I have a 2004 F-250 with the Power Stroke and auto trans. My question is about the use of the tow/haul mode. I use the tow/haul mode when towing my trailers that are over 6000#. At what amount of load should I engage the tow/haul mode? I have a slide in camper that loaded weighs in about 2400#, should I use it then? I’ve have not felt it necessary when towing a 1000#, but should I? And my last question, when on steep down hills with no load would it hurt anything to use it then?

Thanks in advance, JD

 

JD,
I have over 44,000 miles and only use the tow/haul when starting up (pulling a load) or slowing down, not while maintaining highway speeds above 60 mph- I do use it when empty going down mountain passes.

Happy New Year Everyone!

 

I use the braking feature of Tow/Haul all the time, even running around light.

As for heavy pulling. I think the idea is to use the Tow/Haul mode to reduce the transmission hunting from gear to gear, and to take advantage of the transmission and engine braking strategy..

It never "hurts" to use the Tow/Haul mode, except that you will get slightly reduced fuel mileage (when running light) due to the higher RPM shift points. Unlike the previous automatic, using the Tow/Haul mode does not take away your overdrive gear, it merely changes the conditions and speeds that overdrive is engaged, and changes the converter lockup conditions.

 

use mine around town whithout the fiver hooked on,, seems my little finger is just the correct length to press the button,,

leave it on most of the time when towing,,

enjoy,,

 

Thanks for all the info (and quick response) and have a Happy New Year.

JD

 

JD - must be a good guy - same initials as me !

The tow/haul is just computer controlled and changed shift points that includes downshifting on deceleration...
it's not like the old tow haul where it changed the load ratings, etc...

If your truck can pull, handle the weight, and not "hunt" for gears on inclines WITHOUT the tow/haul, then u don't need it...

BUT, it does do a good job of getting you going a bit better by staying in the lower gears a little longer... and it is BEST at helping you stop by downshifting and using engine braking with light pressure on the brake pedal...

Saves your brake pads and comes to a nice controlled stop
(even unloaded like I do most of the time)
After all - the tranny/engine is under warranty - the brake pads are not !!!