obgraham wrote:
Considering there are plenty of trucks on the road with the same engine and power, I don't see why it should be a problem.
So you have to slow down up the hills. Big deal.
I think I'd worry a LOT more about going down the hills with that load. The long steep grades in the west can easily incinerate brake pads with no help from an engine braking system. I doubt that size engine would give much help. May be equipped with an exhaust brake at best. Jake brake most unlikely. I highly recommend something in the area of 500 hp with a Jake for your application if you're going to be operating in the western US.