Need some I-80 west help....:

Go slow, many a@driver has gone down that hill but it only takes going down it to fast once to ruin things real bad, keep it slow and just stay out of the brakes, they get hot fast even with 20K in the box. Be safe.

 

There ain't much between Salt Lake and Reno, just a small hill or two. Your only real concern is Donner, and comin' down that thing on the west side goes on for miles and miles....... 55 is too fast for someone that isn't familiar with that hill, especially this time of year...... take it easy, and take it slow the first time...... And don't worry about them drivers behind you, they'll get over it.

 

california speed limit is 55 for trucks and of course like all california coops...there is one at the bottom of the grade..Donner is one of the easier passes when its dry and the sun is shining...it can be real tricky in winter weather and the only time caltrans shuts it down is when its snowing like crazy..

 

Excellent advice! They just finished rebuilding the rest areas at the summit, so there is some nice parking there. I only wish there was truck access to Boreal ski area! The rest areas at Gold Run are nice too. Donner is one of my favorite runs

 

Did that driver survive the crash?

 

Wow...Thanks y'all. I haven't met her yet, but I'm sure I will eventually. I am actually good at going down. I probably go down too slow most of the time. It's the getting up that has given me problems. I will remember your advice and keep you posted on my first trip down.

BTW, they show that video to us in orientation. I have been scared of her since. Now that I have heard from the "voices of experience" I am less scared and more respectful of her. Again, thanks for your advice.

 

Being the cranky old guy I am I have to admit to getting a kick out of some of these answers--but for what it is worth--like has been posted many times here before--A good rule of thumb is still to drop off--one gear lower than you climbed--and then just relax--keep your wits about you and enjoy the scenery--and IF the weather is bad and you are uncomfortable--then wait it out--Oh and BTW--to the poster who said you probably go down to slow--just remember the old saying "you can go down a mountain too slow as MANY times as you want--you can only go down TOO FAST ONCE!" so keep doing it the way YOU are comfortable
Just my .02

 

Ok...now I am being serious. I really am scared of meting her!


I actually thought this thread would be safe from "post corrections". Guess I didn't hide wel enough.

 

I rememeber in early 80's running that hill. Was running team.
You're lucky now. They have signs posted about easing on the brakes / let her coast. Not out of gear though.
You do have an engine brake and just like other posters have said. Go down one even two gears slower than you went up in..
Take it where you feel at ease. Winter time is the worst time out there. Stock up on food and water. Check road reports before leaving..
Just like cabbage, take it nice and easy, you will be fine..