[encantotom]

this is really only the second time i have used our coach in the less than two years we have owned it. in the summer of 12 we did a 4k mile marathon in 3 weeks and i was just getting used to it.

this trip i took more time to learn and experiments.

i have always been a worry wart about engine operating temps, pressures etc. so i monitor them closely.

this trip we went over a number of mountain passes. previously i always took it off of cruise and drove it my self.

this time on the way home i would keep it in cruise control and let the computer smart engine and tranny regulate itself.

if i was going up a ~6-7% grade for a few miles or more, and if i was starting at ~65mph, the cruise would downshift as needed, usually from 6th to 5th to 4th and hold steady at low 50's mph. the boost would stay about 27-28psi and the engine temp would climb to 205, then the high speed of the hydraulic fan would kick on and still while climbing the temps would quickly go down to 199 or so.

it was clear the 2 speed fan would come on at 205 every time. then it would just cool right down.

a few other observations.

1. it shifts into 6th gear at 62-63mph, so driving a little below that has you driving in 5th gear. (unless you get into 6th and then slow down and it will stay into the 50's.) but it seems like the best cruising perforance is low 60's.

2. for me anyway OBEY the mph signs on curves. at that or a little less is the most comfortable for me on mountain curves. i tend to go under the posted curve mph.

3. on strong cross winds on a highway, 55klbs keeps you on the road, but it is still like a big heavy sailboat and it can move you around some. in driving wed from salt lake city to st george, it was extremely strong cross winds the entire way. it pushed us around, but nothing like the wild bull ride some of the smaller rv's was having as we went by them.

4. it is very comfortable to drive long distances.

5. the best driving song to listen to is for sure "Tom Sawyer" by Rush.

6. use a vmspc. the dash gauges are less than accurate

7. while inside sitting still, it is REALLY stable. doesnt move around much.

8. air toilets are really cool. (yea a little strange)

9. darlene doesnt like to clean bugs off the windshield.

10. i really love the aquahot. nice even heating when it is cool and nice hot water.

11. you meet the nicest people. newell owners and not.

i am sure there are more but these come to mind this morning.

tom