RAM 2015 1500, Operating Information Manual, Page: 301 / 998

You should never attempt to cross flowing
water which is deeper than the vehicle’s
running ground clearance. Even the slowest
current can push the heaviest vehicle down-
stream out of control if the water is deep
enough to push on the large surface area of
the vehicle’s body. Before you proceed de-
termine the speed of the current, the water’s
depth, approach angle, bottom condition and
if there are any obstacles, then cross at an
angle heading slightly upstream using the
low and slow technique.
WARNING!
Never drive through fast moving deep water.
It can push your vehicle downstream,
sweeping it out of control. This could put you
and your passengers at risk of injury or
drowning.
Airing Down For Off-Road Driving
Running lower tire pressure off-road can im-
prove your ride comfort and vehicle traction.
Reducing the tire air pressure allows the tire to
bulge slightly, improving its surface area for
better flotation and ability to mold or form to the
ground contour. Different terrain, tires, and ve-
hicles require different tire pressure. Hard sur-
faces like rock and heavier vehicles require
higher pressures than softer surfaces such as
sand and lighter vehicles. You will need to
experiment to determine what is right for your
situation. It is easier and faster to let air out than
it is to replace it so, start high and lower it as
required. Remember you must return the tires
to normal air pressure before driving on road or
at highway conditions. Be sure you have a way
to return the tires to their normal on road air
pressure.
CAUTION!
Reduced tire pressure increases the risk of
tire damage and may cause tire unseating
with total loss of air pressure. To reduce the
risk of tire unseating, while at a reduced tire
pressure, drive at slower speeds and avoid
sharp turns or abrupt maneuvers.
Vehicle Recovery
If you drive off-road, you may encounter a
situation where you will need to recover your
vehicle. Vehicle recovery should always be
given consideration before attempting a ques-
tionable obstacle. You should never go off-road
driving without the ability to recover your vehicle
from a situation. Having another vehicle with
you usually works best for most situations. The
first thing to do is assess the situation. Why are
you stuck? Are you hung up on something?
Would it be easier to go forward or to go
backward? Can you still move the vehicle? Is
there an anchor point to winch to? Are you
alone or do you have another vehicle to help? Is
there high risk of vehicle damage during the
recovery process? Answering these questions
will help you determine the best method of
recovery. If you can still move the vehicle
slightly and the only issue is slick ground, then
rock cycling your vehicle would be the first
choice. If you have ample room, an additional
vehicle and there is low risk of vehicle impinge-
ment on the surroundings, then using a tow
strap to the vehicle tow hooks would be fast and
easy. If the vehicle is severely hung up or in a
298