Desert Recovery: Getting Unstuck
Desert Recovery: Getting Unstuck
In the desert, getting "bogged" in sand is part of the journey. The goal is to recover the vehicle with the least amount of stress on the machinery and the environment.
1. The "First Instinct" Rule
Stop spinning your tires. The moment you lose forward momentum, let off the gas. Spinning the tires just digs four holes and "bellies" the chassis on the sand, making recovery 10x harder.
2. The Step-by-Step Recovery Order
Always start with the simplest method before moving to high-energy recoveries like winching.
- Air Down (The 5 PSI Drop): If you are stuck, drop your tire pressure by another 5–8 PSI. Often, this extra surface area is enough to let you crawl out.
- The Shovel is Your Best Friend: Clear the sand from in front of all four tires and, most importantly, dig out the sand from under the chassis/diffs if they are touching the ground.
- Traction Boards (Maxtrax/Treds):
- Wedge them firmly against the tire tread (don't spin the wheels onto them, or you will melt the plastic teeth).
- Use "Low 1st" gear and a gentle throttle to "climb" onto the boards.
- Snatch Recovery: If another vehicle is present, use a kinetic "Snatch Strap."
- Warning: Ensure all bystanders are at least 1.5x the length of the strap away. Never use a tow ball for recovery; use rated recovery points only.
3. Survival in High Heat Recovery
- Work in Shifts: Dig for 10 minutes, rest for 10. Heatstroke can hit in minutes in 40°C+ temperatures.
- The "Golden Hour": If you are truly stuck, wait until the sand cools (early morning or late evening). Cold sand provides significantly better traction than hot, dry sand.