hfbundy wrote:
This defect which appears to be inherent to all 2016 Ford F53 chassis with 16,000# and 18,000# ratings and is discussed extensively under several threads on the irv2.com forum. Specifically page 33 of the owner's manual states in part: The tow haul feature Provides engine braking in all forward gears, which will slow your vehicle and assist you in controlling your vehicle when descending a grade. Depending on driving conditions and load conditions, may downshift the transmission, slow your vehicle and control your vehicle speed when descending a hill, without pressing the accelerator pedal.....
It should be noted that adequate manual downshift engine braking is not possible because gears 5 and 3 cannot be manually selected.
My experience and that of many other owners of smaller motorhomes having the 2016 Ford F53 chassis with the 6 speed transmission is that they perform none of these functions. The tow haul feature in the heavier chassis appears to be working as described. We have filed numerous complaints with the Ford Customer Relationship Center without obtaining any positive responses.
A couple of thoughts, as I believe you have the same transmission that is in my Super Duty;
1. You're not supposed to manually downshift it, it does that on it's own.
2. Try tapping the brakes when you feel you need the transmission to kick in and help with the braking. I have found on my truck if I just let it go it provides some engine braking. If I just tap the brake pedal once the engine braking becomes far more aggressive.
Hopefully that will work for you as well.
