Ghat Climbing Tips

It would be prudent to carry out the entire checks mentioned in the Long Distance Driving Tips prior to undertaking a long trip. Ghat sections would be encountered on most long trips anywhere in India. Most breakdowns occur on these sections, as drivers are apprehensive and tend to abuse the vehicle at times like this unintentionally. The vehicle would undergo maximum amount of strain while climbing the ghat and would be able to negotiate the same only if it is in good working condition.

Prior to commencing the ghat climb or decent check the operation off your vehicles brakes. If in doubt do not attempt the journey. Have the same checked by a qualified mechanic.

Always keep more than safe distance on ghat sections from the vehicle ahead of you. Special care needs to be taken if the traffic is heavy and there are a lot of starts and stops. The vehicle ahead may stall and roll back or the brakes may fail. Take special care if the vehicle in front of you is carrying steel rod or beams.
Switch off the air conditioning unit (only the compressor) while climbing the ghat.

Keep your eye on the temperature gauge. Ensure it does not over heat. In case of a problem halt the vehicle on the side and wait for the vehicle to cool down. It is very important here to remember that you should not open the radiator cap if the vehicle has overheated. The cooling system is always pressurised and you may get burned if the same is opened prior to the engine cooling.

Also do not add cold or ambient temperature water to an overheated radiator. There is a possibility that the cylinder head may crack due to the sudden change in temperature. Always start the engine and then add the water/coolant. This will ensure that even cooling of the engine takes place.

Avoid slipping or half- clutch operation. If the vehicle is not responding pull over, wait for the vehicle to cool down and then restart. Too much half-clutch operation will definitely burn the clutch plate and leave you stranded.

If you do need to stop in traffic on an incline on the ghat section ensure that you use the hand brake and take your foot off the clutch pedal.. Make sure the distress lights are switched on.

Ensure that both the rear view mirrors are cleaned and the vision is clear. Make the required adjustments to the same while the vehicle is stationary.

On ghat section descents, you may want to make full use of yours gears. Gear-controlled driving ensures that the car never speeds out of control. For example, on the “not so gradual” descents, try keep the car in second gear. The car will never exceeds speeds beyond 40-45 km/h on doing so.