so i just joined the navy and i will be in Great lakes IL for about 6 months for sure. i will be there in august through about mid feb. im from vegas where it never snows and i am just lookin for tips while driving in true inclement weather. thanks for the help!

 

If next year is anything like this year was you'll get plenty of opportunity to see what it's like to drive in the snow!! Driving in bad weather isn't too bad, just watch out for all the bad drivers that out there with you. And give yourself plenty of time. And don't forget to play in the snow. It's a good time.

 

Congrats on joining the Navy, retired Navy Chief here. Good luck in your career.

I'm originally from PA and MD and pretty use to driving in the snow. It just takes practice and a feel for the road, oh and listen to your spidey senses. That's that little feeling of the hairs on the back of your neck standing up when things are just not right. When that happens, stop and do a little situational awareness.

Oh, and turn into the skid.

 

thanks Chief! any special things i should put in the jeep? what types of chains or cables are best? any tips for basic also? other than making sure i know the creed and my 11 general orders. im pretty solid on those.

 

Some navy advice:

Keep your nose clean and do what you are told. It makes life easier in basic. Also get all the sleep you can before heading out. It will get extremely cold in the winter months so be prepared.

Keep some straps in the jeep. Don't buy any chains. If you recover someone else let them hook up the strap.

 

Are you talking tire chains/cables? I think they are generally frowned upon in Michigan.

The big thing is to leave plenty of space in front of you for stopping. 4x4 is great for getting going but it does nothing for your braking. It does help you slow down with engine braking though.

Someone else mentioned spidey senses. You kind of develop a feel for whether you tires are gripping the road or not. When you are on the highway you can feel a little unstableness. That is a clue to slow down.

 

I never used chains or cables. You should be fine your first 3 months just as long was you don't get cocky and keep your nose clean. I went through basic over 30 years ago and i've noticed that quite a few things have changed. After that first 3 months, you'll notice the snow shovels will start showing up at each building.....lol get ready for a good workout when the snow starts falling.

Do what your told and things will be much easier. Try to get yourself into a position in your company, some kind of position with responsibility. It not only helps train you for future responsibilities in your career but comes with some privileges. If you do get a good position, don't let it go to your head and make sure you take care of those your reponsible for.

Oh, when I went, you didn't get to take a vehicle. You get to take your Jeep? How lucky are you!!!

 

i wis i could take my rig to basic but i cant. its for after while im in corps school