© Copyright Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd. 082014
11-7
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Always perform a maintenance inspection after each day of off-road driving that
has taken you through rough terrain, sand, mud or water
11.7.3 Driving Through Water
Although your vehicle is capable of driving through shallow water, there are a
number of precautions that must be considered before entering the water.
Never drive through still water that is higher than the bottom of the axle hubs.
Not following this instruction will allow water to enter vehicle components
causing internal damage to the components, affecting driveability, safety,
emissions and reliability.
When driving through water, drive very slowly and at constant speed, less than
5 kmph. Water waves generated will be high and may enter the air intake,
causing severe engine damage or cause a vehicle to get stalled.
You must slow down while driving through shallow water. Speeding may cause
water to splash onto the windshield, impairing your vision.
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The ground under the water might not be firm which could result the water being
deeper than expected when driving the vehicle through it
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Do not stop or shut OFF the engine while immersed in water. It helps in preventing
water getting inside the exhaust pipes
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When backing down a ramp, do not allow the exhaust tail pipe to be immersed in
water
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Water can wash the grease from the wheel bearings, causing rusting and
premature failure. It may also enter the differentials, transmission and transfer
case, reducing the oil's lubricating qualities. If these are submerged in water, the
lubricants should be replaced as required
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Water entering the transmission will cause deterioration in shift quality, locking
up of your transmission accompanied by vibration, and ultimately damaging the
transmission
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Sand, mud/sludge that has accumulated in brake drums and around brake discs
may affect braking efficiency. This may also damage brake system components.
Wet brakes cannot stop the vehicle as effectively as dry brakes. Drying can be
improved by driving the vehicle slowly while applying light pressure on the brake
pedal
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When driving through water, traction or brake capability may be limited. Always
perform a maintenance inspection after each day of off-road driving that has
taken you through water
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If the water is swift flowing and rising (as in storm run-off) avoid crossing until the
water level recedes and/or the flow rate is reduced
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Determine the exit point (s) that are downstream of your entry point to
compensate for drifting
11.7.4 After Driving Off-road or Through Water
Off-road operation puts more stress on your vehicle than does most on-road driving.
Always perform a maintenance inspection after each day of off-road driving that has
taken you through rough terrain, sand, mud, or water.
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After going off-road, it is always a good idea to check for damage. Completely
inspect the underbody of the vehicle for any damages
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Check for accumulations of plants or bushes. These could be a fire hazard. They
might also hide damage to fuel lines, brake tubes/hoses, etc.
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Inspect all the tubes/hoses and check for any fluid leakages
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Get heat exchangers (radiator and condenser) cleaned
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Check threaded fasteners for looseness, particularly on the chassis, drive train
components, steering, suspension and brakes. Retighten them, if required, and
torque to the values specified in the ‘Repair Manual’
Abrasive material in any part of the brakes may cause excessive wear or
unpredictable braking. You might not have full braking power when needed
STARTING AND DRIVING THE VEHICLE
