See, this is exactly what I was saying in my
earlier message......7% grade in 5th gear at 65 mph. Well, we didn't do 65
mph because that's 10 mph over the speed limit and Donner Pass on I-80 is pretty
high-profile! We also got 14 mpg. going to central Nevada.
What don't I like about it? Yes, it is
high off the ground (4WD) and has no running board, but it has two hand-holds
and I just hold on to the one on the door (passenger side) with my right hand
and the one on the door frame with my left hand and vault relatively
gracefully into the seat :-)) As for ugly, "beauty is as beauty
does!"
Things I really love about it: it's SO
comfortable for traveling, it's quiet (the model about two years ago was
terribly noisy!!!), it has lots of storage compartments, and it makes me happy
just to see my husband enjoy it so much. This truck works its
tail-feathers off, too, it's not just a yard ornament. It is a 2004
model. His old one was running perfectly, engine "just nicely broken in",
but the bed and tool boxes were rusting off, husband wanted 6-speed manual
transmission, and our forestry department had been lusting after the old one for
years!
Having had diesel trucks now, the first, 1991 Dodge
Cummings (still have it and still going, 275,000 miles and only
routine maintenance, no major problems), and then a newer one, a 2002
Dodge shortbed Cummings diesel, auto transmission. It just
didn't have the pulling power of the old one, probably due to auto
transmission. Traded it in in Feb. for THE TANK and oh mi
gosh!! Six speed manual, High Output Diesel engine, quieter, rides
better, and WAY MORE POWER, than the other two. Yeah, you can BURN
Rubber with this thing; it pulls our LQ up and over these hills and
mountains (Hwy 44 to Lassen national forest has some 7%grades) like it's not
pulling anything. I am amazed by it, frankly. We test drove brand
new Ford Powerstrokes and Chevy Duramax (which I loved), but they just didn't
come near the power. After all these years of driving diesel pickups and
pulling various trailers, I sure notice the difference with the new Dodge HO 6
speed. it has a tach, so I know I am not lugging the engine, but this
sucker will pull the LQ up that 7%grade in 5th gear at 65mph. Nope, I
don't drive it that fast in the hills (or any where, with a trailer), but my
husband just HAD to get around that too slow truck
ahead...fuel mileage is around 14mpg pulling, 17-18 without.
What don't I like about it?? It is tall, we had
to have sissy bars added to be able to get in; also, I am short, so
reaching the clutch is a pain, and hubby didn't get automatic seats. I
think it's ugly, but the GUYS love it's look...
also, I HATE the payments $$$!!!
Renie
