Frank, make sure the truck is running tiptop before you go north of I-80 in Nevada. There is nothing up in the northwest corner of Nevada and southeast Oregon (lowest population density in the lower 48 states). That is serious badlands with no cell service in large areas. I'd really reconsider going northwest of Winnemucca. Stay on 80 to Reno and then north on 395 to 44 at Susanville to 89 to I-5 at Mount Shasta. I'd be glad to keep an eye out for you...good luck and keep the greasy side down . I drive on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday next week (part of that route to Redding, CA).

 

Neil gives good advice. Southeast Oregon is no-man's land. There was a work crew that went missing for several days there - in their broken-down truck. This is the kind of story you usually hear about on in the wilderness - not on the open road. I have a pocket EPIRB for situations like that.


Northeast California is a well-traveled route, but there is a section or two of hairy roads for pulling a 5er. Get the wind forecast if you take this route. Welcome to the Wild West.

 

Wind is always a factor along 395, but after that it is largely a non-factor. People have died on the edge of the road in northwest Nevada after breaking down. It is nothing to fool with and the same goes for southeast Oregon. There is no where on that ropute I gave Frank that is hairy to drive with a fiver...easy going through the mountains.

 

Take Neal and Rich's advice. West to Reno then north on 395. Have a safe trip and welcome to the left coast.


Tom

 

I've driven every route possible between Reno and home - many times. I was thinking of that stretch of 44 climbing out of Susanville - and the grade coming off the plateau at Old Station. I do remember putting it hard to the engine braking, depending on the direction of travel. Other than those interesting spots, plus the drive along the dry lake (wind hazard), it's a fantastic drive. It's my favorite route, it's cool to watch Shasta grow in the windshield for so many miles.

 

Thank you for all of the advice and well wishes. I'll def look into going into Reno to 395. I don't want to be broke down and lost forever.
Thanks to those who have pm'd me their cell numbers.
It's comforting knowing that I have friends along the way to help out if needed.
You guys are awesome!

 

I've driven every route possible between Reno and home - many times. I was thinking of that stretch of 44 climbing out of Susanville - and the grade coming off the plateau at Old Station. I do remember putting it hard to the engine braking, depending on the direction of travel. Other than those interesting spots, plus the drive along the dry lake (wind hazard), it's a fantastic drive. It's my favorite route, it's cool to watch Shasta grow in the windshield for so many miles.
___________
Good advice! Rich is right, that hill leaving Susanville is a steep one but at least you will be going UP. Going down with the hard turn at the bottom is a bit of a bother. The one coming down into Old Station is no day at the beach but at least there is
flat ground at the bottom. My place is about 13 miles North of there in Hat Creek, give a honk after you pass the post office!

 

Safe Trip Frank!!!! Going to be hard to make a RRE way out there.

 

Good luck and safe travels. 500+ miles is going to be a challenge. I'm just finishing up my trip and most days we drove between 200 and 300 miles.

 

Thanks brother.

Good looking out.
Appreciate it.

Lol. I'll keep that in mind smokie.
I'll be near Grants Pass. I'm getting out of the big city.

Good advice. I sure will.

Thanks!

Looking forward to the west coast. I know hot all too well here...
Thanks for the advice. I've changed my route. 395 it is!
Why thank you.

I'll follow Clays convoy on a motorcycle
It will be. But I'll daydream & talk to my dog to pass the time.

 

Made it about 20 miles north of Atlanta & it's nap time.
Truck has been running great so far!
Only 2630 more miles to go...

 

You stopped for the night Frank?

 

Thank You for the update. I have been wondering where you might be on your journey. When you get close to Nebraska let us know. I am way north of your route but still curious of your progress, and if you need any help to be there for you.

 

Frank your about 40 miles from me. Exit 350 on I-75. Holler if ya need something. I am in Nashville rolling home shortly.

 

Well I would have liked to met you but am glad you didn't need to call in Hotlanta. Glad to hear the truck is running smooth. Be safe and keep us posted.