What Are Sliders On A 4x4?.
What Are Rock Sliders?
[Image of Rock Sliders for a 4x4]
Rock Sliders, also known as side rails, side steps, or rocker protection, are protective plates or tubes attached to the sides of a 4×4 vehicle to guard against damage when driving on rough terrain. They can be made from a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, and composite materials.
Types of Rock Sliders
There are two main types of rock sliders: fixed and retractable. Fixed rock sliders are welded or bolted to the vehicle's chassis, while retractable rock sliders use a hydraulic or pneumatic system to extend and retract. Retractable rock sliders are typically easier to install and use, but they are more expensive than fixed rock sliders.
Benefits of Rock Sliders
Rock sliders offer a number of benefits for 4x4 drivers, including:
- Protection from rocks and other obstacles: Rock sliders can help to protect your vehicle's side panels, doors, and paint job from damage when driving on rough terrain.
- Improved approach angle: Rock sliders can increase your vehicle's approach angle, which is the angle at which you can approach an obstacle without scraping the bottom of your car.
- Better clearance: Rock sliders can help to increase your vehicle's clearance, which can help you to avoid obstacles and get over bumps and dips.
- Protection from door dings: Rock sliders can help to protect your vehicle's doors from being dinged by other vehicles or objects.
- Easy access to the underside of your vehicle: Rock sliders can make it easier to access the underside of your vehicle for maintenance and repairs.
When to Install Rock Sliders
If you plan to do any off-roading in your 4x4, then you should consider installing rock sliders. Rock sliders are especially important for vehicles that are going to be used on rocky trails or trails with lots of obstacles.
Choosing Rock Sliders
When choosing rock sliders, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Material: Steel rock sliders are the most durable, but they are also the heaviest. Aluminum rock sliders are lighter and more affordable, but they are not as durable. Composite rock sliders are a good compromise between durability and weight.
- Size: Rock sliders should be sized appropriately for your vehicle. They should be long enough to protect your vehicle's side panels, but they should not be so long that they interfere with your suspension or ground clearance.
- Features: Some rock sliders come with additional features, such as steps for easy access to the vehicle's roof or a kick-out that helps to protect your vehicle's rear tires from damage.
Maintenance of Rock Sliders
Rock sliders should be inspected regularly for signs of damage. If they are damaged, they should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Rock sliders are a valuable accessory for any 4x4 vehicle that is going to be used off-road. They can help to protect your vehicle from damage and make it easier to access the underside of your vehicle.
Tips for choosing rock sliders:
- Consider the type of terrain you will be driving on.
- Choose a material that is durable and lightweight.
- Size the sliders appropriately for your vehicle.
- Consider the features that are important to you.
- Read reviews and compare prices from different manufacturers.
- Have the sliders professionally installed.