OK- - - -test drive update! I just returned from a 30-mile loop, all state highways and back-country roads, no interstate travel. The truck likes 50-55 MPH in 5th. gear, with one short run a little over 60 with no apparent strain. 40-45 in 4th. feels good, and granny low gear isn't necessary for starting from a stop sign. The coolant temp runs 160 degrees with no strain. It got up to 175 on a long uphill pull in 5th gear, and immediately dropped back to 155 coasting down the other side. Oil pressure is rock-steady at 43 PSI. The steering is pretty good, and there's only a slight wheel balance shimmy at highway speed.
There' still a minor brake issue- - - -the rear brakes don't want to respond to adjustment, and it takes one full pedal stroke plus another half-stroke to get a firm pedal. Then they're a little slow to release. The parking brake works very well. It's a HUGE disc brake on the back of the transmission with two sets of pads, and I fabricated some linkage from the handle in the cab to the brake assembly shortly after Ed left the truck with me. I'll drive defensively and anticipate my stops whenever possible. I'd strongly recommend a full brake job as soon as possible once the rig makes it to Denver.
It's a HEAVY rig- - - -front axle weight is 5260 lbs., the rear axle carries 5940 lbs. Total weight with me onboard and a full gas tank: 11,200 lbs.
Now, if the weather would just cool down about 20 degrees! Wishful thinking, huh?
Jerry
