3 ptsC,C1Official number: 11527
Which of the following driving techniques is the best when driving a loaded lorry downhill?
Explanation
Correct answer: Driving downhill with an appropriately chosen gear and using the retarder.
The combination of engine braking, by driving in a suitably low gear, and using a retarder is the safest and most effective method of controlling a heavy vehicle's speed on long descents. This technique reduces the load on the main braking system, protecting it from overheating and loss of effectiveness (known as brake fade). As a result, the service brakes remain fully operational and ready for use in an emergency.
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