Forum Discussion

Kidoo's avatar
Kidoo
Explorer
Nov 11, 2013

Class A 30 foot on Dalton or Dempster Highway

Is there someone that ever took his Class A on the Dalton or Dempster Highway? Or someone you know.

I was on the Dalton with a truck camper in 2012 but never saw any Class A on that road, I saw 6 campers on a 7 day return trip. There was a few truck campers, a few vans, one fithwheel.

I wonder how it handles on gravel roads, especially when there is some road construction with rough gravel.

Thanks
  • I've driven the Dempster many times in a particularly tough Class A, an MCI coach. I've seen a fair number of Class Cs on that road over the years, maybe As as well though that doesn't stick out. I'm currently shopping for a 29-31 foot Class A, though, and it will be going on the Dempster, regardless of what folks like Dave think. The Dempster is no tougher than the Taylor and Top of the World, and there are LOTS of Class As on that road combination. Edit: just checked my Dempster Highway Log and see a trailer, a 5th wheel, a Class C and my MCI in the various photos.
  • Did the Dalton in 2012 with a 2500 truck and pop-up camper. Great trip.

    Saw one guy with a travel trailer (30' ish) all the way to Deadhorse. He spent time in Coldfoot both ways (coming and going) getting replacement trailer tires and getting spring shackle welding repairs done.

    I never saw Class C let alone Class A but we did see an Earth Roamer motorhome (built for four-wheeling.

    I think somebody could take a Class A but I expect he would at best be laughed at and at worst have some very expensive repair and/or towing costs.

    It's all a matter of vehicle weight, balanced with speed and tire pressure. Many with high pressure in tires just slam their units to death on rough roads. Reducing tire pressure can help a lot in preventing jarring shock damage to parts and interiors. But again it needs to be balanced against weight to prevent tire damage.