Bob Brady Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM FIAT
If taking on the outdoors in a lifted RAM 1500 or an out-of-the-box, off-road-ready Jeep Wrangler is a thrill you can’t live without, you’re not alone. You’re among a wide community of wild souls that don’t just need vehicles to get them from point A to point B. They need vehicles that can brave the steep hills, wade the deep waters, and safely traverse the obstacle-ridden trails in between. For them, the thrill of the ride is the destination. If you’re just getting into off-road exploration, this guide is for you. We’re breaking down the meaning of the vehicle specifications all off-road adventurers need to understand to find a vehicle that truly matches their wanderlust.
First up – underbody protection. The biggest danger to your vehicle on the pavement is potholes ruining your alignment and nails in your tires. Off-road is a different story. Boulders, logs, branches, you name, anything can scrape up the underbody of your vehicle and cause major damage. That’s where underbody protection comes in. Your car’s vital components can be protected from rough terrain with underbody protection. Skid plates, rock sliders, and sump guards are excellent options for safeguarding your engine during tough driving conditions. Additionally, these protective measures can enhance your vehicle’s aerodynamics, providing an all-around improvement for your car’s performance.
The big beefy tires you see on off-road vehicles aren’t just for show. They lift the vehicle further off the ground, but more importantly, they give it better traction. Traction refers to your vehicle’s ability to grip whatever surface you travel across, be it snow, sand, mud, or gravel. Off-road tires have deep treads and tough rubber for better traction on slippery and uneven surfaces. Bigger, wider tires also provide more stability on challenging terrains. For normal tires, tread depth should be 2/32” at a minimum, but for off-roading, you’ll need all-terrain tires with much deeper tread. You’ll likely notice a reduction in performance when you reach 4/32” tread depth.
Adequate axle articulation is imperative to ensure all wheels remain in contact with the surface, especially when encountering boulders or other obstructions. If you’re planning on going rock crawling anytime soon, RTI is a reliable method to gauge your axle articulation and make sure your vehicle is up to the challenge. Things you should look for is an easily detachable sway bar that can increase the flexibility of your suspension, like the electronic sway bar equipped on some Jeep models.
If you see off-road fanatics traveling up a ramp with one wheel, they’re measuring their RTI, which tells how well a vehicle can handle steep ramps. A higher RTI means better climbing ability.
The drivetrain plays a crucial role in transferring power to the wheels. It is categorized into three types: front-wheel drive (FWD), rear-wheel drive (RWD), and all-wheel drive (AWD) or 4WD. AWD is the perfect choice for off-road driving, such as rock crawling and mud riding.
Ground clearance refers to the vertical distance between the undercarriage of a vehicle and the ground. The higher the clearance, the easier it is to navigate challenging terrain without worrying about getting stuck or damaged. Ground clearance is typically measured in inches or millimeters.
Water fording is when you drive through a body of water. If you cross a small stream, creek, or large puddle of water that is high enough to reach your engine intake, it could be disastrous. To avoid getting stuck, floating away, or doing major damage to your vehicle, make sure you understand your vehicle’s limitations. Water fording or water wading depth refers to the maximum depth your car can safely traverse through a body of water.
The departure angle is the steepest incline or obstacle you can drive off without the back of your vehicle hitting the ground. A larger departure angle means your vehicle can handle steeper drops.
This angle represents the steepest hill or obstacle your vehicle can drive over without getting stuck at the midpoint. A larger break-over angle means your vehicle can handle steeper hills or bumps.
The approach angle indicates the steepest hill or obstacle which your vehicle can drive onto without hitting the ground with its front. It represents your car’s capability to confront a steep hill directly without any damage. A greater approach angle helps you overcome steep inclines smoothly.
Understanding off-road specifications ensures safe and enjoyable off-roading. Find your perfect adventure vehicle at Bob Brady CDJR. Bob Brady CDJR is a reputable dealership that offers a wide selection of adventure vehicles. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and helping our clients find the perfect vehicle for their needs. With our knowledgeable staff and extensive inventory, you can trust that you will leave our dealership feeling satisfied with your purchase. Visit us to find the off-road-ready vehicle that will help you go further and explore more.
