A Good Day for Penguins

[egr58]

“A Good Day for Penguins”

Pennsylvania just experienced its second Nor'easter yesterday in the past week. I had some errands to run, because I could, and needed some relief from cabin fever - so I did. I was out for about 6 hours (including stops and lunch) 60 miles driven during the worst of the blizzard.

Observations while piloting 2008 Panzer [snow] Vagon S:

• Philadelphia metro area received six inches of snow two months ago, at the time I still had my 20 inch wheels and summer performance tires (Vredestein - Sessanta SUV 275/40-20) on. Dumb and dangerous :eek: - between the wider footprint and the tread pattern I may as well had slicks on :cursing: ;

• Stock 18 inch wheels a MUST with dedicated snow tires. I swapped out the 20's a couple of weeks ago;

• Michelin Latitude Tour HP 255/55-18 are OK, but I'm putting the Pirelli Scorpion Ice and Snows back on. The Pirelli tires are just outstanding in the snow in my opinion;

• Forget locking up the differentials - Just Turn PSM OFF;

• Forget the brakes - they just don't work above 5 MPH;

• PSM Off, with the more aggressive engine mapping, selecting this setting allows you to use Tiptronic downshifting to slow down. The Panzer Vagon downshifts at a higher RMP and is quite controllable - that's the good news;

• PSM Off - the bad news - the throttle is very twitchy - very light throttle feathering is required, unless you want to dig four holes;

• Don't get cocky and don't be lulled into complacency - you can go right outside the drivability envelope in a heartbeat :o ;

• Let it Drift - the stability management software for traction control is simply superb! Frankly unbelievable! Point the steering wheel where you want to go and keep your foot in it (observing previous points) :drive: ;

• Take a shovel during your snow excursions - it helps others less fortunate than you;

• Red coolant noted under the engine compartment (TSB) during an extended 30 minute stop to render logistical support (I was the ‘Rear View Camera’ to prevent a house from being backed into and did some shoveling) for a stuck tractor trailer until relieved by PA State Troopers;

• I need to get the TSB for the water pump gasket swapped out at the dealer – reference http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?a...;code=cayenneg2 for contributing members ;

• HVAC system doesn't clear the fogged windows after climbing in and out while covered with snow, no matter how much brushing of clothing and banging of boots upon re-entry - keep a window cracked and an absorbent cotton towel handy;

• In near Whiteout conditions engaging the Rear Fog Lights is an awesome safety feature;

• Thanks to "odix" :thankyou: and the informative thread http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=31453 on the headlight washers;

• Safely back from my snow excursion. Cabin fever a distant memory. I have renewed respect and appreciation for this 'Pig'. :rolleyes: It loves to wallow in the snow - Enjoy it. :D

[schmidty]

Bravo, great post, love the pics. Nice to see another Cayenne out playing in the snow.

[egr58]

Thank you - it really was too much fun; these are great in the snow.

[phillipj]

Awesome pictures. What a storm... Have no clue what that is like being a native Southern Californian B)

[egr58]

Thank you, I worked just outside of San Diego in Coronado Island a ways back - I miss your weather. That Angeles Crest Hwy to east of you looks like it may get snow - if you ever run into it the Panzer Vagon will get you through it. Cheers.

[phillipj]

:clapping: :clapping: :clapping:

[mudman2]

:clapping: :clapping: :clapping:

Nice write up, only time I was out to go to wawa on 232 for essential coffee, was sweet with the P Ice and Snows