Tow haul mode
I am sure this has been discussed before, but who uses it and how? I have a 1 ton diesel dually and will be towing a 5500 lb (dry) trailer. I am assuming it will lower fuel economy? Am I correct in as...
Forum Discussion
EcoBullet wrote:Skid Row Joe wrote:
do not use that button to downshift the rig to brake it's speed. Use the foot brake, by a push and release methods so as not to burn up the brakes with a constant push on them. The transmission will wear adversely if you try using it as a braking device, especially on those long, steep grades.
I'm no expert, but this is just about backwards of what I've always read, and done myself. I think I've even read in an owner's manual or two that you should downshift when descending hills to allow the engine to brake, rather than overusing your brakes. If you go down much of a hill and don't use any sort of engine braking, you stand a good chance of brake failure due to overheating, even if you do push and release. Your method might work in Texas, but please don't try that in the mountains of Colorado.
With a trans overhaul or replacement that runs $3,000+ and a brake job running a few hundred - the math is easy on which system to brake with.
Anywhere, in the United States auto transmission downshifting will potentially harm the transmission. My Ford PSD's owners manual specifically states not using it as a braking device. If your method works for you have at it, but it does your trans. no good - whether you realize it or not is the only difference here. That includes Colorado, btw.:W
