[Off Road Driving] Side Slopes

[Disco]

Avoid Side-Slopes if possible, otherwise, walk the hill to look for any problems that might present themselves, such as holes, rocks, fallen trees, wet slippery grass and mud, snow and ice, that could lead to a roll over. Then proceed with caution. Tyres with an aggressive tread are an advantage.
If the possibility exists that you could get into trouble, and there is no escape route, it’s probably too dangerous to drive.
The maximum tilt angle on most standard Land Rovers is 40 degrees. Less if you are ‘lifted.’

• The side slope being traversed could slip from under the vehicle. This is because the weight of the vehicle is transferred to its low side, putting most of the pressure on the two lower tyres instead of being evenly distributed over the four tires.

• If the hill is wet or muddy, fit chains. If it is rocky, try placing the sidewall of the tyres against the rocks to help prevent sliding.

• If the side slope is slippery, do not engage axle lockers because they will tend to walk the vehicle sideways down the slope. This is because all wheels are rotating at the same speed. When not engaged, one wheel is ‘static’ and the other is rotating. The ‘static’ one will act as an anchor that will keep the vehicle from slipping sideways.

• When on a side slope, let the vehicle idle across, giving the tyres a chance to dig in and get the best traction.

• Have all passengers’ change seating to the uphill side.

• If the vehicle begins to slip sideways, immediately steer downhill.

• If you are faced with a dangerous situation and forward travel is the only option, find an anchor point uphill (tree, large rock etc), and in front of the vehicle, and winch (if fitted) along with the gear box in neutral. Without the wheels driving there is less risk of sliding sideways.

• Side slopes beneath water are particularly hazardous and should be checked out before driving wherever possible. 1st gear, low, diff lock engaged. Proceed as slowly as possible.