Off-Roader Driving, Edition 1.2 [Hardcover]

Tom Sheppard (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 1, 2005

Edition 1.2 comprises the same 2000 edition main book (with new jacket), now shrink-wrapped with a 24pp Peripherals Update Supplement for 2005. This main book, itself based around the sell-out two editions of THE LAND ROVER EXPERIENCE, was hailed by the US magazine Four Wheeler as ".. one of the most comprehensive books on off-pavement driving ever produced ... ". OFF-ROADER DRIVING is not confined to particular brands and marques and includes a distillation and clarification of the multiplicity of four-wheel drive systems and trade names - ' ... the most important Section in the whole book ... ' (especially so with the new Supplement) - together with buying choice parameters. It caters also for those who never go off road but need to know important information about their four-wheel drive system and what makes their carry-all family vehicles different from a saloon car. The book includes a uniquely incisive and straightforward analysis of the dynamics of trailer towing in commonsense terms and analogies - a role for which many 4x4s are purchased. A large proportion of the book is devoted to a methodical, step-by-step and comprehensive look at all aspects of using a 4x4 off-road - safely and non-damagingly to either the vehicle or the environment. For novices, it takes the mystique out of off-roading not only with its content but with its comprehensive glossary. For professionals it offers valuable techniques and rarely seen advice.

Editorial Reviews

Review

... one of the most comprehensive collections of 4x4 information we have ever seen ... we recommend this as required reading --four Wheeler Magazine, Apr 05

... packed with no-nonsense tips and very practical advice ... and cuts away the marketing-speak to reveal the truth. --Land Rover Monthly, Jan 05

Sheppard applies a seasoned cynic's view ... and some of his conclusions can have you grinning and nodding in agreement --Land Rover Enthusiast , Mar 05

From the Publisher

OFF-ROADER DRIVING, Edn 1.2 - this compendium is aimed at all users, from professionals in remote areas to those with their first 4x4 bought mainly as a domestic work-horse. It has an expedition basics section that includes invaluable information on tyres, fuels, oils, loading - now updated with the 2005 Supplement - and water filtration. An incisive overview of the multiplicity of four-wheel drive systems and the make-up of a 4x4 is now, with the 2005 Peripherals Update Supplement, further complemented by an unusually straight-talking overview of the new generation of 'soft-roaders', their brand-name confusing 'new' 4x4 systems and the nadir of ergonomic design to which some of them have slipped, at the users' expense.

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Hardcover: 208 pages
• Publisher: Desert Winds; 1st Ed. edition (January 1, 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0953232425
• ISBN-13: 978-0953232420
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 7.7 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #413,488 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #32 in Books > Professional & Technical > Automotive > Driver's Education

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Off-roader driving, October 2, 2003

By 

Chris Donald (Burnaby, British Columbia Canada) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Off-Roader Driving, Edition 1.2 (Hardcover)

This is an excellent 4wd manual. In fact, it is probably the best basic 4wd user book currently in publication. From the first look at the index on the cover flap, to the quality paper and colour pictures, you know that this book is different from most.
Tom Sheppard's technical background as a test pilot is reflected in the manner that technical aspects of 4wheeling are well covered. He explains complex issues in an easily understood manner. He covers topics ignored by many U.S. authors - items such as changing gears on-the-fly, expedition logistics, and vehicle packing & loading.
There are ample pictures and line drawings to help the reader understand the topics of discussion. My only complaint is that there is not an "Advanced Driving" sequel with more detailed explanations and analysis of the many technical aspects to 4wd systems design and equipment operation.

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars One of the best, November 7, 2001

By A Customer

This review is from: Off-Roader Driving, Edition 1.2 (Hardcover)

A fantastic book for both beginning and experienced off-road drivers. Sheppard knows his stuff and he knows how to teach us. His British perspective is different from most of what you read in the US. Most of the technical information and the photos are specific to Land Rovers, but that's no reason to stay away. The lessons learned and the theory behind them apply no matter what you drive. He explains the basics like approach angles and driving gently then goes so far as telling us how to prepare for a trip across the Sahara. You will learn from this book and enjoy reading it.