CHEVROLET 2011 Avalanche - Manual (Page 280)

Black plate (12,1) Chevrolet Avalanche Owner Manual - 2011
9-12 Driving and Operating
Consider this as you approach a hill:
. Is there a constant incline,
or does the hill get sharply
steeper in places?
. Is there good traction on the
hillside, or will the surface cause
tire slipping?
. Is there a straight path up or
down the hill so you will not
have to make turning
maneuvers?
. Are there obstructions on the hill
that can block your path, such
as boulders, trees, logs, or ruts?
. What is beyond the hill? Is there
a cliff, an embankment, a
drop-off, a fence? Get out and
walk the hill if you do not know.
It is the smart way to find out.
. Is the hill simply too rough?
Steep hills often have ruts,
gullies, troughs, and exposed
rocks because they are more
susceptible to the effects of
erosion.
Driving Uphill
Once you decide it is safe to drive
up the hill:
. Use a low gear and get a firm
grip on the steering wheel.
. Get a smooth start up the hill
and try to maintain speed. Not
using more power than needed
can avoid spinning the wheels or
sliding.
{
WARNING
Turning or driving across steep
hills can be dangerous. You could
lose traction, slide sideways, and
possibly roll over. You could be
seriously injured or killed. When
driving up hills, always try to go
straight up.
. Try to drive straight up the hill if
at all possible. If the path twists
and turns, you might want to find
another route.
. Ease up on the speed as you
approach the top of the hill.
. Attach a flag to the vehicle to be
more visible to approaching
traffic on trails or hills.
. Sound the horn as you approach
the top of the hill to let opposing
traffic know you are there.