Jeep Wrangler: Off-Road Driving Tips / After Driving Off-Road
Off-road operation puts more stress on your
vehicle than does most on-road driving. After
going off-road, it is always a good idea to check
for damage. That way you can get any problems
taken care of right away and have your vehicle
ready when you need it.
- Completely inspect the underbody of your
vehicle. Check tires, body structure, steering,
suspension, and exhaust system for damage.
- Inspect the radiator for mud and debris and
clean as required.
- Check threaded fasteners for looseness,
particularly on the chassis, drivetrain components,
steering, and suspension. Retighten
them, if required, and torque to the values
specified in the Service Manual.
Check for accumulations of plants or brush.
These things could be a fire hazard. They might hide damage to fuel lines, brake
hoses,
axle pinion seals, and propeller shafts.
After extended operation in mud, sand,
water, or similar dirty conditions, have the
radiator, fan, brake rotors, wheels, brake
linings, and axle yokes inspected and
cleaned as soon as possible.
NOTE:
Inspect the clutch vent holes in the manual
transmission bell housing for mud and debris
and clean as required.
WARNING!
Abrasive material in any part of the brakes
may cause excessive wear or unpredictable
braking. You might not have full braking
power when you need it to prevent a collision.
If you have been operating your vehicle in
dirty conditions, get your brakes checked and
cleaned as necessary.
- If you experience unusual vibration after
driving in mud, slush or similar conditions,
check the wheels for impacted material.
Impacted material can cause a wheel imbalance
and freeing the wheels of it will correct
the situation.
Extreme care should be taken crossing any type
of water. Water crossings should be avoided, if
possible, and only be attempted when
necessary in a safe, responsible manner...
Other information:
Your vehicle may be equipped with an
electronic disconnecting stabilizer/sway bar.
This system allows greater front suspension
travel in off-road situations.
This system is controlled by the SWAY BAR
switch located on the instrument panel (to the
right of the steering column)...
While operating on gasoline with the required
octane number, hearing a light knocking sound
from the engine is not a cause for concern.
However, if the engine is heard making a heavy
knocking sound, see a dealer immediately. Use
of gasoline with an octane number lower than
recommended octane can cause engine failure
and may void the New Vehicle Limited Warranty...