Refueling Along Rural Routes
This summer we've transitioned from travelling along major highways to some more rural roads. We find we really enjoy travelling these routes through many small towns. The scenery is much more interesting and there are plenty of places to stop and sight see.
The problem we are encountering is how to plan for refueling. Typically along highways there are many truck stops. At these, we have no issue pulling truck and trailer into a pump. However, along the rural roads the gas stations often are too tight to maneuver the rig through. I can travel approx. 5 hours on 1 tank, so I often find myself finding a place to unhitch and then bring the truck only to the gas station. This is doable, but adds extra time and work. I also don't like leaving the TT unhitched along a side road or a parking lot while I fuel - worried about theft or tickets.
I've been experimenting with mapquest and google maps to try and plan my routes. I find that using the Satellite image I can estimate the size of the gas station and determine if I can safely maneuver through it for refueling. I then program the address in my GMP and plan for these stops. I also find, although my truck is gas powered, if I search for gas stations that carry diesel they typically accommodate larger vehicles.
Does any manufacturer make a GPS which has this type of information already loaded into it? Are there websites out there or maps I can purchase that would make this easier?
Also, is there a way to determine overhead clearances along a route? I've only encountered this once, but a ran across an underpass that only had 12 feet of head clearance. Luckily I was paying attention, pulled over and detoured around it. It would be great to find this info out ahead of time.
Thanks for any feedback or input you may have.
The problem we are encountering is how to plan for refueling. Typically along highways there are many truck stops. At these, we have no issue pulling truck and trailer into a pump. However, along the rural roads the gas stations often are too tight to maneuver the rig through. I can travel approx. 5 hours on 1 tank, so I often find myself finding a place to unhitch and then bring the truck only to the gas station. This is doable, but adds extra time and work. I also don't like leaving the TT unhitched along a side road or a parking lot while I fuel - worried about theft or tickets.
I've been experimenting with mapquest and google maps to try and plan my routes. I find that using the Satellite image I can estimate the size of the gas station and determine if I can safely maneuver through it for refueling. I then program the address in my GMP and plan for these stops. I also find, although my truck is gas powered, if I search for gas stations that carry diesel they typically accommodate larger vehicles.
Does any manufacturer make a GPS which has this type of information already loaded into it? Are there websites out there or maps I can purchase that would make this easier?
Also, is there a way to determine overhead clearances along a route? I've only encountered this once, but a ran across an underpass that only had 12 feet of head clearance. Luckily I was paying attention, pulled over and detoured around it. It would be great to find this info out ahead of time.
Thanks for any feedback or input you may have.
