Which off-road accessories are essential for the new Ram 1500 TRX?

Question

I just got my TRX and I am honestly kind of panicking because I have zero experience with off-roading. Like none at all. I have a trip to Moab planned for next month and I'm worried I'm gonna get stuck or ruin the truck. I was thinking maybe I should get a winch first because my logic was that I can pull myself out if I mess up? But they are so expensive and I only have about $1500 to spend right now after buying the truck. Do I even need extra stuff or is it ready to go? I'm so confused by all the gear lists online. Like what do I actually NEED so I dont look stupid out there?

xzfvzwfuvu · Accepted Answer

Just catching up on this thread and honestly, I'm kinda disappointed that nobody mentioned the weight issue. Unfortunately, those standard plastic recovery boards usually snap or melt under a TRX because it's such a heavy beast... definitely not as good as expected for our trucks. You really need to focus on precision tire management instead.

Apex Chassis Precision Air Down Tools are my go-to because they're way faster than the screw-on types.

Staun Tyre Deflators Heavy Duty 6-30 PSI are a classic alternative but honestly not as good as expected for fine-tuning on the fly since you have to stop and check them constantly. If you dont get your PSI exactly right for Moab's slickrock, all that horsepower wont save you from sliding. I'd skip the winch and just focus on getting your tire pressure down to that 18-20 range accurately.

remont_zmon · Answer

I would suggest focusing on basic recovery gear first. I remember my first trip out there, I got stuck high-centered because I didnt air down. Definitely grab a Viair 400P Portable Air Compressor and some Maxtrax MKII Recovery Boards. Be careful tho, Moab eats tires if you dont air down properly. Make sure to take those tight turns real slow.

llqeqrwfgl · Answer

Stumbled on this thread and figured I should chime in. Honestly, skip the winch for your first trip. A winch is a massive investment and usually requires a mounting plate or new bumper thatll eat your whole budget fast. I've been very satisfied with a high-quality kinetic rope instead. It's much safer for a beginner to use if someone needs to give you a tug. Grab a Yankum Ropes 1 inch x 30 foot Kinetic Recovery Rope. It works well because it stretches and reduces the shock on both trucks compared to a standard tow strap. You also need a solid point to attach it to, so I'd suggest a Factor 55 HitchLink 2.0 Receiver Plug for your rear hitch. Communication is also vital out there. I've had no complaints with the Midland MXT275 MicroMobile GMRS Two-Way Radio. It's basically essential so you can hear the more experienced drivers giving you lines over the rocks. Lastly, you need a way to let air out fast. I've used the ARB ARB600 E-Z Deflator for years and it's dead reliable. It makes the process much more methodical than just poking the valve with a key. TL;DR: Don't buy a winch yet. Get a kinetic rope, a hitch shackle, a GMRS radio, and a good tire deflator. You'll spend way less than $1500 and actually be prepared for Moab.