First, a thanks for all the "newbie" advice on this forum. A lot of great wisdom and I have read "The Newbies Guide to Air Streaming" by Rich Lubr. Very good book. So the bigger question: I have an '02 Denali Yukon XL with a 6.0 liter V8. Strong engine. The other is a
1500 Series Silverado, 5.3 liter. I towed the 28' Ambassador through a torrential rainstorm nearly 200+ miles with no problems. But, the Chevy got thirsty and I could see my gas mileage plummet. Didn't check, but it was surely below 10 MPG. Traveling uphill into the northwest Arkansas hills is about a
1500 foot elevation gain, all gradual except the route on I540 north deep into northwest Arkansas. Even the big trucks flip on their hazard lights and crawl at 10 MPH. I really don't want to run out and buy a 3/4 ton unit right now, but is that the reality of towing?
I have not towed the Airstream with the GMC Yukon yet, but the 6.0 liter is a pretty buff motor.
Second: black box braking. Is this an absolute? Do I run over to the RV store and rig this up? I've had no problems braking at this stage, I take my time, go slow and make sure there's plenty of room. I can certainly feel the weight but the Chevy had no problems. Curious as to the conventional wisdom and application.
Third (and last), will a locksmith help re-cylinder a locking latch? My latch on the furnace exterior has become worn and won't lock or unlock. Frozen.
I pulled the unit, lubed, etc., but no luck. The part would probably cost $$$
and it's simply a bad cylinder. Any luck with old parts?
All the best,
Beartooth