2WD CTD in W. Yellowstone this Feb. Suggestions?

[VicR]

This winter we are planning on doing the snow coach in to Old Faithful and see Yellowstone in the winter. The snow coach departs West Yellowstone, and I was thinking about taking my truck that far. But I have a few questions.



1. The average low is 0, and I know it gets colder than that. How concerned should I be and what precautions can I take so my truck will start after sitting 4 days while we are in the Park? I don't believe I will have anywhere to plug it in while I am away from it. What do you guys in cold climates do?



2. I will be hauling a bit of heavy furniture (about 750 lbs), but I still know my truck is light in the back end. I have two spare wheels and was thinking of putting a set of Blizzaks or some other serious winter tire on the back for this trip. I suspect the highway will be pretty clear, but I don't want to get stuck in the motel parking lot, side streets, etc. I already have a set of chains for the rears if things get really bad. Any suggestions?



Thanks - I figure my TDR membership pays for itself long about January!



-Vic

 

[klenger]

The temperatures should be much warmer than 0 by early afternoon. Do you have any control what time you return to your truck so that you can time it for a warmer part of the day?



Sounds like a fun trip. Can I come and bring my snowshoes?

 

[LSMITH]

You should not have any trouble starting your truck at -10 after 4 days if it is in good working order and you are below about 9000 feet elevation. If you are going to park it above 9000 feet there is a good chance that it will not start once it cools down completely and ambient is below 0. The 98. 5 and 99 have a problem at high altitudes and low temps. I am not sure about the 00 and 01 trucks. Cummins knows what the problem is and have a software revision that takes care of the problem, my understanding is that it overfuels and will not light because of an over-rich condition.



As to the 2wd part, 1K pounds is plenty in the bed. A good all season or M&S rated tire should be fine. You may want to pick up two more chains for the front too if you need to stop or turn when it is really nasty. A tight LSD and slick roads can be a real adventure trying to turn at low speeds. Hope this helps.

 

[illflem]

Just plan your trip will a day extra on in each end so you aren't forced to drive in a blizzard and you'll do fine with 2wd. Main highways are well maintained as long as it isn't coming down faster than they can keep up with. Try not to drive at night while it's snowing, don't get in a hurry. With 600 lbs in the back I rarely use 4wd unless I get off the maintained road, I've never had to use chains but carry them anyways. Most all parking lots in the north country are plowed before the roads, no need to worry about them. Here in Montana we're no strangers to plugging in, most gassers are also equipped with heaters. Bring a long extension cord with you and ask the motel folks to plug you in before you plan to return. Or do it yourself if you have a few hours to kill, just park near an outlet. Most have outside outlets for this purpose and will be happy to oblige at no cost. Anytime I travel in the northern winter I walk around the motel after checking in and find an outlet to park in front of, always had good luck. Add some anti-gel additive a few miles before you park to work it into the system just in case your fuel isn't winterized for the climate. Have a great time.