Lesson 01 · 5 min
Make the downgrade decision before descent
Select speed and gear before a grade, manage brake heat, and commit to an escape ramp when braking is lost.
Rule to rememberChoose a safe speed and low gear before descending, use engine braking as the main control, apply service brakes in controlled intervals, and use a reachable escape ramp promptly if control is lost.
Decide before the crest
Use vehicle and cargo weight, grade length and steepness, road, weather, and posted warnings to choose speed. Select the proper low gear before speed builds.
Protect brake capacity
Engine braking is the principal speed control. Service brakes supplement it; excessive continuous use creates heat and fade.
Use the escape route
A marked escape ramp uses loose material, an upgrade, or both to stop a runaway vehicle. Use it while it is reachable rather than gambling on fading brakes.