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Question

Difficulty: MediumMountain Driving and Steep Grades

To maintain safe vehicle control and prevent brake fade when descending a long, steep mountain grade, which driving technique should a driver employ?

  1. Shift into a lower gear before starting downhill to utilize engine braking, applying the foot brake intermittently as needed.Answer
  2. B
    Shift the transmission into neutral and rely on continuous, moderate pressure on the foot brake throughout the descent.
  3. C
    Remain in high gear and rapidly pump the brake pedal continuously to cool down the brake pads during the grade.
  4. D
    Maintain normal highway speed down the incline and apply firm, sudden braking only when entering sharp curves.

Answer

Shift into a lower gear before starting downhill to utilize engine braking, applying the foot brake intermittently as needed.
Selecting a lower gear prior to beginning a steep downhill descent engages engine braking. This uses engine compression to control vehicle speed, keeping friction brakes cool and effective throughout the mountain drive.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Assess the slope and select a lower gear before beginning the descent.
Engine compression controls speed naturally without constant friction.
Downshifting at speed on a steep slope can be difficult or dangerous, so selecting the gear beforehand is essential.
2
Use engine braking as the primary speed control method.
The vehicle maintains a safe, lower speed threshold on the steep grade.
Engine braking prevents kinetic energy from converting entirely into brake pad friction.
3
Apply foot brakes lightly and intermittently only when speed rises above the safe target limit.
Brake components stay cool and remain responsive for emergencies.
Intermittent braking allows air to dissipate heat between applications.

Key Concept

Engine Braking and Thermal Brake Fade Prevention
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Mountain Driving and Steep Grades

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