| Author | Message | ||
     Brian Dursch (Dursch) New Member Username: Dursch Post Number: 1 Registered: 04-2004 |
I have recently purchased a '96 Disco w/ ~ 85k on it - FINALLY I have a disco!!! In June, I am moving from Cincinnati to Seattle, a short 2400 mile trek across the country. I would like to tow a 12' trailer, which I know the disco is more than capable of. However, I was concerned if it would be an issue doing so for such a long distance during the summer. Does anyone have any experience w/ such long distance towing, or have any suggestions for what to look out for to avoid problems on the road? Thanks, Brian New Disco Owner  | ||
| Joey (Joey4420) Senior Member Username: Joey4420 Post Number: 713 Registered: 04-2003 |
Brian, my first suggestion would be to go through the intire Disco and change all fluids filters and gear oil. I would also look at belts, plugs, wires and all other normal maint items. This should make sure that you have a pretty uneventful trip. Of course always carry spare fluid for a long trip. | ||
| Geoff 93 RRC (Geoff) Senior Member Username: Geoff Post Number: 321 Registered: 11-2002 |
Lock the trans in 3rd. Shifting produces a lot of heat. Also the engine will be more comfortable at higher revs - less stress on the bearings and you're moving air, coolant, and oil around more quickly. A seat of the pants check is if you use more gas pedal in 4th vs 3rd. In flat areas you might be able to go to overdrive. Put the rear tires at max pressure. This will keep their temps down and improve handling. Get your tires balanced. If you do any engine work, try and get it done so that you can drive the truck for about 100 mi before your trip to rule out any problems. | ||
| Leigh Mikolajczyk (Leigh_m) Member Username: Leigh_m Post Number: 88 Registered: 01-2004 |
I agree with Geoff fill the tires to max pressure. The light in the dash should tell you if your having over heating problems with the transmission. Third gear only unless it is really flat. Put the weight of the trailer over the axels not up in the tongue of the trailer. Trailer Check the trailer bearings and you will want to make sure it has brakes | ||
| Kevin Novakowski (Kln) Member Username: Kln Post Number: 44 Registered: 02-2002 |
I don't think you should be towing in overdrive for two reasons. Its the weakest gear and you want to keep your rpm range up. I run @2500 as a minimum. I'll only add a couple of extra pounds to all tires to compensate for any added hitch weight, my wife and dog, and some extra wife and dog stuff. kln |
