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04-24-2013, 12:14 PM
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#1
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Montana Master
Join Date: May 2003
Location: New Bern
Posts: 4,295
M.O.C. #311
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Down Hill Switch Backs = 4x4 Low range
I just completed the drive from Coarsegold, CA to Jackson on CA 49. It has some multiple S curves and switch backs. pluse the grade that goes with them. Al Stevens remind me that I lose my exhaust brake at 1000 rpm. When I started down the Bagby section I was in first gear and pushed to my max RPM forcing a shift into second. I applied my brakes, pulled to a turn out and shifted into 4x4 low range. Back on the road in 3rd gear at 15 mph and about 2000 rpm. Exhaust brake active but not engaged. As soon as I released the throttle the exhaust brake engaged and I was down to 10 mph. What a sweet relaxed drive.
Just another reason for 4x4 besides snow and wet grass.
Safe travels all.
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04-24-2013, 01:03 PM
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#2
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Site Team
Join Date: Jun 2011
Location: Wilsey
Posts: 18,799
M.O.C. #11455
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You're the man John! Never a dull moment.
__________________
Dick, Joyce, Diego, Picatso and Gustav
2017 3720 RL, and 2013 HC 343RL
Pullrite Hitch, IS, Disk Brakes, 3rd AC, Winegard Traveler, Bathroom door mod, Dometic 320, couch for desk swap, replaced chairs, sun screens, added awnings, etc.
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04-24-2013, 02:43 PM
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#3
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Montana Master
Join Date: Oct 2011
Location: Lykens
Posts: 545
M.O.C. #11842
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Nothing better than the feeling of being in control!
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04-24-2013, 02:52 PM
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#4
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Montana Master
Join Date: May 2011
Location: Fayetteville
Posts: 4,200
M.O.C. #11401
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Good post "Gunny". Looking forward to seeing you soon.
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04-24-2013, 03:00 PM
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#5
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Montana Master
Join Date: Jan 2008
Location: Portland
Posts: 1,107
M.O.C. #8045
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Using 4x4 on dry pavement with a load is not recommended in the owners book is it?
I have always heard this is very hard on the drive train. Maybe I am wrong
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04-24-2013, 03:48 PM
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#6
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Montana Master
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Oceanside
Posts: 534
M.O.C. #13378
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Quote:
quote:Originally posted by grampachet
Using 4x4 on dry pavement with a load is not recommended in the owners book is it?
I have always heard this is very hard on the drive train. Maybe I am wrong
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I've had several 4x4's and currently have an 2012 F-250 4x4 and you're right, dry pavement in 4x4 mode is a no-no according to the owner's manual.
On the other hand, I've driven that road before with my 2006 F-250 and my 30' travel trailer and did not encounter those same difficulties. Maybe it's because it was a Ford....
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04-24-2013, 04:49 PM
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#7
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Montana Master
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: Livermore
Posts: 5,183
M.O.C. #1920
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John, that is why the low range is there, right? I bet fewer than 10% of owners have ever used 4 wheel low. Hunting on steep muddy roads taught me the value, especially for steering, of the low range. Glad you had a relaxed ride. Way to go Al. I imagine those Ram trucks are performing well in the mountains. One week and I can join you.
__________________
Ron and Terrie Ames plus Meg - MOC #1920/KF0NTA
2021Montana 3230CK Super Solar+ Legacy Package
2021 Ram 3500 Laramie Longhorn, BIM Charging
4x4, SRW, LB, Crew Cab, Pullrite 3900 Hitch
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04-24-2013, 05:51 PM
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#8
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Montana Master
Join Date: May 2003
Location: New Bern
Posts: 4,295
M.O.C. #311
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Quote:
quote:Originally posted by grampachet
Using 4x4 on dry pavement with a load is not recommended in the owners book is it?
I have always heard this is very hard on the drive train. Maybe I am wrong
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You are correct, however I chose that option over continuous breaking. I did not stay in 4x4 low any longer than needed and was around 15 mph or slower most the time.
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04-24-2013, 06:40 PM
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#9
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Montana Master
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: merced
Posts: 983
M.O.C. #6171
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Bagby grade is one steep tight hill to come down with 12000 in tow. I myself would use the longer route if I had the option. But it is doable. I have drive up and down it may a time in an over loaded fire truck, first gear all the way down.
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04-25-2013, 02:14 AM
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#10
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Montana Master
Join Date: Apr 2013
Location: Arroyo City
Posts: 3,110
M.O.C. #13395
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Many years moving heavy junk with the Army CSE taught me the value of low range as long as you avoid sharp turns on dry roads, there is no problem.
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04-25-2013, 06:14 AM
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#11
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Montana Master
Join Date: Nov 2005
Location: Paola
Posts: 5,739
M.O.C. #4961
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John, I have pulled out of a muddy field many times and forgot to take it out of 4X4 and drove miles on dry pavement so far no damage to any truck. However a simple toggle switch will disable the front end on most trucks allowing you to drive in low range with only 2 wheel drive.
__________________
Dennis & Linda Ward
Paola, Kansas
Montana 3735MK Legacy Edition
1200 watts of Solar
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