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Terrain Type No. 2: Snowy, Icy, Wet RoadsThese
are probably the most hazardous conditions you'll encounter. If possible, avoid venturing into such conditions altogether. Human and horse safety should be the first consideration, and it's always better to wait until conditions improve. However, if you must venture forth, here are some inclement driving tips.
Anticipate road hazards. A slick situation can quickly become dangerous for a driver who doesn't anticipate what lies ahead. Allow extra space behind the preceeding vehicle. Try to maintain a safe, constant speed. Make sure vehicle and trailer are under complete control before descending a hill. Slowing, then shifting into a lower gear (second or even first) prior to descending a steep hill is always a good idea. Even in dry conditions the engine will help hold the rig under control. Travel
in the right hand lane. This is generally a good idea because faster traffic can get around, and you might need "a place to go" on the shoulder if suddenly confronted with out of control vehicles piling up ahead.
Adjust trailer brakes. Adjusting your trailer brakes a little higher than the truck brakes also is an advantage under these conditions. The trailer will help pull the truck in line when braking.
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Maintain a steady speed. Seasoned drivers who are familiar with traveling in ice
and snow know it's best, whenever possible, to maintain a fairly
constant speed. In hilly terrain, the rig should be under control
going downhill, but it's important to maintain some momentum while
going up the next hill in order to avoid excessive use of the gas
feed, which can cause wheels to spin out. Don't help a vehicle stop
on ice, so remember to travel no faster than conditions warrant. On
wet roads, remember the hazards of hydroplaning.
Terrain Type No. 3: Steep Grades
As with slick conditions, descending a steep grade presents its own share of circumstances. Watch for highway signs warning of steep grades, and try these tips.
Slow down. Keep speed in check to prevent the trailer from pushing the truck when braking or turning. Slow down prior to descending a hill, and shift the vehicle into a lower gear, second or even first, depending on the grade. Truck and trailer brakes can quickly burn out from constant use on a steep hill, and the result is an out of control rig. That's why you need help from the transmission. Shifting to a lower gear can help maintain a steady speed going up a steep hill, too, avoiding shifting back and forth by the automatic transmission.
Be aware of weight distribution in the trailer. Experts recommend 60 percent of a load ride toward the
front of the trailer to ensure the trailer doesn't fishtail from
side to side. Example: A single horse traveling in a three horse
trailer will travel best in the front or middle, rather than the
rear compartment.
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