1938 LaSalle Production - GM Heritage Center

Mountain Driving
Touring
In going up a steep hill, the important thing is to get a
good start. If you don't get a good start, or if the hill is too
steep, shift to second gear while the car is still travelling
between 20 and 25 miles per hour. Waiting until the speed
is less than this increases the danger of stalling.
In going down a long hill, always keep the car in gear
and, if necessary, shift to second or even to low gear. Use
the same gear in descending a hill as was required to
climb it. When second gear must be used in descending a
hill, it is best to shift before beginning to descend, although
the Cadillac Synchro-Mesh transmission permits shifting at
any time with a minimum of effort. In shifting from high
to second, remember to move the gear shift lever deliberately
to give the synchronizing mechanism time to function.
Above all, keep to
your own side of the
road and never pass
another car when approaching
the crown of
a hill, on a curve, or in
any circumstances
when the view ahead
is in any way obstructed.
Touring usually means higher speeds, unfamiliar roads,
and new and interesting scenery. Driving under these conditions
demands that you pay more conscious attention to
the details of handling your car, and that you pay particular
attention to the following:
Keep an eye on the speedometer. With the quietness
of the Cadillac engine and chassis, and the smooth ride provided
by the Cadillac spring suspension, it is extremely
difficult to judge your speed. Let your speedometer keep
you from over-driving your range of vision, especially at
night.
Take plenty of room in overtaking other cars. In
passing a car that is going 40 miles an hour, you must travel
the same distance required to pass at least 18 cars parked
together along the road. Then add in the speed of the car
coming the other way and you can see that plenty of room is
required. Do not cut in ahead of a car you are passing until
you can see it in your rear view mirror.
Take turns at safe speeds. The best technique for
doing this is to apply your brakes when approaching the
turn, enter it at reduced speed and then accelerate as
you come out on the straightaway. This method is not
only safer but it also enables you to make better time.
Before shutting off the engine after a long hard drive,
especially in hot weather or mountain driving, let the engine
idle for 2 or 3 full minutes. This will usually cool the engine
sufficiently to prevent boiling and loss of water, and will
make starting easier as well.
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