What do you do when you suddenly get heavily stuck in the sand?
In this article, we teach you how to get rid of the clingy sand grains to keep the fun times rolling.
WHAT IS A SAND BOG?
A sand bog is a very soft sand surface that makes your tires sink and immobile, the moment they come in contact with it. You may normally encounter it on beaches and dunes.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE DANGERS OF GETTING STUCK IN A SAND BOG?
It’s not extremely dangerous to get stuck in a sand bog but it can be annoying and a real hassle. Even though the average person spends about 12 hours a year watching other people get stuck in sand bogs on TV, you certainly don’t want to find yourself in the same situation because:
- You won’t be going anywhere.
- Sand can make your floor mats and other 4×4 interiors filthy.
- Sand grains can damage your vehicle’s vital parts.
WHY DO YOU GET STUCK IN A SAND BOG?
The average person gets stuck in a sand bog about once every 2 years but it’s always easy to get stuck in a sand bog due to some reasons like:
- Improper tire pressure.
- Wrong driving mode.
- Pushing the gas pedal too much.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU FIND YOURSELF STUCK IN A SAND BOG?
Getting stuck in a sand bog can put you in a state of panic, especially if it’s your first encounter. On the other hand, it’s important that you don’t let it get to you since anyone can get stuck. Believe it or not, the average person spends about 4 hours a year trying to get unstuck from a sand bog. What matters is you can think clearly on your toes. Some of the things you can do to get yourself out of a bind are the following.
Activate Your Crawl Control
For 4x4s equipped with a crawl control system as in the case of automatic vehicles, what you do is engage the rear differential lock. Then, choose “full control on.” The good thing about this feature is it spins your wheels to shake off the sand grains until you move forward and regain a solid, stable surface grip.
If you’re curious of how it really works, drop by at thedriversseat’s channel.
Check Your Tire Pressure
For 4x4s that are more on the traditional side or without crawl control, the simplest move is to consult your tire deflators. For off-roading purposes, vehicles’ tire pressures normally range from 15-20 Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) but may still vary depending on the type of terrain.
Sand surfaces require tire pressure drops of 15-18 PSI. However, if you get stuck in it, airing down further to at least 10 PSI is enough to push your way out.
Use Your 4×4 Shovel
Use your 4×4 shovel to dig into the area where your vehicle got stuck. Scoop away a reasonable amount of sand until the surfaces are closely even. Doing so, helps you create a ramp in front and at the back of your tires, to elevate your vehicle from the low ground.
Rock Your 4×4 Back and Forth
Establish a slow and steady momentum to lead your vehicle out by moving it back and forth. It’s a technique that lets you do gentle forwards and reverses to remove excess sand particles to clear your vehicle’s path.
If rocking your 4×4 doesn’t work, you may use your traction boards or pads to guide your vehicle up. This is done by securely placing them under your tires. Then, do a gentle acceleration to give your ride an adequate push forward.
Using a Kinetic Rope
In some instances when both rocking your 4×4 and using traction boards aren’t enough to get you free, you turn to your kinetic ropes. However, be careful in using them. Below are some important reminders.
More on this matter when you visit 4WD Supacentre.
4WD RECOVERY WITHOUT A RECOVERY KIT
When worse comes to worst, IF ever you accidentally forgot to bring your entire stash of recovery items on your adventure, there are only three main things you need to consider.
- Use Your Hands – Dig through the piles of sand until more than half a portion of your tires is showing.
- Use a Stick – Use a stick that’s not so sharp or your keys to decrease tire pressure. Then, set your phone’s timer to at least two minutes.
- Rock Your 4×4 Again – Set your crawl control system and gently move your vehicle backward and forward until you’re free.
Watch the full details at Seek Adventure.
POSSIBLE FAQS
1. Why are sand bogs used as recreational areas?
- They’re used as recreational areas to boost critical thinking and as a means for enjoyment.
2. Are there sand bogs in other countries?
- Yes there are, but many of them are found in Southern United States.
3. How can you identify sand bogs aside from their soft surface?
- They are often found near coastal areas, and can be found in both salt and freshwater environments.
CONCLUSION
Getting your vehicle out of a sand bog can test your patience. But doing it correctly helps you avoid compromising your safety and become a truly responsible four-wheeler. If you have other strategies to free yourself from a sand bog, just share them below.
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