do I need to use the tow/haul when pulling my 5th wheel on flat roads

 

Only if you want to. Tow/haul in trucks with the 5R110 is optional, it raises the shift points and engages a sort of exhaust brake with the torque converter and turbo vane control. But the transmission doesn't care if it is in tow/haul or not, it's your choice. I rarely engage it except when I want the engine braking effect.

 

I always try and use it when towing, if you have a panic stop situation most times you aren't going to think/have time to turn the tow haul on to have the engine help you brake. There is really no reason not to use it.

 

Super Dutys are hard on brakes. More so when trailering. I can't think of a reason not to use it.

 

Hot topic here in the past.
Here's what my 2007 Ford manual says...

The manual..." To eliminate excessive transmission shifting, activate the Tow/Haul feature. This will also assist in transmission cooling."

Another... " the Tow/haul feature improves transmission operation when towing a trailer or heavy load."

If Ford didn't see the value in the Tow/haul mode, they wouldn't have created it.

I can't imagine ignoring this feature, for whatever reason.

Why would you not use it Patrick? Any benefit in your mind?

 

That is what I do. If it starts to hunt gears I engage tow/haul.

Exactly correct.

For an expert opinion (not just mine or MC5C's) on this topic you can refer to this thread, post #12.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...ot-towing.html

 

The first time you have to panic stop with a trailer attached, you'll clearly understand what Tow/Haul mode does for you when stopping. I railed the brakes at about 55 MPH with about 8000 pounds of trailer behind me. The super aggressive downshifts combined with the TBC and ABS brought everything to a controlled stop very rapidly, so much so that my wife was stunned.

"How did you do that?" she asked. " I stomped the brakes, Red did the rest," I replied.

 

It costs nothing to use it. As noted, it provides the benefit of the engine braking, and modified shift points. There is no reason not to use it. The only time I don't use it is when I forget to turn it back on after a stop!

 

Ford created this to make driving with a trailer easier. If you like it better without tow/haul turn it off.

 

I haul, not tow, my slide in truck camper. It takes the rolling hills better in tow/haul.

 

thanks to all, Pat

 

Everyone has an opinion. The question then becomes... What is an "Expert opinion" as chalkie suggests.
I would hope everyone with this particular question would take the time and get Ford's opinion, via their manual.
Yes some areas are pretty generic, not here.
In my post I used quotation marks to ensure everyone knew that this wasn't my opinion, but the opinion of Ford.
If they're not the expert, why waste the money to produce an operating manual?
I really do appreciate and value every opinion here...but
Before asking questions, I feel the need to read my manual before I assume a thing.

 

Mark,
Does Ford believe it's "easier" as you state, or is safety a factor with the quote info above?
I guess it goes back to the question... Why add a feature or benefit if it isn't a feature or benefit?

 

thanks,Pat

 

It is a feature. Most people that have used tow/haul like towing or hauling with it on. So there is a benefit.