Operating a Max on looooong downhill

[J0nny216]

Question for all you seasoned Max operators out there- I live in the mountains of Idaho and have taken my Buffalo out twice now on trails. The last one I took it out on starts about 3000 ft, and in a span of I think 7 miles it goes over 6000 ft so it's all uphill on the way out but on the way back in its 7 miles of downhill. Should I use the foot brake to slow down instead of the laterals? Its curvy mountain roads/trails so I am steering constantly as well. I installed the thicker bands when I redid everything but can feel more play already in the laterals (still within spec). I don't want to burn anything up, but I dont want excessive speed either coming down the mountains.



Thanks!

[msafi65]

When I teach people to drive downhill I tell them to keep the sticks forward and drive slowly. Very steep I get on brake before starting down. Make steering adjustments quick and put stick forwards. As you have already learned the steering forward downhill is reversed if you just release one side. I’ve had people catch the fluid on fire and blow seals out. They were round about a 2 mile drop of over 2000 feet. If vehicle runs away then stop with brakes and transmission and let it sit for a while to cool off. I have always told new owners that downhill driving is a learned skill. Keep clutch engaged just above idle and you should be able to drive safely down very steep grades. Good luck and be safe

[J0nny216]

Thanks for the response. That's pretty much what I have been trying to do, but figured I would ask the people with experience. I operate a lot of different equipment but this is still pretty unique! I am still used to engine breaking while out on trails for fun in my own rig, now I need to get used to this. This thing is a friggin blast though!