^^^THIS^^^

I have wheeled with CJ7nvrstk a couple of times and he does not take the easy line and goes where the big boys go.

R/
Will

 

My old '97 has over 160K miles on it's D30/4.56/35s. I never upgrade axle joints and use them as a fuse to protect the R&P. I've only broken one joint over the years and never an R&P. Keep in mind that going down an obstacle is generally much harder on your D30 than going up... depending on your driving style.

Start spinning your wheels and all bets are off!

 

If you drive like a dumbass you will likely break something, pick good lines, follow your spotter if you have one, know your limits and you should be fine.

 

Yeah! It's my first off-road trip, I guess I'm nervous...

 

Man, I'm jealous. I didn't get signed up in time and now I got other stuff to do. Hit up the Thursday jeep meet-up at Austins Bar in Olathe. I haven't been to one yet, hopefully going to make it this week.

 

In my opinion, the absolute best first offroading experience is to go where there are tons of people celebrating the sport like this Kansas Rocks event will likely be. You'll have an awesome time and probably won't break anything if you're careful. But the good thing is that if you do, I guarantee there's a bunch of people there that will help get you out of a jam, so don't be worried too much and just have a good time. =)

Edit: Also, remember to listen to the guys that have lots of experience, they will understand the lines better and you will learn how to judge the lines yourself. It's not rocket science, but there is definitely an art to it.

 

Pretty much what everyone else said. Take it easy in terms of attack. Drive at your own pace (stay within your comfort zone) When spotters come, use 1 person you trust. Many times there will be lots of input, focus on one person to guide you through the tougher sections.
The Dana 30 is strong enough for medium tires and non-aggressive driving. A challenge doesn't equal carnage. Don't let the nervousness equate to gas pedal and you will be fine. You will be hooked and your wish list will grow/change after actually off-roading.
Good Luck, keep the right side up and keep wheelin'.

 

I apologize for my lack of knowledge. Is there a danger associated with spinning the wheels?

 

Spinning equals no traction. So that isn't good. 2 issues, First is debatable by some. Spinning is not good for the environment. The Tread Lightly group preaches this. Second, as long as you are spinning there isn't much problem. Once you catch traction with all that force of the spinning wheel/tire axle shaft etc. Many times it will break something.
Spinning happens, but again if you are spinning tires then you are not going anywhere.

 

Well you sons a bitches jinxed me... that's the 2nd set of 4.88s to go along with 2 sets of 3.73s lmao.