"v-man" <
[email protected]> wrote in message
news:
[email protected]...
> I am going to san diego for a weekend. I'm an outdoors person but
> never been off roading. I wanted to rent an SUV and go off roading.
> Are there any good recommendations for a person renting a ford
> explorer in the southern cali desert?
>
> Thanks
Personally I would never take an unknown vehicle into the desert; especially
a rental and never in the heat. However, if you are convinced on doing it
make sure that someone knows where you are going and take plenty of water
along; at least one gallon per person. Take along protective clothing and
sunscreen in case you get stranded.
Make sure that the rental company knows that you intend to take their
vehicle off road. If you don't and it gets damaged or stranded you could be
liable for misuse of the vehicle and all of the costs of rescuing it. New
4x4 trucks do not come with off road tires and unless they have been set up
for off road use by the rental company they probably still have the original
OEM 2 ply tires. They may be good for mud or snow but they don't stand up to
the punishment of hard rocks and the sharp cactus that we find in the
desert. You need a 3 ply sidewall to be safe out here. I've popped tires
with less than 3,000 miles on them. You'd think that I'd learn but it's
tough throwing away 4 brand new tires on a new truck and they always look
tough enough to handle it.
Saying all of that it is more than likely that nothing will happen and
you'll have a great time. It's too late to get them by mail but find a BLM
office when you get to San Diego and get some Topo maps of the area. Good
luck and have fun.
Bob Walker
[email protected]
www.walker-entertainment.com
