1996 Chevrolet S10 Pickup Owner's Manual - Page 149

Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it's one of those hills that's too steep to climb, descend or just cross. Steepness can be hardto judge. On a verysmall hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you can easily see all the wayto the top. On a large hill,the incline may get steeper as you near the top,but you may not see this because thecrest of the hill is hidden by bushes, grass or shrubs. Here are some other things to consider as you approach a hill. 0 0 What's beyond the hill? Is there a cliff, an embankment, a drop-off, a fence? Get out and walk th hill if you don't know. It's the smart way to find out. 0 Is 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. 0 Use a low gear and getfirm grip on the a steering wheel. Get a smooth start up the hill and to maintain try your speed. Don't usemore power than you need, because you don't wantyour 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 find to another route. Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get sharply steeper in places? 0 0 Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the surface cause tire slipping? Is there a straight path up down the hillso you or won't haveto make turning maneuvers? Are there obstructionson the hill that can block your path (boulders, trees, logs ruts)? or 0 0 0 4-18