Gunnison experts?

[Nadine]

Originally Posted by zebedee

If anyone has any more Gunnison advice or winter vehicle advice, I'd appreciate it

I lived in Leadville when it was as cold or colder than Gunnison. We had no problem with our vehicles. But at that time we did have what was called a heated dip stick to put in the oil. When we had to park outside all night. We did use it in the morning to heat the oil while my hubby shoveled out the driveway. Road crews were out all night and would plow our driveways closed every night. If you parked on the street as some had to. You might not find the vehicle. I am guessing that if you do not have a garage or even if you do, it would be to your advantage to install a block heater. Diesels, of coarse is a must. If you are asking if you need a 4 wheel drive. We like them but you need to learn their limits and how to drive them. I don't know what they call them but those that take over separately when one spins and straightens the car are really nice. High end but nice

[zebedee]

Thansk for the info. I think I'll start out with a block heater and hopefully build a garage later on if I dont have one at first

[jazzlover]

Originally Posted by zebedee

If anyone has any more Gunnison advice or winter vehicle advice, I'd appreciate it

In winter in Gunnison, it is definitely wise to adhere to the "severe duty" maintenance schedule on your vehicle--40 below is definitely "severe duty." A block heater is really a necessity in Gunnison if your vehicle is parked outside. Also, if your vehicle is a diesel, be aware that unwinterized fuel will gel at about 10 above. Winterized fuel is good to about -20. Below that, and you really need to burn No. 1 diesel or add an anti-gelling additive. Most areas in Colorado sell winterized diesel after about November 1st until mid-March or so. Carrying a bottle of Power Service is a good idea. Adding that when fueling lowers the gelling point of the fuel to a much lower temperature. It's not a bad idea with gas engines to add a bottle of gas line antifreeze once in a while, too.

Also, expect to get dismal fuel economy in winter. When I lived there, I drove a pickup that would get 15 mpg in summer--it got about 8 or 9 mpg in winter. Long warm-up time, thick gear lube, etc., etc. really raises hell with fuel economy. And, yes, that very cold weather will shorten the life of most any vehicle. 4WD is not necessary, but a front-wheel drive car with traction control is a good option if you don't want a four-wheel-drive.

[fun4mj]

I've never lived there, but have good friends who have lived there for years. We've visited at all times of the year. It's very peaceful in general. Small town living. Safe. Best restaurant by far is Garlic Mike's. Best Italian food I've had in this country, in comparison to NYC and D.C. areas. Michael's a culinary chef from the East coast and has won awards for his cooking. As far as weather; summer's are great. Winter's didn't seem different to me than the North East.