Imagine being stuck up to your axles in mud and being recovered forward. The vehicle in front takes off, the rope tightens with a jolt, and then there's a bang and a lurch. You sound the horn to stop your friend from continuing with the impossible. He stops; you both get out and look at the front of your beloved Land Rover. The bumper has moved a good three inches forward taking the front leaf springs and axle with it. The chassis has snapped behind the front spring hangers, the front prop shaft has fallen apart, the axle being connected only by the now horizontal rear spring shackles. And the whole of the front of the vehicle has dropped alarmingly. Even worse, you are stranded miles from anywhere.

Believe me, it is in your interest to make sure every square inch of that chassis is rust-free. If there is a problem, have it repaired professionally. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Or perhaps you have recently taken delivery of a brand new vehicle. Well, still read and digest the handbook thoroughly and get to know the vehicle well before going into the rough.

Have it Serviced

Whatever vehicle you use, and whatever its age, the best way to ensure that it is ready to be taken off-road is to have it serviced regularly.

If you are to do a lot of off-road driving on a regular basis, i.e. most weekends, then expect to tighten up the servicing schedules enormously. As a rule of thumb, at least halve the mileage between each service, if not more! Especially if you enjoy driving muddy water areas.

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