Chevrolet Forum - Chevy Enthusiasts Forums

Chevrolet Silverado: How to Start Off-Roading

If you love the great outdoors as much as you love your Chevy Silverado, why not introduce them to each other? Here are some of the steps you need to take to get your truck ready for off-road action.

By Joshua Leimkuehler - June 22, 2015

This article applies to the Chevrolet Silverado GMT800, GMT900, and K2XX (1999-Present).

There are few better thrills in this world than taking your Chevy Silverado places most people never knew they could go, and most other pickup trucks wouldn’t dare to explore. While there’s certainly nothing wrong with spending your entire life on paved roads, you’ll be amazed how much fun you can have by blazing your own path along some of the demanding terrain on the planet. That being said, it’s important that you and your Chevy Silverado are prepared for the road-less-traveled. If you want to conquer the great outdoors in your Silverado pickup, read through this introductory guide to learn about the most important elements of a successful off-road adventure.

Step 1 – Learn to use your truck's off-road features

The average light-duty Silverado is capable of traversing land that would make other cars and trucks leak oil at the sight of. In some cases, however, your Silverado may be well-equipped to handle even more challenging terrain. Find out what (if any) off-road features your truck is equipped with, and learn how to use them before you venture off into the wild. Examples of off-road equipment your Silverado may include:

  • Four-wheel drive
  • Transfer case
  • Locking rear differential
  • Hill Descent Control
Figure 1. Even this easy-going trail will bog you down if you don't know 4-High from 4-Low.

Step 2 – Make necessary off-road upgrades

Unless your Silverado bares the Z71 badge, which represents Chevy’s top-of-the-line off-road package, you may need to make some improvements before you can tackle the really nasty stuff. Here are some off-road upgrades to think about for your Silverado:

  • Off-Road Suspension: Depending on the type of terrain you want to explore, you may want to consider upgrading your truck’s shocks and suspension. Some off-road suspension kits are quite intricate, which require precision welding and cutting, so consider hiring an experienced mechanic if you don’t have the skills or tools to do the job yourself.
  • Off-Road Tires: A common misconception about off-road tires is that larger tires mean better traction. More important than the size of the tire is the type of tire. Bias truck tires provide unmatched performance in extreme terrain, but they aren’t very comfortable on paved roads. If you want a more versatile off-road tire that you won’t need to change out on the trail head, consider radial all-terrain tires for your Silverado.
  • Underbody Skid Plate: Installing a skid plate can significantly minimize the beating your truck takes while off-roading. A skid plate is a heavy-gauge steel plate that is bolted to the truck’s underbody and protects the engine as well as steering assembly from jagged rocks or other hazardous obstacles. A skid plate is an easy installation, as it attaches to factory bolts already found underneath your Silverado.
Figure 2. Aftermarket wheels and taller tires are common upgrades.

(Related Article: What Does Z71 Mean? - ChevroletForum.com)

Step 3 – Learn the terrain

Now that your Silverado is ready for action, it’s time for you to do a little research on the terrain you’ll be encountering on your adventure. If you’re exploring a popular trail or recreational area, check online forums for information on terrain features you’ll encounter. Better yet, if you have a dirt bike or ATV, scout the terrain beforehand and take note of any mud, sand, water, rocks, or hills your truck is up against.

It's easy to dig yourself into a hole in the soft, silty sand dunes, versus harder-packed terrain. Knowing this ahead of time will prevent you from requiring the winch of shame to "unstuck" yourself.

Figure 3. Know the terrain. Is it soft or hard? Will you have good traction?

Pro Tip

If off-roading in sand, lower the air pressure in your tires to give yourself maximum traction and control.

Step 4 – Go slow and build confidence

When you take your truck off the road for the first time, don’t push your truck very hard or very fast. You want to start out nice and slow to get comfortable as well as familiar with the feel of off-road driving. Keep an eye out for obstacles or hazards along the trail, and slowly work your way up steep terrain to develop an idea of what your truck is capable of. Once you get the hang of off-roading and figure out what your Silverado can handle, you can push your truck a little harder.

Figure 4. Steady, consistent speeds will get you through the deep stuff.

Pro Tip

Always bring a friend when off-roading. Not only is an extra pair of hands helpful in case you get stuck, but an extra pair of eyes will help you spot the perfect line-up on a mountain and avoid hazards along the trail you might have missed.

Related Discussions