1996 GMC Sonoma Owner's Manual - Page 150

Driving Downhill When off-roading takes you downhill, you'll want to consider a number of things: How steep is the downhill? Will I be able to maintain vehicle control? What's the surface like? Smooth? Rough? Slippery? Hard-packed dirt? Gravel? Are there hidden surface obstacles? Ruts'?Logs? Boulders? What's at the bottom of the hill? Is there a hidden creek bank or even a riverbottom with large rocks? ' A CAUTION: Heavy braking when going down hill can cause a your brakes to overheat fade. This could and a cause loss of control and serious accident. Apply the brakes lightly when descending a hill and use a low gear to keep vehicle speed under control. If you decide you can go down a hill safely, then tryto keep your vehicle headed straight down, and use a low gear. This way, engine dragcan help your brakes and they won't have to do all the work. Descend slowly, keeping your vehicle under control at all times. 4-22