When to engage a 4×4 gear on a self-drive in Uganda
When to involve a 4×4 gear on a self-drive in Uganda, If you have ever undertaken a self-drive safari in Uganda, then you will understand that the chances of getting stuck in mud, sand, or rugged terrain are high. A four-wheel drive (4WD or 4X4) is a game changer because it will help your rental car grip the road better and seamlessly. In Uganda, the weather conditions can sometimes become unpredictable, hence there will be times when you will need to engage a 4X4 Gear. The question is, “How and when can you engage a 4X4 Gear during your self-drive safari in Uganda?
What is a 4X4 Gear?
Also referred to as “four-wheel Drive”, 4X4 vehicles are the ones with the capability of sending power to all four wheels. The terms “4WD” and “4X4” are normally used interchangeably but mean the same thing, and used about Trucks and utility Quads.
Before you engage a 4X4 Gear, it is advisable to first make sure that the rental Car (or the Safari vehicle) is in neutral. A four-high makes it possible for the safari vehicle to drive at fast speeds, hence providing better traction. Interestingly, there’s a great chance of using the setting even more than a four-low. In most cases, four-low is engaged while providing the safari vehicle with more torque. This mechanism is perfect while driving through deep water, or muddy and slippery surfaces. In these scenarios, it is crucial to keep the safari vehicle at low speeds, at least under 10mph.
Another benefit of a 4X4 Gear is that it provides better traction and control when driving through difficult situations like uneven and slippery road surfaces, flooded roads, rugged terrains, and others. Talking of traction/stability control, you don’t need to depend on a computer to decide if you require traction control. The good news is that our new fleet comes with a traction/stability control mechanism that turns on as soon as you start the safari vehicle.
The traction/stability control mechanism is wonderful when driving through a slick part of the road because it will keep tired from spinning. However, the traction/stability control mechanism will not help the situation when you get stuck while on your self-drive.
When driving uphill or downhill # When to involve a 4×4 gear on a self-drive in Uganda
One of the circumstances/situations of engaging a 4X4 Gear on a self-drive in Uganda is when driving downhill or uphill. This will be significant in distributing power evenly to all four wheels, hence preventing sliding or slipping. The 4WD Mechanism is crucial on steep declines and inclines, as the weight of the safari vehicle can move and reduce instability.
When undertaking off-road adventures
Another scenario to engage a 4X4 Gear on a self-drive in Uganda is when undertaking your off-the-beaten-track adventures or when driving across uneven road surfaces. In such circumstances, the road is rough (such as deep potholes, and you will need to navigate it.
While driving through water
The 4X4 Gear can also be engaged while driving through water. During your self-drive safari in Uganda, you might be required to cross small rivers, streams, or flooded roads. In such cases, a 4WD mechanism will be required to keep the safari vehicle stable and prevent water from getting into the engine. Nonetheless, avoid crossing deep waters, fast-flowing rivers, and streams, since they can be hazardous and cause damage to the vehicle and engine.
However, the four-wheel drive mechanism can work well when the safari vehicle is well-maintained hence reducing the risk of damage and improving the overall performance of the vehicle. Also, use caution when engaging the 4X4 Gear and always be aware of the vehicle’s limitation.