When should you select a lower range in a commercial vehicle with an automatic transmission?
Correct answer: A – Before beginning a downgrade
Select a low range before starting down a grade. The lower range provides greater engine braking and limits upshifting beyond the selected gear unless governed rpm is exceeded. Attempting to force an automatic transmission into a lower gear after speed has increased may damage it and eliminate engine-braking assistance.
Source: Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.3.3, “Automatic Transmissions”, Mississippi Commercial Driver’s License Manual — § 2.16.2, “Select the Right Gear before Starting Down the Grade”

