1998 Mercury Mountaineer Owner Guide 1st Printing - Page 121

Driving If the transmission and transfer case are submerged in water, their fluids should be checked and changed, if necessary. Water intrusion into the transmission may damage the transmission. If the rear axle is submerged in water, the rear axle lubricant should be checked and changed, if necessary. The rear axle is filled with a synthetic lubricant and does not normally require a lubricant change for the life of the vehicle. Rear axle lubricant quantities should not need to be checked unless a leak is suspected. Driving on hilly or sloping 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. 121