"""A well designed piece of equipment will adapt to the conditions it's used in. Which is what the truck is doing by deciding to or to not go to V4..."""
I agree, it should adapt to changing conditions. What is the condition that would cause it to stay in V8 down a 1/2mile stretch, I'm guessing 5-7% grade? Some days it stays in V4, some days it stays in V8.
The system is random, it's not consistent day to day or during the same conditions. I've had the fire recall so I'm assuming my truck is up to date on the rest.