Why do truckers rarely slow down in the mountains?
You'll be surprised to learn why truckers don't brake in the mountains. Drivers rarely accelerate or brake in the mountains because the key here is complete control over the truck's weight. On descents, a 40-ton truck accelerates very quickly, and if you constantly press the brake pedal, they overheat. When the brake discs get hot, the brakes lose their effectiveness, and the truck can accelerate uncontrollably. Therefore, drivers shift down early and use engine braking. The engine creates resistance and maintains speed without overheating the brakes. Every professional knows this rule: descend in the same gear you used when climbing.
On climbs, the situation is different: sharp throttle applications have minimal effect but put significant strain on the engine and transmission. A heavy truck can lose traction or begin to slip. That's why truckers maintain a stable rev range, gradually adding gas only where it's really needed, so as not to stall in the middle of a climb.