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Question

Difficulty: EasyMountain Driving, Steep Grades, and Altitude Hazards

You are preparing to drive down a long, steep slope on a mountain highway. Which action should you take to maintain safe speed and prevent brake failure?

  1. Select a lower transmission gear before beginning the descent to utilize engine compression braking.Answer
  2. B
    Shift the transmission into neutral and coast down the hill to reduce engine heat.
  3. C
    Turn off the vehicle ignition during the descent so engine compression locks the speed.
  4. D
    Remain in high gear and hold the foot brake down continuously throughout the descent.

Answer

Select a lower transmission gear before beginning the descent to utilize engine compression braking.
Shifting to a lower gear before starting down a steep mountain slope allows engine compression to slow the vehicle automatically. This practice prevents the foot brakes from overheating and failing due to brake fade.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary hazard when descending steep mountain slopes.
Extended use of foot brakes generates extreme friction and heat, leading to brake fade and eventual loss of braking power.
Vehicle weight and gravity accelerate the vehicle downhill, requiring continuous speed control.
2
Determine the proper preventive driving procedure.
Shifting into a lower transmission gear before starting down the hill engages engine compression braking.
Engine braking assists in controlling speed naturally without riding the foot brakes.

Key Concept

Lower Gear Downshift for Engine Braking on Steep Mountain Slopes
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Topics

Mountain Driving, Steep Grades, and Altitude Hazards

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