Changing running gears

gmw photos wrote:

roadjunkie wrote:

gmw photos wrote:
Given the varied use of your truck ( high speed empty running, and some towing at reasonable speeds ) it's sounds to me like you have near optimal gearing. I'd run it as is, tow in third, and let it rev. You won't hurt the engine at all. That truck is easily capable of pulling that size trailer all over this country.

I tow a similar size trailer with a Frontier with a V6, and have towed it close to 50K miles now, from sea level to the high passes of Colorado. The truck now has 135K miles, ans still looks and runs like new.

I applaud you for understanding the economics of keeping your truck on the road. New vehicles are indeed very expensive. Now get out and enjoy that camper !

I can tow the trailer with my truck now but I think it's too hard on the drivetrain. I'd rather change out the gears to take some of the strain off the engine and transmission.

High speed empty running is a bit misleading because I don't run over the speed limit. If it's 85 mph, which isn't unheard of in Texas, I'll run that speed if conditions are favorable. Rain, darkness, heavy game crossing areas and so on will cause me to drop down to what I feel is a safe speed.

I've been enjoying the camper daily since I bought it. I'm still in Kansas City area visiting friends and family but been camping at one of the local county parks (lake). Thanks for your input.

Sounds good. I'll be interested to hear your opinion regarding empty running on the highway with the new gears. Should work fine, as that engine, typical small block, loves to rev.
You're right across town from me. Sounds like maybe you are at Lake JaCoMo.
Keep us updated....and yep....keep these (moderately ) older trucks on the road !