Millions of people around the world engage in some type of activity that they will call a hobby. After work, many of us go to the gym, a fitness class, or meet up with friends for a friendly game of five-a-side football. There are many other hobbies that people seek out to enjoy.
For example, a little-known hobby called ‘green lane’ is popular in rural areas. Green Laning is a hobby that involves a 4×4 vehicle, a 12v electric winch, and lots of diversions for off-road fun.
What is the green lane? Driving on public rights-of-way (PROW) where vehicle access exists, the rights-of-way are known as a byway open to all traffic (BOAT). A four-wheel drive vehicle is usually used, sometimes with a modification or additional equipment such as a winch. Unlike off-road driving, this is more of a leisure activity involving like-minded people.
There are other public right-of-way classifications that must also be met. Rights-of-way such as trails, which are for the exclusive use of pedestrians, and bridle paths, which allow pedestrians, horses, and bicyclists to use the trail or lane. A restricted road (RB) cannot be used for vehicles other than mechanically propelled vehicles, such as bicycles or horse-drawn carriages.
Any vehicle can drive on the back roads that are open to all traffic, however, the green lanes pastime is usually done in a 4-wheel drive vehicle. There are several modifications that some people make to their vehicles that set them apart from the normal 4 wheel drive vehicle.
The inclusion of a 12v electric winch located in the front bumper is an essential accessory for this type of sport. Getting stuck in a deep pothole or on a muddy road in the middle of the English countryside is not something a helpdesk can help with. The inclusion of a 12V winch will get most stuck vehicles moving again.
A 12v electric winch is a horizontal drum that is connected to an electric motor, the drum has a metal cable or chain wrapped around it and as the motor turns the drum will turn in turn allowing the cable or chain extends or retracts. It is powered by the vehicle’s battery, so running the vehicle’s engine is essential while running it and extending or retracting the chain.
There is another type known as hydraulic, this is powered by the vehicle’s power steering pump. They are less popular with hobbyists due to the fact that they involve a deeper installation than the 12v electric type. This type only requires connection to the battery and a universal mounting kit. There are more options available of this product in the market.
The cable is unwound from the drum and secured around a secure anchor point, usually a tree or post, using a form of strapping at the anchor point. The vehicle will continue to run the drum motor and rotate so that the cable retracts into the drum, freeing the vehicle from its obstruction.
If you are lucky enough to be with another vehicle and one of you gets stuck, the cable can be attached to the other vehicle at a safe point, usually a D-ring, and the same process is used to move the vehicle.
12v electric winches are available from most reputable online stores, an internet search will produce a comprehensive list to choose from. Many companies offer online ordering and the item can be sent quickly and safely by courier service to your home address within a couple of days.