Anyone old enough to remember the Apollo space program may recall hearing the term redundancy. Back then, NASA was referring to extra electronics or other systems in the space capsule and lunar module. Today’s commercial aircraft also employ a certain amount of redundancy. In either case, the principle is the… Continue reading
For most of us, off-road travel requires electrical power for an ever-increasing number of electrical devices. There’s the fridge-freezer, of course. But also, a laptop (or two), GPS receiver, two-way radios, air compressors, air pump (for mattresses), power tools, and such. Power consumption isn’t an issue while the engine is… Continue reading
It’s that time of the year again. Is your Christmas shopping complete? If not, I have some great suggestions for you. These unique and practical gifts are sure to be appreciated by the outdoors person on your list. If you’re hard-pressed to find that perfect gift, look no further than… Continue reading
Last month I impressed upon you the importance of storing the winch controller near the driver’s seat. (Read the article here.) This month I offer an even more important reminder: Buy at least two additional copies of the ignition key. Carry an extra copy when you’re out. Whether four-wheeling or… Continue reading
Over the years of off-road instructing, I have heard many concerns – indeed, fears – from newer drivers. (Even experienced four-wheelers have doubts from time to time.) The dozens of thoughts expressed by my students can be grouped into seven categories. Here are those top seven concerns, and how you… Continue reading
One constant in four-wheeling is the need to pack properly. Because we’re off on our own – away from the conveniences of city life – we have to be self-sufficient. Not only do we prepare for the expected (camping, cookouts, and such), we must try to prepare for the unexpected…. Continue reading
Summer is almost here. In southern California, that means fire restrictions take effect soon. While these restrictions seem to put a crimp on your camping, it’s really just a minor inconvenience. You still get to enjoy the outdoors. It’s just a different style of camping. During these periods, campfires and… Continue reading
You recently got your ham ticket and are eager to experience ham radio while four wheeling. Installing a mobile 2 meter/440 radio You’re ready to make the leap to a mobile radio. Great! Even though this is your first rig, installing isn’t as difficult as it might seem. Of course,… Continue reading
A jack is one of those pieces of equipment that is just plain essential for four wheeling. The stock jack supplied by the manufacturer isn’t going to help off road: terrain is rarely level and never smooth. You have three styles to choose from: Hi-Lift, X-Jack and bottle jack. The… Continue reading
Due to a number of variables, it’s difficult to say precisely how much extra gas you need for a particular trip. Generally, 5 to 10 gallons is enough for most trips. That will get you to another source of fuel in most circumstances. One factor is your vehicle’s mileage while… Continue reading
A recent act of vandalism serves as a reminder to have diverse communications capability with you while four wheeling. Vandals cut a major fiber optic cable in Arizona on Feb. 25, disrupting communications throughout the northern part of the state. Cellphone, internet and telephone services were affected, along with ATMs,… Continue reading
Got a new vehicle – or new to you? After you put the lift on, bigger tires and rock sliders, you still have a major task ahead of you. How do you get all that stuff you want to take in the vehicle? Sure you can just make a big… Continue reading
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