I want to take my 3L V6 XLT step side off-road. I have A/T tires and sandbags to put in the bed for weight, tow straps, and someone to pull me out, but that is about it. I know, 4x4 is the way to go but I am working with what I have here so, any tips would be great.

Solid recovery points front and rear are a good idea. Your to strap might be rated for X pounds but it does not do much good if you can't secure it to the truck. I would also recommend checking the sticker inside your driver's side door jam and look up your axle code. This will determine if you have an open diff or limited slip. Cross your fingers and hope for the latter. Other than that just use your head and don't get over confident.

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2002 Blue Edge <-- Retired off road toy
3.0 Automatic, 2wd, 4:56's, 35x12.5 Kuhmo's, Lifted 2x, and more. TOTM July 2015
2002 Jeep TJ <-- NEW off road toy!
2.5L 5-spd, Skyjacker 4.5", 4:56's, Aussie Lockers, 33x12.5's, and more.
Build Thread --> http://www.fordrangerforum.com/proje...blue-edge.html
Youtube --> https://www.youtube.com/user/smashlizard

If you have an open diff, don't try fancy manuvers and be prepared for getting stuck

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Baby Girl: 2006 White Ranger XL with many memories. R.I.P. 1/26/15

Keep your ground speed up when going thru holes and mud or sand, and if you get in a hole deeper than the bottom of your doors, won't matter much what drive you got. Get you a come-a-long, you know the rachet gizmo with a long cable with a hook on it. 50 feet is best and that will be the best 30 dollars you spend. All four wheel drive does for you is get you further off the road before you get stuck. Had Jeep 25 years ago. Just use common sense and don't bite off more than you can chew and get that come-a-long.

Tires make all the difference IMO, there are some very timid ATs while there are also very agressive ones.


Be smart, don't attempt any/much mud, avoid sand if possible. Stay in a lower gear if you have a manual. I did some pretty decent dirt/rock trails with my 2wd open diff without even spinning a tire, it all comes down to common sense.

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My Build Thread

Get a RECOVERY strap, not a tow strap. Recovery straps will minimize shock and expand and retract to pull a truck out.

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http://www.offroaders.com/tech/Tow_Straps.htm

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2010 2.3 Stick Reg Cab XL - Maxtrac 2 inch coils - Bilstein 5100 front shocks - Bilstein yellow rear shocks