'MIICROFICHE REFERENCE LIBRARY - Cd3wd.com

3.06 - 3.07When sure that the car is liled up , shift the mr into 4WD, but not lowrange- Move across the bridge as quickly as possible so that inertia maycarry the front wheels across even if the rear ones slip off or the bridgecollapses. In such an event, the front wheels will often be able to pull thecar across if they have reached the other side.Once practiced, the crossing of a bridge of this type becomes quiteroutine, and-the dl5ver will learn to judge from some distance a rotten logor one that may slip sideways. If the capacity of the bridge is in doubt,it is usually advisable to ask passengers to walk across, thus lighteningtheloadonthebridge and perhaps sparing themadunking.When crossing a bridge while towing a trailer, bear in mind the addedlength of the combined vehicles and do not stop before the trailer is fullyacross the bridge. (See also section 6.80 on driving with a trailer.)One of the most common problems with log bridges, other than collapsedue to rot or overloading, is the separation of the logs. This allows thetires to slip off the logs, trapping the car. This can be prevented byproper bridge design, anchoring the logs with stakes or large rocks atthe ends. A driver approaching a bridge which looks like its logs mayseparate can usually save time by fixing the bridge before trying to cross.If the logs do trap the car, he will have to repair the bridge anyhow.3.07 Capsizinf:A driving trauma to which many drivers may be unaccustoti is tippingover. This may occur due to'the road surface or the way in which the vehicleis loaded., or both.A vehicle body style,in which the load is carried high, such as a stakeor platform body, is inherently less stable than one where the load is low,such as a pickup body. (See section 2.02) Luggage racks on the roof willadd to the tendency to roll over.capsizing can also result from the angle of the road. on a slickhill with a drop at the edge, for example, try to keep the car away from theditch. If two wheels on one side slip into the ditch, even though it may notbe very deep, the car is likely to roll over. The inertia built up in slidinginto the ditch will help to carry the car over onto its side.Being unaccustomed to pioneer roads, some drivers feel insecure onthem. If a car feels as though it is about to tip over, it is often helpfulto get out and.look at it from in front or behind. Generally it feels worsethan it looks, and a quick check will reassure the driver.