Driving
Downhill
When off-roading takes you downhill, you’ll want to
consider a number
of
things:
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How steep is the downhill? Will
I
be able to maintain
vehicle control?
What’s the surface like? Smooth? Rough? Slippery?
Hard-packed dirt? Gravel?
Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts?
Logs?
Boulders?
What’s at the bottom
of
the hill?
Is
there a hidden
creek bank
or
even a
river
bottom with large rocks?
If
you decide you can go down a hill safely, then try to
keep your vehicle headed straight down,
and
use a low
gear. This way, engine drag can help your brakes and
they won’t have
to
do all the work. Descend slowly,
keeping your vehicle under control at all times.
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A
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Heavy braking when going down a hill can cause
your brakes
to
overheat and fade.
This
could
cause loss
of
control and
a
serious accident.
Apply the brakes lightly when descending
a
hill and use a low gear to keep vehicle speed
under control.
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