Driving a semi-truck on steep slopes is quite difficult, and the challenge is even more when it is windy or snowing. However, the driver, whether he is experienced or a newbie, has to be very good at defensive driving for the sake of safety and efficiency. Continue reading for some practical tips based on real-life situations to enable you to take on steep grades as if you were using a regular transmission, focusing on the use of automatic transmissions.
Understanding the vehicle is the first thing to do. Modern automatic transmissions come with smart sensors that can adjust to different driving conditions. For example, if you are driving down a 6% incline in a 2016 Freightliner with a DD15 engine, putting the transmission in auto mode lets it guess the weight and calibrate itself. This function comes in very handy for control and for not outpacing the set limit.
The engine brake is one of the most important and effective tools that you can use. The engine brake is known to most drivers, but being fully skilled in its use can do a lot for your ride. The engine brake has three positions: one for two cylinders, another for four, and one for all six. Generally, if you are using the middle position (four cylinders), that will be enough to keep the truck under control without being too aggressive. This mode gives a good compromise between the braking force and the fuel consumption. In really tough situations, you might have to go for all six cylinders, but it is better to avoid that because of the engine’s unavoidably high wear and tear.
Driving downhill at a constant speed is certainly the most effective but also the hardest way to control your driving. The allure of speeding is so strong that even a very quick driver who has a long line of cars behind him/her may yield to the temptation. The most effective approach to handle this matter would be to set a speed that you feel comfortable with, keep a significant distance between you and the vehicles in front, and not take into account the ones behind you. Still, this tactic has its drawbacks: your vehicle might lose control before you know it, and the result could be an accident.
Too often, this will bring you to a point where you will have to be patient and go slow, if it comes to that. When the fear and stress become unbearable, and you need to cool down, then switch the engine brake to the maximum setting and allow it to help you control the speed of your vehicle. Just remember, you are better off being a few minutes late than getting involved in an accident.
Now, let us look at the matter of traction. When there is snow on the ground, getting traction can really be hard, and one of the tips is to make use of the grooves of the road. If you position your tires correctly relative to these grooves, then you might get a little extra traction. It may be noisy; however, the shaking could actually assist you in being alert and having control. Just be aware of the conditions of the road and modify your driving accordingly.
What about the matter of manual versus automatic? Even though manuals provide a greater amount of control, automatics have really improved their performance and capabilities over the years. The majority of drivers, including us, have indeed come to the conclusion that automatics are not only more user-friendly but also more secure. In fact, with the right maintenance and driving techniques, an automatic transmission can easily navigate through steep hills. We have actually driven our automatics for hundreds of thousands of miles, and all that we experienced were minor issues.
Let us now talk about some of the commonly raised questions. One of the issues that nearly all motorists worry about is the functioning of automatic gearboxes, especially when going uphill. Although the automatics of earlier generations did not always perform at their best, today’s transmissions are exceptionally powerful and can even handle, if not heavy-duty use. The merging of cutting-edge technologies and relentless monitoring of conditions assures that the transmission is able to adjust to the situation, hence making driving a lot safer and more efficient.
Safety Tips for Downhill Driving
Prior to going down a steep grade, always check your brakes and engine brakes.
For most conditions, use the engine brake in the middle setting, saving the strongest setting for emergencies only.
Keep a steady speed and do not suddenly accelerate or brake.
Watch for changing road conditions and adapt your driving to them.
Be a good communicator with other drivers, using signals and lights to let them know what you are going to do.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regularly inspect your brakes and engine brakes for wear and tear.
- Ensure your transmission fluid is clean and at the correct level.
- Check your tires for proper inflation and tread depth.
- Keep your vehicle’s sensors and controls in good working order.
When it comes to the upkeep of your fleet, place your trust in the specialists. We also know very well the particular difficulties that come with heavy-duty driving. A skilled team of technicians is always there to assist you in maintaining your vehicles in excellent condition so that you can concentrate on the road ahead. We are always there to assist you, whether you require minor maintenance or complicated repairs.
Do not allow steep grades and hard conditions to surprise you! Call us at (870) 635-4003 and let us at I-55 Truck and Trailer Repair, located in Crawfordsville, AR, be the ones to help you remain safe and efficient on the road. The priority is your success, and we are going to be there for you every mile of the way.