Pontiac 1957 Owner's Manual page 17

The right hand arrow position in DR range is also recommended when
starting out with a hot engine after parking or idling for an extended
period during extremely hot weather. Under- these conditions the
transmission assists in eliminating vapor in the fuel system. After a
short distance the control lever can be placed in the left hand arrow
position if desired.
Acceleration in DR Range-The shift events from first speed to
second, second speed to third, and third speed to fourth (direct drive)
will occur at progressively higher car speeds depending on the amount
the accelerator pedal is depressed.
Caution Against Coasting in Neutral-Do not coast with the con-
trol lever in the N (neutral) position. It is unlawful in some states
and sometimes is harmful to the transmission.
Stopping the Car-Leave the control lever in the driving position
selected and release the accelerator pedal. The engine is then left
"in gear" which helps to slow down the car. For further stopping
effort apply the brakes in the conventional manner.
CAUTION: When the driver leaves the car with -the
en~ine runnin~
the
control lever should always be in the P -(park) position. This precaution
prevents movement of the car, should the accelerator pedal be accidentally
depressed by a passen!ter and also will keep the car from rollln!ton a !trade
or Incline.
OPERATING IN LO RANGE-The LO
range is provided for pulling through deep
sand or snow and ascending or descending
steep grades where traffic signs call for
placing the transmission in first or second gears (keep below 35 MPH
to avoid an upshift) .••
The control lever can be moved from either DR position to LO at
any car speed. The shift into low will not occur at a car speed above
43 MPH.
CAUTION : Do not shift into LO
ran~e
on slippery roads as a skid may be in-
duced. Slippery roads demand judicious use of the brakes to reduce car speed.
[ 14]
REVERSE- To engage reverse, simply
move the control lever to the R position.
Moving lever between LO and R while ap-
plying light accelerator pedal pressure per-
mits rocking the car when required to get
out of deep snow, mud or sand. A void
engaging reverse at speeds above 5 MPH.