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Red_Eagle's avatar
Red_Eagle
Explorer
May 12, 2014

Which gear when pulling over mtn passes?

Pulling our 30' 5er out to Colorado next month. Have only camped in southeast so far and had no problems. When pulling the RV, I push the "tow/haul" button and drive in the "D" gear ( have a 2004 Dodge 2500 5.7 hemi gasser automatic ). My question is---do I drive in the same gear when pulling the 5er over Colorado's mtn passes, OR do I shift down to the 2 gear to get up the mtn ? Appreciate advice from those more proficient in this subject.
Tow Vehicles
  • CND_SuperCrew's avatar
    CND_SuperCrew
    Explorer
    May 12, 2014
    Typically use D w/TH and the tranny will down-shift on its own as need. Not familiar with the dodge but I'm going to guess you have a 4spd tranny maybe. You may want to manually down-shift into a lower gear to go down the mountain. Then allow the engine to slow you down while using your brakes as needed to keep your unit from "running away"...
  • eubank's avatar
    eubank
    Explorer
    May 12, 2014
    You'll probably do ok by leaving it in D for the uphill climb, though much depends on how much you're pulling. But for downhill, you're in for major, potentially fatal trouble if you leave it in D.
    Lynn

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