For slowing up, rely where possible on deceleration through engine braking, by easing your right foot back off the acceleration pedal. Driving on the throttle is always the best way to control the vehicle.

Handbrake: when driving through thick mud and wading deep water, don't expect the handbrake to work too well. If you need to stop on the brow of a hill for instance, switch the engine off and leave the vehicle in either first or reverse, depending on how it is lying. Do this in addition to the handbrake. Never stop the vehicle on the handbrake.

Land Rover products have a transmission brake; if used abruptly, you could easily damage the drive train through undue strain. If you did need an emergency brake, say if you footbrake failed, simply keep your thumb on the handbrake release button and ease up slowly. Don't release the button until you have stopped.

Wading Plugs: fit these before going off-roading. There's nothing worse than lying under a muddy vehicle in thick mud and pouring rain trying to fit them.

Roof rack loads: if you have a roof rack fitted, make sure any items aloft are well secured. Remember that heavy items up there will raise your centre of gravity.

Survey on foot: if the route ahead looks particularly difficult, remember to walk the immediate route ahead. This is a wise precaution, as it will minimise the risk of getting caught out while negotiating an unnoticed hazard.

Index [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10] [11]

(c)Goodwinch Limited 2006