I'm heading back to Colorado next week from Monterey, California to Colorado Springs, Colorado. The route I've chosen will take me over Monarch Pass west of Salida. I've been over this pass in a car but never in a motorhome. I have a 2011 Thor Serrano with a Maxxforce 7 diesel engine and a Jeep Wrangler in tow. I don't have an exhaust brake, but I've been down 7% grades before without difficulty. The Allison transmission gives me pretty good braking in 2nd or 1st gears. Monarch pass' max grade is rated at 6.4% by the CODOT. Just to be sure, I thought I'd ask if anyone has any experience going over this pass with a coach that has this engine or something similar. Also, should I unhook my toad before going up? I've never had an overheating problem, but generally I can't get much over 30mph with the Jeep in tow. Thoughts anyone?
Steve and Debbie
Estes Park, Colorado