Knowing when to stop.

[ericbphoto]

Well, here at Wildcat in Kentucky, there is a place called Wildcat Dome. A 2 part steep climb with sharp left turn at the top. Then it opens to a hilltop with a view for miles across the interstate and a lake. I decided to try it. I went over there. I looked at the first half if the hill and thought "I should be able to do this." So I lined up and gave it a shot. No go. Stopped about half way. What's worse, is that it was muddy and when I tried to hold it with the breaks, I was sliding backwards. As it slid, it started getting crosswise. So I let the wheels roll enough to get some steering control. Ended up in the ditch on the right, backed up against a tree.

So I recovered that. Then I walked the first half of the hill so I could get a look at the upper section. I decided that if Ii stayed left, I should be able to make it. The upper section was dry and I thought I could do it. So I lined up again and backed up the opposite trail so I could get some momentum. Well, about 3/4 or more up, it was bouncing too much and I had to lay off the skinny pedal. Aaaand I was denied again. This time, I had trouble steering it down the hill backwards. Even allowing the wheels to rotate ended up with me sideways on the trail with the rear end against the bank. Hmm. I don't have a winch. The truck felt precarious and that's an understatement.

So I tied off to a tree in a way that I hoped would help keep me from rolling. I then went forward and back a few times, using wheel slippage to my advantage and got it straightened out pretty good. Chocked the wheels while I disconnected my safety line. Got back in and was able to back down the hill.

After picking up my wheel chocks and recovery stuff. I got back in and started the engine again and happened to look at the 4x4 buttons and indicators. I had done all that in 2 wheel high. I thought about making a third attempt in 4-lo. But then I figured that if I'm so hot and tired as to make that stupid mistake, I better stop. It was after 3:00pm, the sky was fitting dark and I heard thunder. Plus, the park is nearly deserted. So, here I am sharing my valuable lesson with y'all. The truck is back on the trailer to head to Attica tomorrow and both fiberglass besides are broken. But I didn't roll it over.

Stay safe and know when to quit.

Looking down the lower section

Upper section

 

[Dirtman]

You're a silly goose. At least you didn't break anything important that would have ruined your trip.

Mirab, with sails unfurled...

 

[snoranger]

That looks like you could have driven right up it in 4-low.

 

[ericbphoto]

That looks like you could have driven right up it in 4-low.

It really does. I probably did stuff just as hard or worse earlier in the day. I'm proud of what the truck did today. It's a little mountain goat. The point is, I was getting tired and not thinking right, and the weather was about to get bad and I was basically alone. Not a good combination for taking more chances.

 

[Fast Eddie]

I see your problem Eric...your truck is a step side

 

[ericbphoto]

I see your problem Eric...your truck is a step side

You're funny.

Actually, the fiberglass panels are vulnerable. I'd love to build a flat bed for it.

 

[Fast Eddie]

You're funny.

Actually, the fiberglass panels are vulnerable. I'd love to build a flat bed for it.

I'm sure you've seen some examples here. Looks like it can be done fairly easy and cheap? Don't hold me to it. Just a thought.

Safe travels. Have a blast in Attica.

 

[DILLARD000]

Looks easier than my home driveway, certainly in winter; put'er in 4WLo & go!
But yep, if your tired & it's getting dark, best not take extra chances & make thoughtless choices.

 

[ericbphoto]

Pictures don't do it justice. With the brakes locked up, the truck was sliding back down the hill. Very difficult to walk without something to hold onto. 4-lo would have given more control and helped keep engine rpms up. But traction was a major issue.

 

[PetroleumJunkie412]

If you want another set of fiberglass sides, I have a set you can have.

If you're getting rid of a rust free stepside bed with cracked sides, I call dibs

 

[sgtsandman]

Being tired and taking chances gets you every time. It certainly has gotten me a time or two.

 

[Milkman5687]

Flatbed plug!

 

[ericbphoto]

Flatbed plug!

You making a free donation?

 

[Dirtman]

I have a sheet of plywood and some rope you can have.

 

[Roert42]

I have a sheet of plywood and some rope you can have.

Plywood is expensive these days. I’ll take it.