Hi,

I have the 21in 275/45/21 wheels. Is it acceptable to drive up the surf with the 21 inch rims? (Its TD6, not that will matter vs gas)
I actually did that very briefly 2 weeks ago, car did okay but I literally drove and and drove back out. It was a rainy day, kinda chilly, and no other cars were there so i freaked out and left quick - i could not enjoy it, and now want to be more ready and prepared for next trip.
I had the tires down to 26-28psi (I know was not low enough). I had put it on sand mode and did not even turn off DSC, and car did just fine, no hesitation, not significant wheel spin, but I did have to kinda gas it - well, maybe some wheel spin, but did not get any DSC lights indicating DSC kicking in, not sure if something will blink when its cuts things off etc..
Based on my research, I need to let more out or tires 20psi maybe even 16-18 or so, and also turn off DSC.

Can someone with more experience driving on the surf share some feedback and tips please?

Thanks so much for any tips!!!
Ivan S.

 

I wouldn't bother airing down on 22s,21s... or 20s on stock tire size... you air down tires to increase foor print and lower the pounds per square inch you are pressing in to the ground with. Large rims don't really let the tire expand like if you had old 15s or 17s. Someone needs to explain this to fast lane trucks too.If it's soft fluffy sand, keep your speed and let the Disco do it's thing. if you do get stuck sometimes you can still get free

"land rover sand" on YouTube can help you

 

Get better gripping tires. The key to sand is to treat it like water. If you go faster it builds a wave in front of the tire to the point you’ll bury it. Go slow.

 

Try airing down a bit more. I've got 255/55/20 and aired down to 20psi front, 25 psi rear. Did great. Michelin street tires so whatever non-off road tread pattern that is.

Sand mode and DSC off. If you have ATPC, engage low range and set the ATPC. I found 8 mph to be a good speed that allowed me to maintain momentum but not get too bumpy. Once I set ATPC, the D5 felt like a tank rolling through the soft sand with no worries. Oh and don't park such that when you get going again, you have to climb "up hill" on soft sand. Going "downhill" initially to get momentum will be good.

The airing down is what will make a huge difference. I started at 25/30 and reducing to 20/25 made it a lot better.

Lastly if you are concerned, buy a tow strap. Smittybilt 3" x 30' is fine and two bow shackles. Cheap setup and will do the work. If you have an AMEX credit card, often they have 10% off rewards with 4 Wheel Parts America. So that helps. I have that setup in a bag stuck between the 2nd and folded down 3rd row. Never need it but I'll be darned if I won't have it just in case.