So you bought a new 4×4 vehicle and you’re excited about your new off-road capabilities. However, before hitting the dirt road, it’s important to know that over time off-roading can do a lot of wear and tear or even damage to your vehicle. So let’s talk about upgrades that will not only help your vehicle be more rigid and durable but will also give you the performance needed to push your vehicle to its full capabilities.
Where do you start?
The most common mistake when upgrading your vehicle is starting on the wrong end of the spectrum. For example, you can modify your engine with impressive horsepower, however if you don’t have the proper tires to put the power to the ground… You won’t get the full benefits of your new found power. It’s also important to note that every modification comes with a penalty, ie: increasing the ride height changes the vehicle’s center of gravity, and has been known to negatively affect modern day vehicles’ traction control systems. The key is to know the specific needs you want met, and make sure the benefits outweigh the negatives.
So when it comes to modifying your off-road vehicle, do your homework and don’t hesitate to get professional input.
The best place to start, and should never be overlooked, is your vehicle’s tires. Most trucks and SUVs are equipped with all-terrain tires as a standard. These types of tires are expected to fulfill many road conditions but won’t cut it when it comes to serious off-roading.
It’s also important to note that each type of tire is specifically engineered for specific road conditions and terrains. For example an off-road tire such as rock-or-mud terrain tires are designed to handle extreme off-road conditions, but will not perform well on the tarmac.
To sum it up, before you start modifying your vehicle… It’s important to know your specific needs and goals you want to accomplish. For example, will your vehicle be specifically for off-road use only? Or do you want to find a balance of off-road capabilities while still keeping it suited for daily commuting?
Suspension upgrades
It’s important to understand that all suspension components need to work together to give you the desired handling characteristics and performance you’re looking for.
Key components to a suspension system:
Shock absorbers
The first thing that should be addressed when it comes to your vehicle’s suspension setup is the shock absorbers.
Your shocks are directly responsible for how your vehicle behaves on the road. Before investing, it’s important to know what specific handling characteristics you want out of your suspension setup. Are you looking for a softer ride more suited for comfort? Or are you looking for an aggressive setup that will give you superior handling and performance, but at the cost of comfort? When it comes to shock absorbers we need to look at two key components. These key components need to work together to get the desired performance you’re looking for.
Coil spring: soft or stiff?
Damper rate: fast or slow?
First thing that should be considered is the shock absorber’s damper rate. A shock absorber with a very fast response rate on the cycling of the coil spring is directly responsible for how the vehicle behaves on the road. The damper rate and coil spring need to work together to get your desired performance. A faster response rate and a stiffer coil spring will give your vehicle more aggressive handling performance.
Not every shock is created equal
When it comes to shock absorbers, your standard OEM shocks won’t compare to performance shocks. There are key differences when it comes to engineering and design. If you want the best performance out of your suspension system, monotube shock absorbers are your best choice.
Monotube shock absorbers
Monotube shocks are designed to use hydraulic fluid and gas. They are engineered with a free-floating piston that separates the fluid and gas ensuring that they never mix. This assures that there is no aeration or foaming, and the valving becomes much more responsive. The higher gas pressure offers additional resistance. This allows the shocks to be fully adjustable, providing you with tunability to suit all road conditions and terrain.
Control arms
Aftermarket control arms often weigh less than OEM control arms, reducing unsprung suspension weight and improving ride quality.
Upgraded control arms will accommodate you’re upgraded shocks. In the article titled benefits of tubular control arms Roadcartel.com discusses how you can upgrade your car or trucks suspension with upper and lower tubular A arm and how you can obtain better handling and a smoother ride in your car or truck.
What brand is best?
When it comes to aftermarket suspension, there are many reputable brands. They range from basic to high performance needs.
Profender, Nitron, and Billet just to name a few are strong competitors on the market. However it’s encouraged to do your own research, and buy what suits your specific needs and goals.
Exterior upgrades
When it comes to looks and functionality, here are some things to consider when making your vehicle off-road ready.
Roll bar
When it comes to safety a roll bar should be your top priority.
Not only will it protect you in a roll over, a roll bar also adds rigidity to your vehicle overall.
Skid plate or under protection plate
A skid plate will help protect your vehicle’s undercarriage, and help minimize damage from unexpected debris on the road.
Bumper
Upgraded bumpers can provide more protection when it comes to road debris that simply can’t be avoided. For truly rough trails, you should also consider a front bull bar or nudge bar.
Light bar
If you’re off-roading at night, a light bar is going to help you better navigate the trail.
What brand is best?
When it comes down to it, there are many brands on the market. It really comes down to personal preference as far as looks and function. I personally like the quality and looks of Hamer4x4 products.
In conclusion
When it comes to getting your vehicle off-road ready… assess your priorities for how you are using your vehicle. Start with the basics and go from there. Do your research to avoid unnecessary modifications. Be safe and have fun.
