Transmission downshifts

[oldpa]

This must be my week for questions.

When driving in the mountains is it best to just push down on the gas to downshift or is it ok to manually put the transmission into the next lower gear? I have done both and it seems the transmission really screams sometimes when I do it manually but as the RPM’s drop fast I would like to get to a lower gear quickly.

What is the red-line for the engine RPM?

‘03 Winniebago Sightseer, P-32, gas 8.1
Greg

[JCM]

Red line is about 4500 rpm. I like to keep my motor at about 35-3700 rpm when climbing a long or steep hill. I am running in the best torque range and the motor is not screaming. Occasionally the large engine fan kicks in and makes quite a bit of noise but I would rather hear it than not.
Wait until the engine rpm drops to that range then downshift and keep the rpm stable with the gas pedal. Then be patient and you will reach the top of the hill- maybe a little longer but it will be much easier on you and your coach. Enjoy going by some of the big diesel coaches.