Blue Bird VISION 2011 - Electric Retarder (if Equipped)

VISION
D R I V ERS HANDB O O K
96
[WARNING] If you only downshift or only use the service brakes when driv-
ing down a steep grade, you can lose control. To maintain control, combine
downshifting, braking, and other retarding devices. Downshifting to a lower
transmission range increases engine braking and helps maintain control. The
transmission has a feature to prevent automatic up shifting above the lower
range selected. However, during downhill operation, if the engine governed
speed is exceeded in the lower range, the transmission may upshift to the
next higher range. This will reduce braking and could cause a loss of control.
Apply the vehicle brakes or other retarding device to prevent exceeding engine
governed speed in the lower range selected.
Electric Retarder (If Equipped)
 • Theelectricretardercontrolswitchismountedontheverticalpanel,leftof
the driver. It has five positions (one “off” and four retard positions). Each high-
er number increases the amount of retardation to slow the vehicle.
 • Remembertheretarderisavehicleslowingdevice,notastoppingdevice.A
full stop must be accomplished with the service brakes.
 • Alwaysreleasetheacceleratorcompletelybeforeapplyingtheretarder.
 • Donotusetheretarderwhenroadsurfacesareslippery.
 • Consulttheretardermanufacturer’sOwner’sorOperator’sManualforaddi-
tional information.