[Off Road Driving] Snow

[Disco]

Before setting out:-

• Mix ¼ cup of methlylated spirits to the windscreen washer water to prevent freezing.

• If venturing into a snow area, always carry a sleeping bag and warm clothing!
• Carry a sheet of canvas or old blanket that can be used as a ‘blind/cover’.
• Fit chains all round.

• Diff lock and axle lockers engaged (if fitted). High range 1st or 2nd or low range. This will depend on the situation.

• If the snow is slick, light touch on steering and stay on the crown of the road.

• Make gradual acceleration changes and don’t do anything sudden.

• Steering off the road into a snow bank can affect an emergency stop.

• If the snow is dry but deep, check on foot first, using the ‘wading stick’ for any hidden obstacle such as, stumps, rocks, logs and icy patches.

• Lower tire pressure for greater flotation but not if chains are fitted.

• Avoid compacted tracks, as these will be iced up.

• Be aware of snow packing under the vehicle, clogging the radiator or packed around the engine. It can freeze the engine solid, even if it is running and ruin the motor within minutes. Pay attention to the transmission; transfer case and diff oil temperatures. Keep the engine running as much as possible when driving through snow.

Snow freezes up during the night, so after midnight, travel over snow is easier.

• When parking under very cold conditions, pack boards and small branches from dead trees under the tyres to prevent them from freezing to the ground.

• Loosen or remove all fan belts, including power steering and air conditioning drive belts to prevent freezing to pulleys and splitting the belts.

• Overnight fold the windscreen wipers forward to prevent the rubbers freezing to the windscreen.

• Cover the engine with an old blanket, canvas sheeting, etc. to prevent moisture/water freezing on components and to keep out wind blown snow.

• Fit a ‘blind’ to radiator to help maintain correct operating temperature and faster warm up periods.

• Keep fuel tank full to reduce water condensation. Don’t spill petrol on your hands! In freezing weather, the evaporation instantly freezes your fingers.