Mountain Driving Tips with Your Motorhome

Navigating steep slopes while driving your motorhome can seem overwhelming, especially if you’re a new RV owner. So we’ve created this guide to share a few easy tricks for safely driving your motorhome around a mountain. Keep reading to learn more, then visit Jim’s Trailer Sales to look at our extensive inventory of motorhomes for sale. If you let our team know about your requirements, we’ll help you choose a model that’s right for you. We’re in Grafton, Ohio, where we proudly serve those from Cleveland.

Know Your Motorhome

The first point you’ll want to consider is knowing your motorhome. Find out its turning radius, stopping distance, and any unique quirks your motorhome may have due to design or age.

If your camper is powered by gas, you’ll want to be a little more cautious while driving it over a mountain. That’s because gas RVs have less power than comparable diesel models, and can make you work a little more diligently. Also, gas RVs lack an advanced engine-braking system, which helps prevent the brakes from overheating.

Use Hazard Lights as Needed

When you are on an incline or a decline, you’ll want to reduce your motorhome’s speed. Usually, you may need to drive 20 or 30 miles under the speed limit. To alert other drivers around you of your intentional speed reduction, you’ll want to turn on your motorhome’s hazard lights. Doing this will give the motorists enough time to get around you safely.

Advice for Going Up a Slope

When you’re going uphill, remember to downshift your camper into a lower gear and pack some extra power to push your motorhome up the mountain pass.

Advice for Going Down a Slope

When you’re going down a hill, reduce your camper’s speed as you approach the decline. Remember that your motorhome will pick up enough speed to keep you going on a longer and steeper hill.

You must avoid slamming your brakes as it can damage your braking system and make it less responsive. Also, if your motorhome doesn’t automatically downshift when you’re going down a hill, firmly press the brake. Doing this will increase engine speed and RPM and help you avoid engaging the brakes too much.

We hope these tips help you drive your motorhome safely and efficiently. For more ideas or to look at motorhomes for sale, visit Jim’s Trailer Sales in Grafton, OH, where we happily welcome our friends from Cleveland.