Posted by Corrected Glitches-Stephen from Ghost Town Photographers on September 16, 1999 at 19:21:44:
In Reply to: Vehicles For Ghosttown Adventures posted by pennyan on September 16, 1999 at 02:03:01:
I have been an avid 4 wheeler since 1973 when I purchased my first Toyota Land Cruiser and began exploring the Ghost Towns of the Colorado Rockies. In 1978 I bought my second Land Cruiser "Pegasus" and am still driving it today.
Knowing how to drive your 4wd is as important as to what type 4wd rig you choose. Nearly all can perform the tasks. Which one feels the most comfortable to drive. If you know someone who owns one like the one you're thinking of getting, see if they'll take you out for a spin...or maybe let you drive a bit. One word of caution...if they are a thrill seeker, you may not enjoy your first 4wd adventure...you'll be petrified! Check out their rig...if it's covered with dirt and dents-be careful. But if the rig is clean and has a few scratches and dents, chances are, he or she is a safe 4wheeler.
Some basic considerations: the short wheel base is the way to go for off road travel. Obviously, the larger the rig the more difficult they are to maneuver in tight places. I feel that gas mileage is not an issue when 4wheeling. As soon as you lock into 4wd, whatever rig you drive, is now getting about half the mileage you get on pavement in 2wd. I always carry a minimum of 5 gallons of gas in a jerrican. I've only had to use it twice. So far!
Some rules: Be courteous to other outdoor enthusiasts. Stay on existing road grades. Slow, low range travel is best for passenger comfort, dust control easier on the rig and creates less environmental impact. Provide yourself with a well stocked emergency kit. You may end up spending the night somewhere you hadn't planned on.
A good policy for the novice 4wheeler is to do your explorations in 2wd and proceed until you have to use 4wd. Use 4wd to get out of trouble. Remember, when you get stuck in4wd-you're stuck! Make sure you carry a shovel.
With the right towing package on your motorhome, hauling a 4wd around is a piece of cake. Some opt to carry the 4wd on a trailer to reduce wear and tear on the rig.
Four wheeling is a great, fun hobby, especially when it takes you to ghost towns that are really remote. For more indepth info, check out some 4 wheeler magazines. Good Luck!!