How to Drive a 2WD Off-Road
- 1). Take your 2WD truck to a mechanic for a tune-up. Make sure he completes a full check of all vital mechanical systems as well as oil and transmission fluids. Always check your tires' tread condition and inflation pressures, including your spare tire.
- 2). Carry extra water for the radiator, in case you develop a leak. Bring a tool kit in case you encounter any mechanical problems. Having an air compressor will also help if you develop an air leak in one of your tires.
- 3). Purchase a tow strap and a come-along ratcheting winch in case you get stuck. The tow strap will allow you to be pulled out by a friend's vehicle. If this is a solo excursion, you may have to winch yourself out manually with the come-along. A first-aid kit will come in handy in case you injure yourself in the process of freeing your truck.
- 4). Be aware of speed needs. Driving a 2WD off-road will make you drive either faster or slower than you would in a four-wheel drive. Climbing up dirt hills, especially ones with loose rocks, will normally require you to drive much faster to maintain your forward momentum. On hard dirt roads, you should be cautious with your speed--too much, and your front end will come loose and cause you to spin out. Crossing streams or dry washes is usually pretty easy in a 2WD. When crossing a fast-running stream, increase your speed slightly, as you will not have the added pull of a four-wheel drive's front wheels.
- 5). Take advantage of the absence of a front-end differential. You may lose added off-road traction, but you gain a whole lot of extra clearance up front. That clearance will be put to good use when approaching rutted-out sections of road that contain large holes and rocks.
Source...