Good Sam Club Open Roads Forum: White Knuckle Trip


Open Roads Forum	Already a member? Login here. If not, Register Today! \| Help

Newest | Active | Popular | RVing FAQ

Forum Rules | Forum Posting Help and Support | Contact

Open Roads Forum > Class B - Camping Van Conversions > General Topics

Reply to Topic | Subscribe | Print Topic | Post New Topic |

ppine

Northern Nevada

Senior Member

Joined: 07/04/2016

View Profile

Offline

Posted: 11/10/20 09:31am

Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator

The MOUNTAINS change everything. Six percent grade is nothing. Some rigs are fine until they hit the Rockies.

Anything with VW stamped on it is probably going to be slow.

I like diesel trucks for tow vehicles, and trailers under around 5,000 pounds. Then I can haul ass and handle roads with 12% grade or more.

Sonora Pass in CA has grades near 25% but RVs are not usually seen there.

time2roll

Southern California

Senior Member

Joined: 03/21/2005

View Profile

Good Sam RV Club Member

Posted: 11/10/20 11:34am

Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator

myerind wrote:

It wasn't the semis, but the stress I thought I was putting on the transmission and engine.

If you have an RPM gauge aim for a place between peak torque and peak horsepower rpm. Or just balance the noise vs the feeling of a sweet spot in the power band. Check the oil level before and watch the temperature while you climb and it is all good.

The transmission is fine unless it is shifting excessively. If you find the transmission is hunting for the right gear is time to pull the lever to hold what seems best. Generally once you downshift don't upshift until you are over the top. If the RPM seems high... keep holding the gear and slow down a few mph. Then hold the rpm to the top while you enjoy the ride and relax.

2001 F150 SuperCrew
2006 Keystone Springdale 249FWBHLS
675w Solar pictures back up

ppine

Northern Nevada

Senior Member

Joined: 07/04/2016

View Profile

Offline

Posted: 11/10/20 02:10pm

Link | Quote | Print | Notify Moderator

Some people are lazy with their transmissions. Use them to stay in the powerband going up hill, and use them and an engine brake for going downhill.

IN steep country it is always a good idea to pull over and run your engine at idle for awhile to cool off after a pull. Same with pulling over on downhills to cool the brake rotors. Learn to stab brakes instead of riding them.