Off-roading tips for beginners

Hi everyone,

I've been wanting a truck for a few years now and have been casually lurking around the forum since I registered. I recently discovered an interest in off-roading and plan to buy a Tacoma later this year. Being new to both trucks and off-roading, I was wondering if anyone has any tips for others who may be in a similar situation?

With work and my studies, it's been a challenge balancing my time and priorities. I still have a lot of reading to catch up on, but would appreciate any helpful tips from experienced members. Thanks to everyone who has posted great information on this site. I appreciate the shared knowledge and look forward to learning more.

Thanks,
Villz

 

I'd say that the most important thing is to get out there. A stock Tacoma is more than capable, and a lot of folks fall into the trap of feeling that they need to do all kinds of mods before they can go explore the outdoors. That couldn't be further from the truth.

So when you get your truck, plan a trip as the first order of business. See how it goes. Make any mods based on experiences you have on the trail and things that will make those experiences better. You'll have more fun, and ultimately you'll save money as well.

Have fun!

Here are a few links that may be of use for you:

• See what a stock 3rd gen Tacoma (@PcBuilder14) can do: Ruining Around Utah 1 - Stopped in our Tracks at The Needles (6 parts to this trip)
• Figure out some routes using this Route Planning Series (3 parts)

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If you are planning on running trails and going with groups, get the Off Road model, the locker is a big help with keeping up with groups. I was learning when I had mine it helped me keep up with the more experienced guys.

Without a locking axle you tend to need more speed with obstacles. This leads to damage and wear.

Find a group and enjoy! Don't spend a dime on the new truck until you've run some trails. Only thing I would buy is a hitch recovery receiver and a tow strap.

 

Just know your limits, but also know you don't need 3k suspension to get out there and have fun

A good set of tires will also do you good

 

This is very true, I believe this is great advice for a first time off roader looking to get into it.

Also I would also suggest learning about your truck. The more knowledge you have of your vehicle the better off you will be out there. Also the best advice I could give someone who is new is DONT GO ALONE. Find some experienced wheelers in your area and go with them. Thats how I got into it and they helped me learn alot fast. Research and preparation is important but you really learn by going out and doing

 

You don't need a locker to wheel these trucks relatively hard. Granted, I don't do rock crawling and never will. I've never needed a locker though. Tires make the difference.

 

Keep in mind a perfectly stock SR5 model truck can get you into some pretty hairy situations. You don't "need" a locker, crawl control and all that other stuff you get with an Off-Road model, or even the Pro.

As has been said, tires are what is most important. That said, however, whatever truck you get, just go out and find some dirt roads AS IS. No mods whatsoever.

You will more than likely find that the ability of the truck will far surpass your driving ability and comfort level, at least at first. You'll get nervous before the truck does, lol... Take it slow, don't be afraid to get out and look, and if you're not sure, better to turn around and save it for another day.

But if you're in the market for a new or used truck to take off-roading, might as well look for one with a locker (TRD Off-Road model). Don't make it a deal breaker though. If all you can get your hands on is a non TRD model, that's perfectly fine. In all honesty, you'd be able to add an ARB air locker (better than the factory E lockers) and a few other off-road widgets that don't even come on the Pro models for less money (overall) than buying an OR or especially a Pro (like rock sliders and a winch).

Once you get your truck, get some friends and just go out and drive. We're a friendly bunch here, so if you don't already have some friends who own trucks (or want MORE friends with trucks!), hit us up on this forum, there's always somebody going somewhere.

I would also read through the recovery and safety threads (there are stickies). That should give you a good idea what you're in for as far as field safety, and the types of things you should bring (1st aid kit, basic recovery gear, etc...)

The more you drive, the more you'll figure out what types of mods make the most sense for you based on your skills, the type of terrain you like to drive, etc...

 

^^^^^ all good advice ^^^^^ . Tires are important an OR is nice because the locker but if you're eventually going to modify it anyway you can ad arb like others have said.
Driver skill goes a long way get with a group that can help learn. Have fun upgrading can be fun and very satisfying.

 

Air down. Be surprised how many people starting out don't do this...don't be afraid to air your tires down to 20 psi, or even lower if you have better AT or MT tires.

Lower psi equals better traction and a much, much smoother ride.

And of course, always carry a same size spare.

Also always bring basic tools with you and plan for the worst in case you have to leave the truck behind. Food, water, good shoes, etc.

Basic recovery equipment like a shovel, straps (not tow hook straps), shackles, a hi lift, traction boards, etc.

 

Yes this is really good advice.

 

Yes the thumbs thing lol my firs carwash a 63 International Scout it had no power steering so that's a lesson I often overlook.

Good point on ruts. When it comes to rocks if you can't avoid them climb them with a tire this prevents getting high centered. As for the locker u use mine plenty but I wheel in snow so I need all the help I can get. You should engage it from time to time just to keep it working for when you need it.

Last weekend I ran this class 3 trail I tried to take the most difficult route I could not the easiest lines. Granted I'm not stock but I only heard my a-track engage about 3 times. I'm sure I could run it with a stock Tacoma if I chose the right lines.

 

+1 on the thumbs thing. I've gotten reminded a few times, luckily haven't broken them, just a good thwack.

Maybe it's just the pics, but those look like 2wd trails, lol...

 

I don't have any pictures of the tough stuff as I was driving. Lol. Its mostly a class 2 trail with several class 3 sections.