Sierra Mechanica

08/30/2026

Intentionally losing traction and applying traction tools.

08/30/2026

A few snippets from two days of driver training.

08/29/2026

4WRECOVERY - 1-DAY INTRODUCTORY CLASS
Saturday, September 5th, 2026
Castle Rock, CO

I frequently get the question, “What should I have in my recovery kit?” I can provide a list, but without knowing how to use it, that gear is of limited value, and can be a hazard.

What are the characteristics of a good tree strap? How is one properly used? How to adjust the length of a synthetic winchline extension? When are hard shackles more appropriate than soft shackles? What is a screw pin bow shackle, how do I identify a good one, what do the numbers mean? When and how a hitch receiver shackle suitable for recovery? How to safely use a kinetic rope? What is a roundsling and what can it be used for? Which characteristics make for a good pulley block? What is a line lock? How and in what ways is it safe to use a Hi Lift Jack? A Lift Mate? What makes a good traction board? How do I assess the safety of a recovery scene? Do a stuck assessment? What are the impacts of angle / slope, surface condition, and mire factor on resistance and how do I do a load calculation? Gear ratings (WLL, MBS, MTS, design factor)? Winch terminology, use, and communication? Wraps, layers, fleet angle, line speed, run on? What is the safety zone required for using wire rope? Synthetic rope? What are their relative benefits? What is a good recovery point? What is mechanical advantage and why do I want to use it?

If you want to learn the answers to these questions and more, get your hands on recovery gear, use a Hi Lift Jack, use a winch, and do all of that safely and efficiently, this might me the training for you!

One ticket covers the cost of one vehicle, one driver, and one passenger - I want your partners, spouses, and friends who wheel with you to learn alongside you! Youth under 18 are free - I want them to get this info early and carry it forward.

https://www.sierramechanica.com/event-details-registration/4wrecovery-1-day-introductory-class-1

08/24/2026

Intro 4WD Class this Saturday - I managed to squeeze in one more before the end of the season!!

We will spend the day (6-8 hours) in and out of our vehicles covering the following topics:

- Vehicle Inspections & Evaluations
- Caravan & Trail Etiquette
- Proper Driving Position
- Airing Down & Tire Tech
- Communications & Radio Etiquette
- Safe Driving Practices
- 4WD Systems
- Vehicle Dynamics
- Traversing a Variety of Terrain
- Spotting Techniques
- Essential Gear

This course will use a combination of lecture and practical skills while driving your vehicle on a 4WD trail.

Your vehicle should meet the following minimum requirements:
- High clearance vehicle with 4WD and low range
- 32" tires and a full size matching spare
- Recovery points front and rear

We will be driving on a variety of terrain so you can experience you and your vehicle's capabilities, and perhaps some limitations! You will not be required to traverse anything you are uncomfortable with, but are encouraged to try out a few things for the experience. We will provide instruction, direction, advise, and spotting through difficult terrain, and you will have the opportunity to do the same for your fellow students.

Register at the link below!

https://www.sierramechanica.com/event-details-registration/4wdriving-1-day-introductory-class-4

08/14/2026

We can all be good stewards.

08/13/2026

How about we all do our part and pack our s**t out. Literally.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/14nsZeyCB8s/

08/13/2026

Last Intro 4WD class of the year coming up in two weeks!

We will spend the day (6-8 hours) in and out of our vehicles covering the following topics:

- Vehicle Inspections & Evaluations
- Caravan & Trail Etiquette
- Proper Driving Position
- Airing Down & Tire Tech
- Communications & Radio Etiquette
- Safe Driving Practices
- 4WD Systems
- Vehicle Dynamics
- Traversing a Variety of Terrain
- Spotting Techniques
- Essential Gear

This course will use a combination of lecture and practical skills while driving your vehicle on a 4WD trail.

Your vehicle should meet the following minimum requirements:

- High clearance vehicle with 4WD and low range
- 32" tires and a full size matching spare
- Recovery points front and rear

We will be driving on a variety of terrain so you can experience you and your vehicle's capabilities, and perhaps some limitations! You will not be required to traverse anything you are uncomfortable with, but are encouraged to try out a few things for the experience. We will provide instruction, direction, advise, and spotting through difficult terrain, and you will have the opportunity to do the same for your fellow students.

Register at the link below!

https://www.sierramechanica.com/event-details-registration/4wdriving-1-day-introductory-class-3

08/02/2026

Long time trusted friend is selling his trailer. He’s more OCD than I am and it will be in peak condition!

08/01/2026

I frequently see questions asking whether a particular vehicle is capable of tackling a particular trail. The answer is a relatively stock true 4WD vehicle in good mechanical condition with appropriate tires is suitable on a majority of trails - with a capable driver. A good driver knows how to read the trail, pick good lines, and use and be a good spotter. A good driver understands a vehicle’s capabilities and limitations, and how to apply and overcome both. A good driver knows control principles - steering, throttle, brake; seating position and sight lines; and is sensitive to mechanical sympathy. As we say, “90% driver.”

This is the way…

Are you new to the off-road community? Are you new to the Colorado high country and want to explore in a 4WD vehicle? This class will get you started on the right path! $150 for one vehicle and driver and one passenger $75 per additional passenger Youth under age 18 free