RAM 2015 1500, Operating Information Manual, Page: 297 / 998

WARNING!
Crossing obstacles can cause abrupt steer-
ing system loading which could cause you to
loose control of your vehicle.
Using A Spotter
There are many times where it is hard to see the
obstacle or determine the correct path. Deter-
mining the correct path can be extremely diffi-
cult when you are confronting many obstacles.
In these cases have someone guide you over,
through, or around the obstacle. Have the per-
son stand a safe distance in front of you where
they can see the obstacle, watch your tires and
undercarriage, and guide you through.
Crossing Large Rocks
When approaching large rocks, choose a path
which ensures you drive over the largest with
your tires. This will lift your undercarriage over
the obstacle. The tread of the tire is tougher and
thicker than the side wall and is designed to
take the abuse. Always look ahead and make
every effort to cross the large rocks with your
tires.
CAUTION!
•
Never attempt to straddle a rock that is
large enough to strike your axles or under-
carriage.
•
Never attempt to drive over a rock which is
large enough to contact the door sills.
Crossing A Ravine, Gully, Ditch, Washout
Or Rut
When crossing a ravine, gully, ditch, washout or a
large rut, the angled approach is the key to
maintaining your vehicle’s mobility. Approach
these obstacles at a 45-degree angle and let each
tire go through the obstacle independently. You
need to use caution when crossing large ob-
stacles with steep sides. Do not attempt to cross
any large obstacle with steep sides at an angle
great enough to put the vehicle at risk of a
rollover. If you get caught in a rut, dig a small
trench to the right or left at a 45-degree angle
ahead of the front tires. Use the removed dirt to fill
the rut ahead of the turnout you just created. You
should now be able to drive out following the
trench you just created at a 45-degree angle.
WARNING!
There is an increased risk of rollover when
crossing an obstacle, at any angle, with
steep sides.
Crossing Logs
To cross a log, approach it at a slight angle
(approximately 10 to 15 degrees). This allows
one front tire to be on top of the log while the
other just starts to climb the log. While climbing
the log, modulate your brake and accelerator to
avoid spinning the log out from under your tires.
Then ease the vehicle off the log using your
brakes.
CAUTION!
Do not attempt to cross a log with a greater
diameter than the running ground clearance
or the vehicle will become high centered.
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