Gearhead's Guide: Mastering Mechanics & Gear for Overland Adventures featuring Josh Szelmeczka
Embarking on an overland journey is an exhilarating experience that promises adventure and the discovery of uncharted territories. However, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, specific maintenance checks and essential gear are crucial. Here's a comprehensive guide to preparing your vehicle for the ultimate overlanding experience. I had the pleasure of speaking with Josh Szelmeczka and asked a few questions on what maintenance he would recommend before heading out on the trail and essential gear to get out and explore.
Vehicle Maintenance Checklist:
Essential Maintenance Before Hitting the Trails: Regular maintenance is crucial before embarking on any trail adventure. Ensure you perform oil changes, check your transmission fluid, and replace spark plugs routinely. Avoid venturing onto trails with overdue maintenance tasks, as neglect could lead to breakdowns in remote areas. As Josh emphasizes, consistent maintenance is often overlooked but is vital, especially when tackling challenging terrains. Regularly change your oil at 5,000 miles instead of the 10,000 miles all modern manuals suggest. For intense trail use or frequent towing, consider reducing this interval to 3,000 miles. Similarly, for vehicles often used on demanding trails, replace transmission and differential fluids more frequently, around every 20,000 to 30,000 miles instead of 40,000 to 50,000. Josh, benefiting from access to discounted fluids and self-service, opts for changes every 20,000 miles. Additionally, monitor your air filter condition; even on simpler trails like the WABDR, filters can clog quickly. Even if you handle most maintenance yourself, annually consulting a trusted independent mechanic can help identify potential issues, ensuring your vehicle remains trail-ready.
Josh's Pre-Trail Checklist: Before setting out, conduct a thorough vehicle inspection. Check oil and coolant levels, scrutinize the vehicle for any leaks, and confirm that the tires are properly inflated, in good condition, and hold air.
Optimal Tire Pressure and Spare Tire Necessity: Always carry a spare tire and consider traveling with a companion in a separate vehicle for added safety and assistance in case of breakdowns. If you get stuck you will have the benefit of someone else to assist you instead of you having to do tasks solo. Tire pressure adjustments depend on the terrain; Josh typically sets his between 20 to 25 PSI for gravel roads and the WABDR. For snow, mud, or sand, he reduces the pressure to 10-15 PSI. With beadlock wheels, you can drop to as low as 5 PSI, but without them, it's best not to go below 10 PSI to avoid tire bead separation.
Must-Have Overlanding Gear
1. Essential Recovery Gear (without a winch): When exploring off-road, it's wise to be prepared for any situation. Traveling with an experienced companion is invaluable, especially on less challenging trails like the WABDR section 1, where the need for extensive recovery gear is minimal. However, as you venture into unknown terrain, acquiring some basic recovery tools becomes essential. A snatch strap is preferred over a tow strap, and understanding its proper use is crucial. Equip your vehicle with two soft shackles for secure attachment to both your vehicle and a helper’s vehicle. Moreover, a sturdy shovel can be a lifesaver and is considered "cheap insurance" for off-road excursions. Affordable yet effective tools, like a Corona brand saw which can be purchased for around $24, are handy for clearing obstacles like fallen logs.
2. What winch would you recommend: The necessity of a winch depends on the difficulty of the trails you plan to tackle. While not all winches are created equal, casual off-roaders might not need the most expensive models or even need one. Renowned brands like WARN offer high-quality winches, but for those on a budget, Harbor Freight's Badlands winch is a commendable option. Regardless of brand, regular testing of your winch is imperative to ensure it remains operational when needed at least once at the beginning of the season.
3. What navigation tools & equipment are crucial for off-road: In the realm of off-road navigation, a reliable map is indispensable. Learning to read and carry a physical map can be a game-changer in remote areas where digital devices might fail. Waterproofing your maps, as Josh does with his REI map, adds an extra layer of durability. Beyond traditional maps, a Gazetteer red atlas and a compass are also essential tools for navigation. For a more modern approach, navigation apps like Gaia, OnX, and Garmin offer digital solutions, with Garmin being Josh’s personal choice.
4. What are must have tools & spare parts should you keep in your vehicle: The tools and spare parts you carry should be tailored to your vehicle’s needs and the nature of your trip. Common items include fuses and specific parts prone to failure. The key is to carry a basic kit that enables you to perform routine maintenance and repairs. Josh’s toolkit, for instance, includes wrenches ranging from 8mm to 21mm, a set of sockets, a basic ratchet, and pliers. Additionally, items like JB weld, friction tape, and paper towels are useful for quick fixes and clean-ups. He also brings a quart of motor oil for longer trips.
For sudden weather changes what emergency and clothing should be included in your pack: Being prepared for sudden weather changes is crucial. A well-stocked first aid kit and a personalized survival kit are essentials for any off-road adventure. Josh ensures a three-day food supply from Readywise is always in his Landcruiser, complemented by multiple fire-starting methods. Clothing-wise, investing in a high-quality down or wool jacket and a compact rain jacket that can fit in your pocket is recommended to combat the cold and rain.
In conclusion, preparing your vehicle with specific maintenance checks and packing the right gear are the keys to a successful overland adventure. Taking the time to ensure your vehicle is in top condition and equipped with essential gear will enhance your experience and safety, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the adventure that awaits. Happy overlanding!