I like to do my share of surf fishing off of LBI in NJ, and come Labor Day the Beach Buggy permits are available, which makes the trips that much more fun all winter. Last weekend I got my permit and took the Jeep out on the beach. Had a good time, but near the end of the trip I ended up overheating the tranny...bad! So its at the dealership, luckily being covered by warranty, but I still plan to be out on the beach again soon as i get it back.

What tips/tricks will help keep this from happening again. I've considered a transmission cooler, and obviously airing down, but what else?

4 Low vs 4 Hi? 1st or 2nd gear vs D for us Auto guys?

 

Drove around in the Florida Sugar sand. No problems. Did you spend alot of time stuck?

 

Nope wasnt stuck for a second. I think it was an existing problem as I had some shifting irregularities in the past. I more or less want to know how to avoid it in the future. I am thinking a tranny cooler will be my next mod.

 

I am thinking that's very wise.

 

Ditto!! That will definitely help.

 

did you take any air out? whenever i go to the OSV area at Assateague National Seashore, i always take her down to about 20 or 25 psi. Luckily there are free air pumps at the entrance/exit though

 

Yup air down to 20PSI.

What about 4 hi vs 4L? 1st or 2nd over Drive?

 

I have seen tannys overheat from shifting to much in the sand. stick in 2nd, air down to stay afloat and lite on the throtle. the sand is to inconsistant to be in drive, you might be ok if you have a tranny cooler.

 

Oh, and you want momentum so 4hi on the flat land unless you have a speed limit like we do of 15mph

 

Sand 101:

1. Air down.

2. Momentum is key.

3. Air down.

4. Shovels are great tools.

5. Air down.

6. Bridges work wonders and look cool on the side of the Jeep.

7. Air down.

8. Tow strap and a buddy to pull you out.

9. Air down.

10. Winch and sand anchor of some sort (a spare tire and a shovel work) if you don't have buddy to pull you out.

11. Air down.

12. Food and water, lots of water (especially if the shovel comes into play)

13. If all else fails. check #1, and then get on a cell phone.