Georgia Commercial Driver License Practice Test

When descending a steep hill in a newer truck, what type of gear should you use?

1. Higher gear

2. Lower gear

3. The same gear used for climbing

4. Neutral gear

The correct answer is: Lower gear

When descending a steep hill in a newer truck, using a lower gear is crucial for maintaining control and ensuring your safety. Lower gears allow for greater engine braking, which helps to slow the truck down without relying solely on the brake system. This is particularly important because brakes can overheat and lose effectiveness if applied continuously on a long descent. By engaging a lower gear, the engine helps to control the speed of the vehicle, reducing the strain on the brakes and thus minimizing the risk of brake failure. This practice enhances stability and provides better handling, making it easier to steer the vehicle in case of any sudden maneuvers needed on the incline. In contrast, higher gears or keeping the same gear used for climbing can lead to increased speed and less engine resistance, making it harder to control the truck. Using neutral gear is dangerous since it disables engine braking altogether, relying solely on the brake system. This can lead to overheating and inadequate stopping power, especially on steep descents. Therefore, consistently using a lower gear is the best practice when descending steep hills in heavy vehicles.