Driving through a Ford or water crossing requires caution and the ability to adapt to the changing conditions. Land rovers such as Discovery and Defender or Ford Ranger are some of the best 4X4’s when it comes to traveling through a ford or water crossings. Most of these 4X4’s have air intakes placed above the hood of the car and have higher ground clearances. It makes them attractive for driving through water crossings. We go through some of the common techniques used to drive through a Ford safely.
How should you prepare your car before driving through a Ford?
Firstly, it’s important to have another support vehicle with you that has someone watching and a tow rope on hand. Tow hooks on both the front and rear are mandatory when driving through water crossings. A snorkel may also be necessary if you plan to go into a deeper ford. Snorkels are raised air-intake pathways placed above the height of the vehicle’s hood.
Ensure your wipers are functioning properly in case of adverse weather conditions. Also, make sure that the batteries are in good condition before you start your journey away from commonly used roads. Make sure the electronics under the hood are well protected or the hood in itself is sealed properly. You do not want an electrical short circuit to happen midway through the river. If you want your battery checked, find a great mechanic in your neighbourhood on My Auto Shop.
How to know if it is safe to cross a ford?
Firstly, measure the depth of the ford even if the bottom floor is visible. There are may be depth markers that indicate the current depth, alternatively walk through first. Make sure that the current of the water flowing is not to strong. You don’t want to get caught up in the fast flowing stream. Sideways force applied on the vehicle forces the tyres to lose its grip and traction making it easier to lose control of the vehicle.
How should beginners tackle their first drive through a ford?
If the water is not shallow and if you don’t have an off-roader you should avoid driving through a ford. Bad weather is also not recommended for driving through a ford as it may create a surge of water coming from upstream.
Read the recommended wading depth for your car and decide accordingly. Maximum depth is in the range of 850 to 900mm for Land Rover Discovery. Standard road cars are definitely not suited when there is a higher level of water depth as they have less than 400mm of wading depth..
Avoid driving through water crossings when dark.
Unclear waters and depth more than 10 cm (4 inches) is a no go. The reason being obstacles such as rocks or potholes might surprise you and divert your path and make it difficult crossing a ford.
Observe if and how other vehicles are driving through the water crossing ahead of you.It can also pay to have an experienced passenger with you.
How should you drive through a ford?
Drive at a consistent speed. Be cautious on the gas pedal and keep up your revs high enough so that water does not enter the exhaust pipes. You also do not want the water to be splashing on all sides hindering your visibility.
Do not stop the car in the water crossing as this might stall the engine and it becomes difficult to move again.
Which gear should you engage when driving through a ford?
It is recommended to drive through a ford on low gear. The reason being a low gear provides better torque and keeps the momentum going forward. Also, do not change gears when passing through a water crossing as this stalls your progress
Enjoy your river crossing. Hopefully the other side is exciting!