I live next to, and regularly drive in, the Andes Mountains. 50% covered in snow, 50% of the time just normal treacherous.
I drive a SUV/ 4x4 (not quite sure of the delineation). I carry chains (by law), and have compromise tyres rather than the proper off road tyres I often have.
Most of the low ratio, locking hubs, blah blah blah kit is useful for people driving on muddy leisure circuits in Hampshire but of no real value in real life. Low ration is only useful when you are facing a cliff which nobody in their right mind would even bother with unless they were playing around. I very occasionally use 4wd, usually when towing a large weight on dodgy ground, never use chains, and only use low from time to time to make sure it still works.
Put in drive to move, put in park when stopped. Sometimes use reverse. I do use the foot brake if I park it on an incline, I absolutely never bother to put it I park unless I am going to switch off the car. Neutral is for when it's broken and needs to be moved with external energy.
I haven't broken or worn out an engine or a gearbox in 40 years.
I get in the car, put it in drive and then use the throttle and brake until I use the gear shifter again because I'm getting out.
Anything beyond that is either cosmetic or a choice. Not a necessary action.
I'm not sure what my point is really, beyond the fact that there's a whole load of crap spoken about 4x4, automatic boxes, and other toys which is really only relevant when attending a weekend pretend dirt/water course.
|
Honey - I'm Home new
Honey - I'm Home new