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Crossing Obstacles
Crossing obstacles can be hazardous. There
is always the possibility of the vehicle tip-
ping. If you cannot go around an obstacle,
follow these guidelines:
1. Stop the vehicle and move the shifter to
park. Go out to inspect the obstacle
thoroughly from both your approach
side and the exit side. If you believe you
can cross the obstacle safely, select
four-wheel drive (4WD) and shift into
low range.
NOTE: Selecting the LOCK position
on the differential lock control may be
beneficial; however, steering effort will
be increased.
2. Approach the obstacle as close as possible
to 90° to minimize vehicle tipping.
3. Keep speed slow enough to maintain
control but fast enough to maintain
momentum.
4. Use only enough power to cross the
obstacle but still give yourself plenty of
time to react to changes in conditions.
Crawl over the obstacle.
NOTE: If there is any question about
your ability to cross the obstacle safely,
you should turn around if the ground is
flat and you have room, or back up until
you find a less difficult path.
Driving in Reverse
When operating in reverse, avoid sharp
turns and backing down a hill. When using
reverse, follow these guidelines:
1. Back up slowly. It’s hard to see behind you.
NOTE: Avoid sudden braking while
backing up.
2. If possible, it is advisable to have some-
one “spotting” for you while backing up.
3. If you are unsure of what is behind the
vehicle, place the transmission in park
and get out and inspect the area behind.
Skidding or Sliding
If you lose control after hitting sand, ice,
mud, or water, follow these guidelines:
1. Turn the steering wheel into the direc-
tion of the slide.
2. Keep your foot off the brake until
you’re out of the skid.
3. Stop and shift into four-wheel drive.
Crossing Water
This vehicle can only operate in water up to
its floorboard. Stay away from fast-moving
rivers. This vehicle’s tires can be buoyant.
In deep water, the vehicle may lose traction
due to floating.
1. Physically check the depth and current
of the water, especially if you can’t see
the bottom. Also, check for boulders,
logs, or any other hidden obstacles.
2. Keep speed slow while maintaining
momentum.
3. Make sure you have a way out on the
other side of the water.
4. Once you’ve cleared the water, briefly
apply the brakes to make sure they work.
NOTE: Light pedal pressure or pump-
ing the brakes for a short distance will
aid in drying the brakes.
Crossing Roads
It may be necessary to cross a road or high-
way. If so, note the following guidelines:
1. Stop completely on the shoulder of the road.
2. Check both directions for traffic.
3. Crossing near a blind corner or intersec-
tion is dangerous; avoid it if at all possible.
4. Drive straight across to the opposite
shoulder.
5. Take into account that this vehicle could
stall while crossing; give yourself
enough time to get off the road.
6. You have to assume that oncoming cars
don’t see you, and if they do, they won’t
be able to predict your actions.
7. It’s illegal to cross public roads in some
places. Know your local laws.
! WARNING
Striking hidden obstacles can cause
serious injury or death. Reduce speed
and proceed with care in unfamiliar ter-
rain.
! WARNING
Do not operate this vehicle on a frozen
body of water unless you have first veri-
fied the ice is sufficiently thick to sup-
port the vehicle, cargo, and
participants. The vehicle could break
through the ice causing serious injury
or death.
