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An all-terrain vehicle (ATV) offers remarkable momentum and durability for those who love the outdoors. Riders who don’t mind getting dirty will seek out low-lying spots for a mudding session. While exhilarating, this activity can take a toll on your ATV. Use the three tips below to preserve your investment while you explore off-road.

A Guide to ATV Protection During Mudding Adventures

1. Invest in a Lift Kit

When you’re traveling through deep mud, a standard ATV will get stuck pretty quickly. Although you can’t turn these vehicles into monster trucks, you can add a lift kit to increase your ground clearance.

Lift kits will raise the underbelly of the ATV by a few inches, making it less likely to drag through dirty water and sludge. They will make navigating a ride much smoother while also protecting the engine from straining to pull the vehicle out of thick mud.

2. Use Grease to Your Advantage

MuddingAfter a long afternoon of trudging through deep mud, an ATV will be caked in a thick layer of dirt. Not only is it time-consuming to scrape off, but it could damage the vehicle’s body.

Spray the exterior of your ATV with a lubricant like WD-40® so excess mud will slide off the vehicle; leave the seat dry so you don’t slip off. Apply dielectric grease to the spark plug boot and other electrical connections to create a barrier against water and mud. Using marine grade grease on joints and pivot points will increase water resistance and keep these mechanisms from getting stuck.

3. Use the Four-Wheel Drive

Always keep your hand on the gear shift during outdoor adventures. If you suspect deep mud ahead, shift into the lowest gear, and turn on the four-wheel drive. This will increase your momentum and rpms.

If you wait until you’re in a ditch, the vehicle will lose its forward power, straining to produce enough momentum so you don’t get stuck. Getting trapped in a muddy ditch can also lead to more water intrusion, as well as a potential engine breakdown.

 

If you’re eager to rev up your ATV, look into the non-profit organization, Riding for a Reason. This charity in Granite City, IL, has been holding mudding events to raise awareness for colon cancer, giving riders the opportunity to enjoy a favorite hobby while supporting a good cause. They were founded in 2015, and they are dedicated to holding events that raise money and awareness for families who are dealing with this disease. Visit their website to learn more about upcoming rides, and call (314) 614-1911 to speak with a team member.

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