I recently purchased a new work truck. 2012 GMC Sierra 2500 HD with a work cab on the back, not a traditional truck cab. I regularly visit our mountain townhouse which involved a steep road to get down the mountain. In my previous work vehicle, 2002 Chevy Suburban Z71, I always put it in second gear to have the engine assist going down the mountain. My question is, with this new truck, second gear doesn't seem the same. Granted, have only tested it once on a short trip to the general store up on the mountain. Should I put it in tow mode first before dropping down to second gear or see what happens using just second gear? I will be heading down the mountain later this morning and want to spare the brakes as much as possible. Never driven a 2500 before.

92 Ford Ranger XLT with 2.9 V6. I was trying to replace the flexible brake line that feeds the front brake caliper. But I ran into a big hassle with the brake line tightening nut getting stripped. So I assume replacing the entire brake line is the easiest thing to do? I traced the line to a junction fitting under the master cylinder. I attached a photo. I had to cut away the old flex line with a Dremel tool. (Yep, Finally took the plunge and purchased a Dremel) What about just snipping off the damaged nut and re-flaring the original brake line already mounted in the truck......out of the question? I'm not crazy about flaring anyway. Never done it. I have speed bleeders installed . So I can do a one man brake bleed. If I replace the brake line, I'd like to use the poly coated line pre-flared with fittings. I watched a guy in the parts store bend it by hand without tools. I measured about 60 inches straight line distance from master cylinder to right front flexible brake line. I believe 72 inches is the longest brake line available in the parts store. Will that be enough with the turns brake line has to make? I can't believe they even put out those cheesy little brake line tightening nuts. Of course, those things will strip eventually.. Make them bigger and thicker.