How to navigate and understand a steep downgrade.
Approach an upgrade:
Select a gear to maintain speed and not “lug” engine.
Check all traffic. Move to the right side if possible.
Use 4-way Flashers if traveling too slowly for the flow of traffic.
Make sure there is enough fuel in the tank to insure the fuel pump will not run dry?
Confirm students are seated and cargo secure
Steep downgrade
“The test we are doing today is to give you the license to drive a commercial vehicle. Picture yourself in the mountains of western Pennsylvania in a 30,000 pound vehicle. You are approaching the crest of a steep mountain road and you are about to come down the mountain. Tell me the things you need to check before starting down the mountain.”
Why a driver must know what is necessary to understand before starting a steep downgrade is extremely important when operating a vehicle over 26001 pounds. A driver must know EXACTLY how to respond.
