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Old 04-24-2013, 12:14 PM   #1
H. John Kohl
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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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Old 04-24-2013, 01:03 PM   #2
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Old 04-24-2013, 02:43 PM   #3
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Old 04-24-2013, 02:52 PM   #4
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Good post "Gunny". Looking forward to seeing you soon.
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Old 04-24-2013, 03:00 PM   #5
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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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Old 04-24-2013, 03:48 PM   #6
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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
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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Old 04-24-2013, 04:49 PM   #7
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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.
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Old 04-24-2013, 05:51 PM   #8
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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
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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Old 04-24-2013, 06:40 PM   #9
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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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Old 04-25-2013, 02:14 AM   #10
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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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Old 04-25-2013, 06:14 AM   #11
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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.
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