Mountain Driving

In mountain driving, gravity plays a major role; on any upgrade, gravity slows you down.

The steeper the grade, the longer the grade, and/or the heavier the load–the more you will have to use lower gears to climb hills or mountains.
When coming down long, steep downgrades, gravity causes the speed of your vehicle to increase.

You must select an appropriate safe speed, then use a low gear, and proper braking techniques.
You must go slowly enough so your brakes can hold you back without getting too hot.
If the brakes become too hot, they may start to “fade.”
This means you have to apply them harder and harder to get the same stopping power.
If you continue to use the brakes hard, they can keep fading until you cannot slow down or stop at all.
You should plan and obtain information about any long, steep grades along your planned route of travel.
If possible, talk to other drivers who are familiar with the grades to find out what speeds are safe.

Your most important consideration is to select a speed that is not too fast for the:

If a speed limit is posted, or there is a sign indicating “Maximum Safe Speed,” never exceed the speed shown.
Look for and heed warning signs indicating the length and steepness of the grade.
You must use the braking effect of the engine as the principal way of controlling your speed.
The braking effect of the engine is greatest when it is near the governed rpms and the transmission is in the lower gears.
Save your brakes so you will be able to slow or stop as required by road and traffic conditions.