On 4/8/2009 10:32 PM, Reed wrote:
> Bruce Burden wrote:
>> wrote:
>> :
>> : Can the 2009 Rav 4 handle some light beach driving so that I may do
>> : some surf fishing?
>> :
>> Yes, with caveats. Realize that very soft sand is a trap for
>> most any vehicle.
>>
>> So, I would suggest that you walk your path first, and check
>> the sand before driving on it. If you start to sink in the sand,
>> I'd think very carefully before attempting to drive on it. And,
>> make sure you have room to turn around.
>> Also, DO NOT spin your tires. If you get stuck, and try to
>> power your want out, you are most likely going to sink furthur
>> into the sand. This will make getting your vehicle out much, much
>> harder.
>>
>> Carry a shovel with you, as well as some boards you can put
>> under the tires to help you get out of loose sand. The sand will
>> be easiest to drive on below the high-tide mark. Getting there
>> is generally the trick. :-)
>>
>> Bruce
>
> Also, if stuck, especially below high tide mark, DO NOT BE AFRAID to let
> some air out of tires in effort to get unstuck. "Soft" tires do better
> in sand than "hard". Years ago on the Internet there was a set of
> pictures of fellow who was stuck, would not listen to others about
> tires, more afraid of damaging the tires. Last picture showed just the
> roof above water !!

Furthermore remember the golden rule in sand. When motion is lost, stop
and regroup. Last thing to do here is spin a tire and bury it. Take a
couple old blankets or fair sized rugs with you. WHen you get bogged
down they can do wonders when placed under tires.