Fig. 103. Caution Signs.
This saves an immense amount of wear on the brakes, and if the grade is extraordinarily steep the brakes may be used to reënforce the compression.
Signs of the Road.—The American Motor League has adopted a series of caution signs shown in Fig. 103, which are explained as follows:
1. Approach to a steep descent. 2. Approaching railroad crossing. 3. Branch road to the right. 4. Branch road to the left. 5. Cross roads. 6. Ditch or abrupt depression in the road. 7. Approach to a hummock. 8. City, village, or collection of inhabited dwellings.
These signs are placed from 100 to 300 yards from the points to which they refer.
Operating the Control.—All cars have practically the same arrangement of pedals for controlling the car with the feet. This refers, of course, to the clutch, brake, and throttle pedals. In cities, running through crowded streets, the foot throttle should be used, so as to keep both hands free; but in the open country, where change is not required so frequently, this control is usually by hand.
The Crucial Point.—The crucial point of every learner, is starting the machine. The first duty is to note that the transmission lever is at the neutral point, and that the emergency brake is set. The spark control lever is then set at the proper point, and the engine cranked, if it has no self starting mechanism.
Clutch Pedal and Spark Control.—Now, before touching the clutch pedal, adjust the spark control lever until the engine has picked up its speed properly. Then depress the clutch pedal so as to disengage the clutch, and release the emergency brake. Leaving the clutch still disengaged move the transmission lever to low gear, and, with the right foot, press down the throttle pedal, if there is any slacking in the speed of the engine.
The clutch pedal may now be slowly allowed to raise by the foot until it gradually takes hold. It is at this point where the beginner must take the utmost care. Invariably, he will do this too quickly. After several trials he will learn to do it deliberately, so as to avoid the jerk caused by a sudden grip.
Neutral Position of Transmission Lever.—The moment the car stops, reach for the transmission lever, and put it into its neutral position. This should never be neglected.