Towing with or without using the Tow switch?

FearTheSpear · 08-12-2006, 08:39 PM

Hey all..

I noticed that if I use the Tow switch when towing my boat, the gas mileage drops drastically... I have towed without it and setting the cruise to 65, the RPM's level out at around 1500.
Of course, here in Florida (unlike home) everything is flat driving, so I see no need to use the switch, but had a buddy say I would burn out my OD... I was told by the dealer that the Titan has a true 4 speed auto tranny, not a 3 speed with OD, so now I am confused... Will I hurt the tranny if I tow without using the switch? My boat is about 4000 lbs and on a dual axle.

Thanks!

Christof

scotty · 08-13-2006, 09:08 AM

Unless transmission shifts back and fiorth between 4th and 5th nto need tow mode at only 4ooo pounds.

CdnTitan LE 4x4 · 08-13-2006, 09:14 AM

I also noticed that in "Tow mode" my temp guage will fluctuate quite dramatically and often ..I only tow MAX 4000lbs so i dont' think i'll use it anymore thanks!

Shane06fl · 08-13-2006, 05:50 PM

with 4000 pounds you don't need tow mode but you should tow in 4th. Dealer is correct you have true 4 speed tranny with OD, 5th gear is OD. Not good to tow heavy loads in OD and despite what the truck is rated to pull 4000lbs is heavy. All Tow mode does is change the shift points so you can hold a gear longer before upshifting and that has no effect on OD, if your in OD and your speed drops it's coming out of OD with tow mode or no tow mode.

ttugrad95 · 08-13-2006, 06:00 PM

The Titan towing guide says to use the tow mode when you are towing something like 75% of GVWR, which would be close to the max tow rating. It says it won't hurt anything to use it but it will decrease your fuel economy.