I am wondering where everyone else started with there trucks. I have a 2000 f150 4x4 off road. I would like to eventually be able to go mudding and go out on some trails. My question is that I drive my truck almost every day so I cant afford to have the truck down for any significant amount of time. I was wondering where should I start? I don't want to go to cheap but I also don't have an unlimited budget. My concern is that my truck has 180k miles. So what would you guys think would be a good idea to start with first?

 

Start by performing all regular maintenance. Replace all fluids, check suspension, make sure engine is running in tip top shape.

Once you are there, you will be able to go mudding and hit the trails.

 

THAT is priceless advice.

 

A stock truck is fairly capable off road, you just have to know its limits and be smart about it. Avoid spinning tires too much, don't go into anything that you dont know how deep it is, take things slow, keep an eye on temps. I have had loads of fun with my truck off road, and its stock other than slightly oversize tires.

 

That is good news because It runs very well. The only issue I have with it is that the 4wd is hard to engage.

 

What tires do you have?

 

Agreed, solid advice. Then when you take it offroad don't beat it like a mule, sometimes a little finesse gets the job done without the damage of a lead foot.

 

This can be a problem while off-roading

 

Treadwright 235/85R16 Axioms. They're retreads but I have nothing but good things to say about them. Excellent on road handling, great grip off road, excellent snow and mud clearing, 10K miles on them and they still look new. I had a problem with one tire with a cracked sidewall, and the company replaced it for free. They're also much cheaper than new tires.

 

Good...if all is up to snuff then besides your 4wd being hard (I would assume it still works), you're ready to go.

Don't try to hang with those modded Jeeps, you wont succeed and will look foolish or break something in the process. Have fun !