How to Start a Heavy Vehicle on an Uphill Slope?
2 Answers
Pull the parking brake tightly, depress the clutch pedal, and shift into a low gear (usually first gear). Compared to starting on a flat road, the accelerator pedal should be pressed down slightly more and held steady to prepare for the start. Release the clutch pedal to the semi-engagement point, then immediately release the parking brake lever to allow the vehicle to start smoothly.
Last time I was starting on a steep slope with a load, the process was quite particular. First, stop the car, pull up the handbrake, and shift into 1st gear or a low gear. Press the clutch pedal all the way down with your left foot, and lightly press the accelerator with your right foot to reach around 1500 RPM. Then, slowly release the clutch to the semi-engagement point until you feel a slight vibration in the car body or the rear wheels gaining traction. At this moment, quickly release the handbrake while pressing the accelerator deeply to give it gas, and the car will move forward steadily. The key to avoiding rolling back is not to release the clutch too abruptly, as it can easily stall the engine; also, the throttle input should be synchronized without hesitation. For steeper slopes, it's better to use the foot brake for assistance: press the brake with your right foot, shift into gear, and release the clutch to the engagement point, then quickly move your right foot to the accelerator to give it gas. With more practice, it will become smoother. I suggest beginners find a gentle slope to practice first and avoid trying in heavy traffic—safety is more important. Tire condition is also crucial; heavily worn tires are prone to slipping, so check the tire pressure before setting off to ensure it's at the normal value.
