Three Pieces of Equipment to Outfit Any Off-Road Vehicle

An off-road trip is a great way to spend a weekend, but if your vehicle isn’t outfitted with the proper gear and equipment, a great trip can turn hazardous in a hurry. While large-ticket upgrades like suspension equipment, a lift kit, or larger wheels and tires, get all of the attention, simple gear can make or break your excursion just as easily. For example, an electric winch, an aftermarket bumper, and the right set of tools can get you out of nearly any jam you encounter out on the trail.

Winch

For any type of off-road driving, a winch can be a lifesaver. Whether you’re heading out as part of a multi-vehicle group, or just in your one vehicle, a winch is key for any kind of recovery operation. An electric winch offers a lot of torque for pulling vehicles out of ditches or over obstacles, and the setup/installation is usually simple.

There are a few things you need to know to select the proper winch for your rig, but the primary consideration is finding a unit with enough line-pull capacity for your vehicle. Remember, when considering line-pull capacity, the winch has to have enough to pull the full weight of your vehicle, plus the weight of all gear and equipment that you carry out on the trail.

Bumper

Often, to mount an electric winch, you will need an aftermarket bumper that allows you to mount a winch plate. The winch plate lets you perform certain types of angled recovery operations, and it allows you to mount the winch in one of several places. An upgraded bumper is also more durable, and can withstand the rigors of off-roading better than a factory bumper. Find an aftermarket bumper that is constructed using tubular steel for increased strength.

Tools and accessories

In addition to an electric winch and an aftermarket bumper, you need to bring all of the tools and gear you need to conduct a recovery operation successfully. Also, you need tools that can handle other breakdown situations that you’re likely to encounter out on the trail. Make sure to bring a good set of gloves to protect your hands from cable splinters.

Also, you need a set of nylon safety straps, as well as a set of tree straps to which you can mount your recovery cable. Bring along a set of steel anchors for recovery operations in places without natural anchors. Carry with you a set of standard and metric sockets, along with a ratchet, a set of metric and standard wrenches, a flashlight, and anything specific to your vehicle.