Tow/Haul vs 3rd Gear

CapnDean · November 15, 2001

Can anybody tell me what mechanical changes take place when you decide to use Tow/Haul?

Occasionally I tow one of my fishing skiffs < 1000#. On other occasions I tow a very old 8N Ferd (sorry guys GM no makem farm equipment) tractor. I guess that the tractor & bushhog set up totals about 4000# but this is just a guess.

I have decided that I do not like the tow/haul mode. I think that it holds the truck in gear too long...I'd prefer it to shift sooner.

My question is: Would I be doing any damage to use the 3rd gear selection without the tow/haul when towing the tractor?

I know that OD will not handle the constant in and out of highway towing with a big load and that it is the reason you can hang in 3rd gear. Saves your lockup converter. But am I doing the right thing or should I go ahead and use T/H mode?

I realize that it might do more than just alter the shift points...but if that's alllllll it does...I am hanging with the 3rd gear deal!

Victory Red · November 15, 2001

Can't answer you question, but I have wondered the same thing. My old 82 GMC had a 700R4 and I would always tow in 3rd gear. I don't see any problem doing it that way now either, although I haven't tried.

Dalma · November 15, 2001

The tow/haul mode does two things as far as I know. First it raises the shift rpm points to keep the engine in it's maximum torque range and secondly firms up the shifts to speed up the actual gear changes to reduce heat build up in the tranny.

Shaners · November 15, 2001

Leaving your truck in "3" won't hurt it when towing. It actually says in the manual if your truck shifts in and out of OD too much then pull it down to 3 when towing.

Dalma is right. Tow/Haul increases your line pressures for harder and quicker shifts so there is less wear and tear. It also raises the shift point so the motor is kept up in the power band.

It says in the manual that Tow/Haul mode is designed to work best when you reach 75% of your Gross combined weight rating of your truck. With your skiff you should OK with out Tow/Haul. With your tractor, I think it would be up to you...