Towing down grade, low temperatures?

[The3rdAmigo]

Starting out from home (5000 ft elevation), upgrade about 30 minutes, no problem. Get to the top of the mountain, and head down 6% for 10 miles or so. The outside air temp is cold during the winter (7000 ft elevation at the top of the hill), and it cools my 12V so much coming down the grade, I have big smoke, low power till it warms back up as a drive on the flats (at around 3000 ft). It only takes a few minutes to warm up though, towing 10K lbs.



Does anyone have any advice on the best course of action to help this situation? I do this drive towing at least every other week. Thanks!



Fred

 

[Slow Six]

A Jake helps if you have enough decline to use it. A weather front would help as well. These trucks have a lot of cooling and your situation is a down side of it

 

[JHardwick]

Exhaust brake.

 

[RVTRKN]

Check thermostat for proper operation and if your going to tow in cold weather install a cover over the front of your radiator like the big rigs do. It will help in warming up your rig as well.





Steve...

 

[The3rdAmigo]

Exhaust brake.

How did I know that would be an answer...



I just didn't want to hear it. $$$$$$



Thanks Slow six and Steve- I have a cold front, stopping to fool with it is a pain. The t-stat is working also.

 

[Slow Six]

I should have paid more attention to your truck info. I always ran a 195* thermostat in my 94. That really helped in cold weather situations. I had the best luck with the Napa Superstat.

 

[jelag]

With out a inner air cooler a winter front is acceptable... the exhaust brake is the real answer..... if you had the inner air cooler its not suggested unless you have good control of the fresh air inlet going back up the next hill...

 

[Desperado]

Just don't use the exhaust brake in icey roads! I know this first hand.