When modifying a four-wheel drive there is a lot to consider. What kind of terrain you will drive on and what kind of vehicle you own. How often and how extreme you intend to wheel. The three areas that you will want to focus on are the power train, the suspension, and the tires. Having a powerful engine isn’t as important in a four-wheel drive as it is in a race car. Instead, an engine that has decent power and is very reliable is best. If you feel that you don’t have enough power you can modify your engine with aftermarket modifications to suit your needs. Some parts, such as U joints and hubs are the most likely to fail out on the trail (rhyming not intended) as you upgrade other parts, be sure to replace the parts with as strong, or stronger drive train parts. TIP: Most experienced four-wheelers carry extra U joints, oil, and other parts in case of a break down. Although a lift kit looks cool, there is a lot of work involved to make one work. However, companies such as Super lift and Rancho sell complete kits for most vehicles. I recommend a suspension lift for better ground clearance and increased articulation, (how much a vehicle can flex on uneven ground). A two to four inch lift is plenty for getting started. Please keep in mind that a lifted vehicle is more top heavy and will roll over easier. This is an area that you do not want to skimp on quality since a poorly made part can be life threatening. TIP: Lift blocks that go between the axle and the leaf spring are inexpensive, but can lead to wheel-hop and broken parts, use an add-a-leaf, or a new spring for a better performing suspension. Last but not least is a set of oversized tires. I recommend this as the first modification because tires can determine if you make it where you want to go, or if you get stuck. Most people can get by with a good all terrain tire, but if you intend to do rock crawling, or mud bogging, a mud tire is the way to go for maximum traction. However, a mud tire will not handle as well as an all terrain tire and will ‘hum’ on pavement. Remember when you get to the trail, lowering the pressure in your tires to 5-10 psi can help increase their grip while off-road, but make sure you have a plan to air your tires back up before driving on-road! TIP: By contacting your lift manufacturer, or asking around online, it is fairly easy to find out what the biggest tires are you can fit under your rig! Some other items you might want to consider would be a recovery kit. I have a military folding shovel and a Hi-Lift jack that works well for a lot of situations. A winch is always welcome and a good rule of thumb is to purchase one rated for twice what your rig weighs. If you do not want to buy a winch right away, a good tow strap is nice to have. When you finally get out to the trail; good luck, have fun, and tread lightly! Category:Home › Autos • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 2 • You should never use after-market auto parts when maintaining or fixing your car • Should a new car be rust-proofed? • Will the trend toward economy-size car models lead Americans back to buying smaller-sized cars? — part 1 • Five safest cars in North America • How to ensure your teen drives safely after getting a license • Pros and cons of using an hydrogen generator for your car • DIY automotive maintenance: How to change the oil