Drivin the AlCan

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Nov 21, 2009 | 04:43 PM

Bert239

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Drivin the AlCan

Ok I'm going to be driving the AlCan Ak to Pa to Fl in mid March. I have an 02 F-250 7.3 with 155000 miles. The only thing I've done to it is change the starter. I got it with 80000 miles. I'm going to say everything is stock and has never been changed other than oils and filters. I've never had any problems other than a couple hard starting cold mornings -30 not pluged in my bad. I was hoping I could get some recommendations on things that would be smart to change before I do this 5000+ mile drive. Thanks Bret

Nov 21, 2009 | 07:12 PM

koski19

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I drove the AL/Can this past summer. Road is pretty good shape, not much traffic. Diesel is plentiful but the price was higher than the states. Do not buy fuel near the borders as it tends to be more expensive. Most diesel prices are not posted. Which is an inconvenience.I have an early 99 with 229,000 miles. The truck did this 3,000 mile drive without incident. I made sure all fluids and filters were changed, carried an extra fuel filter. The batteries were load tested and checked good as well as the alternator. Changed out belt and water pump last year, so those where in good shape. I had no problems with my truck and got 21 mpg on average. So go for it and have a great time. Watch out for snow and ice.
jeff
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Nov 21, 2009 | 07:20 PM

F350-6

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From: Texas

Welcome to FTE. Don't worry too much about your trip. 155k is really nothing on these motors. First off fluids and filters are the life blood of the motor, so start there. An oil change before you leave is in order. A fuel filter change is also probably a good idea. When is the last time you changed your transmission fluid? Differential fluid? brake fluid? Power steering fluid (really it's ATF)?

When is the last time you changed your serpentine belt? How about your shocks? Tires and brakes in good shape? New windshield wipers is probably a good idea right before you leave also.

If you want some peace of mind, you might consider grabbing a spare CPS, bring some extra oil, an extra fuel filter, some spare o-rings and assorted tools.

I've probably left some stuff out, but others will chime in.

Nov 21, 2009 | 08:30 PM

PwerStroke99

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Joined: May 2002

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From: Montana

Quote:

Originally Posted by koski19

Quote:

Originally Posted by F350-6

All of these are really good ideas. I always had a couple spare tires in case of tire issues, doesnt hurt. I was always over prepared, but better to be over prepared rather than under prepared. Carry and extra Serpentine belt, or actually change it out and use the old one as a spare. Need a spare CPS. I carried some extra fuel, but never needed it, but u never know. Extra headlight bolbs in case u get one burned out. new wipers is a plus. carry extra washer fluid and other fluids like mentioned above. make sure your tires are good, brakes are good. maybe fresh antifreeze(when was the last time it was flushed?). carry an extension cord just in case u need to plug in. Some Motels have that ability. Buy the Mile Post, it is good for plannign your trip and gives all the info u will ever need, u can get it at any bookstore. if u have any specific questions feel free in asking. i have done the trip a couple times. in the dead of winter tho, not closer to Break up like u are doing. the roads might be a little rougher in march.

Nov 22, 2009 | 09:51 AM

bfife

still plays with trucks

Joined: Mar 2004

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From: Twin Falls Idaho

The AlCan is no worse than any other 2 lane highway in the US or Canada. just prettier scenery. Basic prep as everyone has said and like Ken suggested buy the MilePost. its an awesome book and the new issue should be out just before you head out.

Barney

Nov 22, 2009 | 10:46 AM

SpringerPop

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Joined: Jan 2002

Posts: 17,988

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From: La La Land

We covered trip preparation a bit earlier in another thread. Take a look:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/8...ce-before.html

Pop

Nov 22, 2009 | 12:02 PM

farmb0y

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Joined: Feb 2004

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From: IOWA

Lots of good info provided, probably not much I can add.
Just curious, what exactly is the AlCan, and why are you making the road trip? I don't get out of the midwest much.