Different names and different executions are what make up the core system of an all-terrain vehicle. A 4-wheel drive system is what you will find used in your pickup truck or off-roading vehicle but there are also other systems that we mistake it for. There are 4x4 and AWD. While the concept of all of these is the same, the way they work isn't. All 4 wheels are used but not in a way you expect them to be used.With a 4WD system, the vehicle still relies on a standard RWD or FWD configuration. When the need for all 4 wheels arises, a transfer box activated by a lever sends power to the other axle which makes all 4 wheels move. This action is initiated by you either through a knob or a button. A 4x4 system is practically the same while an AWD system has all 4 wheels driven no matter the road conditions.
4WD Accessories
Snorkel
No matter the type of drivetrain your off-roader has if you use it exactly what it's made for, you should then consider getting some 4x4 vehicle accessories for it. One of the most promising 4WD accessories direct when it comes to keeping your engine safe is a snorkel. A car snorkel works much like a snorkel you would bring when plunging into the ocean. This 4x4 accessory is fitted onto the engine's air intake to provide a safer way for air to be supplied to the engine and to prevent water from entering. With a snorkel, you also provide cooler and cleaner air to the engine which makes it work more efficiently.
Dual Batteries
A dual battery setup will make your 4x4 more convenient when it comes to spending the night in the wild. With a dual battery configuration, you get to charge your laptop or smartphone in your vehicle without using the charge left in the main battery. The auxiliary or second battery is going to keep your food frozen or warm and the main battery will keep your radio and lights operational. This way you will have a more reliable vehicle.
Long Range Fuel Tank
Another type of 4x4 off road accessories that will make your all-terrain vehicle more reliable is a long-range fuel tank. This can be two smaller 4x4 off road accessories or one large accessory. This means you can increase the size of your existing fuel tank by adding another one of the same size or replace it completely with a larger fuel tank. No matter which solution you go for you will enjoy going on longer journeys without the need to refill.
Bullbar
When travelling through the wilderness, protection is key. Keeping your vehicle protected means keeping yourself safe and doing so with a bullbar is one of the best ways. Why? Because the construction and placement of a bullbar ensure the safety of you and your passengers as well as the components in the engine bay. Bullbars go in front of the grille and they are usually made of metal. These 4WD accessories direct can be made of plastic too but plastic bullbars are not as protective and can break a lot easier too.
Air Compressor
Properly inflated tires can improve handling and fuel efficiency which are both crucial factors when exploring the wild. This is why taking an air compressor on your off-roading adventures can make a big difference. You can inflate your tires according to the terrain ahead which will make for a smoother ride and a much better overall experience.
Cargo Barriers
Packing for a long trip or staying in the wild doesn't just involve organising your gear and equipment. The bumpy terrain that awaits ahead can make all that time and effort you put in arranging your other 4x4 vehicle accessories go to waste. But not with cargo barriers. Cargo barriers will keep what's inside your vehicle in one place rather than it moving around. This way you will ensure nothing gets damaged or flying over to your side.
UHF Radio
A UHF radio is going to be essential if you want to explore the Outback with a friend or two. This type of radio relies on frequencies that are able to travel through obstacles. When there is thick vegetation you'll want to have a clear understanding of where your mate is otherwise you can end up bumping into each other. Of course, that's putting it lightly. Learn how to use the right channels and you'll be the communications expert among your group of friends.
Recovery Gear
Off-roading is an unpredictable journey in which you get to experience all kinds of situations. Well, one that will occur no matter how experienced you are, is the recovery of a bogged down vehicle. Be it yours or one of your mates, getting a vehicle out on safe ground can be tricky especially if it's your first time. Of course, this all depends on the gear you have and the way you use it. Recovery 4x4 off road accessories include a shovel, a winch, winch cable, recovery tracks, D shackles, and a recovery blanket.