4x4 Recovery Tips & Techniques

Getting stuck in the sand is part of the learning process — knowing how to get out is the skill! Here are the key recovery techniques every off-roader should know: **Self-Recovery:** 1. Don't spin the wheels — this digs you deeper 2. Let air out of tyres to increase footprint 3. Try rocking back and forth gently 4. Use sand boards under the drive wheels 5. Dig out around the diff and under the tyres **Assisted Recovery (Snatch):** 1. Use a kinetic/snatch rope — NOT a tow rope (they can snap violently) 2. Recovery vehicle should be on firm ground 3. Keep all bystanders well clear 4. Never attach to tow ball — use proper recovery points only 5. Do a slow pull first to take up slack before the snatch **Winch Recovery:** 1. Always wear gloves when handling the winch cable 2. Drape a damper (jacket/recovery damper bag) over the cable 3. Never let the drum get below 5 wraps of cable 4. Keep bystanders away from the cable line Stay safe out there!