jack lift each end of the axle up at the steering knuckle. Just as the tire leaves the ground, the steering knuckle and the ball joint should move together.

The next steps in eliminating death wobble

Centramatic

If you have replaced all the bad parts, balanced your tires and you�ve set the caster to the proper angle, there are a couple last-ditch steps you can take. The second one, especially, isn�t ideal, but it can at least allow you to drive your vehicle.

Install Centramatic wheel balancers. They are designed to compensate for any anomalies in tire balance. http://centramatic.com

Toe out the tires. Doing so will cause the tires to wear out prematurely, but if it works at least you�ll eliminate the wobble. I would suggest small changes- � to one turn at a time of toe out until it helps.

As you can see, there�s a lot to consider when confronted with death wobble. Chances are, though, you will eliminate it while going through the steps I outline above. Then you can get back to enjoying your trips!

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Did you miss the previous articles?

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Gift Certificate

For Christmas consider a gift certificate for a Class or Adventure in 2012 Or
a Winching DVD as a Stocking Stuffer

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Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

There is a Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Clinic Jan 7, 2012. This year it will be held in Anaheim. You are encouraged to sign up for the Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Certification Clinic. This is a one day course. There is a minimal fee of $25 to cover class materials and handouts. It requires a commitment to teaching and spreading the word about Tread Lightly! Principles and outdoor ethics.

You can find out more details on line at http://www.4x4training.com/TrainingClinics/Tread.html .

And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Tread.

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic January 14, 2012

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Advanced Beginner Clinic January 15, 2012

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Tire Repair & Hi-lift Jack Mini Clinic February 4, 2012

Fix a bead
Plug a puncture
Break a bead
Replace a valve stem

You can find out more details on line at Tire Repair & Hi-Lift Mini Clinic:.

And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TireRepair.

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4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

These 2 four wheel drive radio shows you can listen to on-line or download as a podcast.

http://ernlive.com/shows/4-wheel-and-off-road-radio.html
On the left find a drop down called SHOWTIMES to select the podcast you want to listen to or down load.

http://www.the4x4podcast.com

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Christmas Ideas

For Christmas consider giving a gift certificate for a Class or Adventure in 2012

Or a Winching DVD as a Stocking Stuffer

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Any of these Item would make a good Christmas Gift from
The Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Click here if you cannot see the full store

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Mojave Green Can Bite You In A Whole New Way

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-11-11

Mojave Green Can Bite You In A Whole New Way

Saw this one on the Mojave Road

While going off road, especially in the southwestern part of the United States, people often wonder about snakes, rattlesnakes in particular.

Several rattlesnake species inhabit the United States, with the Diamondback and Mojave Green rather prevalent in the southwest (and most of Mexico). They are similar in appearance, but the Mojave Green rattlesnake is far more poisonous.

Found at higher elevations � in the 2,000 to 4,000 foot range � Mojave Green rattlesnakes (sometimes spelled Mohave) prefer grassy areas or scrub brush like creosote and mesquite. They have a diamond pattern down their backs like the Diamondback rattlesnake, but the pattern disappears near the tail. They derive their name from their blue green color.

Mojave Green feast on kangaroo rats, lizards, and other small critters. Unlike most snakes, Mojave Green young ones are snakes, not eggs.

Rattlesnake venom contains several poisons, chief among them being neuro toxins and hemo toxins. Neuo toxins affect the central nervous system, while hemo toxins cause you to bleed internally. Symptoms of a snake bite, which can take several hours to appear, include blurred vision, slurry speech, difficulty in swallowing and speaking, and respiratory failure. A rattlesnake has the capability of biting you but not injecting you. The young ones don�t have as much control over that process, so they�re more likely to inject you. Not all snake bites result in poison being injected, but you should treat all bites as serious matters.

According to Emedicinehealth.com , approximately 7,000 snakebites are reported in the United States each year, with five to 10 of those being fatal.

What makes the Mojave Green rattlesnake noteworthy is the potency of its venom, which by one estimate is about 16 times as toxic as the Diamondback rattlesnake venom.

What to do if you see a rattlesnake

Another one on the Mojave Road

The best way to avoid being bitten by a rattlesnake is to stay away. That sounds obvious, but some people find out the hard way. Most snake bites occur because the person has tried to handle or otherwise mess with the rattlesnake.

If you hear the distinctive rattle, stop and look carefully. Rattlesnakes can be difficult to see at times. Once you�ve located the rattlesnake, step away. Most rattlesnakes will slither away if you make any noise. Stomping or pounding the ground with a stick may help. Mojave Green rattlesnakes, however, tend to stand their ground. Give them a wide berth.

As is the case whenever you�re outdoors, remember to wear boots and long pants; long-sleeved shirts can help, too. Wear shoes and use a flashlight at night. Although they generally are more active during the daytime, rattlesnakes are known to feed at night. You may find one near your tent or the latrine.

What to do if bitten by a rattlesnake

The first step, as with all emergencies, is to avoid panicking. Keep a cool head and think this through. Realize that rattlesnake poison typically needs four to six hours to take full effect. Don�t drag your heels on this issue, but unlike what the movies suggest, bites from Mojave Green and Diamondback rattlesnakes don�t result in instant death to a human.

Remove any jewelry near the wound and loosen the clothing, as that part of the body may swell from the reaction. Don�t cut the wound. That will do more damage and won�t help at all.

Clean the wound and apply a bandage. (Do not apply ice or a tourniquet.) There is no need to kill the snake. When calling the hospital mention that the person has been bitten by a pit viper (the name for that class of snakes). There is just one anti-venom for all rattlesnake bites.

If possible, keep the person � or at least the affected body part � as still as possible. That will slow the flow of rattlesnake venom throughout the body. You may not have a choice in this matter, however. If the person was bitten while hiking, he will have to walk some distance if he can�t be carried.

Call 911 or the National Poison Control Center (800-222-1222) for help. Make sure the person gets to the hospital, even if there are no visible signs of poisoning. Bite wounds are severe, and must be cleaned properly. The doctor may also administer a tetanus shot as a precaution.

Anti-venom is administered through an IV. It generally takes about 30 minutes to administer a bag of anti-venom, and the person may need more than one. (There is no anti-venom you can take out in the wild. It is available only in a medical facility.) Medical staff will also observe the patient for some time to see if there is any allergic reaction to the anti-venom.

Because rattlesnake bites are so rare, not all hospitals carry the anti-venom. This is another reason to call for help as soon as the person is bitten. Give the hospital as much lead time as possible to obtain the anti-venom if needed.

While rattlesnakes are dangerous, they�re easy to avoid. Many people are fascinated when they encounter a rattlesnake, and use the opportunity to take interesting pictures. Think of your rattlesnake �experience� as an educational one. Just keep your distance.

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Did you miss the previous articles?

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T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Our goal is to cross through Johnson Valley, enjoying what it has to offer, and making our way North along the old Tonopah & Tidewater (T&T) Rail Road bed to the Rasor OHV, Afton Canyon and the western edge of the Mojave Preserve. On the way we will skirt the Rodman Mountain Wilderness and cross I-40. This adventure is 2 days of scenic, historical, light wheeling and a night ( 2 if you prefer) of primitive camping under the stars. We can plan a Dutch Oven pot luck for our evening meal.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/TTRailroad.html

Watch this video about the Tonopah & Tidewater RR
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZUQZv6TK24&feature=email

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TTRailroad

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic December 10

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Advanced Beginner Clinic December 11

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Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

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4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

These 2 four wheel drive radio shows you can listen to on-line or download as a podcast.

http://ernlive.com/shows/4-wheel-and-off-road-radio.html
On the left find a drop down called SHOWTIMES to select the podcast you want to listen to or down load.

http://www.the4x4podcast.com

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Christmas Ideas

For Christmas consider giving a gift certificate for a Class or Adventure in 2012

Or a Winching DVD as a Stocking Stuffer

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Any of Item would make a good Christmas Gift from
Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Click here if you cannot see the full store

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures,Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Damage Mitigation

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-10-14

Damage Mitigation

Almost 1000 miles new - on the Rubicon

Of all the concerns expressed by my newer students, #1 is damage to a new or expensive vehicle. That�s understandable. You buy this special vehicle, then decide to take it off road. The last thing you want to see are marks and scratches.

I understand how you feel. That first �ouch� really hurts. Usually it�s just some minor scratches or pinstriping. But you�re bummed nonetheless. Over time you�ll come to accept those, because you�re having so much fun. Even so, there are some ways to minimize the damage.

One problem with stock vehicles is that they don�t offer enough clearance on the approach and departure angle. You�re going to have some scrapes and dings on the bumper. You�re also likely to lose the air dam early on.

If you want to go off road, there�s no avoiding some abuse. You will have to accept a certain amount of bruising in order to enjoy the trails. But it�s worth it.

How to minimize damage to your vehicle

There�s one very easy way to avoid damage to a new car, which I�ll get to later. Let�s look at some steps you can take now. By the way, these suggestions apply to all vehicles and four-wheelers, not just new ones.

The best advice I can give to all drivers is: �Keep all four wheels on the ground and go slowly.� By driving slowly you can pick good lines, and feel your way through a rough patch. Ask one of your buddies to spot for you as you approach an obstacle. Realize that what�s under and really close to you is out of sight. Most of the undercarriage is pretty strong. You can scrape it but not hurt the vehicle. It�s when you go airborne and drop it on a rock or other hard surface that you experience big problems.

Another good tip is to watch the vehicle in front of you. Observe how that driver faced the obstacle; what did and did not work. It may also help to get out and study the obstacle. Your perspective from inside the vehicle is different.

Consider adding armor to your vehicle. Most off-road vehicles come with a skid plate over the gas tank and a small one over the transfer case. Add those if they are missing. Even if yours has a transfer case skid plate, you may consider swapping it for an after-market model. OEM pieces aren�t that strong.

A really important item, though, is rock rails. The bottoms of the rock rail protect you from the effect of sliding on rocks and other stuff. The rails stick out three or four inches, and allow you to pivot away from rocks on the sides. Rock rails are critical, because the side panels are really vulnerable.

If you have a new Jeep you might look into covering it with "Jeep Skins" to protect the paint. Check out http://www.jeepskins.com.

The best mitigating factor is driving experience. As you gain experience, you learn how to read a trail and how best to address or avoid an obstacle.

Avoiding obstacles not always best idea

You may wonder: Why not avoid obstacles all the time? Surprisingly, that�s not always the best advice.

Every trail has some sort of hazard. You can start on a mild trail, and then find yourself facing an obstacle that you can�t avoid. You may not be able to drive around it or back up. Perhaps conditions on the trail behind you have changed.

Other times a driver tries to drive around a rock and ends up off-camber. The vehicle is on a bit of a slope with its wheels spinning. The driver is stuck. Plus, the vehicle drifts when spinning the wheels and slides against the rock; now there�s no way to avoid damage.

In this case the better path would�ve been to pick a good, clean sight line up and over the rock. The vehicle would have been level and had traction on all four wheels.

It�s good for you to learn how to drive through these conditions. If you can go around something safely, that�s fine. Sometimes, though, the safest route is up and over the obstacle. It takes experience to make that call.

How to avoid damaging a new car

Buy a used car. Yep, that�s right. Keep the nice one at home, and take the other one off road.

However, I think by now you can see that even a new vehicle has its place on the back roads. Plus, you may not be able to afford another vehicle. Don�t deny yourself the fun and excitement of four-wheeling just because your vehicle is in pristine shape.

Follow the suggestions I�ve listed here, and you can enjoy the great outdoors.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Four-Wheeling Good for Families, Easy on Environment

4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

There are 2 four wheel drive radio shows you can listen to on-line or download as a podcast.

Petersen's 4Wheel & Off Road Radio

http://ernlive.com/shows/4-wheel-and-off-road-radio.html
On the left find a drop down called SHOWTIMES to select the podcast you want to listen to or down load.

The 4x4 PodCast

http://www.the4x4podcast.com

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Barstow to Vegas Aka Mojave Road - October 28

STILL TIME TO GO ON THIS TRIP!

On this trip we run the Mojave Road starting near Barstow and end up on the Colorado River about 95 miles south of Vegas. This is the way Miners traveling from LA made their way to the gold fields. Traveling the Mojave Road isn't a picnic but it is a great family style 4-Wheel drive trip / Expedition. It's a 3-day excursion, best made in convoy with other 4-wheelers. The Mojave Road was a main wagon trail for many years between the Beale wagon road in AZ and the West Coast. The terrain is mostly desert; some hills over the various mountain ranges; a dry lake; water crossings; canyons; and areas of soft sand. More Details

You can register at Barstow to Vegas Aka Mojave Road Registration

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T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Our goal is to cross through Johnson Valley, enjoying what it has to offer, and making our way North along the old Tonopah & Tidewater (T&T) Rail Road bed to the Rasor OHV, Afton Canyon and the western edge of the Mojave Preserve. On the way we will skirt the Rodman Mountain Wilderness and cross I-40. This adventure is 2 days of scenic, historical, light wheeling and a night ( 2 if you prefer) of primitive camping under the stars. We can plan a Dutch Oven pot luck for our evening meal.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/TTRailroad.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TTRailroad

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic November12

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Advanced Beginner Clinic November 13

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Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures,Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Four-Wheeling Good for Families, Easy on Environment

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-09-15

Four-Wheeling Good for Families,
Easy on Environment

Saline Valley from Salt Tram Station

When most laymen think of four-wheeling, their thoughts unfortunately are rarely positive. You know the criticism: We tear up the landscape. Scare away the wildlife. Pollute the environment. And burn through gas like there�s no tomorrow.

How often have you heard those? How have you responded?

You know you�re a responsible driver and a good steward of the land. You�re also quite proud of your hobby and your fellow drivers. So any criticism tends to cut to the bone. You�re inclined to lash out. Don�t. The best way to respond to those claims is with the facts. A calm, thoughtful reply will quiet just about anybody. Keep in mind that many people you encounter are neutral on the subject. Use those opportunities to talk up the hobby, also.

Inform the person that four-wheeling is possible without harming the environment. Responsible drivers adhere to the Tread Lightly principles. You know what they are, so state them:

T Travel responsibly on designated roads or trails
R Respect the rights of others
E Educate yourself: plan and prepare before you go
A Avoid sensitive areas
D Do your part

�You see,� you can tell the person, �we use our vehicles to help us explore places we could not otherwise. These can be exciting trails; exquisite views of nature, many in the mountains or other challenging places; ghost towns and abandoned mines; and wildlife like you�ve never seen.

�All the while we are respectful of nature. Many times we are camping, hiking, fishing or hunting. We are exploring and experiencing the outdoors, but we do so in a responsible manner. Plus, we often have to buy a pass or license to drive on those lands. Those funds help maintain the property and wildlife.�

Over 10,000 feet above sea level

Go on to explain how four-wheeling is a family affair. It�s a great time and healthy event that everyone can enjoy. These trips offer a chance to bond with spouse and kids, and teach them to appreciate and respect nature.

You can add that we use those trips to challenge ourselves and our vehicles. We are always careful and prepare properly before going off-road. By encountering and overcoming those challenges, we develop and hone our driving and survival skills, and build self-esteem in the process. These trips involve problem solving, team building, and other valuable skills. Camaraderie is strong during the excursions, and we develop friendships that last a lifetime.

Finally, we don�t burn as much gas as people think. Sure, our off-road mileage isn�t great, but we�re not driving every day. This is just a weekend hobby. And it�s usually only one weekend a month.

Occasionally during an expedition I will poll the group on what attracts them to this type of trip. Repeatedly I get responses like �spend time with friends and family,� �the solitude,� �beauty and nature,� and �exploring history.� There�s a lot more to going off road, but until you do, you really can�t appreciate it. Or understand why we do. That�s where you, my fellow enthusiasts, come in. Our hobby needs you to be spokesmen for the cause.

Introduce others to four-wheeling. Take them out for a leisurely drive one afternoon. Show them that an off road driving experience is like none other. Let them learn for themselves the value of our hobby.

Incidentally, you notice that I refer to four-wheeling as a hobby. I do that on purpose. If you call it a sport, people immediately figure there�s some competitive nature about it. That creates the image of cars recklessly tearing through the desert or some other sensitive area.

As you can see, there are a lot of positives to our hobby. Make a point to talk up four-wheeling whenever you can. You just may gain a new enthusiast.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Camp Cooking

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October and 2012 Schedule

It is almost time to get back to the Desert. We have a number of trips scheduled in October.

Death Valley
Mojave road
Barstow to Vegas

The 2012 schedule is now posted on the web site. There may be some fine tuning yet, but it seems "like a plan". When publishing a schedule so far in advance, some dates and events will predictably change - So check the web site or call as an event gets nearer. There will be a new weekend GPS adventure in January and a Wilderness Advanced First Aid Clinic in June. If you have other requests for training or adventures to consider next year, let us know. We might be able to work it in.

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Death Valley October 7

This is a 4 day trip on the back roads in Death Valley. We will drive the Panamint Mountains, drive past Badwater Basin (lowest spot in North America), visit Chloride Ghost town, Titus Canyon, check out Ubehebe Crater, Teakettle junction, The Race Track & Lippencott Mine Road, camp at the Warm Springs and leave via Steal Pass up to the high meadows, then take Dedeckera Canyon down to the Eureka Sand Dunes. All four days will see some light to moderate 4-wheeling. Much of the trip is quite remote with no cell service.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: Trip Details
You can register directly at Death Valley Registration

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Mojave Road October 15

We will follow the Old Mojave Road for 3 days. This was the earliest wagon road into California. We will visit tons of history and see some incredible views. The 4 Wheeling is quite mild. More Details

You can register at Mojave Road Registration

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T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Our goal is to cross through Johnson Valley, enjoying what it has to offer, and making our way North along the old Tonopah & Tidewater (T&T) Rail Road bed to the Rasor OHV, Afton Canyon and the western edge of the Mojave Preserve. On the way we will skirt the Rodman Mountain Wilderness and cross I-40. This adventure is 2 days of scenic, historical, light wheeling and a night ( 2 if you prefer) of primitive camping under the stars. We can plan a Dutch Oven pot luck for our evening meal.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/TTRailroad.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TTRailroad

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic October 01

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Advanced Beginner Clinic October 02

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures,Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Camp Cooking

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-08-23

Camp Cooking

Relaxing before preparing dinner

Sitting around a campfire enjoying a finely prepared meal with friends is one of the most pleasurable aspects of four-wheeling. A hearty meal tastes so good after a long day on the trail.

Two previous columns, Cook Anywhere, Anytime With A Campbox and Tickle The Tastebuds With A Dutch Oven, discuss particular aspects of off-road cooking. We�ll talk in more general terms here.

Cooking for an entire group is fun, but it�s also a fair amount of work. Rotate the cooking duties among the various families participating in your ride. Each family (or person) can showcase a favorite meal, thereby putting a distinctive flavor on the trip.

Each will bring what is necessary to cook the particular meal. But plan for contingencies. If, for example, one family has to leave camp early, perhaps they can transfer their food to other vehicles. Also, each family should bring extra food in case they get separated from the group.

Consider spreading some of the cooking gear among the vehicles. Some redundancy is good � take along two stoves, for example, even if you plan to use only one. But it�s not necessary to duplicate every item. As the length and remoteness of the trip increases, the issue of limited space and weight makes a planned group distribution of gear more appealing.

Half the fun of a trip is in the planning and that includes the assignment of meals and distribution of gear. However, it�s also important that each family learn to be self-sufficient. It�s a good skill to develop, and for the more demanding trips, it�s a necessity.

A view with breakfast

Some other items to consider:

It�s difficult to cook multiple dishes outdoors and make sure the food stays piping hot. Look for one-pot recipe ideas. A Dutch Oven or pressure cooker will keep your food nice and hot as it is served.
While shopping for items that require refrigeration after opening, look for smaller packages or jars and buy several of each. You may be able to consume an entire package or jar during one meal. If not, the smaller item will fit easier in the cooler.

Spread the extra condiments among the vehicles. If something happens to one vehicle, you will still have supplies for the group.

Avoid glass jars and bottles. There�s too great a risk of breakage while traveling on rough roads. (Plus, glass beverage bottles are prohibited on many public lands.) Look for products the come in plastic containers or squeeze bottles.

Consider ingredients that don�t require refrigeration (at least until opened). These include evaporated milk, Velveeta cheese, and others. It may require some ingenuity in substituting ingredients in the recipe, but that can be fun, too!
See if you can eliminate extra preparation equipment like bowls, pans, and such. For example, can you mix the cake batter in the same pan you are going to cook it in? Can the noodles be boiled in the same pan you are going to use to prepare the final dish?
Re-package items at home to eliminate bulk and trash. Measure out and take only the amount of ingredients you need for the recipes. For example, the one cup of rice you need can be stored in a ZipLoc bag. Leave the box at home.

Another example: Measure three cups of Bisquick into a Ziploc bag, put one cup of sugar in another Ziploc bag with 1 and � teaspoons of cinnamon and put that Ziploc inside the Bisquick Ziploc bag along with a Ziploc bag containing 6 oz. of Crisco. Now you have all the dry ingredients for a peach cobbler in one package. You can reuse any of the Ziploc bags for trash after the meal.

For each item, we take along only what�s needed during the trip. No need to pack the all the containers for each ingredient.

Preparing a �home-cooked� meal outdoors is fun and very satisfying. With each family contributing a recipe, your group can look forward to feasting on a variety of great meals.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Keep Your Kids Safe While 4 Wheeling

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September & October Schedule

It is almost time to get back to the Desert. We have a number of trips scheduled in October.

Death Valley
Mojave road
Barstow to Vegas

And a cadre of training clinics in September to get ready for the adventures.

Getting Started
Advanced Beginner
Rocks
Sand
Winch

We are close to posting the entire 2012 schedule. It should be available on the web site in September. There will be a new weekend GPS adventure in January and a the Wilderness Advanced First Aid Clinic in June. If you have other requests for training or adventures to consider for next year, let us know.

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic September 10

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Advanced Beginner Clinic September 11

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Rocks Clinic September 17

The Class will be in Johnson Valley. This is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take out time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details...

Register here.

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Sand Clinic September 24

A number of you could not make the last Sand Driving Clinic, so we have scheduled another one for September 24th. Put it on your calendar and sign up now. This day-long clinic will expose you to a variety of driving conditions and levels of difficulty. Driving on sand is challenging and different than dirt, so we�ll progress slowly as you learn the proper techniques. As your confidence grows, you will master increasingly more challenging dunes. Along the way you will be exposed to the beauty of SVRA and the thrill of the windswept dunes. This is a rare opportunity to cruise the only beach in California open to vehicles.
More details...
Register for the Sand Clinic using this link.

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Winch Clinic September 25

This one day clinic starts with the basics. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. Let me know if you are interested. More Details...

You can register directly at Winch Registration.

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Death Valley October 7

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Mojave Road October 15

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures,Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Keep Your Kids Safe While 4 Wheeling

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-03-14

Keep Your Kids Safe While 4 Wheeling

Four wheeling is and should be a family affair. Getting away from the rat race and enjoying the great outdoors can be some of the best times you and your family experience. Kids of all ages love to get out into the woods and open terrain.

Like any event, four wheeling presents its own set of hazards, especially for children. Kids are naturally curious, but require a bit more supervision when they�re outdoors. Here are some things to think about as you prepare to take your family on that much-needed trip to the outback.

Personal safety

One risk is that kids can get lost. Therefore, every child should have some sort of signaling device. A whistle is a good place to start. They�re small and can hang around the neck. A mini flashlight is handy, too. Life+Gear � makes a nifty gadget that is a flashlight, whistle and light stick all in one. It�s compact � about the size of penlight � and made of sturdy plastic. Consider one of those for your child. As soon as a youngster can master it, teach them their name (first and last) and their dads name. Then work on address and phone number. In this day and age, we have mixed fillings about the advantage of little kids wearing a t-shirt with their name on it vs. the risk of a stranger taking advantage of that knowledge.

Staying hydrated is important. Each child should also have his or her own supply of water. A water bottle is usually enough, but on longer hiking trips consider a larger unit. Camelback � offers some nice storage units.

Institute a buddy system when you arrive at your destination. Emphasize to the kids that they are to stick together at all times. Make sure they know where they may go and not go, and that they keep an eye on each other. Tell them what to do in the event someone gets hurt or they get lost. Blow the whistle in blasts of three and find the closet adult to tell.

FRS radios are a handy way for the kids to stay in touch with camp. Just make sure they don�t operate on the channel you assign the drivers. You don�t want them interfering with your communications while vehicles are in motion. Pick a channel for the kids, and tell them not to change it.

Their clothing must be appropriate for the area. Only closed-toed shoes (sneakers or boots) should be worn in the wild. There are too many hazards for sandals or flip flops.

Remember to pack warm clothing and jackets. The weather can change dramatically, and it�s often cool at night. Plus, you never know if a trip will finish on time. Obstacles or even a breakdown can delay your return.

Make sure your first aid kit includes medicines designed for kids - Motrin, Tylenol, epinephrine, an asthma inhaler, and such.

Driving safety

I�ve said this before, but it bears repeating: All driving rules apply off road. Everyone must be belted in, with young children in their car seats. Everyone�s hands and legs are kept inside the vehicle. Because children are especially prone to reaching out, roll up the window on that side of the car.

In fact, it�s a good idea to keep all windows rolled up at least half way. Driving through thick vegetation can result in branches and other debris � even bugs � flying inside. Plus, the vehicle can catch and bend a branch, which would snap forward if it reaches an open window.

Remember to perform a 360 degree walk-around whenever you�re about to resume your drive. Kids like to roam around and under vehicles. Remember this simple rule:

Driver In First And Out Last

Being the first one to enter a vehicle allows the driver to control it if starts to roll. Similarly, if the driver is the last one out, he�ll have the control that the passengers will not. There�s an exception to this rule when kids are present. In that situation the driver should perform a walk-around before hopping behind the wheel.

Keep kids away from the vehicle during any repair or recovery. Young ones don�t appreciate just how dangerous the winching process is. Have another adult or older child closely supervise young children during those operations. Remind your children that cars are tools, not toys.

Additional tips

Here are some additional suggestions based upon situations I�ve observed while camping and hiking.

- Make sure your tent stakes are pounded all the way in. It�s easy for someone to trip on one and possibly even fall on a tent stake. Along those lines, consider marking the tie down cords for your rain fly. Because they�re black, they can be difficult to see in low light. Tie one or two strips of light colored ribbon to each cord.

- Remind your kids of any environmental hazards that may be present. These include snakes and other critters, cacti and similar plants, water wells, and abandoned mines. Tell them to be careful about reaching into crevices or on top of rocks. A good rule of thumb is to avoid placing hands or feet where you can�t see.

- Kids need to eat on schedule. Sometimes you can�t take a break on time, so plan snacks and other meals for the kids.

- Challenging portions of the trip can be stressful for you and your children. As you approach a difficult area, ask your children to remain calm so you can concentrate. Explain what is about to happen to lessen the anxiety for everyone. Say to your kids, �Daddy needs to focus on this. It would help if you would be quiet.�

- Talk to your kids about the dangers of playing around the campfire even the next day. The coals may still be hot. Supervise them carefully whenever you�re enjoying a campfire.

- All gear must be strapped down. If you hit something hard, break hard or � worst case, roll over � the refrigerator or box of tools cold crush someone.

Spending time with your family off road creates memories everyone will cherish for a lifetime. Exercise caution, and all your memories will be good ones.

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Did you miss the previous article?

10 Axioms of 4 Wheeling

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Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26
It is Over But

Over-all it was a wonderful day! The BBQ was amazing. The weather cooperated It is so awesome how much support the 4Wheelparts guys bring! Big kudos to all!!! We had a fantastic turn out with well over 1000 people and 550 to 600+ vehicles.

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Wine Safari July 23

We have two big events coming up during July and August - The Wine Safari and the Rubicon Trail. It is time to register for both events. The Wine Safari is only a weekend away and you need to start planning for the Rubicon Trail (see below).

Don't miss the Wine Safari. Click here for all details.
Our Wine Master will have a whole new bunch of bottles and some old favorites to taste. Make it a get-away weekend. Camp with us or stay in a local motel.

Register now.
http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#wine.

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Sand Clinic July 30, 2011

If you have been waiting for the next Sand Driving Clinic, put it on your calendar for July 30st and sign up now. This day-long clinic will expose you to a variety of driving conditions and levels of difficulty. Driving on sand is challenging and different than dirt, so we�ll progress slowly as you learn the proper techniques. As your confidence grows, you will master increasingly more challenging dunes. Along the way you will be exposed to the beauty of SVRA and the thrill of the windswept dunes. This is a rare opportunity to cruise the only beach in California open to vehicles.
More details...

Register for the Sand Clinic using this link.

http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Sand

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic Aug 6

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Advanced Beginner Clinic Aug 7

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Rubicon Trail Adventure August 15- 18, 2011

We are doing the Rubicon this year! The Rubicon Trail is the stuff of legends. It is considered the Grand Daddy of trails. If your vehicle has a weakness, it will find it. Any serious four-wheeler needs to "Do the 'Con" at least once. There is no guarantee of avoiding vehicle damage. Even the most skilled driver can succumb to the fatigue of 12 unrelenting miles of rocks. Just bring a good attitude and the best prepared vehicle you can. This could be a once in a lifetime trip but a lifelong of bragging rights. More Details

You need to register now so you have time to prepare. Register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rubicon

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Wilderness First Responder 5 Day Course Aug 20

Wilderness Outings has announced a wilderness medicine course offering rarely available anywhere in the US: the 5 Day Wilderness First Responder. All Wilderness Outings wilderness medicine courses are instructed at Buckhorn Camp, near the town of Idyllwild, which provides a superb mountain environment in which to learn Wilderness First Responder is the gold standard of medical training for outdoor professionals or serious backcountry adventurers. Normally offered as an 8 Day course, this new 5 Day format was developed by Wilderness Medical Associates and has the same high standard of performance that you can expect from any WMA course. This new format is perfect for those who have had a similar level of medical training in the past, or for those with limited time.

The course includes an extensive Pre-Course Study process, including extensive reading assignments, case studies, completion of a Study Guide, and an online pre-course exam. This process is intended to create a didactic foundation of knowledge- the 5 Day course then focuses on skills development via practice sessions and simulations.

The 5 Day format has never been offered in the Southern California area, and is sure to be appealing to those with busy personal and professional lives.

Date: August 20-24, 2011
Location: Idyllwild, CA
Tuition: $639 (includes pre-course textbook shipping and study materials)

http://www.wildernessoutings.com/3course/wildmed.html#one

The fine print: Badlands Off-road Adventures, Inc. has no financial interest in Wilderness Outings or Wilderness Medical Associates and does not sponsor this clinic. We feel that wilderness medical skills are a valuable asset when in the outdoors and the Wilderness First Responders is an excellent class. Both organizations are top notch.

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures,Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

10 Axioms of 4 Wheeling

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-06-19

10 Axioms of 4 Wheeling

Four wheeling, like any other activity, has its rules and principles. During my 40-plus years in this sport, I have seen and experienced a lot. The following axioms flow from all the wisdom I have picked up from others I respect. My list is actually longer, but I trimmed it to some of the better ones.

Your instincts are wrong off-road, and you have to learn the correct ways. For example, if you�re going down the hill and the vehicle is sliding, the natural tendency is to step on the brakes. That just locks �em up and you slide more. If it�s wet and muddy, you will slide in the direction of off-camber. If you�re driving on a shelf road, you�ll go right off the edge. Learn the proper steps to take, and commit those to memory.

Clearance and traction are basic tenets for dirt and rocks. You can get these by applying the correct driving technique and by mechanical means. The Technique comes from your driving skills, as well as your ability to read lines and chart the proper course. Mechanical means includes bigger tires and suspension to lift the body up. Traction is gained through better tires, lockers in the axels, and by airing down. Learn to drive without upgrading the vehicle with mechanical aids. You will develop better technical skills and improve your ability to pick lines.

4 Wheeling is a game of inches. Four wheeling by design involves driving over difficult trails. That�s part of the fun. Even so, we try to minimize the hazards. As you view the trail ahead, pick a route that is most likely to afford traction for all four wheels. A lot of times moving just a few inches in one direction makes all the difference of keeping traction on all wheels.

Momentum and floatation are the basic tenets for soft surfaces like sand and mud. Use steady momentum to carry you through soft surfaces. Too often drivers hit the gas too hard or at the wrong time, and they end up stuck. Airing down produces a larger footprint for each tire. This spreads the weight over a larger area so you have less weight per square inch. Combined with the proper momentum and driving techniques, this provides the �floatation� we need for soft surfaces.

It�s a game of pounds (PSI) too. We air down considerably to drive off road. When you�re in the 10 -12 psi range, being off by 1 psi can make all the difference when you�re going through soft surfaces like sand, mud and snow. Make sure your pressure is just right.

Spinning wheels get you in trouble. If you no longer have forward progress and you start to spin your wheels, several things can happen.
- If you�re in a situation that�s a little off camber, you�ll drift. You can drift into a much more difficult situation.
- If you�re on soft material, like mud or sand, you�ll bury it.
- On firm ground the vehicle can literally start jumping up and down placing tremendous destructive forces on the drive train each time the wheels come down.

The more remote and more difficult the trail, the more prepared you need to be. For an easy trail near town on a Saturday with your buddies, you might get by without spares. Do the same on the Rubicon and it could be a day out to purchase parts and a day back before you can start your repairs. BTW, consider helicopter insurance from CALSTAR.org next time you do the Rubicon. And remember the 7 P's - Proper Prior Planning Prevents Pathetically Poor Performance

10 MPH is fast off-road. We are not racing and over 10 MPH is fast. When you are going fast off-road do not hit the small 5" / 6" (or bigger for that matter) rocks embedded in the wash when aired down. You can cut the sidewalls on both tires on the same side before you are able to stop. Avoid them or slow down and ease over.

Chaos reigns when someone gets stuck. Everybody has an idea of how to get the driver unstuck - the quicker the better. And everybody tries to help without a plan. That is counterproductive and can be dangerous. Put one person in charge and hold a recovery meeting to plan your strategy. Remember slow is smooth, and smooth is fast.

Expect delays on any run. The more vehicles you have, the more likely something is to happen: breakdowns, someone gets stuck or blows a tire bead, riders need bathroom breaks. Assume your trip won�t stay 100% on schedule, so don�t get all wigged out when there is a delay. But groups are not bad. There is safety in numbers.

There is an exception to every rule!
I couldn't resist adding one more axiom. Sometimes you have to break the rules - like when your life is in danger. Sometimes you break the rule just because - like going alone. The point is there are exceptions but your level of caution needs to go way, way up.

Even though I list 11 axioms here, which are considered self-evident and assumed to be true, the sport of 4-wheeling has in addition dozens, even hundreds of rules designed to make you a better driver and to keep you safe. If you hear of others, and they really strike a chord with you, add them to your list.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Use a Checklist for Every Outing

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Wilderness First Responder 5 Day Course

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Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26

Don't forget to join us in Hungry Valley SVRA on Sunday June 26th for the FREE customer appreciation event. We have teamed up with 5 of the local 4 Wheel Parts Stores (they are bringing raffle prizes and food). More details are posted on the web site. www.4x4training.com/Adventures/CustAppr.html

You are all invited June 26th! Everyone must register so we have enough food on hand - This is big! www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Cust

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Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic July 16

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Advanced Beginner Clinic July 17

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Wine Safari July 23

We have two big events coming up during July and August - The Wine Safari and the Rubicon Trail. It is time to register for both events. The Wine Safari is only a few weekends away and you need to start planning for the Rubicon Trail (see below).

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Sand Clinic July 30, 2011

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Rubicon Trail Adventure August 15- 18, 2011

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I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures,Inc.
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Use a checklist for Every Outing

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-05-17

Use a checklist for Every Outing

Every have one of those trips when, after arriving at the campsite and unpacking, you realize you forgot something important? You smack yourself along the side of your head and say, �Jeez. How could I forget that??!!�

It happens to everyone at some point. Even to me. That�s why many years ago I started using a checklist. I have several, but for this column I want to impress upon you the value of developing and using a checklist. One is enough, though it can be rather comprehensive. The benefits of using a checklist are very clear:

You�ll depart confident that you remembered to pack everything you were supposed to, and your packing goes quicker. A checklist brings order to your packing, so you�re not scrambling around haphazardly.

Create Your Checklist

Your checklist need not be fancy. Create a list in Word or Excel, and print it out before each trip. Having the file on your computer allows you to quickly add or change items as needed before or after each trip. That keeps you from having to develop a new list before each trip. Merely open the existing file, make any changes that come to mind, and print it out. It�s that simple.

The format is totally up to you. It can be a simple list with checkboxes before the items so you can check off each item. One page will be easier to use, so if need be, create two (or more) columns to accommodate all your items.

Group your items into categories to make it easier to review them. Some suggestions for categories include:

Vehicle Essentials (oil, tool kit, tow strap, tire repair kit, for example.)
Camping (tent, sleeping bag, pads, chair, firewood, etc.)
Reference material (trail books, emergency package, shrub and tree book, as well as paper and pencils.)
Food and food preparation (stove, grill, gas, cooler, matches, pot holder, or camp box, if most of that is in there.)
Clothes (for warm and cold weather, toiletries, medicines, etc. )
Last In (frozen food in freezer, cell phone, lap top, meds, etc. )

You get the picture. I recommend you also have a category titled Miscellaneous. This group includes a hat, extra pair of glasses or readers, extra key, cell phone charger, binoculars and so on.

Some categories could be seasonal. A Winter category, for example, might include snow shovel, snow chains, and other relevant gear.

Don't have a checklist yet? Start one by visualizing yourself in the situation. Take for example, Camping. Write the heading and list all the items you can think are needed to establish shelter and bedding for a comfortable night. Visualizing pounding in the stakes - put a hammer on the list. Are your tent stakes and poles bundled with the tent? If not, put them on the list.

Update Your List

Keep in mind that your checklist is an evolving document. During your trip, feel free to write notes in the margin if you think of items that didn�t come to mind initially. Along those lines, if you have room on the page, create a space just for notes. When you see or think of a better item to bring, write it down.

In this area you will also record supplies that need replacing. During the course of your camping trip, you may run out of salt, pepper, coffee, Band-aids, or other basics. Jot a note in the open section of your checklist. That will save you from having to dig through your supply boxes or camp box later to determine what needs replenishing.

After arriving home, pull up the file on your computer and make the necessary changes. Then your checklist is ready to go for the next trip.

Final Thoughts

The key is to use the checklist. Print it out before each trip, and review it item by item as you are packing. Don�t gloss over this step because you�ve used the list several times already. The point is to keep you from forgetting items. If you don�t pay attention to your list, you�ll forget something. Then you�ll be kicking yourself.

Another important point is that you don�t check off an item until it�s in your vehicle. All too often we see an object (perhaps in the garage) and think, �OK, it�s in.� We assume we�ll toss that into the vehicle in a moment. Well, you know what happens? Yep. We forget. Remember: Nothing gets checked off until it�s in the vehicle.

Over time a checklist will become as much a part of your supply kit as a tent and sleeping bag. You�ll become so accustomed to using a checklist that you won�t feel comfortable packing your vehicle without it. Believe me; a checklist adds tremendous peace of mind to the trip. Develop and use a checklist for your vacations.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Build a Pocket Survival Kit

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Advanced Beginner Clinic June 12

Rocks Clinic June 18

Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26

Wine Safari July 23

Sand Clinic July 30, 2011

Rubicon Trail Adventure August 15- 18, 2011

Pocket Survival Kit

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-04-21

Pocket Survival Kit

The devastating earthquakes and tsunamis that hit Japan have many people thinking about survival techniques. Especially here in California, where we�re constantly wondering when the Big One will hit. I�ve discussed various aspects of survival in other columns, including Your Gear Is Not Complete Without An Emergency Packet! and Get Layered Before The Big One Hits

Reading those you�ll notice that we discuss preparedness on a larger scale. That is, we start on the outside and work our way literally closer to your body.

In this column we�ll discuss survival at the micro level: creating a survival kit that you can tuck in a shirt or pants pocket.

You can never be too prepared nowadays. You may not face an earthquake and tsunami where you live, but other types of disasters can hit. Tornadoes, blizzards, severe storms; even civil unrest can cause a disruption. Are you prepared to go it alone for a few hours or longer? Because I spend so much time off road, I have multiple survival kits, including stuff I carry in a pocket. This column will show you how to create a viable pocket-sized survival kit. Take the time to build one. It could save your life someday.

The first challenge we notice is finding the proper container. As you know, pockets aren�t very big. Yet we still want to pack a lot of useful items in this survival kit. You�ll want something that�s roughly 3� x 5� and no more than about 1� deep. I like Altoids� boxes, but they�re rather shallow. Metal is better than plastic, as you�ll see in a moment. If you decide to go with plastic, take a look at the line of Pelican micro cases. They are easier to acquire and are water tight.

What do you include? Here is where we review the basic components. A good survival kit includes matches, a flashlight, water, whistle, map and compass, knife, 1st aid kit, extra food and extra clothing. Some people like to add a water container, paper and pencil, and toilet paper.

As you can see, we won�t be able to fit all of that in a pocket-sized kit. So let�s zero in on the truly essential items. By examining the most crucial needs of survival, we can see which items have to be in our kit. Then it�s a matter of determining quantity and/or size to fit the limited space.

Fire. Crucial for providing heat, cooking food, and as a signaling device via the smoke. Matches are great, but store them in a watertight container or get Storm Matches that are individually waterproof. A Butane lighter is also OK. Just make sure it�s full or nearly full. You never know how many times you�ll need to use it. I like Fire Lite. They offer a mini version that�s rated to 5,000 strikes. You want 3 ways to make fire, if possible.
Signaling. A small whistle will do the trick. Many are surprisingly loud, and the shrill tone cuts through most background noise. Another way to signal involves using the box to reflect light. This is why I don�t recommend using a plastic container. Make sure at least one side of the container is unpainted. The bare metal will reflect far better.
Navigation. A button compass is sufficient. Don�t bother with maps. You�ll never know where you�ll be when you get stuck. No point in trying to guess. Plus, you just don�t have room.
Water. Another critical component; even more important than food. Of course, you won�t pack water in your pocket kit. Here, we�re interested in a container to carry water you may find. A gallon-sized plastic bag is sufficient. To save space we will use the Reynolds Oven Bags cut down a bit. Include about 20 water purification tablets. They�ll probably get crushed over time, but will still work. We cut out the instructions for purification and included it in the bottom of the box.
Cutting tool. You�ll need some way to cut material. A multi-purpose knife would be too large. Consider adding a cable saw to your kit. They come in numerous sizes, and can be used to cut branches and other material.
Tinder. Tender Quick Fire Tabs work well. You can buy additional packets at most camping outlets. You can use them to fill in the voids in the tin. If you want a cheap alternative, cotton balls embedded with Vaseline are great. Just a fingertip�s worth of jelly worked into the cotton is sufficient. Create three or four, and wrap in plastic. These will ignite any kindling or other material you use for your fire.
Flashlight. Nite-Lze is a single LED designed to put on your jacket zipper so it fits nicely into the pocket kit. Photon Micro-Light II is another small LED.
Something to write with. Space permitting, include a chunk of pencil and a couple scraps of paper. Those can also be used to place markers along your path in the event you leave your vehicle, which is not recommended.
Extra string. An all-purpose tool, you should always have some string handy. Make it fishing line, add a few split shot sinkers, a few hooks and you can use it to fish or build a shelter. For something more substantial, grab about 10� of parachute cord. To save space, we�ll wrap it around the box. I left the ends out in the picture so you can see how I wrapped it.
If you have any space left, toss in a couple Band-Aids and perhaps 2 feet of aluminum foil to make a cup.

Wrap the seams of the Altoids box with tape. Put as many layers on as you like. You might need some tape!

Take the time to create a pocket survival kit (or two with the extra supplies). If you ever need one, you�ll be so glad you did.

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Did you miss the previous article?

What Causes Wash Board Roads?

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Advanced Beginner Clinic May 15

Winch Clinic May 21, 2011

Rocks Clinic June 18

Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26

Rubicon Trail Adventure August 15- 18, 2011

I hope to see you on the trails!
Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Keep it Safe.
#####
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information: Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2011, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

What Causes Wash Board Roads?

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-03-15

What Causes Wash Board Roads?

Ah, yes, another leisurely drive down a country road. You�re motoring along peacefully until suddenly bump, bump, bump, bump. Crap. You�ve hit another patch of wash board road. You know, that aggravating, teeth-jarring pattern that shakes your steering wheel and beats the bejesus out of your suspension.

�Why don�t they grade this road??!!� you yell. Well, they did some time ago. But countless cars later, the phenomenon has returned. And you get to experience the joy of riding over it.

Those annoying ripples in the road are not only irritating and tough on your vehicle. They are also hazardous at higher speeds. Special care is needed to drive on such a surface. Adding insult to injury, driving on wash board roads actually makes them worse.

What causes wash board roads

As amazing as it sounds, the wash board effect is not caused by water flowing across the surface. Wash boarding is created as vehicles drive over a surface numerous times. Dr. Keith B. Mather proved this in an experiment in 1963. He published his findings in the January 1963 issue of Scientific American.

In order to eliminate the suspension as an issue he was able to create the ripple effect by dragging a plow-like blade over sand. He determined that wash boarding occurred at speeds above 3 mph (below this speed, a deep rut was created). The principle behind it is similar to what occurs when you skip a stone over water. Each time the stone hits the water, it very briefly banks up water ahead of itself while also creating a divot-like gap behind.

As vehicles repeatedly drive over loose surfaces, any slight bump causes their tires to bank up the material ahead of the tires while simultaneously digging out behind. The result is a rippling in the road. Contrary to what you might think, driving over those ridges will not flatten them. You can minimize the effect � discussed later � but the only way to eliminate the wash board pattern is to grade the road. The pattern will return, however.

Wash boarding can occur on any loose surface. Off-road, we typically find it between the highway and the trailhead. Some areas are worse than others. Death Valley is just terrible. Ditto for many parts of Mexico.

Why wash board roads are hazardous

Beyond the simple annoyance, driving over wash board roads is dangerous and tough on the vehicle.

Many people find that driving relatively fast over the rough road helps. It does. You minimize the up and down motion of the car, but at a great risk. Understand that at higher speeds your tires are in less contact with the road as they bounce from ridge to ridge. That means only a small fraction of the tire is making contact with the road. Turning and stopping distances are reduced dramatically on an already loose surface. It�s similar to driving over a slippery surface. Add in high speeds, and you�re asking for trouble.

Your suspension, meanwhile, is taking a beating. The rapid up and down motion puts tremendous stress on the suspension and causes shocks to heat up and fail. The car may feel level to you because your suspension is taking all the abuse.

All that vibration and pounding cause bolts to loosen and parts to crack. Worn tie rod ends, worn out bushings and CV joints are possible, among other problems.

How to drive wash board roads

Most people slow down when they hit a bad patch of road in hopes of minimizing the rumbling. Unfortunately, no matter the differences in suspension, it conforms to the existing wave-like pattern and actually reinforces the wash board effect over time. Tires are packing down the soft spots and pushing dirt into the high spots. An interesting side note, Dr. Mather discovered the distance between ridges (wave length) increased directly with speed.

These suggestions will help you deal with a bad stretch of road.

Air down the tires. The softer tires will give you a better grip of the road and provide more cushion. Hard tires create wash boarding faster as well.

Put your vehicle in 4WD HI. This will help you deal with sliding and skidding. Remember what it�s like to drive in ice and snow. Wash boarding has a similar effect on the vehicle. While in 4WD HI you power up and turn into the slide a little bit. That will help you maintain control of your vehicle.

Turn off your Automatic Braking System (ABS). The conventional brakes work better in loose material.

Another possibility, though not as safe and possibly illegal, is to drive on a part of the road that doesn�t have the wash boarding. That could be the shoulder, the opposite of the road or even a berm along the side. Having even one set of wheels on a smooth surface can make a big difference, but watch for rocks, dips, and other hazards. The biggest risk is that every now and then you run out of bank and end up in a ditch. Or there�s a rock and if you don�t see it you�ll hit it pretty hard. Slow down, and watch the road carefully.

Driving on gravel roads

While we�re on the subject of gravel roads, let�s review some safety tips.

As you know, driving on any loose surface requires extra caution. You may think that because you have large, wide tires you have unlimited traction. No so. Just like with snow, gravel offers serious challenges, especially at higher speeds.

Follow these suggestions whenever you drive on gravel.

Inspect your vehicle before and after the trip for any loose parts, especially relating to the suspension system.
Slow down. Because your tires aren�t gripping as well, turning and stopping distances are greater.
If a tire gets caught in the soft low berm the grader leaves along the shoulder, you�re likely to jerk the steering wheel to compensate and end up flipping the vehicle.
Some roads have smooth, well-worn tracks down the middle. If you drive there, be alert for oncoming traffic and other hazards. Get over to your side of the road as you approach a curve or hill.

A trip out in the country can be one of the more enjoyable ways to spend an afternoon. Knowing how to drive on unpaved roads will help keep it that way.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Get a Lock on your Position: A Primer on GPS

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March 2011

OAUSA Amateur Radio Testing plus Meet & Greet March 19th; more information

Death Valley Adventure / Expedition -- March 25th to 28th; Click to register

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Death Valley

The Death Valley Adventure Starts March 25th. This is a 4 day trip on the back roads in Death Valley. We will drive the Panamint Mountains, drive pass Badwater Basin (lowest spot in North America), visit Chloride Ghost town, Titus Canyon, check out Ubehebe Crater, Teakettle junction, The Race Track & Lippencott Mine Road, camp at the Warm Springs and leave via Steal Pass up to the high meadows, then take Dedeckera Canyon down to the Eureka Sand Dunes. All four days will see some light to moderate 4-wheeling. Much of the trip is quite remote with no cell service.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/Deathvalley.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Deathvalley

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Mojave Road

On April 9th we will follow the Old Mojave Road for 3 days. This was the earliest wagon road into California. We will run it east to west just like the wagon trains going to California in the 1800's. We will visit tons of history and see some incredible views. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Mojave

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Get a Lock on Your Position: A Primer on GPS

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-02-15

Get a Lock on Your Position: A Primer on GPS

You arrive home after a long drive, turn off the GPS receiver, and say to yourself, �Boy, am I glad I have that!� How often have you used your GPS system � whether in your vehicle or a handheld model � while going for a drive or walk?

Time was we relied on maps, memory or, in a pinch, the person behind the counter at a gas station. Now, GPS units are so cheap, many people own one, and they�re standard equipment on many vehicles.

You can find a basic handheld model for $200 to $300. Better ones, with larger, color screens, maps, and other features, average closer to $400.

But like all technology, GPS units have their limitations. Once you understand how the whole process works, you�ll better appreciate what it can and cannot do.

GPS stands for Global Positioning System. Note the last word. The unit you carry and the one in your vehicle are just one component in a complex system. To be technically accurate, your unit is a GPS receiver. It�s a multifaceted receiver, but a radio receiver nonetheless.

How GPS works

Operated by the Department of Defense, GPS relies on a constellation of 24 satellites orbiting approximately 11,900 miles up. The first satellite was launched in 1978, and the system became fully operational in 1994. Each satellite continuously transmits a series of data, which your GPS receiver uses to determine the time, your location and, in advanced models, altitude and direction of travel.

The satellites are in constant movement, making two full rotations around the planet each day.

Satellite data contains three parts:

Pseudorandom code: An I.D. code unique to that particular satellite.
Ephemeris data: Used to calculate the position of each satellite in the system.
Almanac data: Contains important information about the status of the satellite (healthy or unhealthy) and its current date and time (as determined by onboard atomic clocks).This part of the signal is essential for determining a position.

(For a really in-depth explanation of GPS, check out the page on Wikipedia.)

At any given time your GPS unit is receiving signals from four or more satellites Your GPS receiver takes that information and, using its own computer, provides the information you see on your screen. So, the more satellites it �sees� the more accurate its information will be.

The satellites transmit at relatively low power (about 50 watts) using two microwave frequencies: 1575.42 MHz (known as L1) and 1227.60 MHz (L2). In addition to preventing jamming, using two frequencies makes it easier for your receiver to account for ionospheric delay error.

The satellite information is sent at a fairly slow speed, around 300 baud. Your receiver needs about 25 seconds to download all the information. That�s why it takes so long to orient your unit when you power up.

As long as your GPS receiver is on, it is continuously receiving streams of data from the satellites within range. The GPS receiver compares what time it thinks it is and what time the signal was went it left the satellite (included in the data received); that difference is how far away the satellite is. Triangulating from other satellites, the receiver calculates your location.

Initially, the DoD placed limitations on the quality of the data being transmitted. Accuracy of the early receivers was about 100 meters. In 2000 the DoD removed that limitation, known as Selective Availability, so current receivers are accurate to within 15 meters (three meters for those with Wide Area Augmentation System capability).

Data on the satellites can degrade over time, so new ephemeris data is uploaded on a daily basis (less frequently for the almanac data).

Limitations of the Global Positioning System

Despite the relatively high-tech nature of the system, GPS has its limitations. And it�s those limitations that cause the inaccuracies you often see.

As mentioned above, your receiver relies on signals sent from satellites in constant motion. As such, anything that affects the signal to ground will affect the information displayed on your screen. Such factors include:

Ionosphere and troposphere delays

The satellite signal slows as it passes through the atmosphere. The GPS receiver uses a built-in algorithm to partially correct for this type of error.

Signal multipath

This occurs when the GPS signal is reflected off objects such as tall buildings or large rock surfaces before it reaches the receiver. This increases the travel time of the signal, thereby causing errors.

Receiver clock errors

A receiver's built-in clock is not as accurate as the atomic clocks onboard the GPS satellites.

Orbital errors

Also known as ephemeris errors, these are inaccuracies of the satellite's reported location.

Number of satellites visible

The more satellites a GPS receiver can "see," the better the accuracy. Buildings, terrain, electronic interference, or sometimes even dense foliage can block signal reception, causing position errors or possibly no position reading at all. Also, GPS units typically will not operate indoors, underwater or underground.

Satellite geometry/shading

This refers to the relative position of the satellites at any given time. Ideal satellite geometry exists when the satellites are located at wide angles relative to each other. Poor geometry results when the satellites are located in a line or in a tight grouping.

What�s the bottom line? A one-microsecond delay in receiving a signal can cause an error of 300 meters. That�s a lot!

Looking ahead with GPS

A whole new generation of satellites is expected in orbit after 2013. They will feature beam antennas to boost effective power and an enhanced civilian signal structure. Expect to see search and rescue capabilities through use of beacon signals triggered by the receiver. Overall, acquisition time and accuracy should improve, as well. It is believed that the new system, scheduled to be in place by 2020 or 2021. What that means for today�s receivers is anyone�s guess but expect to buy a new receiver to take advantages of the new capabilities.

Regardless of what happens with GPS, you should keep traditional methods at hand. Those include a topo map and compass. And, make sure you can read the map! For more on that, see "Know How To Read A Map, And You May Stay Alive" Remember to carry extra batteries for your receiver, and be careful with it. It is sensitive to drops and other hazards.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Escape to a Remote Location

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Easter Safari April 18, 2011

Sign up for Easter Safari April 18 to 22, 2011 It seems a long ways away, but all the trail rides are assigned by lottery. The submission date for the lottery is somewhere about the end of January to mid February. Most hotels, RV parks and camp grounds need to be reserved this month. They are all close to being sold out.

So if you think you might want to go to the Easter Safari this year with Badlands Off-Road Adventures, you need to register soon at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#EJS.

A few pictures: http://4x4training.com/images/Moab/Moabpicture.html

Check out http://4x4training.com/Adventures/EasterSafari/EJSMain.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#EJS

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March 2011

Attend Tierra Del Sol (TDS) -- March 5; register at http://www.tds4x4.com/

OAUSA Amateur Radio Testing plus Meet & Greet March 19th; more information

Death Valley Adventure / Expedition -- March 25th to 28th; Click to register

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Sand Clinic February 19, 2011

If you have been waiting for the next Sand Driving Clinic, put it on your calendar for February 19th and sign up now. This day-long clinic will expose you to a variety of driving conditions and levels of difficulty. Driving on sand is challenging and different than dirt, so we�ll progress slowly as you learn the proper techniques. As your confidence grows, you will master increasingly more challenging dunes. Along the way you will be exposed to the beauty of SVRA and the thrill of the windswept dunes. This is a rare opportunity to cruise the only beach in California open to vehicles.
More details...

Register for the Sand Clinic using this link.

http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Sand

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Winch Clinic February 26, 2011

This one day clinic starts with the basics. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. It is held near Mojave, CA. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Winch

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Death Valley

Mojave Road

Escape to a Remote Location

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2011-01-13

Escape to a Remote Location

When we four-wheelers decide to get away, we often think, �Boy, it would be nice to go someplace remote.� That is, get away from it all, escape the rat race, and all that. But, what does �remote� really mean? Is there just one definition? Or, might it mean something different for each person?

At the risk of sounding too philosophical � I think it�s worthy of some discussion. What is �remote,� and what does it mean for you as you consider traveling to such a location?

During a recent class, I surveyed the group about what they valued in the outdoors. The number one quality was solitude: Enjoying the peace and quiet found in the open spaces. Spending quality time with friends and family was also high on the list.

How far do you need to go? Some folks are content to be just outside a developed area. Someplace where they can get away from the noise but yet be a short drive to civilization. Others prefer to drive several hours or more from the nearest services. Some people are content to bring along the creature comforts of home (think heaters, refrigerators, CD/DVD players). Others prefer to have nothing come between them and Mother Nature.

Paul May, owner of Equipt Expedition Outfitters www.equipt1.com in Salt Lake City, says �remote to me is to travel where others seldom do, whether that is by distance or difficulty."

He considers these to be among some of the remote locations:

NPS262 � The Bench Road
Hole in the Rock Road
Hole in the Rock Trail

Those are good suggestions. When I think of remote places, I imagine the Rubicon Trail, the north rim of the Grand Canyon, and many areas of Death Valley National Park (aka Saline Valley). (Yes, all these places are in the Lower 48. I understand that vast chunks of Alaska and Canada are really remote. Just haven�t been there.)

While getting away from it all may sound attractive, remember that such places are inherently hazardous. Chief among these is that help could be hours away. You not only are a long distance from a major city, but you could be out of communication range, as well. A fellow driver may need to travel a great distance just to make a call.

Weather is often an issue. It can be too hot or too cold at times. A blizzard or storm can roll in unexpectedly. You also need to watch out for bugs and critters. In the desert, the cacti can be surprisingly nasty. See �Prickly Things In The Desert Can Put A Hole In Your Plans.�

Should you avoid remote areas? Of course not. Just plan accordingly. Pack your vehicle properly. Make sure you have first aid supplies � take a first responder�s course, if possible � and make sure you have sufficient supplies � in both quantity and type.

Take along extra communication gear. This can include a satellite phone and ham radio gear, in addition to your cell phone. Always � and I mean ALWAYS � travel with others. Never travel to a remote area alone. Having that extra vehicle, and the other riders, can literally be a life saver.

How do you define remote? It doesn�t matter. What�s important is that you and your friends enjoy your trip and return with only good memories.

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Did you miss the previous article?

How to Survive in Your Vehicle Stuck in Snow.

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Easter Safari April 18, 2011

Wilderness First Aid Course Jan 29 & 30, 2011

There are a few more slots left for this clinic. If you sign up by Jan 17th, we will be able to give you your certifications on site ( assuming you pass the test!). You can still sign up after Jan 17, we will mail you your cards and certificates. Because we feel this knowledge is extremely valuable if you travel into wilderness areas and outside the 911 EMS areas, we prefer that no slot goes unused.

Note - this is a two day class and you must be at least 18 years old. If you are interested follow these links.

More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#WFA

Note: Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc. is the sponsor for the Wilderness Medical Associates' WFA course using WMA certified instructors.
http://www.wildmed.com/

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February 2011

In February you can catch up on your driving skills. We have 3 of our more popular advanced classes scheduled this month.

Basics of Rock Crawling -- February 5
Driving on Sand and Sand Dunes -- February 19
Basic & Advanced Winching Techniques and Safety -- February 26

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March 2011

Attend Tierra Del Sol (TDS) -- March 5; register at http://www.tds4x4.com/
Death Valley Adventure / Expedition -- March 25th to 28th; Click to register

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Rocks Clinic February 05, 2011

The February Class will be in Johnson Valley. This is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take out time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rocks

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Sand Clinic February 19, 2011

Winch Clinic February 26, 2011

How to Survive in Your Vehicle Stuck in Snow

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-12-15

How to Survive in Your Vehicle Stuck in Snow

Photo by Snoopy

Winter has arrived in many parts of the country, and that means a hazardous situation awaits you nearly every time you get behind the wheel. You may know how to drive in snow, but do you know what to do if you were stuck in snow?

Recently, drivers on I-90 near Buffalo, N.Y., were trapped for up to 12 hours when a massive blizzard hit the area. Some cars were literally buried in snow. If you were caught in a situation like that, would you know how to handle yourself?

You don�t have to be out in the country to encounter a hazardous situation. You can get socked in while driving home from work one day. If you�re stuck, you can bet that hundreds of other motorists are, as well. Help could be hours away.

Every situation is unique, but the following guidelines apply in all situations, and could save your life. I highly recommend you copy this article to your laptop or other device. You�re likely to have that with you, but you may not have access to the Internet. A PDF copy is available here.

Prepare for winter driving

�Safety is no accident,� as the old saying goes. We discussed that before in 10 Safety Rules For Off-Road Driving and in a related column, Your Gear Is Not Complete Without An Emergency Packet! Winter presents its own set of hazards, which require additional preparation. It starts with a survival kit. Make sure yours includes at least some of these items.

More of a collection of items, a winter survival kit includes extra food and clothing, items to help you prepare food or water, signaling/communications gear, and some means to free yourself.

Food should be dry, packaged goods that have a long shelf life. These include granola bars, snack mix/trail mix, canned nuts, graham crackers, and hard candy. Thick canned food, like ravioli, may be added. Avoid soups as the can may freeze and burst. For a few extra dollars you can add military style MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) available on line and at military surplus stores.

Make sure the packages and cans are easy to open. It�s unlikely you�ll have a can opener or scissors with you.

Extra clothing can include boots, gloves, a blanket or sleeping bag, and a hat. This stuff can be bulky, so choose wisely. I pack a Thinsulate� sleeping bag. It�s warm but thin, and compresses into a nice, small size (more likely to still be in the vehicle when I need it).

It�s easy to get dehydrated in the winter, so you should carry some liquids. Even if you normally carry a water bottle, be prepared to produce water by melting snow. (Avoid eating snow, as that will lower your body temperature.) Pack an empty soup or coffee can along with a small stove or burner.

Jetboil� offers a line of nifty mini cookers. They work great with food, as well.

If you become stuck, you�re likely to reach for your cell phone. Keep an extra battery pack or the cord for tapping into the car�s cigarette lighter. You should also keep some fresh flashlight batteries.

Pack a red or orange flag that you can attach to your antenna. That will help rescuers spot your vehicle. (If you don�t have a flag, a large piece of fabric will work.) A small shovel can come in handy, also. Buy the kind with a curved blade and collapsible handle.

Ham and CB radio equipment can be very useful, especially when you�re outside of cell range. If possible, take along some radio gear (but remember that ham radio requires a license). Flares are useful, too, especially at night. Have one or two in your vehicle.

Consider packing small pieces of carpet or a set of Sand Ladders. Also, being stuck can be boring. Have some reading material or puzzle books with you to pass the time. Speaking of reading material, newspapers and magazines can be used for body insulation.

Get in the habit of keeping your gas tank at least half full. You�ll need the fuel to run your engine on occasion. More on that later.

Another �item� you can pack is awareness. It�s easy to get distracted or start daydreaming while behind the wheel. Memorize mile markers or street/highway signs as you pass by. You�ll help rescuers immensely if you can tell dispatch where you are. A GPS is useful to pin point your location.

What to do if you�re stuck

If you�re ever stuck in a blizzard, follow these suggestions.

Try not to panic. You�ll need a clear head to work yourself through this situation. Maintain your composure, and calm down your passengers as needed.
Stay with your vehicle. It�s a lot easier to spot from a distance. Leaving your vehicle, and the comfort and protection it offers, can be dangerous. You may think you�ll be able to get help. Odds are you�ll become disoriented and freeze to death.
Attach a flag or colored piece of clothing to the antenna. This helps rescuers and lessens the possibility of being hit by another driver.
Run the engine only 10 � 15 minutes each hour. Sure, you want to stay warm, but you need to conserve your gas. Also, the less often you run your engine, the less chance for lethal levels of carbon monoxide to build up.
Crack a window on the downwind side (leeward side) of the car. That air will be chilly, but it�ll also be clean.
Clear the exhaust pipe periodically.
If you decide to dig yourself out, start on the leeward side of the car. Don�t exert yourself, because you need to minimize sweating. Getting damp and cold can be deadly. Brush off the snow before reentering your vehicle.
As a last resort, burn your spare tire. The smoke (or fire) will be visible for miles.

Being stuck in a snowstorm can be a terrifying experience. With the proper preparation and response, you can enhance your chances of surviving and being rescued.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Hold a Drivers' Meeting Before Each Trip.

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Wilderness First Aid Course Jan 29 & 30, 2011

The Wilderness First Aid course is a go for January! There are still a number of open seats if you want to attend. Because we feel this knowledge is extremely valuable if you travel into wilderness areas and outside the 911 EMS areas, we prefer that no slot goes unused.

Note - this is a two day class and you must be at least 18 years old. If you are interested follow these links.

More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#WFA

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February 2011

In February you can catch up on your driving skills. We have 3 of our more popular advanced classes scheduled this month.

Basics of Rock Crawling -- February 5
Driving on Sand and Sand Dunes -- February 19
Basic & Advanced Winching Techniques and Safety -- February 26

Visit the schedule to register.

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Trasharoo Tips

Some Tips and Tricks for The 'Roo owners out there from the Roo Man himself.
Got more tips? Send them to me at tom@4x4training.com .

Tips

No need to ever take it off.
Spray it down after the trip to wash it.
Line 'Roo with 30 gal bag for ease of dumping
Store extra bags in top compartment
Store propane tanks in side pockets
Watch youtube on How to tighten belts

What can you store in a 'Roo?

Small load of firewood
4-5 sleeping bags
Groceries
Charcoal
Dirty Diapers
the list goes on.

What should you never store in the 'Roo?

Fuel
Bricks
anything heavy that could rip through and hurt someone on the road behind you.

their web site:
WWW.trasharoo.com

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Hold a Drivers' Meeting Before Each Trip

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-11-17

Photo by Jim Weary

Good communication can make or break a trip. It's crucial that the message is understood as intended. The more individuals involved in a trip and the more often you change plans, the more opportunity for confusion.

As trail leader, you should establish routine procedures to ensure your guests understand what you are trying to communicate. This applies whether you are discussing matters face-to-face, over the radio, or by hand signals. At a minimum, being misunderstood can be annoying or an inconvenience. At worst, it can have deadly consequences.

Even though written communication is great, an in-person meeting is a necessary follow up. Participants have a chance to ask questions, and you receive important feedback. These take place during a drivers� meeting.

Held at the beginning of your trip and whenever needed during the trip, a drivers� meeting covers all the important aspects, including:

Your plan and map. Lay out a map and identify the route. Let everyone know the goal for the day, including sightseeing stops, obstacles ahead, side trips, hikes, and the intended location of camp for the night. Add anything else that is appropriate. Your guests will enjoy the trip more knowing what to expect.

The �rules of the road� as they apply to where you are going. Be sure to cover any new rules that may apply later in the day as your course changes.

Safety rules. I have five general ones. There are: inspect your vehicle before and after each trip; always wear seatbelts; apply the emergency brake whenever the vehicle is parked; avoid hanging on a vehicle that is stuck or being recovered; and no drinking alcohol during the day. You may think up other rules; feel free to add to this list.

Caravan rules. Remind drivers that they are responsible for the trailing vehicle. After clearing an obstacle or fork in the road, look back to make sure the other vehicle is still following and hasn�t got stuck or lost. Wait for your turn on difficult obstacles, and keep up but don�t tailgate.

Spotting procedures. Review the hand signals you intend to use that day. Make sure your spotter understands the signals.

Radio procedures. Discuss the radio system and frequency or channel to be used. Verify that everyone has that capability. Have each driver test his equipment before starting the trip and after any long breaks.

Medical risks. Review any hazards you may encounter along the route. These can include plants and animals, as well as weather-related issues such as heatstroke and sunburn.

Environmental concerns. Make sure your drivers know how to clean up after themselves, dispose of hazardous liquids, and otherwise take good care of the environment. Impress upon them that what they take in must be brought out.

Tread lightly issues. Four-wheeling often occurs in sensitive areas. Remind drivers to stay on designated trails and to avoid disturbing plants and animals.

Fire safety. Campfires and other open flames must be handled carefully, especially in dry areas. Drivers must be careful with matches and smoking materials, as well.

A checklist is very useful for your drivers� meeting. You can create your own from the points above and modify it to suit your particular trip. Don�t short change your drivers meeting and your trip will flow much smoother!

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Notes

Got Desert ID?

Last year Russ Rogers lost a good friend, Mike Roack. Mike had his ID on him, but no one knew where he was camped, or who to call. This scary situation prompted Russ and his wife Valerie to come up with a new program called: Got Desert I.D.? As the desert season starts up again, it is worth a reminder of this valuable program. The Desert IDs are in heavy vinyl pouches that can be simply zip tied in plain sight to any vehicle. In addition to the usual stuff (name, age, medical alert info and contact person) the form has a place to write your camp site location or GPS.
You can find order information and cost at this URL: http://www.gotdesertid.com/about.html

Let Someone Know Where You are Going

While we are on the subject, check out Trailnote.com. This is a digital version of the post it note, you leave with a friend to say where you are going and when to expect you back.
Here is the URL but for future reference notice that it is trailnote (no s in note) and not trailnotes: http://trailnote.com/

S&S Magazine

I meet Sherri Kukla the editor of S&S Magazine quite Serendipitously less than a year ago and have been receiving the magazine ever since. The magazine is packed full with off-road events of every type in Southern California. It has interesting articles of course, but my favorite part is the ads from local companies you never heard of before with great stuff. The annual subscription is only $16.
Send Sherri an email at editor@ss-offroadmagazine.com. If you tell her you, in the email, you hear about the magazine from Badlands Off-Road Adventures, she will start a free 3 month subscription for you. Make sure you include your mailing address and name.

You can also subscribe on line at:
www.ss-offroadmagazine.com
P.O. Box 845 - Borrego Springs CA 92004
S&S Off Road Magazine has been published BY off roaders, FOR off roaders since 1982!

Basic to Advanced Winching DVD

Order a copy of our winching DVD and save yourself!
http://www.4x4training.com/Products/WinchDVD.html

BTW, we are looking for dealers and have a sweet margin available for stocking dealers.

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Did you miss the previous article?

Break Camp Fast And Easy

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Wilderness First Aid Course Jan 29 & 30, 2011

I feel that Wilderness First Aid is very important and have scheduled a Class for January next year. But, we need at least 12 people to sign up by December 12th to make it a go! A number of people sent me an email indicating they would be interested. We need everyone to send in their registration now and we need about 6 additional. So if you are interested follow these links. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#WFA

##########################

NEW: T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Be the first to go on this trip with me and debug it for the next group!
Our goal is to cross through Johnson Valley, enjoying what it has to offer, and making our way North along the old Tonopah & Tidewater (T&T) Rail Road bed to the Rasor OHV, Afton Canyon and the western edge of the Mojave Preserve. On the way we will skirt the Rodman Mountain Wilderness and cross I-40. This adventure is 2 days of scenic, historical, light wheeling and a night (2 if you prefer) of primitive camping under the stars. We can plan a Dutch Oven pot luck for our evening meal.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/TTRailroad.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TTRailroad

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Winch Clinic December 12, 2010

This one day clinic starts with the basics but goes way beyond. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. The course covers: safety related issues, basic operation of the winch, simple and complex riggings, stuck assessment, winch capability, and minimizing environmental impact. This is a hands on class. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Winch

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2011 Schedule

The event schedule for 2011 is now on the web site.
Thank you to those who brought a few date errors to my attention.

Break Camp Fast And Easy

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-10-19

A lot of trips involve moving camp each day. Those trips require a bit more planning when you�re a part of a group. It�s critical that you organize your gear and coordinate your activities so that you�re ready to go when the rest of the group is. Doing so ensures your day goes according to plan, and that everyone arrives in camp that night as scheduled.

In an earlier column, Respect Your Teammates. Arrive Prepared , I discussed the importance of being a team player while off road. A key component of that entails packing your vehicle so that setting up and breaking down camp proceed as efficiently as possible. Because everyone�s situation is unique, I can�t offer specifics on what and how to pack. That comes from experience. But we can review some important concepts.

My first bit of advice is, bring less stuff. It always amazes me how much people try to pack in and on their vehicles. Many items are rarely used and seem to be more creature comforts. Gear and other items that have multiple uses are more valuable than a single-use item. Focus on them.

Pack your gear in reverse order. Items you�ll need first should be packed LAST. Plus, organize your vehicle so everything goes in the same place each time. Once you develop a pattern, you�re less likely to forget something, and packing goes much faster. That�s important when you�re breaking camp in the morning.

Organize your gear by frequency of use. Recovery gear, winch, and other stuff that doesn�t get used much can be boxed together and tucked away. Don�t put your hatchet in there, because you�re likely to need it.

Water jugs are always cumbersome. You need water to douse your campfire, so store at least one jug where you can get to it after packing your vehicle. A good place is just inside the back hatch. Since hygiene is very important when camping, having the water jug right there also encourages more frequent hand washing. The rest of your water jugs should be packed to distribute the weight.

After arriving, set up your camp with an eye toward a fast departure in the morning. You may have only an hour or two to break camp. The more efficiently you pack, and the faster you move in the morning, the less likely you are to hold up the group. That shows respect.

Here are some additional tips:

Multitask. Roll up a sleeping bag while waiting for the coffee to brew, for example.
Take out of the vehicle only the items you need to use. And put �em back right away when you�re done.
Don�t leave anything outside over night. First, the item is already packed, and second, it doesn�t get wet, lost, or damaged. Plus, you won�t be (or shouldn�t be) bothered by coyotes, burros, or vagrants.
Complete some tasks at night, such as fueling up and cutting veggies for omelets.
Prioritize your morning tasks: packing, eating breakfast, checking oil, and taking care of bathroom duties.
Lastly, put the group�s need to depart on time ahead of your desires. Roll up the tent wet, for example, instead of making everyone wait for it to dry. (But remember to dry it later!)

##########################

Did you miss the previous article? If so, read it here

Take a Wilderness First Aid Course

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Wilderness First Aid Course Jan 29 & 30, 2011

I feel that Wilderness First Aid is very important and have scheduled a Class for January next year. But, we need at least 12 people to sign up by December 12th to make it a go! A number of people sent me an email indicating they would be interested. We need everyone to register and we need about 6 additional. So if you are interested follow these links. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#WFA

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Mojave Road October 30

There is still time to sign up for this one.

On October 30th we will follow the Old Mojave Road for 3 days. This was the earliest wagon road into California. This time we will run it west to east just like the old miners going to the gold fields near the Colorado River. We will visit tons of history and see some incredible views. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Mojave

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NEW: T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

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Winch Clinic December 12, 2010

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2011 Schedule

The event schedule for 2011 is now on the web site.
Thank you to those who brought a few date errors to my attention.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###
If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2010, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Take a Wilderness First Aid Course

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-09-16

One of the last things you consider while preparing for a trip is an accident. After all, who wants to think about something bad? Unfortunately, accidents can happen any where and at any time. In my 40-plus years of four-wheeling, I�ve taken many courses, including those to become a Sworn Wildlife Conservation Officer for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

One of the more valuable courses I�ve taken is a wilderness first responder course. It�s geared toward folks like me who want to become certified first responders, but it offers a lot of good information for the average driver, as well. In my opinion everyone should take this class. Even if you never expect to be in a wilderness context, it is well worth the effort.

�But, I have a first aid kit in my vehicle,� you say. Great. Do you know how to use all the materials properly? More importantly, do you know how to handle serious injuries, such as:

Serious bleeding
Traumatic brain injury
Possible spine damage
Ankle sprains and strains
Broken bones
Heat exhaustion and stroke
Asthma
Bee sting creating Anaphylaxis

A wilderness first responder class takes a �system of the body approach.� You study cause and effect, and avoid a lot of rote memorization. That�s a much better way to learn.

One part teaches that there are only three things that cause death after any accident or illness. You are taught to focus on them and take appropriate action.

It�s a very intense course requiring a lot of commitment, but the benefit is great. Knowing that you can respond appropriately to nearly any injury allows you to go outdoors with confidence. Keep in mind that you don�t have to be in a wilderness area � defined as being more than two hours from definitive care � to face such an emergency.

I�d like to offer such a course, but need some idea of how many people would sign up. It will run two days, and include classroom instruction as well as outdoor mock-up/drills. Among other things, you�ll learn when you can walk/ carry / drive your patient out or if you need to send up the �big balloon� and have every available resource respond. The cost for the clinic will be $275 person.

If you are interested in such a program, please let me know. You can send an email via tom@4x4training.com. You can also sign up using the links in the section below.

Safety is no accident, as the old saying goes. Despite the best preparation, accidents can occur outdoors. Sometimes they are serious. If you are serious about being prepared, our wilderness first responder course is for you.

##########################

Did you miss the previous article? If so, read it here

Keep Your Fridge Freeze Clean

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2011 Schedule

The event schedule for 2011 is now on the web site.

##########################

Wilderness First Aid Course Jan 29 & 30, 2011

As mentioned in the article above, I feel that Wilderness First Aid is very important and have scheduled a Class for January next year. But, we need at least 12 people to sign up by December 12th to make it a go! So if you are interested follow these links. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#WFA

##########################

Overland Rally & Workshops September 23-26

Expeditions West and ExpeditionPortal.com are presenting another Overland Rally and Workshop.

The next event will be held at the Hollister Hills State Vehicle Recreation Area in Hollister California.

It begins on Thursday, September 23 and running through Sunday, September 26.

The Hollister event will bring overland and expedition travel enthusiasts together with a focus on all levels of vehicle-based adventure travel including 4WD and dual sport motorcycle.

The four day event will have a limited attendance '

Registrants will have the opportunity to participate in many exciting classes and discuss all aspects of Overland travel, in a casual and relaxing environment.

For more information: http://www.overlandrally.com/category/events/

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Winch Clinic October 3, 2010

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Death Valley October 8

The Death Valley Adventure starts October 8th. This is a 4 day trip on the back roads in Death Valley. We will drive the Panamint Mountains, visit Badwater Basin (lowest spot in North America), visit Chloride Ghost town, Titus Canyon, check out Ubehebe Crater, Teakettle junction, The Race Track & Lippencott Mine Road, camp in the Warm Springs and leave via Steal Pass up to the high meadows, then take Dedeckera Canyon down to the Eureka Sand Dunes. All four days will see some light to moderate 4-wheeling. Much of the trip is quite remote with no cell service.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/Deathvalley.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Deathvalley

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Mojave Road October 30

On October 30th we will follow the Old Mojave Road for 3 days. This was the earliest wagon road into California. This time we will run it west to east just like the old miners going to the gold fields near the Colorado River. We will visit tons of history and see some incredible views. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Mojave

##########################

NEW: T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Be the first to go on this trip with me and debug it for the next group!
Our goal is to cross through Johnson Valley, enjoying what it has to offer, and making our way North along the old Tonopah & Tidewater (T&T) Rail Road bed to the Rasor OHV, Afton Canyon and the western edge of the Mojave Preserve. On the way we will skirt the Rodman Mountain Wilderness and cross I-40. This adventure is 2 days of scenic, historical, light wheeling and a night ( 2 if you prefer) of primitive camping under the stars. We can plan a Dutch Oven pot luck for our evening meal.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/TTRailroad.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TTRailroad

Back

| Phone 310-374-8047

Keep Your Fridge Freezer Clean

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-08-11

Outdoors folks know how challenging it can be to keep food and other perishables chilled properly. You�re constantly adding ice and putting up with soggy food that fell into the big puddle at the bottom of your cooler. After each camping weekend, you turn to your better half and yell, �There�s gotta be a better way!� Thankfully, there is.

Amazing as it may sound, you can buy a refrigerator/freezer for your vehicle. Known as a fridge freezer, it�s about the size of an ice chest on steroids and runs on 12 volts. Most have dual capability with two separate power cords so they can run off 120 volts while parked near established power.

They�re called fridge freezers because they can do both. A dial lets you set the temperature to either chill or freeze. You can�t do both, like your machine at home. (Some units out there are just refrigerators. If you want to keep food frozen, make sure you buy the proper type.)

Fridge freezers are surprisingly efficient. I often run mine even when the car is parked in the garage. I usually plug it into an outlet, but a few times I let it run off the car battery. It�ll run upwards of four days before draining the battery.

I have owned an Engel brand for many years, but am quite partial to the redesigned ARB fridge freezer . The latest version incorporates all the features that are missing from the Engel. Overland Journal magazine, in its summer 2010 issue, gave the ARB its Value Award.

Like the fridge in your home, the fridge freezer must be maintained or mold will build up. That's what happened with mine. As you�ll note from the photos, most of the mold occurred at the bottom. The mat was encrusted pretty well, also, and there was some mold along the seam.

What to do if you have mold

What if you have mold? Don�t panic. While the inside of your fridge may look like something out of a horror movie, you don�t need any special effects to remove it.

A rag and some hot, soapy water did the trick for me. Water with a touch of bleach is supposed to work well, but keep it away from the rubber seal. I have heard that a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water works well in a spray bottle, too. Let it sit for 10 minutes and wipe it off.

Use an old toothbrush for mold along the seam or stubborn spot. Actually, most any softer brush will do. Avoid using a metal object like a butter knife, as you can damage the lining.

How to prevent mold build up

Mold forms where moisture and food are, so eliminate both. Double-bag meat and other juicy foods, and wipe up any leakage or spillage. As long as the inside stays dry and clean, there is little chance for mold to form.

If you�re not using the fridge, empty it, and clean it as needed. Prop the lid so the unit vents properly. Some people roll the edge of transit bag over and tuck that under the lid. On the new ARB, just push the latch in first to prevent the lid from closing completely. I often use a paint stir stick. It�s about 1/8� thick, but that�s enough to allow air to flow into the unit.

Once you return home, clean the fridge thoroughly and � assuming you won�t keep it running � leave the lid propped open. If you have problems with strong smells leave a tray of baking soda in the bottom until your next use.

Is the mold harmful? Probably not, especially in the amounts you�re likely to find in your fridge freezer. Even so, if you�re really sensitive to mold, you may want to wear a mask or (my favorite) ask someone else to clean your fridge.

Once you purchase a fridge freezer, you wonder how you got by without it. Spend a few moments on cleaning, and you�ll be assured of many happy trips outdoors.

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Did you miss the previous articles? If so, read them here

##########################

2011 Schedule

We are working on our event schedule for 2011. Look for it on the web site late August or early September. In the meantime if you have any requests for events or training next year, send us an email.

##########################

Rocks Clinic September 12

This is the last Rock Clinic this year. Held in Johnson Valley, this is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take our time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rocks

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Winch Clinic October 3, 2010

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Death Valley October 8

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Mojave Road October 30

##########################

NEW: T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Be the first to go on this trip with me and debug it for the next group!
Our goal is to cross through Johnson Valley, enjoying what it has to offer, and making our way North along the old Tonopah & Tidewater (T&T) Rail Road bed to the Rasor OHV, Afton Canyon and the western edge of the Mojave Preserve. On the way we will skirt the Rodman Mountain Wilderness and cross I-40. This adventure is 2 days of scenic, historical, light wheeling and a night ( 2 if you prefer) of primitive camping under the stars. We can plan a Dutch Oven pot luck for our evening meal.
Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/TTRailroad.html

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#TTRailroad

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Check out the 4 minute video on the Badlands Off-Road Home page

And look at the new slide show on the home page. (Another example of our bright web master's work! For best viewing us I.E. His code is not too swift on Firefox.)

Tie Yourself In Knots

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-07-15

You�re always tying something down when you travel, especially off road. You might be storing cargo on the roof of your vehicle and/or materials inside. Securing supplies onto a trailer. Putting up a lean-to or staking down a tent. You can sometimes use a ratchet strap or rubber strap. Other times require the use of rope. That�s why it�s helpful to know how to tie certain knots.

Former Boy Scouts remember having to learn five types of knots. The square knot and double half hitch are very useful. Brush up on those if you need to. For off-road purposes, it�s helpful to learn several others as well.

I�ve been fascinated with tying knots since I was introduced to the Ashley Book of Knots as a kid. (Link to The Ashley Book of Knots). Over the years I�ve mastered a number of different types of knots, but this column will concentrate on a few that are most suited to off-road activity.

Along with the square knot and double half hitch, it�s good to know the Trucker�s knot and the rolling hitch (sometimes called the taut line hitch). I won�t describe how to make these, because you can see for yourself on the Animated Knots by Grog Web site. Check out all the amazing videos by clicking on a knot.

The Trucker�s knot is useful any time you need to cinch up the rope. A good example is when you�re securing supplies to the roof of your vehicle. You want to get that rope as taut as possible; the Trucker�s knot allows you to do that. As long as you have two points to tie down your materials, this knot works really well.

A rolling hitch knot comes in handy when you�re staking down a tent. The rope in essence becomes a guy line. After securing on both ends (the stake and the tent grommet), you tie a knot in the middle of the rope. To take up the slack, simply move the knot downward. For you Scouters, who learned the taut line as a boy, the rolling hitch is only slightly different but significantly more secure.

How much and what type of rope to buy

You don�t need much rope for most applications. My pieces tend to be 6� or 8� long. You can do a lot with those lengths. Several standard 25� packages will be enough. Your needs won�t change much from one trip to the next, so once you�ve cut a few segments, you�ll find yourself using them repeatedly. I usually carry 6 to 8 8ft ropes in a zip lock bag.

I tend to buy white nylon rope. It�s thin (usually 1/8� or 5/16�) and slippery, but is very strong so it holds up well. A lot of people like parachute cord. Stay away from clothesline. It�s made mostly of natural fiber, and just doesn�t hold up well over time. It also isn�t as strong as nylon.

The most important factor, of course, is strength. Make sure you buy the proper rope for your need. If you�re just tying stuff to your roof or doing things around camp, a thin line is sufficient. Buy thicker rope for rescues and other tasks that involve a lot of stress. Climbing rope works well for that.

Respect your rope

Make sure your load is secure, that it�s tied down. Tug on it from every direction. If there�s too much play in the load, tighten your ropes. Anything on the roof of your vehicle will undergo tremendous forces both on-road and off-road. This is a good area to use extra rope.

The Grog site mentioned above has some additional safety information on its home page. I�ll recap the major points here.

Always wear gloves when working with rope. Thin rope, especially nylon, cuts into skin easily, and rope burns are possible under the right conditions.

A knot weakens the rope by upwards of 50%. This is why you never tie a knot into ropes and straps used for recovery or any other use that puts the rope under severe stress.

Inspect your rope before each use. Replace any that is cut, worn, or damaged from heat or chemicals. Rope is really inexpensive. The few bucks you spend before your trip can save a lot of grief later on.

Rope is one of those multi-purpose items that you don�t fully appreciate until you need it. Learning � or brushing up on � some basic knots can help you take full advantage of this very useful component of off-road adventures.

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Did you miss the previous article? If so, read it here

Respect Your Teammates. Arrive Prepared.

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New BLM Rules June 25, 2010

In case you missed the announcement the BLM has issued new rules for public lands administered by the BLM California Desert District. These rules are actually called "Interim Final Supplementary Rules". While, the rules took effect at the end of June, there is a 30 day public comment period. After that you can be fined up to $1000, spend 12 months in jail, or both.

Public nudity is prohibited at all developed sites and areas and all ORV open areas

It is prohibited for a person to ride in or transport another person in or on a portion of an ORV or trailer that is not designed or intended for the transportation of passengers.

It is prohibited to use as firewood, or have in their possession, any firewood materials containing nails, screws, or other metal hardware, including, but not limited to, wood pallets and/or construction debris.

Possession of glass beverage containers is prohibited in all developed sites and areas and all ORV open areas.

It is prohibited to place into the ground any non-flexible object, such as, but not limited to, metal or wood stakes, poles, or pipes, with the exception of small tent or awning stakes, at all developed sites and areas and all ORV open areas.

It is prohibited to camp within the areas commonly known as Competition Hill Corridor and Competition Hill located within the Dumont Dunes ORV Area, as shown in the map at the entrance kiosk.

It is prohibited to reserve or save a camping space for another person at all developed sites and areas and all ORV open areas.

All persons must keep their sites free of trash and litter during the period of occupancy.

Want to read the actual details from the BLM? Follow this link and also learn the definition of Public Nudity.
http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/fo/cdd/cdd_supplementary.html

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Wine Safari July 24

Last chance to sign up for the Wine Safari.

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Sand Clinic July 31, 2010

If you have been waiting for the next Sand Driving Clinic, put it on your calendar for July 31 and sign up now. The next one is not until December. This day-long clinic will expose you to a variety of driving conditions and levels of difficulty. Driving on sand is challenging and different than dirt, so we�ll progress slowly as you learn the proper techniques. As your confidence grows, you will master increasingly more challenging dunes. Along the way you will be exposed to the beauty of SVRA and the thrill of the windswept dunes. This is a rare opportunity to cruise the only beach in California open to vehicles.
More details...

Register for the Sand Clinic using this link.

http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Sand

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Rubicon Trail Adventure August 16- 19, 2010

The Rubicon Trails is the stuff of legends. It is considered the Grand Daddy of trails. If your vehicle has a weakness, it will find it. Any serious four-wheeler needs to "Do the 'Con" at least once. There is no guarantee of avoiding vehicle damage. Even the most skilled driver can succumb to the fatigue of 12 unrelenting miles of rocks. Just bring a good attitude and the best prepared vehicle you can. This could be a once in a lifetime trip but a lifelong of bragging rights. More Details

You need to register now so you have time to prepare. Register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rubicon

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Winching & Recovery DVD

Don't forget to order a Winching DVD - only $19.95 plus shipping and handling.

Read the press release

Order the Winching DVD!

PS - our web master is not too bright, so he used the same format to order DVD's as to register for a class. Just fill in the parts that make sense.

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Respect Your Trailmates. Arrive Prepared.

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-06-25

Four-wheeling is often a team effort. Indeed, I always recommend that at least two vehicles go out each time. If you are part of a group, make sure to arrive fully prepared. Any deficiency causes delays � or worse � and affects the entire group.

How to prepare for your trip

Many factors go into preparing for an off-road trip, a number of which have been covered in these blog columns. (A list is included at the end of this column.) In a nutshell, being prepared means being ready to go at the trailhead or wherever your group decides to meet.
Remember this simple mantra:

Be on time with a vehicle in good working order, and have sufficient fuel, ice, and wood. Also, be prepared to help out your fellow four wheelers.

�Be on time� means just that. A few minutes late usually won�t hurt, but if you�re really late and not fully prepared, you can cause problems. Consider an off-road trip just like any other obligation. Set the alarm clock a little early, if that�s what it takes. Pack as much as you can the night before, so there�s not much to do in the morning.

Make sure your vehicle is in good working order. Adhering to a proper maintenance schedule allows you to catch a problem while it is still relatively minor. Simple steps make a big difference: Inspect your tires. Check fluid levels. Take a peek under the frame.

You shouldn�t go off-road with significant issues. When your vehicle breaks down � you know it will at some point � the problem affects everyone.

As you pack, consider carefully where you are going and how long you will be gone. The amount and type of supplies varies depending on the environment and type of trip. Clothing and bedding, for example, tend to get shortchanged. If there�s any possibility of hitting cold or rainy weather, pack accordingly.

Create and use a checklist, even if you�re a seasoned four wheeler. You�re bound to forget something, especially if you pack in a hurry.

Bring along enough food, ice and wood. And remember to top off your tank. Your trailmates may be able to help you in a pinch, but you shouldn�t rely on them. They need their supplies for the trip. Take fuel, for example. If you run dry and borrow gas from another vehicle, that driver is now in a precarious position. Will he have enough to finish the trip? You see how an oversight on your part can have dire consequences for the group.

Help each other

For a trip to be successful, everyone needs to pitch in when needed. An obvious example is when one vehicle is stuck or damaged. It�s not a happy situation by any means, but it can be a good experience. Working together as a team you learn how to manage a tough situation under difficult circumstances. You grow individually and as a group. Many heads are always better than one, as I like to say.

You can also help clean up and break camp, and do other chores. By showing your team spirit you encourage others to do the same, and you leave a good impression on your trailmates. That good impression may get you invited back, as well.

Here are some other suggestions to make your event go smoothly:

Stay up with the group; don�t get way behind. People will wonder where you are.
Don�t wander off. Say you�re in camp, and you decide to go hiking. After awhile people will wonder what happened. Tell somebody that you�re going somewhere.
Be nice, be patient, and have a sense of humor. The last point is especially helpful during breakdowns and challenging situations.
Be flexible. Things happen on the trail, and plans often change. Just go with the flow.

You see that a lot of this is just common sense. But it�s important to keep these tips in mind. Doing so will help make everyone�s experience an enjoyable one.

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Did you miss the previous article? If so, read it here

Cook Anywhere, Anytime With A Campbox

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Wine Safari July 24

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Sand Clinic July 31, 2010

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Rubicon Trail Adventure August 16- 19, 2010

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Winching & Recovery DVD

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Cook Anywhere, Anytime With a Camp Box

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-05-18

Cook Anywhere, Anytime With a Camp Box

�No soldier can fight,� the Duke of Marlborough once said, �unless he is properly fed on beef and beer.�
Many four-wheelers will raise a toast to that statement. All chuckles aside, the point is well made:
You can�t have a successful venture on an empty stomach.

A typical weekend camper probably doesn�t give much thought to food storage and preparation. Load up a propane stove or a charcoal grill, throw some grub in a cooler and canned goods in a box, and away you go. That process works well for most camping, especially in developed sites.

It�s a whole new world off-road, however. Experienced four-wheelers know they must prepare well for the trip. A fully functioning kitchen is a must. Without one, the trip could be a bust, regardless of the scenery and the climate.

The foundation of your kitchen is the camp box. Sometimes called a chuck box, the camp box contains many of the tools and non-perishable food items you�ll need. Compact and rugged, it fits neatly into your vehicle and withstands the rigors of off-road driving. When opened up, it offers just about everything you need to get started on your next meal. A camp box turns an ordinary vehicle in to a meals on wheels.

My camp box is as essential to my off-road driving as the spare tire. I purchased mine, but you can build your own. A quick internet search brings up links to numerous Web sites offering plans, including this one which offers a workbook for sale. http://www.blueskykitchen.com/Grubby_One.html

Many folks use Pelican� cases for camp boxes. Check out their large selection at www.pelican.com.

Regardless of whether you build or buy, make sure your box offers a sturdy flat work surface. On some models you can use the top. Others have a pull out shelf. Still others allow you to flip the box on its side and use the door as a work surface.

Keep in mind that your camp box isn�t just for camping. If you�re every forced to evacuate, your camp box will become a very important survival tool.

A 1610 Pelican Case

What�s in a camp box?

A camp box is as unique as its user. Still, certain essentials are found in nearly all. Those include pots and pans, plates and silverware, cups or glasses, large knives and spoons, matches or a lighter, and even a corkscrew. Add in some non-perishable food items such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cooking oil, flour, salt and pepper. Make sure they�re in small packages or containers. Use a separate box for larger quantities.

With the box open, this cooks has two surface levels.

As you can see in the accompanying photo, my camp box has a wide assortment of stuff in it. This assortment has worked well for me. Over time, you will find the right combination for your needs.

No need to get fancy with the dishes. In fact, many people use hand-me-downs or goodies they found at garage sales. You�re going off-road, for crying out loud. Do you really want to pack your best stuff?

How many pieces of each you need depends on the size of your family and amount of space. Many people pack for a group of four. Take a few moments to calculate your needs. You can always revise that later.

Next is a box of dry goods, condiments and related staples. These include paper towels or napkins, tin foil, cereal, and bulk quantities of various items in your camp box. Toss in a can or two of soup, tuna fish, and beef broth (if you like making soup). You may also want to include a roll of toilet paper and some handy wipes.

This box can be left in your garage. When needed, just toss it into your vehicle. Incidentally, I recommend you mark your cans with a purchase date, and rotate them every 12 months or so if not used. Canned goods actually last for years, but it�s a good idea to keep your stock relatively current. Opened boxes of cereal, crackers, and other dry food should be replaced. Bugs and critters will be in hog heaven at your expense.

A Pelican organizer for the lid is helpful.

The final container includes your perishable food items. These, naturally, stay in your refrigerator or freezer until just before departure. Pack your cooler with sufficient ice or freezer packs to last for several hours. Plan your trip so that you can get new ice on occasion.

An unintended flare up or cooking fire is always a possibility, so when preparing for a trip, remember to inspect your fire extinguisher. Is it still properly charged? Any cracked or broken parts? For more on carrying for and using a fire extinguisher, see Store And Use Your Fire Extinguisher Properly

See more helpful Tips for Your Camp Box

A properly designed camp box puts a small kitchen right at your fingertips wherever you are. The meal you prepare is so much more satisfying when you�re able to set up your camp kitchen quickly and effortlessly. If you don�t already have one, I suggest you add a camp box to your �honey-do� list.

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Did you miss the previous article? If so, read it here

2010 Easter Safari in Moab, UT

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Facebook

Badlands Off-Road Adventures now has a Facebook page.

And check out the new 4 minute video on the Badlands Off-Road Home page.

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Winch Clinic June 5, 2010

We are thinking about adding another Winch Clinic to the Schedule, if there is enough interest. We will hold it on June 5th near Mojave, CA. This one day clinic starts with the basics. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. Let me know if you are interested. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Winch

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Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 20

Don't forget to join us in Hungry Valley SVRA on Sunday June 20th for the FREE customer appreciation event. We have teamed up with 5 of the local 4 Wheel Parts Stores (they are bringing raffle prizes and food). More details are posted on the web site. www.4x4training.com/Adventures/CustAppr.html

You are all invited June 20th! Everyone must register so we have enough food on hand - This is big! www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Cust

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Rocks & Spotting Clinics June 26 & 27, 2010

The June Clinics will be in Johnson Valley. This is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take out time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details on Rocks...

Register directly at
http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rocks

Sign up for the Spotting Clinic to be held the next day in the same area. We will hone your spotting skills. More Details on Spotting...

Register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Spotting

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Wine Safari July 24

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Rubicon Trail Adventure August 16- 19, 2010

The Rubicon Trails is the stuff of legends. It is considered the Grand Daddy of trails. If your vehicle has a weakness, it will find it. Any serious four-wheeler needs to "Do the 'Con" at least once. There is no guarantee of avoiding vehicle damage. Even the most skilled driver can succumb to the fatigue of 12 unrelenting miles of rocks. Just bring a good attitude and the best prepared vehicle you can. This could be a once in a lifetime trip but a lifelong of bragging rights. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rubicon

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Winching & Recovery DVD

We have a high quality Winching DVD available for $19.95.

Read the press release

Enjoy!

2010 Easter Safari in Moab, UT

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-04-08

2010 Easter Safari in Moab, UT

I had another great time at the Easter Safari in Moab, UT. The Red Rock 4-Wheelers put on another excellent event. This was the 44th year they have been doing it!

I saw a number of new products at the vendor show and grabbed some quick pictures to share with you. There are one or two products that have been released for a while but they were new to me - I somehow missed the original release.

PTO Bail Pin

But first, I saw this clever solution to keep from losing your D ring. I only snapped one shot so hopefully the concept stands out. I have not tried it on the vehicle as I prefer to carry my D rings inside the vehicle. I did test several different D rings. Rings that have a fairly large hole in the 3/4" pin were easier to make work with the bail pin. I found several D ring that required a lot of fiddling until I could close the bail. And I have one D ring, I just could not close the gap. Perhaps if I bent the 1/4 inch pin on the PTO Bail pin it would work. The only bail pins that worked are ones with a round bail as in the picture. The square bails did not have enough clearance. If you have experience with this technique, I would like to hear if it works well or if there are some down sides. These bail pins sure are useful. Someday I should put together a compilation of all the ways I have seen then used off-road!

Moses Ludel's 4WD Mechanix Magazine

I meet Moses Ludel in Moab and discovered he is publishing a new magazine. For the Jeep enthusiasts who want to understand their vehicle in greater depth, do their own modifications and field repair, this online magazine is just what you need. It is easy to read and understand Moses's articles. It is just like having a coach looking over your shoulders as you work through mechanical issues. February was the first issue and it is totally free.

As his web site says "No subscriptions, no memberships and no renewals. Each monthly issue delivers professional feature articles and pages full of technical 'Q & A.' Want facts, instructive tips and integrity? Read the only magazine written, illustrated and published by the author of the bestselling Jeep� Owner's Bible� and two Jeep� CJ Rebuilder's Manuals� from Bentley Publishers!"

Get it on line today at:
http://www.4wdmechanix.com

Quick Release Fire Extinguisher Bracket

Off Road Trail Tools has a new quick release for your fire extinguisher. The hose clamps are permanently mounted to the fire extinguisher and the base is fixed to your vehicle. Pick a location that is visible and easy to reach. Just pull the pin and you have your fire extinguisher in your hands. There are two size - see the one in the background. You can go even bigger if you provide larger hose clamps! http://www.offroadtrailtools.com
Off Road Trail Tools
7099 W Hutchs Pools Place, Tucson, AZ 85743
Phone: 520-579-2079
Fax: 520-579-2080

Security Box

Off Road Trail Tools had a prototype of a new security box for the Jeep TJ & LJ. OFTT is looking for your input. They will put the box into production if there is enough interest. The box bolts under the driver's seat using OEM mounts. It will not work on driver's side flip and fold seats, however. The manufacture's suggested retail price will be $99. http://www.offroadtrailtools.com
Off Road Trail Tools
7099 W Hutchs Pools Place, Tucson, AZ 85743
Phone: 520-579-2079
Fax: 520-579-2080

Spare Oil Storage Box

As you will see, I got sucked into the Off Road Trail Tools booth for quite a while looking at all the neat ideas. This under the hood box for spare oil (or anything else you want to put in it) just jumped out at me. ORTT has had it on the market for a while. There is a cover that goes on it to keep out a lot of the dirt and water. And if you roll your rig the contents will not fall out. The cover doubles as a nut and bolt tray when making field repairs. They call this there Oil/Tool box part #5000. It is made of aluminum and comes in several finishes. The box is a drop in on TJs and LJs with an automatic transmission.
http://www.offroadtrailtools.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=3
Off Road Trail Tools
7099 W Hutchs Pools Place, Tucson, AZ 85743
Phone: 520-579-2079
Fax: 520-579-2080

Automotive Escape Tool

This little devise fits on your key chain. It will cut the seat belt and a spring loaded punch breaks a side window in the event you are trapped in your vehicle. It also has a whistle and a flash light. Even better, it will let you help someone else who is trapped in their vehicle. I don't know about you, but the last time, I rolled a vehicle, I was upside down, lying on the steering wheel with no way to reach the keys in the ignition. My benefactor mule-kicked the window in my face. This would have been so much better!
http://www.WARN.com

Off-Road Heat

Boy, I really needed one of these for my 1970 CJ5! There was just no way to keep warm in that Jeep in North Dakota. I kept an ice scraper in one hand to clean the insides of the window. On long trips we wrapped up in blankets and sleeping bags on top of our winter coats and boots. There is still a need and one of these models can push out 38,000 BTU at 320 CFM. You just need to do a little plumbing to tie it into the vehicle's coolant system.

http://www.aquahotoffroad.com

Gasoline Fuel Pack

Perhaps you have seen in the ATV catalogs a flat plastic gasoline container designed to just fit into the rear cargo basket. These typically hold 3 gallons. I liked the low profile but wanted more gallons. It appears that RotoPax took the original design increased it to 4 gallons and cut it in half. Each half now holds 2 gallons. Buy two and you come closer to a 5 gallon can but in an easier to handle package. They have 2 gallon sizes for gasoline, water, diesel, Kerosene, oil, storage, first aid, and emergency preparedness. Yep, you can get an empty box to store stuff in. The jugs are leak proof so you can lay them down or on the side. They have several mounting schemes and they can interlock with each other. You really need to get on their web site to appreciate the product. I don't know anyone with real world experience yet. The two key issues for me are: Will they stand up to the claim of being leak proof? And, can you easily get the fuel out of the can? Some of the new CARB compliant devises are a real bear to operate.

http://www.rotopax.com/

Snow

That is all you get. The only bad weather day was the day I was not on the trail. I didn't spend too much time outside with the other half of the venders.

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Did you miss the previous article? If so, read it here

Store And Use Your Fire Extinguisher Properly

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Winching & Recovery DVD

We have a high quality Winching DVD available for $19.95.

Read the press release

Enjoy!

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Mojave Road Adventure April 17-19

Time is short but we can get you in on this trip if you register soon. On April 17th we take off from the Colorado River to follow the Old Mojave Road for 3 days. This was the earliest wagon road into California. Again we might see wild flowers but for sure we will visit tons of history and see some incredible views. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Mojave

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Peach Cobbler Trail May 22- 23

On this historical tour weekend we will use iron steeds to explore the old west around the turn of the century and enjoy a Dutch oven meal just like the pioneers. Anytime is a great time to get away to the desert with beautiful days, clear blue skies and the smell of the creosote bushes. For more details.

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Peach

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Rubicon Trail Adventure August 16- 19, 2010

The Rubicon Trails is the stuff of legends. It is considered the Grand Daddy of trails. If your vehicle has a weakness, it will find it. Any serious four-wheeler needs to "Do the Con" at least once. There is no guarantee of avoiding vehicle damage. Even the most skilled driver can succumb to the fatigue of 12 unrelenting miles of rocks. Just bring a good attitude and the best prepared vehicle you can. This could be a once in a lifetime trip but a lifelong of bragging rights. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rubicon

Store And Use Your Fire Extinguisher Properly

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-03-17

Like other four-wheelers, I keep a fire extinguisher in the vehicle. Don�t think about it much, as it sits there year-round, attached to the transmission hump. One day I had to take it in for a minor repair, and it dawned on me that we tend to take those things for granted. So I figured we could use a refresher on our fire extinguishers, including how to care for and use them. Call it Fire Extinguisher 101.

I won�t discuss the various types of extinguishers out there. We touched on that in "Pack A Fire Extinguisher So You Don�t Get Burned". Instead, I want to review some maintenance tips, then discuss the proper use of a fire extinguisher.

It�s easy to ignore a fire extinguisher. You mount it one day, and then sort of forget about it. You see it every day as you hop into your vehicle. In effect, it becomes a part of the scenery. While the tank and chemical don�t deteriorate over time, experts recommend that you inspect your extinguisher at least annually, and get it repaired or recharged as needed. (Due to the nature of off-road driving, I suggest you inspect it every couple months or so.)

Start by looking at the gauge. Is the needle still in the safe zone? If not, the extinguisher must be recharged or replaced. Go online or check the Yellow Pages for a facility. Keep in mind that you may have purchased a disposable unit. Those can�t be recharged. (This is the one I use.)

Experts recommend that you replace or service your extinguisher if you notice any of the following:

The hose or nozzle is cracked, ripped, or blocked with debris
The locking pin on the handle is missing or unsealed
The handle is wobbly or broken
The inspection sticker or hang tag is missing

The chemical can settle over time, so some people suggest shaking the tank lightly every six months. In addition, make sure to recharge or replace your extinguisher if it�s been used at all. The nozzle can get plugged after a simple discharge, which some people do to test the unit. Plus, you�ve used some of the chemical, so the extinguisher�s effectiveness is diminished.

Extinguishers last years, according to the manufacturers, but without a label, how can you determine when you purchased it? Make a point to replace or service your extinguisher(s) every three to five years. That way you can be assured of a working unit.

Many fire extinguishers come with a paper hang tag. That can rip off easily from all the jostling around in your vehicle. If you take your extinguisher in for servicing, ask the technician to apply a maintenance label. That will stick forever.

How to properly use a fire extinguisher?

That may seem obvious, like riding a bicycle. Yet in an emergency, we tend to panic and forget even the simplest instructions. Think PASS. It stands for

Pull the pin
Aim at the base of the fire
Squeeze the lever slowly
Sweep from side to side

A typical 2.5 - 3 lb. bottle will discharge in about 10 seconds. The sweeping motion ensures that you cover the entire fire, not just one portion. Even so, the extinguisher will be emptied quickly.

This is a good time to discuss fire safety. While the western states are particularly prone to fires, due to all the dry brush in certain parts, everyone must take seriously the threat of a fire. Whenever you burn outside or otherwise use a heat source, make sure you control the scene and have a proper fire suppression system in place.

Don�t walk away from the fire pit until you�re absolutely certain it won�t re-start and spread. How to do that? The best way is to douse it with water. I mean flood it. The ashes should be floating in a pool of water. Use a shovel or steel rake to stir up the slurp, making sure all the hot coals are soaked.

If you must use sand or dirt, apply it lightly, and work it into the ashes with the shovel or rake. Don�t merely dump a pile on the hot coals. That may trap the heat, and keep the spot dangerously hot. You started that fire, so you have a responsibility to make sure it�s out.

Like a first aid kit or a cell phone, a fire extinguisher is one of those things you must have in an emergency. Inspect it regularly, and it will be ready when you need it. Don�t overlook this important component.

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Did you miss the previous Article? If so read it here

2010 Wild Flower Season is Here

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Winching & Recovery DVD

We have a high quality Winching DVD available for $19.95.

Read the press release

Enjoy!

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Mojave Road Adventure April 17-19

On April 17th we take off from the Colorado River to follow the Old Mojave Road for 3 days. This was the earliest wagon road into California. Again we might see wild flowers but for sure we will visit tons of history and see some incredible views. More Details

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Mojave

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Peach Cobbler Trail May 22- 23

Wild Flower Season is Here!

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-02-27

2010 Wild Flower report

We have had more rain this winter then in the recent couple of years. It should make for a good bloom of wild flowers - Perhaps not as spectacular as 2005 but very well worth getting out to the desert this spring to see them.

The Desert USA web site is my primary source for the status of wildflowers in the spring. They cover Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas.

If you go to the Southern California report, with this direct link: Southern California Wild flower Report, you can drill down to additional reports specific to Anza Borrego Desert State Part, Death Valley NP, Joshua Tree NP, and Mojave National Preserve .

Photo by Lion (see the little frog)

The peak bloom has already started in Anza Borrego Desert State Park.

It is well ahead of the other areas. (http://www.desertusa.com/wildflo/ca_abdsp.html )

This is a quota from Desert USA for the Anza Borrego Area left Feb 26, 2010.

�About half of the desert annuals have begun blooming, with the rest to follow in the next month. This is the exciting phase of peak bloom, where every trip reveals additional species blooming, and finds fields of bloom from species that only had a few individuals blooming just a week earlier. Peak bloom at elevations of about 1000 feet on the desert floor should continue for at least several weeks, through March. Its end will come whenever the temperatures hit 80� or above for a week or two. Peak bloom in the canyons to the west of Borrego Springs should begin in a few weeks, sometime in early March. Peak bloom is defined here as the time period when you can see the maximum number of species in bloom on a given one or two day trip, as well as the maximum number of individual plants in bloom.�

Here is some advice from the official State park web site for Anza Borrego Desert State park.

�Suggested times for enjoying the flowers

During or immediately after a rain � Get out and enjoy the air when it�s filled with the aroma of the creosote bush.
Two weeks after a rain � Watch for new green leaves on Ocotillo branches. Look for fields of yellow Chinchweed. �

Visit the anza Borrego Desert State Park web site for their status reports.

If you go to Anza Borego DSP, expect large crowds in the best viewing areas that are accessible by 2-Wheel drive vehicles. With 4-Wheel Drive you will be able to drive further in - just stay on the trails! Hotel rooms will also be scarce for the next month or two. But there is plenty of camping available.

Use this rule of thumb to plan your trips this spring:
Blooming Periods

1,000 � 3,000 feet

Yuccas�March and April
Annuals�February, March, and April
Cacti�March, April, and May

3,000 � 5,000 feet

Joshua Trees and Yuccas�March and April
Annuals�March, April, and May
Cacti�April, May, and June

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Tierra Del Sol (TDS)

Come and visit us at TDS this year. The event is next weekend. The main day is Saturday March 6th. We will have a booth in the vendor area. This is a good opportunity to see the Wild Flower bloom in the lower desert. Most everyone camps near the vendor area. And stick around on Sunday morning for a Winching demo. Sponsored by Super Winch, we will do it in the area in front of the stage.

There are more details on the TDS web site and you can sign up for the trail and a raffle ticket. http://www.tdsdesertsafari.com/

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Death Valley March 19 -22

Not much time left to sign up! The Death Valley Adventure Starts March 19th. This is a 4 day trip on the back roads in Death Valley. We will drive the Panamint Mountains, visit Badwater Basin (lowest spot in North America), visit Chloride Ghost town, Titus Canyon, check out Ubehebe Crater, Teakettle junction, The Race Track & Lippencott Mine Road, camp in the Warm Springs and leave via Steal Pass up to the high meadows, then take Dedeckera Canyon down to the Eureka Sand Dunes. We might encounter wild flowers. All four days will see some light to moderate 4-wheeling. Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/Deathvalley.html

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Deathvalley

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Mojave Road Adventure April 17-19

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Rubicon Trail August 16-19

Time to sign up and start getting ready for the Rubicon trail. The Rubicon Trails is the stuff of legends. It is considered the Grand Daddy of trails. If your vehicle has a weakness, it will find it. Any serious four-wheeler needs to "Do the Con" at least once. There is no guarantee of avoiding vehicle damage. Even the most skilled driver can succumb to the fatigue of 12 unrelenting miles of rocks. Just bring a good altitude and the best prepared vehicle you can. This could be a once in a lifetime trip but a lifelong of bragging rights. For more details.

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rubicon

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

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If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

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Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2010, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Your Gear Is Not Complete Without An Emergency Packet

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-02-11

Your Gear Is Not Complete

Without An Emergency Packet

Regular readers of this column know that I have stressed safety and preparedness several times. There�s good reason for that. When you�re off-road, especially several hours away from critical care, you have to be able to handle emergencies that may occur.

Previously I�ve touched on first aid kits and other gear. This time I�d like to cover another very important item, an emergency packet. As the name suggests, this is a packet of valuable information kept at your fingertips just in case something happens.

Emergencies are stressful situations. Common details like home phone numbers can be difficult to recall. An emergency packet becomes your �go to� source during difficult times.

If you are within cell range (or have a satellite phone) and have an emergency, by all means call 911. Not all situations are medical emergencies, of course. Your emergency packet contains other vital information that can help get you and your group out of a jam.

At a minimum the packet should contain the following information. Please note that certain details will change as you visit different areas.

A page of emergency numbers
Map(s) and directions to nearby hospitals, with phone numbers
Assessment forms for injuries and illness
First Aid & CPR booklets
Evacuation plans, including instructions regarding when and whether to transport out or call for evacuation
A page on vehicle recovery (safety reminders, planning steps)

Some phone numbers to list include:

Local sheriff�s department / police department
Park ranger of the recreation area you will be visiting
Federal Interagency at 909-383-5651. This is helpful if you�re on federal lands, such as Death Valley and Mojave Desert. It�s a central dispatch center. They�ll route your call accordingly.
Poison Control at 800-222-1222

Ham radio operators should retain a list of area 2 m and 70 cm repeater frequencies (and CTCSS tones), as well as the national calling frequencies (146.520 MHz and 446.000 MHz). Remember that those are simplex frequencies, so program your radio accordingly.

In addition to the contact information for area hospitals, I suggest developing a map showing possible route(s). Provide clear instructions on the map as well, so drivers don�t have to rely entirely on the lines or highlighter markings you�ve made. Review the area carefully, and note that there may be more than one hospital within range depending on where you are in your route.

Make several copies of these maps. The driver transporting someone out gets a copy, of course. But if you need to evac someone, family members can be given a map to help them find the hospital.

Speaking of transporting, make sure to send at least two vehicles. The additional vehicles act a backup, to make sure you�ll be able to get the person out (or at least send out a messenger). Not all transports need to get to the highway, either. I tell drivers to continue trying the phone until they make contact with emergency responders. They may be able to meet the driver part way, thereby saving valuable time.

As I said, if you�re able to place a call, dial 911. If you�re not, you�ll need to decide whether to transport the person, or send other drivers out to get help. Start with an assessment of the person�s injuries or illness. That�s why I suggest including an assessment checklist or SOAP Note (Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan) Tear sheets in the emergency packet. Once you understand what you�re dealing with, you can apply necessary first aid, and you�re in a better position to identify the resources you require.

The assessment forms and the SOAP Note Tear Sheets are available from a variety of online sources. Buy enough copies for your first aid kit, glove compartment, and go bag.
Any of the First Aid booklets from EMS Safety Services contains an assessment form that can be pulled out and copied. Here is the link.

http://shop.emssafetyservices.com/First-Aid_c_20.html
It would be a good idea to carry one of these booklets in the packet as well as one in your first aid kit. The books are slim (44 pages) and only $4.50.

You can order a booklet of Soap Notes Tear Sheets from Wilderness Medical Associates at http://www.wildmed.com/blog/gear-store/soap-notes/
The cost is $5.95 for a book of about 8 sheets. The book can be split up (or order multiple booklets) to put several sheets each in the emergency packet and in your first aid kit.

Wilderness Medical Associates also has a great First Aid Field Guide for $21.95. http://www.wildmed.com/blog/gear-store/the-field-guide-of-wilderness-rescue-medicine/

Carry this one in your pocket !

As you can see, a emergency packet is an extremely important part of your �gear.� Spend a few moments developing one before your next off-road excursion. It could prove to be a life-saver.

Winching & Recovery on YouTube

Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc. now has its own 4x4 training channel on YouTube. We recently cleaned up 15 chapters on Winching and recovery Techniques plus two bonus chapters to take advantage of new higher quality resolution available on YouTube.

I recently received this comment from

Floyd L. Jennings of Houston, TX

"I had opportunity to review your sequence of brief training videos viz. using a winch and wanted to say the following:

Thanks for making them available on the net;
You have an easy manner as a teacher that is very engaging and is absent of the arrogance that is all too common among others;
Even old-timers like me can and do learn by watching a refresher�.especially as this is not my business and there is little opportunity for repetition as a learning tool."

You can access the YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/4x4Training.

We have a high quality DVD available for $15.00. Call if you want to purchase one.

Enjoy!

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Tierra Del Sol (TDS)

Come and visit us at TDS this year. The event is the first weekend in March. The main day is Saturday March 6th. We will have a booth in the vendor area.

There are more details on the TDS web site and you can sign up for the trail and a raffle ticket. http://www.tdsdesertsafari.com/

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Death Valley

The Death Valley Adventure Starts March 19th. This is a 4 day trip on the back roads in Death Valley. We will drive the Panamint Mountains, visit Badwater Basin (lowest spot in North America), visit Chloride Ghost town, Titus Canyon, check out Ubehebe Crater, Teakettle junction, The Race Track & Lippencott Mine Road, camp in the Warm Springs and leave via Steal Pass up to the high meadows, then take Dedeckera Canyon down to the Eureka Sand Dunes. We might encounter wild flowers. All four days will see some light to moderate 4-wheeling. Check out the details and sign up on the website: http://www.4x4training.com/Adventures/Deathvalley.html

You can register directly at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Deathvalley

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Mojave Road Adventure April 17

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Rubicon Trail August 16

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.
Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:
Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Man's Best Friend Makes A Great Off-Road Companion

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2010-01-18

Photos by Snoopy

When we think of trip companions, friends, family members, co-workers, and others readily come to mind. All too often one important �family member� gets left behind: your dog. Many times we assume that our four-legged friends aren�t compatible, are too much of a bother, or would just cause trouble. Sure, there are times and places that shouldn�t include any pet, but more often than not, your dog would be a nice complement to your trip outdoors.

Dogs, especially certain breeds , are a natural. In fact, they crave the outdoors. Recall how often you�ve taken your �buddy� out for a run, and it seemed as if Buddy would never want to leave. That flashing tail, darting nose, and excited eyes tell you just how much he was enjoying himself.

Having a dog entails a certain amount of responsibility, of course. They require regular feeding and exercise, and therefore are an obligation. Because of this commitment, owners tend to leave their pets at home when they head out for a drive. Sadly, some people forgo the off-road experience because they are unable to find anyone to dog sit. That�s too bad.

We need to rethink this issue of bringing dogs along. A dog can bring so much to an outing that after the first off-road excursion, you�ll wonder why you don�t bring him along each time. With the right kind of preparation, your pet can add immeasurably to your experience outdoors.

You already spend quite a bit of time preparing for your trip. Accounting for a pet involves just a few extra steps and moments. Don�t let those stop you from enjoying a complete weekend.

First and foremost is care and safety of your dog. Pack sufficient food and a lot of water. If you will be driving more than an hour or so before going off-road, schedule a potty break for the pooch (maybe for yourself, as well). Consider weather conditions of your location. The desert gets blazing hot during the day, and the mountains can get very cold and snowy. Make sure your dog is kept out of the extremes.

Be mindful of the heat. With their furry coats, dogs are susceptible to heat stroke, which can be deadly.

I�d like to thank my son, Mike Severin DVM, for the following additional suggestions:

Apply a flea and tick preventative, such as Frontline� and Advantage� and a preventative against heartworm. Heartguard� is a good product.
Make sure the rabies and distemper shots are up to date. Ask your vet if other precautions might be necessary, considering the environment you will be in. Also ask whether the Lyme vaccine is appropriate.
Use a crate to transport your pet. That�s safer, especially when driving on bumpy roads or trails.
Record your phone number and the dog�s name on its collar. You may even consider having a microchip embedded in the dog.
Pack plastic bags to clean up after your pet and a stake and leash to keep him at the campsite.
Clean up any antifreeze spill! Antifreeze smells and tastes good to your dog, but it is lethal.

Be considerate of the other campers in your group. Some may be allergic to pets, while others may be bringing pets of their own. Observe how your pet interacts with other humans and dogs once you arrive. Bear in mind that it may take several hours for all the pets to get acclimated to each other and the humans.

The outdoors are beautiful, but also contain their share of hazards. Plants like cacti (discussed in Prickly Thing In The Desert Can Put A Hole In Your Plans) and critters such as wolves and cougars present special challenges. Smaller dogs are especially susceptible to being grabbed by a large predator.

You also need to stay informed on regulations regarding pets on public lands. Most, if not all, public areas require your dog to be leashed. You should always clean up after your pet, and walk only on designated trails. Don�t allow your dog to harass wild animals. In the case of skunks and porcupines, Fido can easily learn a nasty lesson. But make sure your dog doesn�t chase deer, squirrels, or other animals. All of you�humans and pets alike�should enjoy the stroll together.

Taking your dog along creates those memories that last a lifetime. They are, after all, a part of your family. Just like a family member, they can enjoy the outdoors and enhance your overall experience. The next time you make plans for an off-road excursion, plan on taking along your four-legged friend. You�ll be glad you did.

You�ll be glad you did.

Easter Safari March 29, 2010

LAST CHANCE to sign up for Easter Safari March 29 � April 2. We will close registraton January 29th. All the trail rides are assigned by lottery. The submission date for the lottery is early to mid February. As of Jan, 29, I will be cancelling the extra hotel reservations.

You need to register right away at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#EJS.

Check out http://4x4training.com/Adventures/EasterSafari/EJSMain.html

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Tread Trainer Clinic February 19, 2010

There is a Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Clinic Feb 19, 2010 in Sacramento as part of the CA4WDC Convention. This is a one day course. There is a minimal fee of $25 to cover class materials and handouts. It requires a commitment to teaching and spreading the word about Tread Lightly! Principles and outdoor ethics.

More details on line at http://www.4x4training.com/TrainingClinics/Tread.html .

And register on line at http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Tread.

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Rocks Clinic January 30 and Feburary 6, 2010

The Janurary Class will be in Johnson Valley and the Febuary Class will be at Calico. This is an introduction to Rock crawling but it is not on "baby" rocks. We take out time and stress careful wheel placement. We use spotters for difficult sections. You learn by inspecting the obstacle and predicting the line; by watching others try their line; by experiencing it yourself; and by the coaching. We recommend you repeat the training several times. You will be much more relaxed the second time over the same obstacles and you will pick up on little details missed the first time. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Rocks

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Sand Clinic February 21, 2010

If you have been waiting for the next Sand Driving Clinic, put it on your calendar for February 21st and sign up now. This day-long clinic will expose you to a variety of driving conditions and levels of difficulty. Driving on sand is challenging and different than dirt, so we�ll progress slowly as you learn the proper techniques. As your confidence grows, you will master increasingly more challenging dunes. Along the way you will be exposed to the beauty of SVRA and the thrill of the windswept dunes. This is a rare opportunity to cruise the only beach in California open to vehicles.
More details...

Register for the Sand Clinic using this link.

http://4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Sand

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Winch Clinic February 28, 2010

Make plans to attend this Winch clinic. We will be holding it at a new location. This one day clinic starts with the basics. By the end of the day you will be safely rigging some complex recoveries. More Details...

You can register directly at http://www.4x4training.com/calendar/calendar.php#Winch

I hope to see you on the trails!

Dont Trash the Environment

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-12-26

It�s no secret that Americans generate a lot of trash. Millions of tons of it every year. Not all of it ends up in garbage cans, either. Our streets are littered with cigarette butts, gum wrappers, and other trash. Sadly, our parks and other recreational areas are also cluttered with this stuff.

As a conscientious 4-wheeler, you adhere to the Tread Lightly! philosophy. One of its core principals implores you to leave an area in as good or better condition as you found it. You know you�ll be taking supplies with you, so what can you do about your garbage and trash?

This whole process starts even before you leave home. The best way to minimize the amount of trash you generate is to eliminate as much packaging as possible. Take cereal, for example. You don�t need that big box with you. Pack just the bag of cereal inside. A rubber band will keep the bag closed, and you can use the rubber band for other things. Ditto for the plastic bag. If you eat up all your cereal, fold up the bag for future use.

Some products, such as glue and batteries, often come with extra packaging. The individual unit(s) are blister-packed onto a larger package. Take out the one or two items you need for your trip, and leave the rest, including all the packaging, behind.

Beverages present other opportunities for creative packing. If you�re a wine drinker, transfer the wine to a soft plastic container or the Platypus Platy Preserve Wine Preserver Bladder. The wine tastes just as good, and you�re not stuck with an empty bottle. Plus, as noted above, you can use the bladder to hold other stuff if you manage to polish off your wine.

Glass bottles present a real challenge. They break easily, and take up lots of space. In fact, some public lands prohibit glass containers. When possible, consider buying beverages that come in aluminum cans. Once emptied, you can crush them into mini-pancakes for easy storage.

Steel (�tin�) cans also are a bit of a hassle. They don�t crush down well, so unless you can find a new use for empty cans, you�re stuck with bulky trash.

Many folks like to cook while off road. You can save on waste and packaging there, too. Chop or cut up your onions, peppers, carrots, and whatnot at home, taking only the amounts you need for your weekend meal(s). You save space and have less garbage left over.

Food waste presents a special problem for the outdoors. It takes up space, and attracts unwanted critters to the campsites. You�ve heard of the grizzly bears in Yellowstone digging through Dumpsters and climbing into people�s cars. Out here in the southwest, we have a real problem with ravens. Their populations are soaring (700 percent in the past 25 years) because too many people are leaving food waste at their campsites. It doesn�t take much. A few crumbs or morsels at each site add up to a lot of food.

What�s the big deal with ravens? Other than a nuisance, ravens are a major threat to the tortoises. Until it is about five or six years old, a tortoise�s shell isn�t hard enough to protect the animal. A raven can easily puncture the shell and munch away.

Consider reusing your drinking water, when possible. The water used to wash potatoes and other vegetables, for example, can be used to clean your dishes. Afterward, that water contains chunks of food which, as noted above, attracts ravens and other critters. Strain the water through a commercial-size coffee filter or similar product to remove the food particles. Pour that water on your campfire ashes to make sure they�re out.

What about burning trash? That�s a bad idea, too. For starters, it is tough on the environment. The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality addressed this issue in its brochure titled, �Don�t Burn Trash at Your Campsite�:

�Burning trash, even paper, can release acidic gases, heavy metals, particulates, and toxic chemicals such as dioxin into the environment.�

Further, trash burning is a significant cause of wild fires, and the ash can contaminate soil and groundwater. If you must burn anything, use a fire pan so you can collect the ashes and throw them away when you get home. Many areas now require the use of a fire pan even for campfires.

There is a new product on the market that makes it even easier to haul your trash out. The Trasharoo carries up to 50 pounds of trash on your spare tire. A 30 gallon trash bag will fit inside and the sturdy Trasharoo is lashed to the tire so it does not flop around like a burlap bag. www.trasharoo.com

Finally, make a point to pick up trash you see along the way. Unlike hikers and backpackers, you have lots of extra room for trash. And as an off-road driver, you are held accountable for the garbage out there. It may not be fair, but that�s reality. Plus, we want to show everyone else that we are good stewards of the land. Leave your area in better condition than when you arrived. You�ll feel better, and our hobby will be better for it.

Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Certification Clinic January 09, 2010

by tom@4x4training.com — 2009-12-09

There is a Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Clinic Jan 9, 2010. We would like to encourage you to sign up for the Tread Lightly! Tread Trainer Certification Clinic. This is a one day course. There is a minimal fee of $25 to cover class materials and handouts. It requires a commitment to teaching and spreading the word about Tread Lightly! Principles and outdoor ethics.

Prickly Things In The Desert Can Put A Hole In Your Plans

tom@4x4training.com — 2009-11-29

The desert is an amazing place. Despite the harsh conditions, numerous plants and animals thrive there. Many plants, including cacti, bloom in the spring and summer, bringing tremendous color to the otherwise drab surroundings.

Looks can be deceiving, however. Certain plants may be appealing to the eyes, but can ruin your afternoon if you get too close. Needles on the Cholla plants, for example, can easily puncture clothing and even tires. The Yucca plant and Cat�s Claw also present hazards, and should be avoided.

The Cholla

as you might expect, is a member of the cactus family. Found throughout North and South America, it can grow up to 10 feet high depending on type. The following Chollas are found extensively in the southwestern part of the United States.

Photo by Lion (RIP)

Buckhorn

So named because its shape resembles antlers from a deer or elk. Its numerous stalks or �arms� are covered with short, stiff needles that can easily poke through clothing and skin.

Jumping Cholla

Also called the �teddy bear� Cholla because its many needles give it a fuzzy, huggable appearance. But you don�t want to hug one of these babies. In fact, you don�t really want to get close. The needles have a knack for jumping out at you�hence the name�and breaking off. No, this isn�t science fiction; it�s real.

Pencil Cholla

Comprised of many tall, thin stalks, these plants resemble cornstalks bundled up in fall. But don�t let the innocent appearance fool you. Those stalks�needles, actually�are razor sharp with needle-like tips.

Other plants to watch for include:

Cat�s claw

This is a vine, but it looks like a bush. Its name comes from the claw-like thorns that sprout throughout the plant. The thorns are small and may be hidden under leaves. It�s easy for your clothing to get hung up and for you to get cut up by the thorns as you�re walking by. Those things are nasty, so stay away.

Yucca plant

Though not as annoying as a cactus, the long, pointed leaves of the Yucca tree can scratch or poke pretty well. On a trip in the Baja a few years ago, one of the guys wearing shorts was jabbed. It required a bit of digging in his thigh to remove the tip of the yucca stem.

Photo by Lion (RIP)

Getting poked by a needle or thorn won�t kill you. These aren�t punji sticks, but any puncture should be treated. Needles often have a tiny barb at the end. After sticking you, the needle will often burrow into your skin making it difficult to remove.

If you get stuck by a needle, carefully remove it and clean the wound thoroughly. You can get a nasty infection if you allow the wound to fester. Make sure your first aid kit contains tweezers and some antibiotic ointment.

Needles from the Cholla plants can puncture tires as well, so keep your distance. Those are handled as you would any other puncture. (see Tire Problems Shouldn�t Deflate Your Day) If the tire has been sliced open, however, you�ll need to swap on your spare.

The bottom line: When in the desert, take in the beauty and serenity of your surroundings, but keep the plants at a safe distance.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Products SEMA 2009

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-11-20

SEMA was understandable smaller this year and I had a lot less time to spend at the show. (The company�s annual meeting required leaving Tuesday evening for North Dakota). Never the less, it was a good show and the �off-road nation� is still innovating. I enjoyed renewing old acquaintances and meeting new ones! Even with the short look around, a few products caught my eye. I am sure you will see these products and many more as the big 4x4 magazines crank up their stories about the show and all the goodies in the next few months.

Ignition Keyed Padlock

One of the coolest things I saw was a padlock that can be keyed to the ignition key. You don�t have to carry extra keys with you. All the locks can be set to work on your ignition key. It fits Ford, GM and Chrysler (Jeep). When you first buy the lock , insert your ignition key into it and turn it half way. The lock will memorize the key pattern. From then on your ignition key can be used to unlock the padlock. This is a �once and done� process, so it cannot be rekey for another ignition later. BTW, I asked, and for now Toyota owners are out of luck. They do not have a system yet for Toyota keys. I have one on order, to test it!!!
http://www.allegiscorp.com/docs/oneKeyPadlockFlyer.pdf http://www.allegiscorp.com/

Tie Down

This one appealed to me as a simple, clean solution when you only need a few strategically placed tie downs. The base is 1-3/4" round with two counter sunk holes. It is made of anodized aluminum. The holes are 1" on center and fit a #10 screw. You can just see the backing plate that is provided in the plastic bag. The plunger has a safe working load of 1,000 lbs and a break strength of 4000 lbs. when mounted vertical.

Network Enterprises
PO Box 930063
Wixom, MI 48393
800-690-0425 http://www.cargonets.com/

Jackmate for Hi Lift

Rescue 42 was the 2009 SEMA winner for best new off-road product of the year This tool may look familiar. It was previously manufactured by Massdam. They have been impossible to get hold of until now. I heard Massdam quit manufacturing the tool but cannot find any info. While this will look familiar to many of you, Rescue 42 has re-acquired the patent on their unique accessory for the Hi �lift jack and made a few changes. If you look carefully at the picture you will see a new notch not in the prior versions of the product. The notch can be used to stretch chain link fence and serve double duty as a beer cap opener at the end of the day! It is available in 4 colors (red, black, green, silver) The Jack Mate� - Lift Jack Accessory is designed as a manual extrication & rescue tool. "The Jack Mate� replaces a standard lift jack's limited capacity top clamp with a multipurpose attachment and is rated to the full capacity of the jack as a clamp, winch, spreader or a base. The Jack Mate� slides over either end of the jack bar and is attached with a quick-release pin. As a top clamp, the Jack Mate� dramatically increases the jack's winching, clamping and crushing capabilities. As a replacement for the jack base, the Jack Mate� is engineered to "bite" into boards or logs to help prevent the jack from sinking in mud, sand, ice and snow. Updated features for 2009 include a super-grip, diamond plate top, wire fence pulling slots (and bottle opener), an easier pin for attaching the Jack Mate� to the jack, and quick release replacement pin for the jack's base.

http://www.rescue42.com/jmr42.php
http://www.rescue42.com/

-------------------------
Even with SEMA a bit smaller this year, there was an over whelming display of products and vehicles. I could have spent much more time, but that was all I had time for of the many products at SEMA this year.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Meet At The Trailhead, And Caravan In From There

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-10-15

One of the cardinal rules of our hobby is that you always ride in groups. Never go off road alone. The extra vehicle(s) can be used to transport you out in case of an emergency, and can also be used for recovery and towing, even provide spare parts in a pinch.

Knowing that they intend to go with a group, many people wonder: Does it make sense to meet at the trailhead or caravan the way down?

My suggestion is to meet at or near the trailhead, and go in as a group from there.

There are a number of reasons for this.

First, you can�t coordinate your pit stops very well. The various drivers and riders need breaks at different times. Some people can withstand a couple hours on the road. Others need to pull off every 30 minutes or so. It�s not just bathroom breaks, either. Some people get a sore butt sooner than others, or simply want to grab a bite to eat.

Now factor in the gas stops for larger vehicles or those towing something. Those drivers need to pull off more frequently than others. All these factors are compounded the longer the drive is. A two-hour drive is one thing. Imagine going from El Segundo, CA to St. George, Utah. You�re talking more than 270 miles. That�s about five hours on the highway, including any stops.

Drivers aren�t always able to leave at the same time, either. Some are ready to shove off at the crack of dawn, while others may not be able to leave until noon. Still others have to work all day, so they�re looking at more like a 5:00 departure.

Another factor to consider is your speed. The guy at the back of the pack typically needs to drive 5 to 10 mph faster than the lead vehicle. This is especially true in hilly or high-traffic areas. Heavier vehicles and those towing something often slow down as they start up a hill. In heavy traffic you�re always dealing with other cars darting in and out of your lane. The trailing vehicles are constantly adjusting their speed, and have to speed up at times to make up ground.

As a result, the lead driver must make sure his speed never exceeds the posted limit, or the trailing car may find itself going way over the speed limit at times.

In addition, some vehicles get maxxed out at higher speeds, especially when forced to gear down for a hill. Others start shaking at highway speeds. It�s always best for each driver to set his or her own speed. Driving independently allows them to do that.

Finally, caravans tend to encourage a �follow the leader� mentality. The lead driver, having done all the route planning, is the one concentrating the most; the rest of the pack just follows him. Imagine what happens if the lead driver gets lost or misses a turn. Everyone is driving around like a chicken with its head cut off.

The following steps will help ensure that you and your group get to the trailhead on time and in good spirits.

1. Select a meeting place at or near the trailhead. Truck rest stops, chain restaurants, and gas stations with convenience stores are great choices. Your riders can gas up, use the restroom, and grab any last-minute provisions. Plus, the parking lot is usually large enough to accommodate several vehicles at once.

2. Provide the address�sometimes it�s just the intersections of highways X and Y�and, if possible, GPS coordinates and driving instructions. Let the other drivers find their way. Many will prefer the chance to travel at their own pace.

3. Pick a time that�s best for everyone. Poll your group, then give them enough time to make any arrangements. For longer distances some drivers will want to stop at a motel along the way. This is a good time to suggest that all drivers gas up before stopping for dinner or the night. Too many people put off that important step, only to realize the next day that they�re short on fuel. Gas up while you�re still in the mood.

Caravanning is best left for off-road driving. Let your drivers find the meeting place or trailhead on their own terms. It�ll make for a better start to your off-road adventure.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Wine Adds a Nice Touch to Your Outdoor Adventure

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-09-18

Four wheeling and camping are naturally somewhat rustic. You are, after all, away from home and all the creature comforts that surround you there. Even so, you can still add a touch of class and style to your trip in the form of a good bottle of wine.

Wine? While camping? Sure!

Many people enjoy a glass of wine with their meals while savoring the fresh air and scenery of the great outdoors. In fact, I�ve found that a glass of wine with a home-cooked meal prepared in a Dutch oven while sitting around the campfire with friends is one of the nicest pleasures of life.

So, you�re probably thinking: OK, I�ll take along some wine next time. Anything I need to know? I�m glad you asked.

First, remember never to mix alcohol and driving. Some people feel that because they�re off road there are few dangers to driving while intoxicated. In fact, it can actually be more dangerous. You may not confront other drivers out there, but the terrain can be much more demanding and treacherous than you�ll encounter while in the city. Wait until you�ve parked for the day before uncorking the wine.

Transporting any kind of glass bottle is tricky. Wine bottles, because they are also rather tall, can be especially challenging. They need to be secured and protected from the bumps and vibration your vehicle experiences while off road.

I like to wrap the bottle in a bed roll or a Therm-a-Rest�. They hold the bottle securely and offer a lot of padding. My wife does not think this is an acceptable risk. If the bottles break they will spill all over my bed roll! So you might be better off rolling them up in a heavy towel and packing them in your dish box.

Another possibility is a bracket arrangement similar to those used for fire extinguishers and flashlights. The Quick Fist� rubber brackets look like they would work quite well. Retailers that cater to 4WD enthusiasts often carry these types of brackets.

If you have a lot of people or consume a fair amount, you might look into this 10 liter French Wine Jerry Can

As you�re packing your vehicle; store the bottle(s) upright, because they�re less likely to get broken. Bottles lying on their sides, especially on top of each other, tend to get rattled and break.

You also need to consider the wine glasses. Plastic ones, although they may seem a little hokey, make a lot of sense out in the country. I prefer glass, and pack some cheap wine glasses I acquired sometime ago. If you choose glass, make sure to pack those properly, as well. Otherwise, you�ll be slurping wine from your coffee mug.

Speaking of mugs, I�ve found that a large soda cup from McDonald�s or other establishments holds a standard wine glass very well. Its wide base is more stable, so you can safely set the cup on the ground or in the sand with little worry it�ll tip over.

A cooler is a natural choice for carrying chilled goods, and that applies to alcoholic beverages, as well. However, if your cooler is too short for a wine bottle�and you have some spare change�consider buying a 12v refrigerator/freezer. These nifty units are tall enough for a wine bottle and plenty of other items since no space is used for ice. ARB recently introduced a new model loaded with innovation.

Like any packaged item, wine leaves behind a bottle�sometimes a big one�when it is gone. Be a good steward of the land and bring out your empty beer and wine bottles with all your other trash.

Another solution to the "wine bottle" issue is "wine in a box". There are some excellent vintages out there in a box.

I know someone who has a friend who transfers the wine into one of those Platypus bladders. The bladder can be rinsed and used for water later in the trip. In fact Platypus has a special design for wine. It is called the Platy Preserve.

I�m no wine specialist, but I�m pretty sure the jostling your vehicle takes has no effect on the sub $20 wine we take. It�ll get shaken up a bit, but that�s fine. My friends and I have enjoyed wine with many meals after a day of hearty off-road driving.

Finally, don�t forget your corkscrew! Otherwise, you and your loved one will be staring longingly at that bottle of merlot while you munch on your finely crafted dinner.

Take along a bottle of your favorite wine on your next off-road adventure. It will add a nice touch to your meal and your evening.

Tread Lightly! -- Reminder

As implied in the main article, a great way to eliminate trash on the trail is to leave it at home by repackaging food before the trip. Another technique that is very effective is to prepare the meals at home and freeze them. Besides eliminating the tomato paste can and the noodles box, the frozen disk helps keep your ice chest cold.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Tom�s Tips for Tranquil Tenting

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-08-26

OK, so the title of this column is a little cheesy. We�re in the dog days of summer, and my thinking cap has been chewed by my neighbor�s dog.

My suggestions are still good, so hang in there.

Camping is very popular with four-wheelers, and with some quality camping time left this year, I thought it would be a good time to revisit this topic. This isn�t Camping 101, however. Instead, I�d like to review some of the finer points of preparing for your trip.

The following suggestions are gleaned from years of experience in the outdoors. I think even veteran campers will find some of these useful. Let�s dig in.

� Freeze water bottles. They make great ice packs for your cooler, but also are a good source for cold water throughout the day. As you drink the melted run off, any water added will be kept chilled stretching your ice cold water to almost 2 bottles' worth. You can also freeze meat in advance for longer trips

� If shopping for a tent, pick one that�s easy to set up. I like at least a three-season tent, which features snaps on the outside to hold the tent poles. No need to run the poles through those fabric tunnels and the hassle involved. Also, try to find one with a rain fly that extends all the way to the ground. That will keep out sand and dust better. Purchase a footprint for your tent. This protects the tent floor from rough ground you may encounter and adds a layer of insulation (although a thin one). Many manufacturers produce these, though a large tarp can work as well. This footprint also keeps the bottom of the tent clean, meaning less mess during take down. Practice setting it up before your trip! This includes practice putting up the tent at night with your headlamp! I know, sounds kinda dorky but I can't tell you how many times we've had to set up in the dark.

� After setting up your tent, I suggest you tuck or fold the edges of the tarp under the tent to keep it from collecting rainwater and snow which is then funneled right under the tent.

� Position your tent so it faces downwind. That will help keep out dust and moisture. You can position your truck also to make a bit of a wind break. If you are in an area with lot of gnats/flies, face your tent door into the wind. The flying insects like to loiter in the lee of your tent!

� Tie a small rope on each tent stake (about a 1�- 2� loop). This will make it easier to pull up the stake in hard or frozen ground. If need be, you can cut or untie the rope and save the tent loops. (You can use a propane torch to thaw metal stakes that are frozen in the ground. Remove the tent first, of course.)

Speaking of cold, if your eggs are frozen in the morning, peel them like a hardboiled egg and melt them in a flying pan. Then enjoy scrambled eggs!

� I like to roll up my tent from the backside. That way I always know where the front door is for the next time.

Sleeping

Nights can get surprisingly chilly, especially in the mountains and desert. You won�t sleep well if you�re cold, and you shouldn�t get behind the wheel the next day if you haven�t had a good night�s rest.

� If you only have a 2-season bag, pack two sleeping bags or one sleeping bag and a blanket. Put the extra bag or blanket inside the main bag for warmth.

� Use a good insulator between the bag and the ground. When it is cold outside, the ground will serve as a gigantic heat sink and suck all of your warmth out. Some form of sleeping pad should be used both for insulation and comfort. I have found Therm-A-Rest air mattresses are great for camping. I still supplement the Therm-A-Rest up with a foam pad underneath.

� Synthetic materials dry out much better than down and can be compressed without as much loss in insulation as down. Cheaper too.

� If kids are part of the camping experience, a durable cotton cover on the bags can extend the life of your bag.

� Don't forget to pull tomorrows' clothes into your sleeping bag so that they are warm when you put them on in the morning!

� When you roll up your sleeping bag, put the head part in first. It will remain clean and dry.

� Store your sleeping bag open in a very large bag. Rolling it up compresses the fiber, causing it to lose some of its insulating capability. If you have access to a large dryer, tumble your sleeping bag for a few moments before leaving to fluff up the material.
Store your Therm-A-Rest fully open too. If you keep it compressed, it will not restore to its full thickness right away.

� Sleep uphill if there�s a slight grade to the land. It�s much more comfortable that way. If the grade has you feeling like you are going to roll off to one side, stuff tent bags, clothes, etc. under your sleeping bag at your hips and shoulders to create a berm.

� Your jacket makes a great pillow when rolled up or stuffed in the sleeping bag stuff bag.

� Don't leave anything out over night. It may blow away, animals may get into it, or snow could cover it all up and you will not be able to find it. Stow it back in your vehicle or in the tent. An exception: Don't store food in your tent or vehicle in bear country.

Now, get out there and enjoy the great outdoors!

PS - I would love to hear your tips! Send me an email.

Tread Lightly! -- Reminder

Pick a camp site that is already established. Don't disturb the environment to create a new camp site. "The best camp site is the one found - not built."

We no longer trench tents. New tent designs have a "bath tub" floor.

Pre-make food (chili, soup, etc) and freeze it as well so you reduce the trash to be hauled out. The frozen dish adds to keeping everything cold for a long time.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

A Laptop Is a Valuable Accessory For 4 Wheeling

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-07-20

Laptop computers are almost as popular as cell phones. They�re so compact, you can take one just about anywhere. But off road? Do you really want a laptop in your vehicle while you�re bouncing around the mountains and sand dunes?

�Having a PC with you is no longer a luxury,� says Dave Kupfer, a member of Outdoor Adventure USA and fellow ham radio operator. They�re now almost a necessity while you�re off road. Dave facilitated a very interesting discussion about laptops and 4-wheeling during a recent ham radio net. (The recording may be found at the OAUSA Web site www.oausa.net. Click the �On-Air Net Archive� button and choose �Offroad Notebook Computer.� The discussion starts around the 25-minute mark.

The most important reason for having a laptop computer with you is for navigation. If you haven�t planned well, of course, it�s easy to get lost. But even if you are familiar with the area, Dave says, you may spend an inordinate amount of time backtracking as you try to get home. �When you combine your computer with mapping programs, as well as a GPS unit,� Dave says, �you have the best of all these worlds.�

Dave uses National Geographic�s TOPO! mapping software. He says it allows him to draw his route, including all the roads and trials, then transfer the information to his GPS receiver. During the ride his laptop, which stays connected to the GPS receiver, provides continuous, real time tracking of his vehicle.

Your laptop is also a good place to store the user manuals and operating guides for all relevant equipment, including:

Your vehicle's repair manuals
Communications equipment - Ham radio
GPS and APRS gear
Camera instructions
Off road equipment - Winch, Hi-lift

Many of these files are available as PDFs. Check manufacturers� Web sites if the product didn�t include a CD with the necessary files.

Other useful information that can be loaded on your computer includes first aid/survival instructions and your favorite outdoor recipes.

Another OAUSA member suggests that you keep all those files on a memory stick. If there�s a problem with your laptop, you can use someone else�s. Good idea.

The laptop also comes in handy to download photos you take that day, thereby freeing up space in your camera�s memory chip.

Dave offers several suggestions regarding the laptop you�ll take off road.

Buy a ruggedized or semi-ruggedized model. He�s had good luck with the Panasonic Toughbook�, but other similarly designed brands and models exist. These units, some of which are built to military specifications, are designed to handle the conditions that exist in the wilderness. They typically are built with a water-resistant and dustproof shell, and are designed to withstand the shock encountered while driving off road.

Make sure the laptop can generate a bright screen. It can be difficult to read the details of a map on a sunny day.

Mount the laptop securely. Jotto and RAM� make good mounts.

Buy a screen holder so the screen isn�t flopping around while you�re in motion. A screen holder is a small arm (see photo) that stiffens the lid.

The power source must be sufficient and appropriate for the laptop. Check the owner�s manual to see whether it�s best to use an inverter or go with straight DC power. Because laptops tend to draw a lot of power, you may get better results tapping directly into the vehicle battery.

Have at least 4GB of RAM so the mapping software runs smoothly.

Chances are you carry a laptop computer with you all the time, including when you�re off road. By purchasing the right kind of laptop, and loading it with the appropriate software and files, you turn your computer into an integral piece of gear.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Do You Have Cracks in Your Valve Stems?

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-07-01

Last Saturday, while doing a routine vehicle check at an event, we discovered that all 4 valve stems were severely cracked around the bottom of each valve stem near the rim hole.
I recommended the owner replace them as soon as possible and I recommend you check you valve stems for cracks. Replace them if there are cracks. You risk a rollover if the valve lets go at highway speeds.

30 million defective valve stems made in China were installed in tires in the United States from Late September 2006 thru mid 2007. They forgot to add the UV protection or possibly ozone protection and the rubber is breaking down. The valves were manufactured for Dill Air Control Products of Oxford, N.C. by Topseal Shanghai Auto-Parts Co. Ltd. in China.

To be sure if you have one of the bad valves you need to dismount the tire and check the manufactures code on the valve from the inside. The bad codes are Dill TR-413CH, Dill TR-414, Dill TR-415, Dill TR-418 and Dill TR-423. But you can tell if it is cracking by bending the stem and looking for small cracks near the rim hole. See the picture I took of a bad one. It is worth replacing a cracking valve stem even if it turns out not to be one of the recalled valve stems.

I don�t know how long it takes for the rubber to break down. It is possible the problem may just be showing up now. The National Transportation Safety Board only opened their investigation last year in May 2008.

Don�t take a chance inspect your valve stems!

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Fly Prepared: Pack A First Aid Kit That Will Get Past TSA Bouncers

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-06-21

As everyone knows, going through airport security today is a hassle. All your belongings are screened, and if the security guards still are not satisfied you�re legit, they�ll pull you aside and pat you down. (While all the other travelers are staring.)

Yes, we need some level of screening. Unfortunate events in recent history have proved as much. It just seems at times that they over do it. And this can affect those who like to pack a first aid kit in carry on luggage.

I thought about this recently while flying. I wondered how many people carry first aid supplies with them when they fly.
Why might you want to carry a first aid kit with you? I can think of a couple reasons:

You�d like to be prepared in case something happens while in the air. My wife once had scalding coffee spilled on her. Fortunately I had some burn cream with me to help soothe the pain. I�m sure the aircraft has a first aid kit somewhere, but you can reach your carryon much quicker.
You want to have a first aid kit with you when you arrive at your destination, and can get by without checking any luggage. Or, you�re concerned your checked luggage will get lost.

Because you never know when or where an incident will occur, I feel it�s important to have some first aid supplies with you at all times. I usually have some band-aids,gloves, tape and handi-wipes on me, and keep a penlight and bottle of Advil in my suitcase.

Plus, many of us 4-wheelers carry first aid supplies all the time. We�re so accustomed to having a first aid kit while going off-road, we naturally pack some supplies when flying.

What kind of kit should you pack? It should be small yet compact (that is, stuffed with useful items and supplies), and its case should be waterproof. Start with a typical first aid kit found at the store. It will contain most of what you need, and can be improved with some tweaking.

I suggest either the Sportsman or the Smart Travel model from Adventure Medical. You can find these kits at better outdoors retailers. BTW, I like the wound care list of supplies better in the Sportsman model. But I like the medication selection in the Smart Traveller model.

First, inspect the contents for items that may raise eyebrows at the airport. The most likely candidate is a pair of scissors. Thankfully, the government has loosened restrictions items with sharp edges. As long as the blades are less than 4� long you can bring scissors aboard. I believe tweezers are also permitted, but keep under 4� to be safe.
The restriction pertaining to liquids and gels still applies, so you will need to put burn creams, hand sanitizers and other first aid items into a one quart plastic bag along with your tooth paste.

The TSA�s Web site offers more information on permitted and prohibited items. Note that many items that cannot be packed in your carry on are still permitted in checked baggage.

One drawback to first aid kits is that they�re slim in some supplies. You may find just one or two single-use packets of Neosporin�, for example, and a couple small packets of ibuprofren (Advil, Motrin) and Tylenol. Pack a tube of Neosporin and small 10 tab tubes of Advil and Tylenol (found at many drugstores).

Inspect your kit frequently. Certain products, like pain killers and other pills, have a shelf life. Others deteriorate over time. Band-aids are known to lose their stickiness after several years. Foil packets occasionally get torn or punctured, allowing the material inside to evaporate or dry out. There�s nothing more frustrating than opening a first aid kit and finding everything is shot.

It�s always better to have a thoughtfully designed first aid kit. Take the time now to create a useful first aid kit for flying. It�ll be nearby should the need arise while flying, and at your fingertips when you arrive at your destination.

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

###

If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Save Money by Buying an Annual Federal Recreation Pass

by Tom@4x4training.com — 2009-06-09

These days we all need to find ways to reduce our expenses. The American the Beautiful Annual Pass does double duty to get you into all the National Parks and covers the Adventure Pass required in many Southern California National Forests. If you visit or wheel frequently on federal Lands (National Parks, National Forest, BLM, etc.) the Annual pass at $80 a year is a money saver.

For individuals 62 and older there is a lifetime pass for $10!

Use this link to read the details from the government web site.

An even cheaper way to enjoy the National Parks this summer.

NPS announced three fee-free weekends at more than 100 national parks.
June 20-21, 2009 (Father�s Day weekend)
July 18-19, 2009
August 15-16, 2009
Details on their web site

I hope to see you on the trails!

Tom Severin, President
Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc
4-Wheel Drive School
310-374-8047
http://www.4x4training.com
Make it Fun. Make it Safe.

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If you find this information valuable, please pass it on to a friend. You can forward them the email. If you received a forwarded copy of this newsletter and would like to subscribe for yourself, go to: www.4x4training.com/contacts.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.

###

Want To Use This Article In Your Magazine, E-Zine, Club Newsletter Or Web Site? You are welcome to use it anytime, just be sure to include the following author/copyright information:

Tom Severin, 4x4 Coach, teaches 4WD owners how to confidently and safely use their vehicles to the fullest extent in difficult terrain and adverse driving conditions. Visit www.4x4training.com to develop or improve your driving skill.

Copyright 2009, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.

Badlands Off-Road Adventures

Make Outdoor Resolutions You Can keep

Make Outdoor Resolutions You Can keep

The key to accomplishing a goal is to make it �SMART�.

In no particular order, here are suggested resolutions for 2012:

Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures

Did you miss the previous articles?

Major Events Planned for 2012

Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

GPS Adventure Weekend January 28th

Getting Started Off-road Driving Clinic January 14, 2012

Advanced Beginner Clinic January 15, 2012

Tire Repair & Hi-lift Jack Mini Clinic February 4, 2012

Additional February Clinics

4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

The Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

How to Survive Death Wobble

How to Survive Death Wobble

What to do if death wobble occurs

How to fix death wobble

Dig deeper to solve a stubborn problem

The next steps in eliminating death wobble

Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures

Did you miss the previous articles?

Gift Certificate

Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic January 14, 2012

Advanced Beginner Clinic January 15, 2012

Tire Repair & Hi-lift Jack Mini Clinic February 4, 2012

4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

Christmas Ideas

Any of these Item would make a good Christmas Gift from The Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Mojave Green Can Bite You In A Whole New Way

Mojave Green Can Bite You In A Whole New Way

What to do if you see a rattlesnake

What to do if bitten by a rattlesnake

Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures

Did you miss the previous articles?

T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic December 10

Advanced Beginner Clinic December 11

Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

Christmas Ideas

Any of Item would make a good Christmas Gift from Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Damage Mitigation

Damage Mitigation

How to minimize damage to your vehicle

Avoiding obstacles not always best idea

How to avoid damaging a new car

Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures

Did you miss the previous article?

4 Wheel Drive Radio Shows

Barstow to Vegas Aka Mojave Road - October 28

T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic November12

Advanced Beginner Clinic November 13

Tread Trainer Clinic January 7, 2012

Four-Wheeling Good for Families, Easy on Environment

Four-Wheeling Good for Families, Easy on Environment

Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures

Did you miss the previous article?

October and 2012 Schedule

Death Valley October 7

Mojave Road October 15

T&T Rail Road Adventure in November

Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic October 01

Advanced Beginner Clinic October 02

Camp Cooking

Camp Cooking

Related Articles from Badlands Off-road Adventures

Did you miss the previous article?

September & October Schedule

Getting Started Off-road driving Clinic September 10

Advanced Beginner Clinic September 11

Rocks Clinic September 17

Sand Clinic September 24

Winch Clinic September 25

Death Valley October 7

Mojave Road October 15

Any of these Item would make a good Christmas Gift from
The Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Any of Item would make a good Christmas Gift from
Badlands Off-road Adventures Store

Four-Wheeling Good for Families,
Easy on Environment

Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26
It is Over But

Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26

Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26

Free Customer Appreciation Event & trail Ride
June 26