Chevrolet TRACKER 2003 Manual page 173

Approaching a Hill
When you approach a hill, you need to decide if ti's one
of those hills that's just too steep to climb, descend
or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very
small hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant
incline with only a small change in elevation where
you can easily see all the way to the top. On a large hill.
the incline may get steeper as you near the tip, but
you may not see this because the crest of the hill
is hidden by bushes, grass or shrubs.
Here are some other things to consider as you approach
a hill.
I s there a constant incline, or does the hill get
Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the
sharply steeper in places?
surface cause tire slippinq?
Is there a straight path up or down the hill so you
won't have to make turning maneuvers?
Are there obstructions
on
the hill that can block
your path (boulders, trees, logs or ruts)?
0
What's beyond the hill? I s there a cliff, an
embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and walk
the hill if you don't know. It's the smart way to
find out.
I s
the hill simply too rough? Steep hills often have
ruts, gullies, troughs, and exposed rocks because
they are more susceptible to the effects of erosion.
Driving Uphill
Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you
need to take some special steps.
Use a low gear and get a firm grip
on
the steering
wheel.
Get a smooth start up the hill and
try
to maintain
your speed. Don't use more power than you
need, because you don't want your wheels to start
spinning or sliding.
Try to drive straight up the hill if at all possible. If
the path twists and turns, you might want to find
another route.
Turning or dri - --Jg across steep I....s can be
dangerous. You could lose traction, slide
sideways, and possibly roll over. You could be
seriously injured or killed. When driving up
hills, always try to go straight up.
Ease up on your speed as you approach the top of
the hill.
Attach a flag to the vehicle to w k e you more
visible to approaching traffic oc; trails
or
hills.
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