I want to learn... Colorado fourwheeling

[92exploder4dr]

New guy here from Colorado. There are so many trails around me, I'm ready to start learning so I can hit them! I own a 1992 explorer 4dr XLT and as money permits this summer I am going to do a budget build on it. Vehicle before this was a 1991 Toyota pickup, finally died at 323k miles (R.I.P.). I really do miss my yota but I'm ready to give an american vehicle a chance. I never got around to modding my yota, though it did pretty good stock (IFS, 31" tires) on the one "off-road" trail I did take it camping.

What is a good way to learn to drive competently off road? Are there any instructional DVD's I could watch? Do I find somebody in my area and ride with them? Do I find somebody to ride shotgun and give me pointers while I drive? Could I start this learning process while stock (including stock tire size, axle code indicates 3.73 gearing w/limited slip), or do I wait until I have a few upgrades under it's belt?

Thanks!

 

[Rick]

Once upon a time we had a very active Colorado 4x4 contingent. Our group had runs in CO most years since 1999. Hopefully a few of the guys will jump in here and help you out.

The best way to learn is by going along with others who have experience. Here are a few links to some of our past runs:

http://www.explorer4x4.com/co_fallrun.html

http://www.explorer4x4.com/ccr_rep.htm

http://www.explorer4x4.com/ccr2001/

As you can see we have went with Explorers at every level of capability.

 

[CodePoet]

Find a local club with nice people and go on a trip with them. It's the best way.

 

[Maniak]

After learning to wheel, I can say you will learn much more (steeper curve too) if you stay somewhat stock. Don't put on lockers etc. You need to learn where the lower parts are, how to read the terrain so you know what your rig will do and how to use the throttle to "roll through" (not bash) twisty sections.

Keep in mind, if you have someone helping you wheel, if they have only ever wheeled a locked vehicle you both may have a big of a learning curve. If you go with explorer people you will be going with people that have probably broken, or seen pieces break and know how to get you back moving again..

That was one of the greatest things I found about wheeling with other explorer people.. I learned so much by watching, and looking at what other people did and what worked and what didn't.

~Mark

 

[2TimingTom]

There's the Rocky Mountain Ford Truck Club that you may want to check out.

Where in CO are you?

 

[1Aauto]

Welcome to the site