The map below is Google Maps indicating choices of which routes I have available to me. I can either go north to I-90 and take that across the mountains, or I-80/84 across the mountains. You can zoom in and out if you like in order to get a closer view. If you want to view the map on Google, click the "more options" link in the top left of the map.

I will be towing a 9K lbs travel trailer with the truck in my signature. I am looking to avoid steep grades (ascending or descending) whenever possible. So, for those of you that have made this journey in the past, which way would you go in order to keep your nerves calm?

 

I would take 80/84. I have not personally traveles 90 all the way across but I know just in WA there are a couple of steep grades. I have used 80/84 several times and most recently I moved from WA to TX towing an 8k flatbed. Wyoming can be a bit windy but generally is not too bad.

 

I have done both from OR to IL. I90/I94 are WAY better. You'll hit grades regardless of route. It's pretty flat until western Montana. I80/I84 has more up and down. I84 in Oregon west of The Dalles is curvy and can get quite windy.

 

I would take the shorter route

 

Really they are about the same. We are planning several days (7-8) to get there and not rushing by any means. I am just a bit nervous about having a truck with no exhaust brake and 9,000 lbs behind it.

I plan to use intermittent braking and 2nd or 3rd gear (manual 6 speed ZF6) to keep the decent down those grades under control, but never really been in that situation.

 

I wouldn't worry too much. It's not as bad as the "Ike Gauntlet".

 

Having a lot of experience in the mountains I can tell what I would do. As you crest the hill see what the truck recommended speed is. Match that.


Drop down a gear and let is coast. If you exceed the truck posted speed by 3-4 mph, stab the brakes good to slow about 1-2 mph under the limit and then off the brakes.


Stabbing the brakes to control your descent is the way to keep your brakes healthy and keep it under control. That along with dropping a gear at the crest of the hill/mountain.

 

Not even close to that or Monarch pass off of US 50 in Colorado either.....with GCVWR north of 25K.

 

I'll have to check out Monarch Pass next time I'm in Colorado.

 

When I made the trip my TV did not have an exhaust/engine brake either. Mine was a 2001 Excursion V10 towing 8k so GCVW was around 16k give or take.

 

I haven't pulled anything that big over Snoqualmie (I-90), but I'm pretty sure I would rather deal with that pass than deal with the people down on the Columbia River (84). I've taken that route on my Harley and it was a lot of stop and go with tourists. If you don't want steep grades make sure you don't try to change last minute and hit Stevens Pass (Hwy 2) or North Cascades (Hwy 20). North Cascades is a beautiful trip you will love though, considered the Alps of the United States.

 

A similar trip made by another 7.3 diesel member:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ut-for-me.html

I would give this a read if you have some time.

 

Great advice everyone, I appreciate it. Thanks for the link Bently, I will read over his post and see what I can learn/take away from it.

 

I-80, never again. You can walk on the trucks on I-80 and never touch the ground for 1000 miles.


For me, I-90 is more relaxing.


Better yet, we took US-2 back from Montana to Michigan. Oooohhhh, so nice. (sorry, a little off topic there)

 

That is a good point that I had not thought of. I have been on I-80 through the midwest and it is normally packed. I think my family and I will take I-90 west. Thanks for the advice.