driving down mountains in truck has no engine brake,how to handle that

what gear to be in if I am 80,000 going down a 7% grade

 

ok thanks I will go down there in 3rd or 4th gear if need be

 

For real? The same gear you went up in is the gear you descend in. Also learn “stab” braking, don’t keep the pedal down.

 

I prefer lock-up braking. I like going down in top gear; it's easier on the engine.

 

There's a Frequent Poster who knows all about mountain driving who should be along any minute.

Just don't dare question his inconsistencies.

 

Need more info.

How long is this 7%grade?
How many lanes?
What’s the posted recommended speed limit for trucks?

 

This is excellent advice..
although it is scary to me that you have give this to someone who is already driving a truck.

 

7 th sounds good - yep 7th

 

Its also not one size fits all.

I routinely top hills in 8 9 10th hear, but i wont dare go down the other side in anything more than 7th. I also have a pretty good jake to hold me back.

Come to think of it, i also ascend a hill for a mile or so in 6th or 7th gear, but the down side i can handle in 8th, 9th gear with stab braking. 7th gear is just too much.

Had i not had an engine brake, i also would question the fact that i have to descend a hill at 15mph to hold me steady while joe schmoe can take the hill in 9th gear with a 3 stage brake.