1996 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 146

Approaching a Hill When you approach a hill, you need to decide if it's one of those hills that's just too steepto climb, descend or cross. Steepness can be hard to judge. On a very sInall 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 top, 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. 0 0 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 s a t way to find out. mr 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. 0 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 get a firm grip on the steering wheel. Is there a constant incline, or does the hill get sharply steeper in places? Is there good traction on the hillside, or will the surface cause tire slipping? 0 0 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. 0 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 0 4-18