Class c in mountains

[samandberta]

We have a 2010 chateau citation 30 ft ford v10 gas,, will be pulling a saturn vue.Going to Yellowstone soon. someone in another RV group stated that a class c will have a problem going up steep grades, is that true?

Thank you in advance for your replies,
Roberta

[buzzard616]

You may also want install the biggest aux transmission cooler that will fit as well as a tranny temp guage if it doesn't already have one.


Stu

[samandberta]

Thank you!

[carringb]

samandberta wrote:
Do you use the tow/haul just going down the grades?

You can use it all the time. It will hold lower gears going up hills, and also downshift for slowing traffic while in town. The only time I found it to be a hinderance is cruising on flat highway. In that situation, turning tow/haul off may be desirable because it will stay in Overdrive most of the time, vs tow-haul where it shifts a lot to maintain max power.

Pretty much comes down to personal preference.

[samandberta]

Do you use the tow/haul just going down the grades?

[carringb]

Also, DO NOT ride the brakes. The Coast-and-Stab method, combined with engine braking (Tow-Haul enables that automatically) will keep your brakes from overheating. Riding the brakes causes uneven heating which usually results in "warped rotor" shuddering and can cause a loss of brakes.

[kalynzoo]

The Ford V10 will give you plenty of pull with the Saturn. The mountains all along the Rockies just require a change in thinking while you drive. The trip and the scenery are all part of the vacation, so slow down and enjoy the view. Watch the RPMs (not closely, just be aware). When going down hill don't let the rig accelerate with gravity, rather keep your speed comfortable, I like 50mph on the downgrades, so I can maintain braking control. I do remember my first trepidations traveling through Colorado...they were unfounded.
Happy Trails

[rvten]

No problem. Have been over them big hills out west. Just DO NOT use cruise control. Use your Tow Haul going down hill.

[carringb]

Nope. The V10 will do fine, even at elevations over 10,000 ft. Just turn on Tow-Haul mode, and don't be afraid to let it rev. It won't hurt a thing to let that motor spin as its designed to do. My combined weight is quite a bit heavier than yours, and I do fine. I do have some performance upgrades, but you also have much better transmission ratios.