'MIICROFICHE REFERENCE LIBRARY - Cd3wd.com

2.02 - 2.04The load should not be allwed to hang out of the sides of thevehicle if this can possibly be avoided, since a hazard will be presentedby trees, branches, buildings and other vehicles.Af$&r loading, be sure that the load is secure and cannot shift evenif the car lurches severely, Aloadthat shifts forwardn=ay injure thedriver; if it shifts back it nmy fall out of the vehicle; if it shifts tothe side the vehicle may be turned over. Tie theloadto the carwithropesthat will anchor it securely, or be sure that it is wedged in place so thatnothing can mDve. This is especiallyimportantinthe case of the smallvehicle carrying a relatively large single unit such as a drum of fuel. Agreat deal of damage can be done by such a drum if it "gets loose" in thebackofapickuptruck.2.03 Introductionto the CabBefore starting the engine, take amomnttowith the cab.familiarize yourselfMany drivers believe that on pioneer roads speeds are so low thatseat belts are not necessary. Experience will show, however, that th&y area great asset. While there may be no danger of a collision in an area withvery few cars, the seat belt can prevent the driver from hitting his headonthe cabroofonaroughroad,orfromfalling outofthe carifthe doorshave been mved.One of the best safety rules for driving on rough roads is to keepthe thumbs outside the rim of the steering wheel. Although unnatural atfirst, it soon becomes second nature, and if the steering wheel is mnchedaway by striking an obstacle, the spokes cannot injure or dislocate thedriver's thumbs.Hold the steering wheel with the hands in a position correspondingto the position of clock hands at ten minutes past ten. Wo-handedsteering is essential if roads are rough, and this position gives the bestleverage for a turn in either direction.In a snowy or rainy climate where the driver's feet will often be wet,mvetherubberpads fromthepedals. Therubberwillbecoms very slipperywhen wet, msking it hard to keep the feet on the pedals. (See section 15.20)Although most cars advertise that three people can be accomnodated inthe front seat, it is much safer to carry only the driver and one passenger.This all~nmre~mfor~~ope~tionofthe gearshiftandthe transfercase, axI it is nuch easier for two people to get out or an endangered carin a hurry than it is for the third sitting in the center.2.04 Introduction to the Drive TrainBefore starting off, a few words about the n-bschanics of the car areneeded.In an age where most sedans have automatic transmissions, many peopleare not familiar with the gear shift and clutch, or with their function. Thegear shift is intended to allow the engine to operate at optirrwn speed regardlessof the speed of the vehicle, since a gasoline engine develops very low