Thanks. When others originally pointed out the issues with the Million Dollar Highway I just took a quick glance at alternates and saw the route to the west that's a lot longer. Our next destination will be Taos so don't need to pass through Durango (although maybe we should?). If we skip Durango looks like Gunnison/Monte Vista would be the shortest route
That said....
When I found the picture I attached (previous post), I'm now thinking the picture made the road look much narrower than it really is. When I did several Google streetview looks, in many of them there are 35-40' coaches with toads, along with full-sized semis. In every shot the road is substantially wider than California Highway 1 north of San Simeon, which I've driven - takes full concentration but as you say, no reason to drive off the edge. (I have to admit though, wouldn't be a good time to blow a front tire. Not that there is a good time.)
I would like to see both the views from the highway, and Silverton, so will have to give it more research and thought. Will step through the entire route with streetview to get a full sense of it.
Re steep downgrades, I've had the coach on as much as 18%. Down to first at the top and exhaust brake, with some braking. Slow but worked out fine.
I do appreciate everyone's comments on this highway, whatever route we end up taking.