Transmission temperature question

[lancekeys]

I have never towed anything with an automatic, but I know the temperature is critical. I will be towing with a 2009 Tahoe next weekend. At what temperature should I be concerned? Other than keeping it in T/H mode, is there anything I can do to make the transmission work better while towing?

[Old-Biscuit]

High temp idiot light probably comes on at 250*F

If it doesn't come on.....good to go

Use Tow/Haul mode
If transmission is 'hunting' (shifting alot back/forth) take it out of Overdrive or drop down a gear

Come down a steep grade using same gear you went up the grade in.

Course it matters whether or not you have a tranny cooler, its clean & trailer is not overloading tow vehicle

I have a gauge....
Tranny temp runs 160*F to 180*F normal temp...depends on how hot day temps are.
See temp climb to 200*-205*F going up long steep grade when towing 5vr
See temp climb over 210*F when backing into a tough to get into site

[ib516]

250*F or more is generally considered too hot. The closer to that, the less time I'd want to be there. As an example, 240*F while climbing a grade and a quick drop in temp down the other side is nothing to worry about. 240*F all day on the flats is too hot. JMHO.

[GordonThree]

Do you have an external gauge or just a fancy idiot light that sits in the middle of the dial the entire time?

Even the digital readout on my Ram, my trans temp never varied more than 10-15 deg F towing on the flat or up some crazy steep and long grades. I suspect it's not a "real" number the computer is feeding me, but some approximation the computer fabricates.

Unless you suspect trans problems, dont' worry about it - your computer will tell you if it's getting too hot, check your owners manual - there's probably a message that pops up in the little gear selection / odometer window.