Heavy Loads in reverse and uphill

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May 21, 2024 | 08:32 AM

#16

5picker

Mountain Pass

Joined: Apr 2024

Posts: 186

Likes: 123

From: SW PA

Quote:

Originally Posted by nuctrooper

The load placed on the rear axle in this case is exactly the same whether you are in high or low range. The force needed to move the combo backwards doesn't care what gear or configuration you are in. Pushing 20klbs takes the exact same rear wheel torque regardless of engine power or speed.

The only difference is the rpm and speed range of the engine and transmission. Considering the sustained very low speed desired when backing long uphill, high range will have a low rpm with the TC slipping to keep speed down, and low range will have a higher RPM with the TC locked to maintain that same slow speed. In this case, 2LO is absolutely better on the truck than 2HI.

And don't sweat the reverse side gear concern - this is low speed, low temp, low duration. If you were pulling interstate grades at full power and speed for miles and miles (in reverse) it might be a concern - but there is no concern for this case.

^^THIS^^
You're not gonna hurt the rear or the axles or anything simply backing your trailer up the driveway.
Do the mod so you are not binding the drivetrain on turns and don't worry about having to wear a tin foil hat when doing so.

Jun 7, 2024 | 02:16 PM

#17

SuperdutyChris

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: May 2024

Posts: 102

Likes: 45

From: NW Pennsylvania

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ltngdrvr

If you would need to get the trailer backed up the hill very often, I'd sure be looking for some solution allowing you to pull it forward up the hill.

Thanks @Ltngdrvr this is the option we ended up doing. I spent a few nights with a pole saw trimming trees and cleared a more open path up the hill. I then pulled the trailer up the hill forward and once at the top, backed it down without a problem other than having to ride the brakes. I think we may have enough room at the top to disconnect the truck and leave the trailer temporarily while loading and preparing for a trip, but that's another test for another day.