SUPPORT AS 3023376 - Caterpillar

Downhill Operation
Maintain a ground speed that is slow enough for the conditions. Before you operate down a hill, select the proper gear before you start down the grade. The proper gear should allow the machine to maintain the appropriate speed on the down grade. The throttle control should be at high idle and the engine should not overspeed. In most situations, the proper gear will be the same gear that is required to drive up the grade.If the machine builds up excessive speed, the engine can overspeed. This can result in damage to the engine and/or damage to the power train data link. Use the service brake or the engine brake in order to slow the machine until a lower gear can be selected. Select the lower gear and proceed with the throttle control at high idle.Use the service brakes for stopping the machine. Using the service brakes in order to control travel speed of the machine or using the service brakes for stopping from high speeds can cause the brake (axle) oil to overheat. This can result in significant wear and/or damage to the service brakes.Note: The left pedal should not be used for downhill braking.