Tools That Can Help Free A Stuck 4X4

19 December 2019
 Categories: Automotive, Blog

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Traveling off-highway with an SUV or truck can be a lot of fun, but there are times when you need to be prepared to deal with breakdowns and getting stuck somewhere. There are some tools and equipment you can carry to help you self recover if you break down or get stuck.

Hand Tools

A good selection of hand tools in your truck can help a lot. A minor breakdown that requires a few simple tools to repair could keep you in the woods all night if you do not have any tools with you. Sometimes a few screwdrivers, an adjustable wrench, and some pliers will do, but the more complete the tool kit is, the better prepared you will be to make the necessary fix and get the truck out of the woods or off the trail.

Recover Straps 

If you are traveling with a friend and one of you gets stuck, a high-quality recovery strap can be the difference between getting the truck out or not. Recovery straps come in several types, so getting the right one is critical. The first is a tow strap that has little to no give in it. The strap should not stretch when you pull on it with another vehicle because the energy that builds up as the strap stretches could result in a dangerous whip if the strap breaks. 

The second is a snatch strap, and this one has some stretch built into the strap so you can get a little momentum up with the pulling truck, and the strap will stretch just a bit as it becomes tight. The idea is that the momentum will help break the stuck vehicle loose from the mud and allow it to move under its power again. Never use a snatch strap for towing or for winching.

Farm Jack and Spare Tire

A heavy-duty farm jack is a great tool to have on your 4x4. The jack can be used to lift the truck and change a tire or raise the truck enough to put some rocks under the tires if you are stuck. The jack has many different uses, and when set upright, a farm jack can even be used to pull a vehicle if you have an anchor point.

Make sure you have a spare tire to go with your jack and a proper size lug wrench, or the jack is not going to help if you tear a sidewall or pop a tire. The tire needs to be the same size as what is on your rig, and it should be in new to nearly new condition, so it is dependable.

For more information about off-road recovery, contact a company like R & R Towing.