Truck drivers seat cushion

[garycq]

I want to go to Alaska from California but I'm concerned about my ability to drive that distance towing my 5'ver in my '01 2500 CTD Ram. I'm in my 70's and driving that distance can be very tiring as well as uncomfortable at times. Thinking about getting a seat cushion and possibly a back one as well. I do have a bad back but I don't think that is that unusual and was hoping someone who has done that trip might have a suggestion on what I could do to ease the pain and discomfort. I'm hoping others with similar problems have found a successful solution so the trip can be a joy and not a pain. Any and all ideas would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks
Gary

[Larry-D]

Back in my Harley riding days I used an AirHawk seat cushion. IT was made by Roho which makes wheelchair cushions. It is adjustable and once you have the correct amount of air pressure in the pad you actually ride on the air. Very easy to adjust and very comfortable on long rides. Before I got it I tried the air adjustable Harley seat and it simply was not much better for me than the stock seat.

This link takes you to a seat cushion that is constructed and used (different shape) than the one I used.

http://www.allegromedical.com/cushions-covers-backs-c544/roho-ltv-seat-cushion-p550563.html

[2gypsies1]

A back cushion would probably help a bit. However, the best thing would be to drive short days. Stay at places more than an overnight and then don't sit in the RV. Get out and walk. Plan on the whole summer for the trip and you'll have plenty of time to see everything. Sometimes we just moved 100 miles or so. Don't rush the trip. Take breaks...just walking around the RV a few times helps. (Inspect the tires, etc. while you're doing it)

Don't give up on the trip. Do it! If you find you're really in pain there's nothing wrong with turning around. At least you would have seen something.

Be sure to stop at Liard Hot Springs for a nice long soak. Chena out of Fairbanks has a hot pool, too.

If you're not taking the trip alone, definitely have the other person drive, too. On ours, we alternated each day so the other can experience the scenery and look out for the critters!

[garyhaupt]

Gary...there is only one way to do this trip and remain in good shape. Drive for maybe 1.5 hrs and then stop...take a walk around. Maybe for 15 or 20 minutes? Then repeat. You can get 6 hrs in a day of you follow this regimen and you'll get to Alaska and back with a smile on your face. If you rely on cushions and so on, you'll end up in a world of hurt. I have 37 years behind the wheel of a city bus and back injuries to boot. The Opus is great..for a day, maybe 3...but you are talking a long long drive. Maybe 10,000 miles. You should set aside maybe 4 or 5 months...and have the trip of your life.

And...take a day off whenever you want to. Just kick back...do what you like to do.

Just recalled...you can buy and have installed a proper drivers seat. Recarro. You'd need an on board air compressor...like the ones for air bags? Same same.

Gary Haupt

[path1]

Any and all ideas would be greatly appreciated!

I also have an 01. There should be any problems with your back, you have a 6 way seat! YA, right...My seat kills me!!!

On back cushions, everybody is different. I have an expensive one from medical place and several others that I use time to time. My most comfortable one is just a beach towel rolled up with big ace bandage wrapped around it. Looks like a big white tootie roll.

Per Geno's garage (link below) ...sold over 200 of these with good results. They say it took him over 2 years to find and get a manufacture to make them for them. And found out most vehicles today you can't get new cushions for a vehicle over 5 years old. I ordered one and when it came in I took it down to local upholstery shop where I had work done in the past. They said "pretty good stuff and better than they get in as replacement". And also mentioned they have to "junk yard shop" or work with the old seat, usually by stuffing in new foam around old foam, to beef up, trying to feel like new. Mine has not been installed yet, my new cushion is in my shed for when I get money together. But just sitting on new seat cushion on the floor is more comfortable than what I have right now.

My fuel system feel apart in AZ and is currently mickey mouse'd together. Getting my fuel system right will be first before getting cushion installed.

I came back from AZ to WA state having to stop for fuel every 150 miles as mechanics in AZ cracked my fuel tank. But that also gave me exercise more often.

https://www.genosgarage.com/product/dodge-ram-replacement-driver-seat-cushion-gg-sc9801/new-products

Give Geno's a call to confirm what I said. But still no real answers to a sore back problem. I usually drive then stop when I feel like it(rest area or convenience store) and walk around for 15 or 20 min then go again. And more than once I had to get into RV bed to do my back exercises to get the kinks out.

Have a great trip.

(Next long trip I'm carrying... 2 sets of filters, re-built injection pump under seat, current active password for Cummins and Geno's forum)

[rag-ftw]

Gary, I have been very happy with this seat cushion.
Wondergel Original Gel Seat Cushion

I too have back problems when I set to long. I think the best advice I can give you is to remember you are retired and don't have to be in a hurry! This will be the trip of a lifetime so slow down, only drive a few hours each day and stop to enjoy the amazing scenery! This is our third trip to Alaska and we usually arrive the second week of May and leave the third week of Sep. When we add a month each direction drive time from Fort Worth it makes for a pleasant trip.

I LOVE retirement!!!!!

[explorenorth]

For many years after back surgery, while driving long-haul semis and buses, I used Obus Forme Seats - they made a huge difference. Some "iron-butt" bikers swear by thick sheepskin seat covers.