engine brake while towing?
OK, so just getting a feel for towing my 5er with the 2013 Ram Cummins. When tow enabled (heavy tow used with appropriate tire pressure) and engine brake on, going downhill after taking foot off gas ...
Forum Discussion
ShinerBock wrote:coolbreeze01 wrote:
Actually, the shifts aren't firmer up-shifting in TH
Actually yes they are.
Only because RPM is higher and more throttle is being used when the shift occurs. If more torque is being applied to the clutches when the shift occurs, of course the shifts will feel firmer. Any automatic transmission will do that.
My manual says that in tow haul.
"Fourth to fifth upshifts are delayed. Shifts into fifth and sixth gear are still allowed under steady cruise conditions. Closed throttle downshifts (for improved engine braking) may occur during steady braking maneuvers."
That is where the problem is with my truck, it is too aggressive on the closed throttle downshifts. I will be descending a hill with EB and TH on and it will downshift when I don't want it to, forcing me to either add throttle or turn TH off and upshift to maintain the speed I want. I find it easier to just turn it off beforehand then re-engage it when I reach the bottom of the grade. Later trucks may operate differently but I do not like the way tow haul and the exhaust brake work together when towing with mine. It's a programming issue, not a mechanical one. Ironically, they work better together when not towing.
