Some points to consider:
•Build up speed slowly. Initially, drive ata pace which allows ample time to fullyassess the terrain around you and tounderstand how the vehicle isresponding to both the terrain anddriver inputs. Increase pace as comfortincreases while always being mindfulof how the vehicle is responding tovarious events at different speeds.
•Find a wide open place to experimentwith different functions on the truck.Try a given maneuver with differentvehicle settings (4H vs. 4L),(differential locked vs. unlocked),(AdvanceTrac in key-on vs. single pressvs. press and hold modes) and see howthe truck responds. Start slowly andbuild pace as comfort increases.
•Similarly, in a wide open space,experiment with different drivingtechniques. For example, if the vehicleis tending to push straight ahead whentrying to negotiate a turn(understeering or plowing), a lightapplication of the brake while turningmay help rotate the truck. A wider entryto the corner or entering the cornermore slowly may help the truck turnand allow you to apply the throttlesooner after negotiating the turn.
•Remember the phrase smooth is fast.This refers to your steering, throttle,and brake movements. Smoothdecisive movements will yieldimproved results while helping toincrease safety.
•As speed increases, it is wise to lookfarther ahead of the vehicle so thatthere is time to react to oncomingobstacles. Remember that in manyoff-road environments, obstacles willbe hard to see until they are relativelynear. A good strategy is to alternatebetween looking far ahead and upcloser to the front of the vehicle asyou’re driving.
•Also remember to drive what you cansee. This refers to not driving fasterthan you are able to negotiateunforeseen upcoming obstacles. Thiscould refer to obstacles over a brow, ina ravine, in brush, in dusty conditions,and in the darkness among others.
•If you are driving in a dusty area. Be sureto leave ample distance between youand any other vehicles to make sureadequate vision.
•Always remember that you may not bethe only one in a particular recreationalarea, always be cognizant of others inyour area. This is especially true ofmotorcycles and ATV’s which may bemore difficult to spot than a full-sizedvehicle.
•If driving in desert conditions, it isadvised that you always drive with yourheadlights on to help other driversmore easily see you.
•While driving in desert conditions, themidpoint of the day is the most difficulttime to see many of the small ridgesand dips due to flat shadows from thesun being at its highest point. Extremecare should be taken at these times tonot inadvertently run into theseobstacles.
23F150 (TF6)Driving Hints
