Ready to Hit the Trails Again Soon? We Feel Ya
We’ve found some off-road experts with great tips for when it’s time to leave lockdown and head to the nearest off-road trails for some fun!
Lately, many off-road enthusiasts have some extra time in the garage to tune up their vehicles. As we all anticipate things getting better soon so we can get back out there and enjoy our lives, especially out there on the backroad trails and to outdoor events where we can get back in touch with nature and with our off-roading trucks.
For off-road enthusiasts new to the game or looking to refresh their off-roading know-how before tackling challenging but rewarding off-road adventures, we’ve got your guide to “Tips and Tricks for Off-Road Enthusiasts.” We searched the YotaTech forums for invaluable advice to share. Also, we reached out to off-road expert Kyle Neal, who heads up product testing for Red Line Synthetic Oil and who sheds some light on how to make to your OEM vehicles more proficient on the trails and in crawling situations.
Upgrades & Mods to Make Your Off-Road Toyota Truck an Unstoppable Beast
Wheels/Tires
“Wider wheels with all-terrain tires are typically one of the most common initial upgrades,” says Neal. “A properly selected wheel and tire combination can increase ground clearance and provide more surface for grip. Tire pressures are also a key factor depending on the specific terrain and application.”
Off-road Lifts
What’s the best suspension lifts for off-roading in a Toyota truck? YotaTech member Jordan Rowland posed the question in our forums, and the responses provide timelessly tried and true advice from fellow Toyota truck off-roaders.
“There are hundreds of ways to do it,” says forum member “NumbChux.” “I have a body/drivetrain/gas tank lift, and good shocks, and I’m fairly happy with it. My next big suspension step will be the Blazeland Long Travel.
“Best, regardless of cost?” he adds. “Total Chaos, if you’re staying IFS. Or SAS it with a 3-link front and 4-link rear.”
YotaTech member “Rattlewagon” suggests: “33s will fit stock. Get lockers/armor, then worry about a lift. Go wheel it, then you’ll find out where you need to spend your money.”
Or you can try a “Toyota Full Floating Conversion.”
‘Using the correct oil and changing it at set intervals is an important step in minimizing failures that may leave off-roaders stranded out on the trail.’
Lights
Lights are often the second modification made on off-road-focused vehicles due to their aesthetics and relatively affordable price point. “Good lighting serves a number of essential purposes,” says Neal. “Not only do they provide increased visibility if you happen to find yourself driving on a trail in low light conditions, but they make for a fantastic light source while working on another vehicle at night. Consider underbody ‘rock lights’ so you can see ground hazards even when the headlights are pointed upward.”
Bumpers
Another aesthetically pleasing modification, bumpers can also provide additional tire and general ground clearance while acting as heavy-duty mounting points for lights, winches, and spare tire carriers. Check out this YotaTech forum thread for more details on off-road bumpers. Also, check out this step-by-step guide to a “Taco front bumper build.”
Also see: Seeking Advice on Suspension Lifts
Brakes
At a minimum, brakes should be regularly serviced to prevent failure on the trail. “Many off-roaders choose upgraded aftermarket brake kits and parts for additional stopping power to supplement the added weight from supplies and equipment,” says Neal. “Whichever route off-roaders choose, it’s important to check your brake fluid levels before embarking on an off-road adventure. Red Line’s RL-600 Brake Fluid is engineered to maintain viscosity, lubricity, and compressibility at extreme temperatures, both high and low. Fresh brake fluid helps to guarantee braking systems perform to the best of their ability and handle emergency situations with ease.”
Cooling Systems
In order to keep your engine performing at its peak and to avoid failures on the trail, engine temperatures need to be kept in check. Installing the correct radiators and fans for specific applications is crucial in preventing overheating issues on the trails in summer heat or extreme climbing conditions.
“In addition to ensuring the proper hardware is installed, off-roaders can use Red Line’s WaterWetter coolant additive to further reduce temperatures,” suggests Neal. “It is specifically designed to lower coolant temperatures by as much as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, while simultaneously protecting against rust and corrosion.”
“In addition to the above areas, standard maintenance cannot be ignored,” adds Neal. “Using the correct oil and changing it at set intervals is an important step in minimizing failures that may leave off-roaders stranded out on the trail. Red Line’s High-Performance line comes in 16 different viscosities, including diesel-specific versions, allowing you the ability to use the correct oil for the conditions. Additionally, synthetic motor oils are more likely to maintain their viscosity in extreme temperatures and offer superior protection.”
Check out how Red Line helped Jason and Casey Scherer tackle King of the Hammers‘ treacherous trails below.
Photos: Toyota
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