*Big Blue's Guide to Raptor Runs*

[OrangeAddict]

Blue Thanks for this writeup. It was a wonderful read before I head off to Havoc. Like you I am a bit nervous of this being the first run. I have done off roading before as a much younger man and frankly to a truck that I beat the crap out of. I don't think there was a panel without dents or rust. This is a bit different since it is a 900 mile round trip and like you we rely on the truck as a daily vehicle. Do you have any words of advice for anyone starting this Journey as you have? Anything you would have done differently?

BTW you don't have to go to get addicted. I am sure this will be the 1st of many more runs to come for me.

 

[Big Blue]

Blue Thanks for this writeup. It was a wonderful read before I head off to Havoc. Like you I am a bit nervous of this being the first run. I have done off roading before as a much younger man and frankly to a truck that I beat the crap out of. I don't think there was a panel without dents or rust. This is a bit different since it is a 900 mile round trip and like you we rely on the truck as a daily vehicle. Do you have any words of advice for anyone starting this Journey as you have? Anything you would have done differently?

BTW you don't have to go to get addicted. I am sure this will be the 1st of many more runs to come for me.

Hey Orange,

Your nervousness will turn into excitement very quickly. It's good to be nervous. Being nervous tends to keep you from doing stupid stuff.

Trust in your abilities and the trucks capabilities and drive within your comfort zone, as this is not a race. Nobody is logging lap times and there are no trophies. We will have all weekend at Havoc so you will have plenty of time to increase your pucker factor threshold as you get more comfortable with all of the elements of the run.

There will be plenty of repeat Raptor Run attendees that have all layed down some serious offroading miles. Dont be afraid to talk to as many of these guys as you can. The social element of Raptor Runs is almost as great as the offroading parts. For example, some guys lock theirs diffs, some dont, some guys will run in 2WD others 4WD, some guys like offroad mode, others hate it. Talking and watching the experienced guys is a great way to improve your learning curve.

Be sure to review all of the Required Items list that GLRE's placed on page 1 of the Havoc thread.

Then be sure to double check and then triple check that you have all items and once you load your truck, double and triple check all items are in your inventory. Be sure all items are securely stowed. You do not want stuff flying around in your bed or cab.

Bring cash for food, vendors (lots of amazing stuff is going to be offered) and the Epic Raffle!!! and last but not least:

HAVE FUN!!!!! Great Lakes Raptor Excursions put together incredible Runs and this could be the best one yet!

Be sure to say Hi in September.

 

[Big Blue]

Pre-Run Check list:

One of things I have done is to triple check the Required and Recommended list items to make sure I have everything I need. After you check the list 3 times and check off the items in your inventory....Go over the list a forth time to be sure!!

Then find an open spot in your house and start lining up your items. Don't wait until the night before to get everything organized. It's even a good idea to do a test fit in your truck to figure out where you are going to carry everything to insure it will fit and is secure.

Links to a few required items:

Recovery Strap:

30' long, rated to 27,000 lbs.

30' Recovery Strap with Sewn Loops : Cabela's

D-Ring shackles: (You need 2)

Just be sure to get at least a 3/4" version, not 5/8".

Amazon.com: WARN 13047 D-Shackle, Grey: Automotive


Snell/DOT rated Helmet for under $100:

Wayloo Snell/DOT Approved Motorcycle Helmet (Shiny Black, X-Large) : Amazon.com : Automotive

 

[JRaptor11]

Great info! I am nervous also because like everyone else I did offroading in my younger years in my silverado and didnt care but now that I will be tossing around a 50k truck I care. The only thing I am really worried about is bending the frame. I'm installing the SDHQ kit soon so hopefully that helps alittle.

I started putting all my stuff in the corner now so I dont forget anything.

 

[Nick@Apollo-Optics]

Great read...this has me thinking about taking the Street Queen off the pavement now...hmm

 

[Huck]

J, you'll have to go really big to bend the frame. I wouldn't be to worried about that.

We all trash around in our 50k trucks. You won't be alone

 

[bradsmith]

Blue, you got me all fired up now. I want to do the Snowball 500 now. After reading your post, I really want to branch out and do see what "missions" are out there for me and my Raptor to complete!!!

 

[Nick@Apollo-Optics]

Blue, you got me all fired up now. I want to do the Snowball 500 now. After reading your post, I really want to branch out and do see what "missions" are out there for me and my Raptor to complete!!!

Yeah, the SnoBall looks awesome...too bad it's literally the entire way across the country.

 

[Netix]

You're my boy blue!!!!!!!

 

[Kanakry]

Yeah, the SnoBall looks awesome...too bad it's literally the entire way across the country.

Houston really isn't that far for what the Snoball offers. I drove from Detroit to Houston to Texana ranch for TRR.

At the Snoball you will offroad with a fully supported group of Raptors which will likely to become some of your best friends in tempatures approaching -15 degrees and the possiblity of snow being over 2' deep. Then at the end of the day there is no Raptor event that even comes close to what the Snoball offers. Casino's, upscale hotels, Buffets, Spa, microbrews etc.

The Snoball is the do not miss event for uniqueness, offroading and over all best time of your life.