Caution – Hummer 2004 H2 User Manual

Page 254

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When wheel spin occurs as the vehicle is moving, the
driver may notice a slight shaking or shuddering of
the vehicle. This should be stopped as soon as possible
to prevent damage to vehicle components. This is the
indication that a loss of traction is occuring on this
terrain. The operator should:

1. Reduce throttle, brake wheels.

2. Assess the terrain properly and adjust vehicle

speed and gear ranges accordingly: 4HI position
for higher speeds and 4LO LOCK for more torque
and lower speeds. Transmission FIRST (1) gear
is generally recommended.

3. Apply slight pressure to the brake when the shaking

or shuddering sensation is felt, keeping the vehicle
moving in a controlled manner.

4. Be prepared to modulate the brake and throttle

through the adverse terrain.

Getting Familiar with Off-Road Driving

It is a good idea to practice in an area that is safe
and close to home before you go into the wilderness.
Off-road driving does require some new and different
skills. Here is what we mean.

Tune your senses to different kinds of signals. Your
eyes, for example, need to constantly sweep the terrain
for unexpected obstacles. Your ears need to listen

for unusual tire or engine sounds. With your arms,
hands, feet and body, you will need to respond
to vibrations and vehicle bounce.

Controlling your vehicle is the key to successful off-road
driving. One of the best ways to control your vehicle
is to control your speed. Here are some things to keep
in mind. At higher speeds:

you approach things faster and you have less time
to scan the terrain for obstacles.

you have less time to react.

you have more vehicle bounce when you drive over
obstacles.

you will need more distance for braking, especially
since you are on an unpaved surface.

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CAUTION:

When you are driving off-road, bouncing and
quick changes in direction can easily throw
you out of position. This could cause you to
lose control and crash. So, whether you’re
driving on or off the road, you and your
passengers should wear safety belts.

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