Jeep Wrangler Rock Crawling Tips

The first and most important tip we have to offer is to utilize the Wrangler's systems and features. For example, all Jeep Wrangler models come standard with 4x4 featuring 4-High and 4-Low modes. While 4-High is designed for on-road driving in inclement weather or on loose terrains, 4-Low is specifically geared toward providing enhanced traction at low speeds, making it perfect for rock crawling. By shifting into 4-Low, the 4x4 system will lock the front and rear driveshafts and send power through another set of gears to multiply the torque to 2.72:1, resulting in higher torque at low speeds. Meanwhile, the Wrangler Rubicon comes exclusively with Rock-Trac 4x4, which offers a 4:1 gear ratio in 4-Low mode, further enhancing the Wrangler's low-speed crawling control. Another feature to use is the locking front and rear differentials. Some vehicles experience misapplied power when crawling over rocks, resulting in the wrong wheels spinning. The Wrangler, however, features electronic locking differentials to lock and distribute power evenly to provide greater traction at all times. Another standout feature of the Wrangler Rubicon is the electronic sway bar disconnect system. This allows you to disconnect the sway bar so that the front wheels can compress and drop further. The result of this improved suspension articulation is the wheels staying connected to the trail no matter how uneven the terrain gets. These features aren't just things for Jeep to boast about, they're in place to be used by drivers taking on rugged terrain. 

Your 'line' is your path of travel on the trail. When you ask any experienced off-roader, they'll most likely tell you to choose the smoothest line up the trail that will keep the vehicle level and the tires on the ground to ensure traction. To do this, you must pay close attention to where your tires are and also memorize the trail in front of you before it disappears under your Wrangler's hood line. It is crucial that you don't follow the vehicle in front of you too closely. If you can only see the back end of that vehicle, you can't see the trail in front of you. While still maintaining a safe distance, you can watch the tire placement of the vehicle in front of you and decide which line will work best for you and your vehicle. For the more challenging section of rocks, a spotter can help you navigate over the terrain. If necessary, don't be afraid to hop out of your vehicle and take a look at the trail ahead of you to map out your preferred line. 

When you come across ruts and holes in the trail, you should align your vehicle to straddle them. Off-roading tires often have robust sidewalls with tread on them to be utilized while straddling difficult trail sections. While the Wrangler Rubicon's disconnecting front sway bar allows one front wheel to rise while the other drops, it is still advisable to keep the vehicle as level as possible and stay on a smoother line. You should also avoid allowing your tires to fall into these ruts, which can bring the rocky terrain closer to the vehicle's undercarriage and body, potentially resulting in damage. When lining your tires up on your line, always look to place your tires on top of the rocks rather than in the trail's low points. This will keep the body and undercarriage above the rocks below the vehicle. 

The Jeep Wrangler is a vehicle that has garnered a reputation for superior off-roading capabilities, making it a legend in the off-road community. If you're looking to start your off-road journey in a new Wrangler, look no further than Marburger Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram! Here on our website, you can find an array of new Wrangler models, including numerous examples of the trail-ready Rubicon. If you have any questions regarding the Jeep Wrangler or our Jeep inventory, you can reach our sales team using the contact form below this page. We look forward to hearing from you soon!