\nSafety isn\u2019t normally top of mind when installing electronics. But as you\u2019ll see, it should be \u2013 not just for the driver, but any passengers, as well.<\/p>\n
Preventing injuries:<\/strong> Improperly mounted equipment can injure in a number of ways.<\/p>\n Be mindful of any switches or brackets you plan to mount under the dash. Do any get in the way of leg movement? The sharp edge on a switch or bracket could wreck a knee in an accident.<\/p>\n Notice a theme here? I\u2019m trying to get you to imagine a worst-case scenario. As you plan for the installation, ask yourself, What could happen if I\u2019m in an accident? If a piece of gear could become a hazard, install it elsewhere, or eliminate it all together.<\/p>\n Once upon a time, an old 1970 CJ5 dropped off a 3-foot bank and came to a sudden stop. The passenger seat latches broke. Even though the passenger was wearing a seat belt, the broken seat allowed the passenger\u2019s forehead to hit the row of bolts in the dash. Nobody died!<\/p>\n A common place is on the floor, lying sideways. Some firms sell a mount that attaches to the seat. When the fire extinguisher is attached to that, the whole unit moves forward or backward as you do. And it doesn\u2019t interfere with legs or feet.<\/p>\n Finally, ensure equipment won\u2019t become flying debris during a crash. Avoid loose items in your vehicle, including in the back. Those turn into missiles if the car ever comes to a sudden stop. Every installation must be solid.<\/p>\n Maintain access to controls:<\/strong> Don\u2019t mount (or store) equipment in such a manner that it could interfere with operating the emergency brake lever or any pedals.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t allow cords to block the vehicle\u2019s touch screen. Doing so could prevent you from making important adjustments to the vehicle\u2019s controls. Ensure that the touch screen is clear and easily accessible.<\/p>\n Clear sight lines:<\/strong> Make sure that you can see well outside all windows. Don\u2019t install equipment too high on the dash. All mirrors must be visible, too.<\/p>\n Additional concerns include reflection and glare. Some equipment, when placed just right, generates a reflection in the windshield. Radios and smartphones may produce glare. Either condition is distracting. Move the equipment to prevent these issues. Besides, most electronics despise solar gain and overheat.<\/p>\n Multiple options for mounting<\/strong> Google is a great resource, too. A search based upon the year and type of vehicle, along with the equipment, will offer a number of options. Look at all the pictures on the \u201cImage\u201d tab. There will be good idea, bad ideas, and clever ideas. You may see links to videos as well.<\/p>\n As for manufacturers, Bullet point\u00ae, RAM\u00ae and Akron\u00ae are the big names in the business. Each offers multiple styles of mounting hardware. You\u2019re sure to find one that meets your needs.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t give thieves an excuse to help themselves<\/strong> Look for mounts that offer easy release. Some ham radio gear features a detachable front panel. The body of the radio is installed out of sight. The mic and front plate, installed near the user, can be removed when not in use.<\/p>\n Electronic equipment can be very useful while off-road. Just remember some fundamentals about installation:<\/p>\n – Position the gear so it can\u2019t harm anyone while moving or during an accident. You can only do so much, as resources and space are limited. You\u2019ll have to compromise on the final arrangement. Even so, you can still enjoy that equipment. Good luck!<\/p>\n # # #<\/p>\n Did you miss the previous articles?<\/p>\n 2024 Some Upcoming Events (click on the link for details)<\/strong> If you are interested in Death Valley, the Rubicon trip and a trip to Utah in May 2025, prior to the first of the year send me an email to put you on the roster. You will be able to register on the web site after the 1st of the year. November 2024<\/strong> December 2024<\/strong> January 2025<\/strong> February 2025<\/strong> March 2025<\/strong> April 2025<\/strong> May 2025<\/strong> June 2025<\/strong> July 2025<\/strong> August 2025<\/strong> September 2025<\/strong> October 2025<\/strong> November 2025<\/strong> December 2025<\/strong> 73 KI6FHA 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\/w\/contact-us.html and follow the instructions to join our mail list.<\/p>\n 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, 4\u00d74 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.<\/p>\n Copyright 2024, Badlands Off-Road Adventures, Inc.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Electronic gadgets and equipment can add to a four-wheeling adventure. But careful attention must be paid when installing that equipment. Whether a GPS receiver, tablet, smartphone, or other device, plan well how and where you\u2019ll install the gear. Safety of driver and passengers is paramount Safety isn\u2019t normally top of… Continue reading<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":29810,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[227,19,21,29],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-29777","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-2024-articles","category-deadly-mistakes","category-equipment","category-safety"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Dash.jpg?fit=480%2C640&ssl=1","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_shortlink":"https:\/\/wp.me\/p8Imuw-7Kh","jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29777","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=29777"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29777\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":29806,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/29777\/revisions\/29806"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/29810"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=29777"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=29777"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=29777"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Phone-Holder.jpg?resize=300%2C221&ssl=1\")
Anything mounted near or over the steering wheel can harm you if the airbag deploys. The driver is quickly stabbed or smashed in the face or chest by the object. Always keep the area immediately around the airbag clear of equipment. Same issue for the passenger area.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Fire-Ext.-on-seat-face.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1\")
Fire extinguishers deserve special mention. While important to have, care must be taken in mounting or storing the unit. It should be placed where anyone can see it, but not be in anyone\u2019s way.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Power-outlet-in-Dash.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1\")
Similarly, anything that would get tangled up in the steering wheel or shift lever is dangerous. Mic cords and power cords can drape down and get in the way. Watch for those.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Switches-display-Ham-below-dash.jpg?resize=300%2C169&ssl=1\")
Regarding ham radio equipment, install in such a way that there\u2019s minimal need to take your eyes off the road to adjust the radio. Always maintain eye contact on the road and good mental focus.<\/p>\n
\nIf you\u2019re not sure how to mount equipment in your vehicle, ask around. Perhaps a buddy can assist.<\/p>\n
\nAll that gorgeous gear makes a tempting target for thieves. There\u2019s no worse feeling than seeing shards of glass on the ground and a destroyed interior where expensive gear once was.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.4x4training.com\/w\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/11\/Magnets-hold-Ham-face-.jpg?resize=169%2C300&ssl=1\")
Consider removing equipment from the vehicle when it\u2019s parked outside. I don\u2019t care how safe your neighborhood seems to be. As you plan your installation, think about how you\u2019ll remove the gear for storge. If possible mount gadgets below the belt line of your vehicle to reduce visibility from outside.<\/p>\n
\n– Bolt down solidly. Vibration can harm the equipment, and the rattle is annoying.
\n– Keep sight lines open.
\n– Hide the equipment when not in use.<\/p>\n
\n\u2022 2024-10-07 Don\u2019t Bleed Out
\n\u2022 2024-09-14 What It Means To Tread Lightly While Four-Wheeling
\n\u2022 2024-08-08 ANNOUNCEMENT: Prepare Now For Wildfire Evacuation
\n\u2022 2024-07-06 Pack Naloxone \u2013 You May Save A Life
\n\u2022 2024-06-10 Know When to Say When While Four-Wheeling
\n\u2022 2024-05-23 We Get Questions
\n\u2022 2024-04-25 Synthetic Rope For Winching
\n\u2022 2024-03-11 AI Can\u2019t Replace Hands-On Training For Four-Wheeling
\n\u2022 2024-02-14 Every Off-Road Trip Needs A Leftie!
\n\u2022 2024-01-13 How To Drive Safely On Gravel Roads<\/p>\n
\n
\nThe 2025 schedule of clinics and adventures trips has been posted on the web site.<\/p>\n
\nSee the entire 2025 Schedule<\/p>\n
\nNovember 2, 2024 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nNovember 3, 2024 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nNovember 2-3, 2024 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nNovember 4, 2024 SEMA Trade Show
\nNovember 09, 2024 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 10, 2024 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 09-10, 2024 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 16, 2024 All Wheel Drive Getting Started \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 30, 2024 Turkey Day Club Run<\/p>\n
\nDecember 7, 2024 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nDecember 8, 2024 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nDecember 7-8, 2024 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nDecember 14, 2024 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nDecember 15, 2024 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nDecember 14-15, 2024 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area
\nDecember 29, 2024 New Year\u2019s Club Run<\/p>\n
\nJanuary 11, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road \u2013 LA Area
\nJanuary 12, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road \u2013 LA Area
\nJanuary 11-12, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nJanuary 18, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nJanuary 19, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road \u2013 SD Area
\nJanuary 18-19, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area
\nJanuary 25, 2025 Sand Dune Off-Road Driving \u2013 Oceano Dunes
\nJanuary 26, 2025 Self Recovery Clinic \u2013 LA Area<\/p>\n
\nFebruary 1, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nFebruary 2, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nFebruary 1-2, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nFebruary 8, 2025 Tire Repair and High Lift Mini Clinic \u2013 LA Area
\nFebruary 9, 2025 Super Bowl Club Run
\nFebruary 15, 2025 Starting Rock Crawling
\nFebruary 22, 2025 Winching Clinic \u2013 LA Area
\nFebruary 22, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nFebruary 23, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nFebruary 22-23, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area<\/p>\n
\nMarch 1, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nMarch 2, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nMarch 2-3, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nMarch 14, 2025 Cal4Wheel Death Valley Experience
\nMarch 22, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nMarch 23, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nMarch 23-24, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area<\/p>\n
\nApril 2, 2025 Death Valley Experience \u2013 Signup through Cal4Wheel
\nApril 5, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nApril 6, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nApril 5-6, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nApril 12, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nApril 13, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nApril 12-13, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area
\nApril 19, 2025 Tire Repair and Hi Lift Mini Clinic \u2013 LA Area
\nApril 26, 2025 Winching Clinic \u2013 LA Area<\/p>\n
\nMay 3, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nMay 4, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nMay 3-4, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nMay 6, 2025 Utah Adventure
\nMay 25, 2025 Memorial Day Club Run<\/p>\n
\nJune 7, 2025 Dutch Oven Mini Clinic
\nJune 14, 2025 Synthetic Rope Repair Mini Clinic \u2013 NEW!
\nJune 21, 2025 Starting Rock Crawling<\/p>\n
\nJuly 5, 2025 Independence Day Club Run
\nJuly 19, 2025 Starting Rock Crawling
\nJuly 26, 2025 Tire Repair and Hi Lift Mini Clinic \u2013 LA Area<\/p>\n
\nAugust 11, 2025 Rubicon Adventure
\nAugust 23, 2025 Sand Dune Off-Road Driving \u2013 Oceano Dunes
\nAugust 24, 2025 Self Recovery Clinic \u2013 LA Area
\nAugust 30, 2025 Labor Day Club Run<\/p>\n
\nSeptember 13, 2025 Dutch Oven Mini Clinic<\/p>\n
\nOctober 4, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nOctober 5, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nOctober 4-5, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nOctober 11, 2025 Winching Clinic \u2013 LA Area
\nOctober 17, 2025 Death Valley Adventure
\nOctober 25, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nOctober 26, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nOctober 25-26, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area<\/p>\n
\nNovember 1, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nNovember 2, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nNovember 1-2, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nNovember 5, 2025 SEMA Trade Show
\nNovember 15, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 16, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 15-16, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area
\nNovember 29, 2025 Turkey Day Club Run<\/p>\n
\nDecember 6, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nDecember 7, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 LA Area
\nDecember 6-7, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 LA Area
\nDecember 13, 2025 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nDecember 14, 2025 Day 2 Getting Started Off-Road Driving \u2013 SD Area
\nDecember 13-14, 2025 Getting Started Two Day Package \u2013 SD Area
\nDecember 29, 2025 Saline Valley New Years Club Run<\/p>\n
\n
\nI hope to see you on the trails!
\nTom Severin, President Badlands Off Road Adventures, Inc.
\n4-Wheel Drive School
\n310-613-5473
\nwww.4x4training.com
\nMake it Fun. Keep it Safe.<\/p>\n