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Off-roading Basics Part 5

Hill Climbs

 



Basic technique, going up:


Before you decide to climb that steep hill? make sure you are aware of what is on the other side?

If you are thinking on making a pass through water obstacles, check the depth with a pole or even a branch, its
much better than finding out that hard way that the water was 6ft deep!

Engage Hill Descent Control (HDC).

Climb the hill in the highest gear that the vehicle will climb efficiently in. If the gear selected is too low, the
wheels will spin. If too high, you will run out of steam before you can climb the hill.

Approach the hill straight on, rather than diagonally, to avoid a roll-over.

Never attempt to turn your Land Rover while on an incline.

Basic technique, going down:


Stop a vehicle length before the descent so that you have time to make any corrections, line the vehicle up

straight, etc?


Once again, get out and survey what you are about to do; spot obstacles, odd angles, etc? Doing this before

you begin your descent.


Engage Hill Descent Control (HDC).


As a rule of thumb, use 1st gear low range or '1' on the automatic gearbox and use brakes sparingly, utilize

engine braking whenever possible.


Follow the natural fall line; the route water would take down the slope.


Never roll or reverse downhill with the transmission in neutral.


Never attempt to turn your Land Rover while on a decline.




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