NC TN route advice

SloMo · 05-18-2016, 12:20 PM

I have a trip planned for the end of July in Cherokee, NC. I've been told the route down 81 - 26 - 40 is extremely mountainous and will test the limits of your TV. I do have a 1 ton DRW with exhaust brake and electronic shift transmission but I'd rather not get in any white knuckle situations if not necessary. As you can see Google suggests an alternate route of 81 - 77 - 40. I'd like opinions from anyone that lives or frequents that area. I'd like the mountainous scenery but don't want to risk it if it's that bad. It says it's only about 30 mins longer if that. Thanks!

Maurice

instymp · 05-18-2016, 02:04 PM

26 is more mountainous than the alternative but many do it every day. (5ers, A's & TTs of all sizes)
For the sake of a couple minutes, probably the alternative might be better. Although I don't think you would have a problem with either. Same gear going down as up.

SloMo · 05-18-2016, 02:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by instymp

26 is more mountainous than the alternative but many do it every day. (5ers, A's & TTs of all sizes)

For the sake of a couple minutes, probably the alternative might be better. Although I don't think you would have a problem with either. Same gear going down as up.

Thank You, just the type of info I was looking for!

chris199 · 05-18-2016, 04:57 PM

We made that trip 2 years ago from SEPA. We used 81 26 40 with no issues. Had a Tundra and a 32' TT.....No issues at all. I'd take that route with my SRW and the Monty.

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SloMo · 05-18-2016, 05:11 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by chris199

We made that trip 2 years ago from SEPA. We used 81 26 40 with no issues. Had a Tundra and a 32' TT.....No issues at all. I'd take that route with my SRW and the Monty.

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Thanks Chris, I think I'll take that route as well. I may never get back down to that area, I'd hate to not have the memory of the scenic drive.

NotyetMHCowner · 05-19-2016, 09:16 AM

We have pulled our fiver several times across I-40 between TN and NC. Its not bad at all. I have seen much bigger tests for our truck than that route. It gets curvy for a while, just back down to 55-60 mph and enjoy the scenery.

fredetteb · 05-19-2016, 09:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by NotyetMHCowner

We have pulled our fiver several times across I-40 between TN and NC. Its not bad at all. I have seen much bigger tests for our truck than that route. It gets curvy for a while, just back down to 55-60 mph and enjoy the scenery.

X2 on this.

Living in the little town of Newport, TN (only 65 miles or so from Asheville, NC) I have made the trip "over the mountain" on I-40 many, many time with a variety of RV's from a 10' Jayco popup to a 40' Raptor.

You original route is traveled my millions of RVers every year and as long as you THINK ahead and PLAN ahead you will enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the USA.

canesfan · 05-20-2016, 07:22 AM

I took 26 on a trip from SC when I lived there to Bristol TN. Had the same truck I have now, only it was newer, and a little smaller and lighter fiver, think it was ~30-32 footer. No problems at all. Over the mountain was enjoyable, really feeling the Allison do its thing. I would not say at all that it "tested" anything, and the views were wonderful. I would do it again without thinking. Enjoy your trip no matter what route you choose.

SloMo · 05-20-2016, 08:04 AM

Thanks everyone for the advice. I can't wait to see the views you guys are talking about!

SloMo · 05-20-2016, 08:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by fredetteb

X2 on this.

I have made the trip "over the mountain" on I-40 many, many time with a variety of RV's from a 10' Jayco popup to a 40' Raptor.

Hey Fred! Before I looked at your sig I spotted the 3602 in your picture. Looks really nice, what's the secret for keeping the decals on tho LOL?

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