Driving tips for water and mud
When driving through unexpected conditions, it’s always good to have a few tips handy, or even if the conditions were expected, it’s nice to know what to do when you get stuck.
When having to drive through water, one should check for potential dangers by using a stick or a shovel and make sure the depth of the water doesn’t exceed the height of the vehicle’s fan. If the fan gets wet, electrical failure may occur. By inserting a plastic sheet behind the radiator grille, water will be kept away from the fan. Contamination of the axle oil may occur if the vehicle’s axle breathers ingest water because of the sudden cooling and contraction of the casings. Always drive very slowly, with the minimum of spray and never remove the fan belt to try to minimise the under bonnet spray. Serious engine damage and or failure may occur.
If water has been ingested, chances are the engine will stall and the vehicle will have to be towed out. By trying to restart the engine, severe damage may be caused. To inspect the engine air filters after wading through the water. Remove drain plugs to get rid of any water that might have been sucked in through the breather valves. Engine oil that is milky grey means that water has entered the sump and the oil will have to be drained. The engine should be flushed at least twice with oil or engine flush before refilling with fresh oil.
When simply crossing water, the depth should also be tested and make sure you know what the recommended depth of water for your particular vehicle is. Always make sure that your exit is safe and cross at an angle of 45 degrees, to make sure the force of water on your vehicle is minimised.
When driving through mud, it is advisable to engage the diff locks and engage four-wheel drive. Rocks, bumps and holes can severely damage your vehicle and if at all possible, inspect the track beforehand. Only one vehicle should enter an obstacle at a time because if the first vehicle gets stuck this means that the second vehicle will have to stop, creating a snowball effect. Chances are, the second (and maybe third) vehicle will also get stuck. Sufficient and constant momentum is the key when driving through mud and if you do get stuck, stop immediately to prevent the vehicle from digging itself deeper into the mud.
Universal joints should be re-greased after driving through muddy or watery obstacles.
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