Mountain Driving with 1995 42', 42,000 lb. Blue Bird

[Pete Masterson]

I'm no expert, but I've crossed the Rockies in southern Wyoming
twice, I've done the Raton pass in southern Colorado twice, I've gone
up and back down Colorado I-70 to near Evergreen CO, and I've crossed
the Sierras into California on I-80. Plus I've traveled through a
fair number of lesser mountains in Oregon, Idaho, and California. So
I've seen a few mountains.

Basically, the technique is to watch the temperatures, especially the
oil temp when you're climbing. Higher revs = cooler engine, so slow
down and shift down, as necessary. Take it easy.

Coming down, use the jake brake (it's actually integrated into the
automatic transmission, so when it's enabled, it 'kicks in' as
needed. The engine computer "watches" the revs to avoid over-reving
but you still need to watch that you don't exceed 2400 RPM while
exhaust (Jake) brake is operating and 2100 RPM while under power. In
general, come down at moderate speed. When you slow down with the
service brakes, slow to 5 mph or more _below_ your target speed, then
let the coach gradually pick up speed (still using the jake brake).

The coach has plenty of service brake capacity to control the
vehicle ... but you do need to pay attention an not run low on air.
Don't "ride" the brakes as that will heat them up and not really help
maintain control.

It is said that you should descend at the same speed that you climb
at ... but the reality is somewhat different. For example, from Reno
to Donner Pass on I-80 you climb about 3500 feet in 10 miles or so.
Then from Donner Pass to Roseville, you descend nearly 7000 feet in
40 miles. So, the grades are quite different and your speeds will not
be "the same"... Nevertheless, "keep it moderate" is a wise approach.
If road-side signs suggest a curve be taken at 40 mph -- take it to
heart. It's good advice. Be sure to get to 40 or slower for that
curve. (For years, I always wondered just who they were thinking of
with the curve-speed advisories. Now I know....)

Note: Do not use the jake brake under poor traction conditions (such
as snow or wet pavement) as it can lead to control/skidding problems.

Pete Masterson
'95 Blue Bird Wanderlodge WBDA 42
aeonix1@...
On the road at Harrisburg Oregon



On Jun 25, 2007, at 12:28 PM, Ron Thompson wrote:

> This is a question that lots of people might want to explore. Would
> someone with a lot of experience driving a big rig in the mountains
> please write up a good descriptive instruction for mountain driving.
>
> I have never driven in the big mountains with a normal vehicle much
> less a 42,000 lb motor coach. I am planning a trip through the
> mountains maybe this year but definitely next year from Texas through
> the Rockies and on up to Alaska. It would sure be helpful to have
> some pointers from an expert.
>
> Best regards,
> Ron Thompson
>