2001 Chevrolet Tracker Owner's Manual - Page 165

Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need decide if it's one to of those hills that's too steepto climb, descend or just cross. Steepness can be hard judge. On a very small to Driving Uphill hill, for example, there may be a smooth, constant incline with only a small change in elevation where you Once you decide you can safely drive up the hill, you need to take some special steps. can easily see all way to the top.On a large hill, the the incline may get steeper as you near the top, but you may Use a low gear and get f grip on the steering wheel. a m not see this because the crestthe hillis hidden by of Get a smooth start up the hill and try to maintain your bushes, grass or shrubs. speed. Don't use more power than you need, because Here are some other things to consider you approach as you don't want your wheels to spinning or sliding. start a hill. Try to drive straight up hill if at all possible.If the Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get sharply the path twists and turns, you might want to find steeper in places? another route. Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the surface cause tire slipping? Is there a straight path up or down the hill you so won't have to make turning maneuvers? Is the hill simplytoo rough? Steep hills often have ruts, gullies,troughs and exposed rocks becausethey are more susceptible to the effects erosion. of I A CAUTION: Are there obstructions on the hill that can block your path (boulders, trees, logs or ruts)? What's beyond the hill? Is 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. lhrning or driving across steep hills can be dangerous. You could lose traction, slide sideways, and possibly roll over. could be You seriously injured or killed. When driving up hills always try to go straight up. 4-20