Post by ODJeepster on Dec 8, 2015 19:40:04 GMT -8
Recovery Gear- Much of the recovery gear that you need for snow is the same as other terrain. Tow hooks, snatch straps, and winches are all important when traversing deep snow. A snow shovel is an important addition though, and they are relatively inexpensive. A shovel can be used to dig out tires, axles, and frames when they are pushing snow and you are not going anywhere.
Read The Snow- One of the most important techniques in snow wheeling is being able to “read” the snow. Soft, wet snow in the sun is quite different than hard, cold snow that is found on north facing slopes and in the shadows of trees. Understanding and anticipating these different consistencies is important. Wet, heavy snow is often the easiest to get on top of, while dry snow can cause fits.
Also be aware of slopes and shadows. If you need to go back out the same way you go in to a trail, take note of the snow consistency and any slopes. Are you going to be able to get back up the hills you went down once the snow gets soft and slushy?
Don’t Spin- When you feel resistance in the snow, your natural reaction may be to try and power forward. Often times this just results in digging holes and if you spin too much your tires can melt the top layer of snow. When this water re-freezes, it turns into ice and can literally halt you in your tracks. Instead, ease off the throttle. If necessary, back up about a foot before trying to continue forward. Try different lines to the right or left of where you got stuck in order to find a way around the problem spot.
Go Prepared- Winter wheeling, and snow wheeling in particular, require extra precautions. When wheeling in the snow it is advisable to bring along a sleeping bag, extra water, and food such as energy bars. Leave the alcohol at home since it actually lowers your body temperature. Even within the shelter of your vehicle, unplanned nights in the snow can be deadly for the unprepared. Let someone know where you are going and when they should expect your return, so if your trip does not go as planned help will have a head start. Also always travel in groups of vehicles for safety as getting stuck in the snow is not an uncommon occurrence.
Read The Snow- One of the most important techniques in snow wheeling is being able to “read” the snow. Soft, wet snow in the sun is quite different than hard, cold snow that is found on north facing slopes and in the shadows of trees. Understanding and anticipating these different consistencies is important. Wet, heavy snow is often the easiest to get on top of, while dry snow can cause fits.
Also be aware of slopes and shadows. If you need to go back out the same way you go in to a trail, take note of the snow consistency and any slopes. Are you going to be able to get back up the hills you went down once the snow gets soft and slushy?
Don’t Spin- When you feel resistance in the snow, your natural reaction may be to try and power forward. Often times this just results in digging holes and if you spin too much your tires can melt the top layer of snow. When this water re-freezes, it turns into ice and can literally halt you in your tracks. Instead, ease off the throttle. If necessary, back up about a foot before trying to continue forward. Try different lines to the right or left of where you got stuck in order to find a way around the problem spot.
Go Prepared- Winter wheeling, and snow wheeling in particular, require extra precautions. When wheeling in the snow it is advisable to bring along a sleeping bag, extra water, and food such as energy bars. Leave the alcohol at home since it actually lowers your body temperature. Even within the shelter of your vehicle, unplanned nights in the snow can be deadly for the unprepared. Let someone know where you are going and when they should expect your return, so if your trip does not go as planned help will have a head start. Also always travel in groups of vehicles for safety as getting stuck in the snow is not an uncommon occurrence.