1997 Mercury Mountaineer Owner's Manual - Page 105

Driving that could damage drive components. If the transmission and transfer case are submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary. All rear axle lubricants must be replaced every 160,000 km (100,000 miles) or if the axle has been submerged in water. Otherwise, check the lubrication of the rear axle according to the intervals in the Service Guide. Driving on hill or slope terrain When driving on a hill, avoid driving crosswise or turning on steep slopes. You could lose traction and slip sideways. Drive straight up, straight down or avoid the hill completely. Know the conditions on the other side of a hill before driving over the crest. When climbing a steep hill, start in a lower gear rather than downshifting to a lower gear from a higher gear once the ascent has started. This reduces strain on the engine and the possibility of stalling. When descending a steep hill avoid sudden braking. Rapid pumping of the brake pedal will help slow the vehicle and still maintain steering control. When speed control is on and you are driving uphill, your vehicle speed may drop considerably, especially if you are carrying a 105