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@jimwalker2224
2 ай бұрын
Pretty good explanation of tow/haul but here's something you didnt know but will now. Engine braking in slippery conditions is a no no. 26 years of driving semi trucks, and 10 years as an instructor I will tell you the exhaust pressure created by engine braking puts force into the drive train to slow you down. This force when used on slippery surfaces can cause a jack knife where the drive axle goes slower than the momentum or forward/sideways push. Oil, coolant, diesel fuel, ice,snow, and rain can all cause a jack knife under engine breaking. Always best to turn off the engine break in hazardous conditions.
@waylandsnowmobile
2 ай бұрын
Yup, that happened to me pulling a snowmobile trailer on icy roads. The last thing I needed when trying to steer out of my skid was the truck downshifting on me and breaking loose the rear tires!! The d!!! computer almost put me in the ditch.
@sledfam3659
Ай бұрын
Good point but modern pickup trucks in tow mode also work with traction controls.. Totally different than big rigs.........
@kellismith4329
Ай бұрын
Yep, neutral is your friend
@edharrop1356
25 күн бұрын
tow haul is using the transmission ,not like an engine brake which us
@Dusdaddy
24 күн бұрын
100% correct. It's like down shifting a manual car in slick conditions. You will break traction! Better to keep it in a higher gear when roads are slick.
@kd7hhw
2 ай бұрын
I learned from my dad to use the overdrive off whenever I was towing. It was because of the extra wear on the transmission. He gave me advise that if the transmission is constantly changing, change to overdrive off. On my 2009 F250, tow/haul mode would still allow the truck to shift into 5th gear, but there had to be hardly any torque being applied to keep the speed. It also changed what happens when I was going down hill in that if I just tapped the brakes and the truck was pointed downhill, the engine would shift down to use compression to help stop and keep control. On my 2016 F350, I now have a button to turn on a "jake brake". This adds even more engine braking at the cost of noise. Many cities ban this inside the city because of the extra noise (I am not sure my truck produces much more noise but the larger 18 wheelers sure do). On our trip this summer to the Tetons, Glacier National Park, and Yellowstone, I was thankful we had tow/haul. Going down some of the passes at a 12% grade (I think), I hardly had to use my brakes and my engine didn't have to work very hard to slow down my 28' 5th wheel (about 11k lbs). Tow/haul also shifted down more quickly to allow for more power from the engine to be applied to the wheels when accelerating or going up hills. In the western US, our mountains are steeper and the passes have a larger grade. The tow/haul helped me keep my speed and really didn't sacrifice too much fuel economy; after all, I am towing a huge sail behind me. Thanks for posting this video!
@jimf1450
2 ай бұрын
Semis have Jake brakes pick up do not
@dennisantosh8681
2 ай бұрын
It is actually an engine brake and yes some pick up trucks do have them, I do. Also, 'Jake brake' is a brand and is short for 'Jacob brake'. Transmissions do slow better with tow/haul
@jimf1450
2 ай бұрын
@@dennisantosh8681 if you're talking about a gas motor keeping it in a lower gear isn't an engine brake. If you have a diesel pickup it has an exhaust brake which is done with the turbo, I always turn my Ram exhaust brake on even empty.
@dennisantosh8681
2 ай бұрын
Yes, I have a diesel pickup f350
@ggebhard1
2 ай бұрын
Finally, someone explains the tow/haul feature!! Thank you!! I always come to you when I have a question!! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
@NT5RA_Still_Learning
2 ай бұрын
One major thing about Tow/Haul is the way it firms up the shifts. Soft shifts like the old Cadillac or Oldsmobile land barge shifts may be comfortable, but they accomplish the soft shift by slowly engaging the clutches and letting them slip a bit before fully engaging. That slipping creates a lot of heat. Firming the shifts may make the shifts feel harsh (more noticeable if you are running empty), but they will keep the tranny cooler. Consequently, harsh shifts while going around a corner or curve, or even in a straight line, while on a slippery surface (ice, snow, mud) can cause the rear tires to momentarily lose traction. In my hotrod days while going down the drag strip we called this a "second gear scratch." It indicated your engine/rear gears produced a lot of torque (like a modern turbo diesel) and your transmission had very firm shifts. Fun for a teenager in a hotrod; not fun in a $150,000+ truck/RV setup. Thus, the warning in the owner's manual not to use (or use caution with) Tow/Haul on slippery surfaces. Due to centrifugal force, the back end of the truck will want to slide sideways to the outside of the curb, taking the trailer and the rest of the truck with it in a jackknife fashion. Sorry if someone else already posted this, but I didn't read all 253 comments.
@Austin_Healey
2 ай бұрын
You did a very nice job explaining Tow/Haul operation in a non-technical manner! I’m a retired Ford engineer and used to teach Ford Technicians automatic transmission service. Good work!
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
That means a lot to me! Thank you so much.
@carolmaplesden916
2 ай бұрын
I have a 23 foot motorhome f350 I think I do not tow anything nor have I ever And the tow haul little orange light has started blinking Should I be concerned Is anything being harmed
@Austin_Healey
2 ай бұрын
@@carolmaplesden916 I’m afraid that a flashing tow/haul light is an indicator of a potential concern. If the truck is operating OK, I would recommend taking it to a repair shop nearby. Tell them the symptom and they should be able to run a self test on the TCM (Transmission Control Module) and check for DTC’s (Diagnostic Trouble Codes). Best of luck…
@carolmaplesden916
2 ай бұрын
@@Austin_Healey thank you
@graffix11us
2 ай бұрын
@@carolmaplesden916 I have a 32' F450 MH and always use tow/haul mode. Even when not pulling our tow car. From the vehicles perspective you are hauling the MH chassis. For me, that is close to 8,000 lbs.
@boblandham3789
2 ай бұрын
‘First explanation of Tow/Haul that I could actually almost understand 😊. Thanks!
@vinniedellasperanza8230
2 ай бұрын
I'm sharing my experience in the hope it will benefit others. I purchased my '20 F250 diesel when it had 25,000 miles on it. I made it a practice to use tow mode whenever pulling our 33ft Airstream which is this truck's primary purpose. If we are not on the road, this truck mostly sits. About a year after I purchased it, I started getting the message " Drive Modes Not Available" on the dash. I began worrying I had a tranny problem. Nothing in the manual discussed this and my internet searches were fruitless. Unrelated, about a month later I discovered a dead battery and started using a trickle charger to address that issue. After a second dead battery event, I checked both with a load tester and discovered both batteries needed replacing. Long story short, after replacing those crummy stock Ford batteries with upgraded AGMs, my drive modes suddenly returned and that issue has not recurred. Had no idea low batteries could cause that symptom and no one has reported this on any Ford forum that I could find. You can imagine my relief that I wasnt experiencing a tranny problem.
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
@@vinniedellasperanza8230 I didn’t have that problem, but the OEM battery is terrible. Ours was done for after a year.
@someonesomeone8583
2 ай бұрын
My crummy ford agm battery lasted 8 years and it still works. I replaced it because I was scared to be stranded. You should never leave a car battery without being trickle charged for long periods. It ruins the batteries.
@markw.2111
21 күн бұрын
when one battery fails the other has been over used. Replace both at the same time. I know it's expensive but you are going to have to replace the other battery soon anyway.
@MagaRickn
2 ай бұрын
I use Tow/Haul religiously! I have 280,000 miles on my 2004 Duramax and it still has the original 4 wheel disc brake pads! And they are still in good shape. It will help you!! Use it!!
@CT9905.
Ай бұрын
I highly agree with you, 2005 3500 288K everything factory original!
@phillipwells6758
Ай бұрын
My daily driver is a 2017 Ram 2500. I use tow/haul and exhaust brakes "JAKES" almost always because it's my truck and I can.
@bobf1174
26 күн бұрын
Your a lucky guy. Using an automatic transmission as an engine brake, so much cheaper to replace brakes. Couple hundred bucks versus $5-8000 for a transmission
@MagaRickn
26 күн бұрын
@@bobf1174 Just doing what the owners manual says to do. :)
@Tom-og7fi
7 күн бұрын
@@bobf1174wrong.
@theUcane
2 ай бұрын
Jason, you have "solved" many marital discussions between us. On our motorhome, we have used it a bit blindly because we "just knew we should." This gave us good info for when it might be best to not use it. Thank you!
@JohnJohn-wr1jo
2 ай бұрын
I tow with a suburban 8.1. Besides a 6000 lb TT I tow a 3000lb custom wooden boat. My mechanic asked me years ago if I use the tow mode. I told him absolutely. We got talking about boat towing and he explained to me how important it was to utilize when hauling a boat up the ramp. He told me that many people forget to engage it until there on the road. Claims that a lot of trans damage occurs at that point for two reasons. Failure to use tow made and transmissions are still cold after sitting in the ramp lot all day. Said drive it around for a few minutes and engage the tow mode prior to hauling out. Looks silly driving away from the ramp and returning 5 minutes later but makes sense if you think about it.
@bobabooie6389
2 ай бұрын
I do the same. I live on a hill, and the best way to get out of the driveway is to go up the hill. so I drive my truck around to warm up the transmission before I hook up and take off with my trailer👍🏻🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
@tomreid5002
2 ай бұрын
I have hill start assist in my Chevy. I also have T/H mode. I wonder if the hill assist acts the same. Good point. Im gonna try to find that info. Thanks John.
@davidgates1122
2 ай бұрын
One of the things you did not touch on is a side effect of using tow/haul mode in a diesel. When going up a steep grade, the transmission goes into a lower gear and the engine runs at a higher rpm. The results in less diesel being injected into the cylinder for each cycle of the engine but a higher volume of exhaust gas. The important aspect of that is the temperature of that exhaust gas will be lower. The exhaust temperature of a gasoline engine can't get high enough to damage anything, but in a diesel it can. In a diesel you don't want to run it for extended periods of time with high turbo boost pressure and a lot of fuel being injected because of the resulting high exhaust gas temperatures.
@j.kentpendley-ny5fe
2 ай бұрын
Hello there! New to RVing and have a 24 GMC HD Duramax. So are you saying that if you are on an extended climb you should take it out of tow-haul? Also when descending in tow/haul is it ok to use exhaust brake?
@chesshead3943
2 ай бұрын
@@j.kentpendley-ny5feI think they're saying just be careful of using tow haul mode in slippery conditions
@davidgates1122
2 ай бұрын
@@j.kentpendley-ny5fe No. On an extended climb you want it in tow haul mode. That will make it downshift and run at a higher rpm, but with less fuel being injected into the cylinder for each cycle. That brings the temperatures down into a manageable range, which is easier on the components and make them last longer.
@bkrhoda
2 ай бұрын
@@j.kentpendley-ny5fe I have an '18 Silverado 3500 with the Duramax. I can enable my exhaust brake independant of tow/haul mode. I do this a lot as it uses the exhaust brake to help slow down when approaching stop signs, etc, saving wear & tear on the regular brakes. In Tow/haul mode, the exhaust brake is even more aggressive. With the cruise control set, I don't have to do a thing coming down a grade. The exhause brake kicks in and does a decent job maintaining a reasonable speed descending these grades. For me, that's a whopping 62mph on an interstate, while towing an 18000 lb 5th wheel.
@dannylamb4890
2 ай бұрын
I wish there was a way to turn off the automatic down shift when you touch the brakes going down hill. I just want to slow down a little, not a full gear. 2017 6.7 cummins--3500. I turn mine off going down hill. 38 to 40 gvw in the west. Anybody know if it can be turned off?
@mommaangela9302
2 ай бұрын
Wow 🤯 thank you for this video! I’ve asked numerous people to explain what tow/haul mode does and no one ever could. When I bought my Ram 1500 HEMI 5.7 I was told just be sure to turn it on every time you tow your trailer which is 6100lbs. I forgot a couple of times after I pulled away from gas station or a stop somewhere and freaked out because I was afraid I could have messed it up. The tow/haul mode works beautifully for me. I spent eight months in East Tennessee last year. Every time I went in smoky Mountain national Park or any place where I was driving and there was a lot of downhill decent. I used the manual transmission. Now I wished I had known that I could’ve put it in the Tow/haul mode.
@spmamabear
2 ай бұрын
I've got a 2011 Ram with a 5.7 liter HEMI, and the tow/haul seems to just make me shift gears manually. Having grown up driving a stick, it's no biggie, with how rarely I tow, but I'm probably doing it wrong, somehow. XD
@pruffin
2 ай бұрын
I went for a couple of years before I realized the tow/haul button was there. Once I learned what it does for my 2008 Bigfoot motorhome (Ford E350 Super Duty) I use it a lot.
@brucetifer
2 ай бұрын
Yes, the mattress in the RV we bought with junk. We suffered with it for three years at last January I ordered a new one. yes it was from Brooklyn. It’s wonderful.
@jerryflynn9414
2 ай бұрын
I always use Tow/Haul mode on my 2021 F150. Just makes towing easier while in the mountains.. Good video!
@sherrilowe9316
15 күн бұрын
It turns my 2014 Tundra into a BEAST!! I have to intentionally slow down as it just wants to take off. Who ever came up with it THANK YOU!!!!!
@bradplueger7951
2 ай бұрын
Excellent narrative on Tow/Haul mode! Yes, I always use tow/haul mode when towing my 5th wheel. When the engine break kicks in going downhill, it does drive me nuts at the noise of the engine speeding up, but it saves me "riding" my breaks.
@ShouldersMoondog549
2 ай бұрын
Like others, this explanation of the Tow/Haul mode was great!! We are on our 4th Travel trailer, with having a few different tow vehicles over the years. My 2003 F350 (6.0 diesel) was the first truck to have t/h mode, man was it nice to get going as well as to slow down. Anytime I'm hauling a heavy load (now with a F250 6.2 gas)or towing, I hit the T/H button!! Yes I have started out at times without it, but I soon press that button. Thanks for this wonderful video!!
@hereto246
2 ай бұрын
I have it in my Class C E450 and use it whether I’m towing my Jeep or not. I live in Colorado and it’s a must.
@bethannperkins-simmons4793
2 ай бұрын
I have a Class C E450 33ft. I am not towing. We are traveling to Glacier in a couple of weeks from Michigan. In your experience, when should I engage tow haul mode?
@hereto246
2 ай бұрын
@@bethannperkins-simmons4793 I use tow mode whenever I’m going up or down a grade. Even when not towing. A class C is not light. It’s tow/haul and using it will help save your brakes going down and help the transmission going up a grade.
@rickmcdonald7075
2 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for this video. I tow a 5500 GVWR travel trailer with a 2021 F150 Powerboost. The truck does great, but I’ve been using Eco mode in the city to save gas. It shuts off the engine when it doesn’t need it. It does not do this in tow haul mode. As a hybrid it’s using regenerative braking downhill, until the battery is fully charged then turns on the engine to slow it down when the battery is full. Now I know that’s safe to do anytime. I will probably still switch to tow haul modes at freeway speeds most of the time. Thanks!
@aswinos6077
2 ай бұрын
Wonderful discussion. Thanks. Tow haul mode is instrumental in traversing mountain passes with our Airstream. I am occasionally shocked by the RPMs it decides to allow, but it is still advantageous on the down hills. One item you missed is that I frequently use cruise control on downhills to maintain proper speeds without hitting excessive RPMs. As always, appreciate your insight.
@annsegler9189
2 ай бұрын
So using cruise control AND tow/ haul are best for descents ? Thanks
@aswinos6077
2 ай бұрын
Yes, as long as you can keep off the brakes (keep cruise control engaged). If the descent is too steep or too curvy, you inevitably will need to apply the brakes. This will deactivate cruise control and likely cause a downshift which will raise your RPMs. No worries - it should not over downshift and redline itself.
@Lastcall115
2 ай бұрын
Unfortunately Ford uses brakes also when using cruise control to control speed.
@Lastcall115
2 ай бұрын
Unfortunately Ford uses brakes also when using cruise control to control speed.
@velikijoxotnik
2 ай бұрын
I've been towing for a while, and use tow/haul religiously. I never knew that it was actually downshifting on descents. I thought that it was only delaying the shifting. Learned something. Thanks! RE: using engine braking on descents. My wife and I were recently in Colorado Springs and drove to the top of Pikes Peak. On the descent, I was flabbergasted at the number of vehicles with Colorado plates who rode their brakes all the way down the mountain. I went into manual gear and used the +/- button to manage my truck's momentum and hardly used the brakes at all. At the brake check-point, about halfway down the mountain, the park ranger who checked the temp of my brakes was impressed at how cool the brakes were (100.3°F). I don't get why drivers are so dang afraid to use engine braking when descending a steep hill.
@2006Strata
2 ай бұрын
I have a 2005 Ram 3500 with the 5.9 Cummins. It has the tow/haul mode, .But one of the best features of the truck is that it has an aftermarket Pacbrake exhaust brake that I absolutely love. The thing is, the exhaust brake seems to work more efficiently when Tow Haul mode is engaged. I live in the British Columbia interior where mountains and steep grades reign supreme and I run in TH mode most of the time. I still get 23 mpg regardless. However, the downside of the 05 Ram with the 48RE tranny is that you cannot lock out O/D so even if I’m towing the 40’ fiver, at 85 kmph, it will shift into O/D and then the engine is lugging until it decides to downshift. Love your channel!
@diegaspumper8501
2 ай бұрын
This might be a stupid question but please forgive me, on your shifter you don’t have a button on the end to turn off your O/D?
@2006Strata
2 ай бұрын
@@diegaspumper8501 The only button on the end of the shifter is the Tow/Haul mode activation. I might have read somewhere that one cannot lock out O/D on the 03.5 to 05 models. BD Diesel sells a Tapshifter kit that would rake care of the issue but it’s C$2400!
@2006Strata
2 ай бұрын
“take” not “rake”
@jeffreygunn3530
2 ай бұрын
I use Tow/Haul mode in my 5.0/6 speed F-150 all the time while pulling my travel trailer, because I spend most of my time in the Rocky Mountain region. It took a bit to get used to the shift points it picks, though. There were a couple of times when I thought it had gone crazy, but I finally decided that it must know what it's doing. I've never had an issue with transmission overheating, even crossing 11,000 foot passes in the summer.
@ffcolon2738
2 ай бұрын
I will thank you for this video because I’ve always questioned when should I be using these different modes and let’s face it the manufacturer manual don’t really explain things clearly, again thank you for shedding some light on this subject. Take care and be well, safe travels 😎
@greghanson5864
2 ай бұрын
if you’ve got, flaunt it! Works great with cruise control on those down hills!
@richardtroy7143
12 күн бұрын
Thanks for your info I always use my tow haul on my Ram 2500 the way you do. I have peace of mind about it now.
@The404169
13 күн бұрын
Very good explanation for using tow haul mode Best I’ve seen
@timf6916
2 ай бұрын
We have a 2018 F350 SRW LB 6.7 King Ranch. I always use the haul mode when towing. And I put my down hill engine brake on automatic. And you can tell the difference when pulling 14,000+ pounds.
@edharrop1356
24 күн бұрын
@@timf6916 engine brake ? u may have an exhaust brake like what would be used on medium duty class 7 trucks but as far as I know they are not used on pickup trucks. Engine (aka) Jake brake is used on class 8 trucks .The difference is exhaust restriction vs using engine compression with exhaust valves open.Tow/Haul is transmission down shifting & delayed shifts on hills.
@jagnew3012
23 күн бұрын
Completely agree on the manufactured mattress issue. We swapped ours out with a standard house hold queen immediately and could not have endured on 30 and 42 day trips the last two summers on the manufactures cheap foam mattress. Never knew about rv mattress maybe I should have researched first but we're happy.
@brucefay5126
2 ай бұрын
Good video, Jason. 2019 FORD F-150 XLT FX4 here. I rarely haul heavy loads, but when towing our Airstream travel trailer I ALWAYS use Tow/Haul mode. I have also used the Hill Descent feature on steep downgrades. When selected, it only engages when the vehicle speed drops below 20 MPH. I don’t encounter those kind of grades too often, but it’s an amazing feature when you need it. We saw plenty of 10% - 14% grades in the Gaspe’ Peninsula (Quebec, Canada) but coming south into Perce’ Quebec (Canada) there was an 18% grade with a stop sign at the bottom, which was the beginning of the main street through town. With Hill Descent engaged, it was feet off the brake and accelerator, 15 MPH all the way down. I don’t know about other manufacturers, but I have been very impressed with the powertrain on our F-150.
@ShawnPatterson402
2 ай бұрын
I also tow our trailer with an F150. Had a 2015 XLT 4x4 ecoboost and just changed it for a 2022 XLT Fx4 Powerboost. Always use the tow/haul mode. I grew up in Gaspe and do those roads often. I really like your idea of the Hill Descent option. I know the hill in Perce and even in 1st gear and tow/haul, I need some brakes. Had not thought of trying the Hill descent in that situation, but I will next time I am going through that area...thanks for the tip. And continued safe travels.....
@scanadaze
2 ай бұрын
It's way not like the old days. Decades ago, I needed to move a two bedroom trailer home. I used my 1/2 ton 1970s Chevy pickup to do it. I put the pickup in 4 low and went down the road. Now it's what setting. Thanks for explaining it.
@mikepbm
13 күн бұрын
Thank you so much for your video, now I understand a lot more about Tow Mode.
@AirstreamBeliever
2 ай бұрын
This is good info. We pull an Airstream with a Jeep Grand Cherokee. It does not have Tow Haul mode, but it does have a "Sport" mode that seems to do some of the same things, like shifting at higher RPM's and holding gears a little longer. I do a fair amount of manual downshifting, too, if we start climbing and the engine is under 3,000 RPM. Max torque is at 4,000 RPM.
@iglapsu88
2 ай бұрын
I only used Tow/Haul mode when towing heavy trailers when I had my big trucks. Changed the shift points like you said. Thanks Jason!
@jonathandevoe70
2 ай бұрын
Nice video. I never knew exactly how it worked, but I knew that when on hills and in stop and go traffic it always helps when I'm hauling a couple thousand pounds or more
@lindapage3399
2 ай бұрын
Thank you for this explanation. My dear husband has been trying to explain the technology and reasons for using the tow hauling button and now I get it. Well done!
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@rosskroeber6157
Ай бұрын
Best explanation I've found of my tow/haul mode and the pluses vs minuses of using it... thanks!
@RVMiles
Ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful!
@marvinschleicher5542
15 күн бұрын
You have a lot of good points. I seldom use it. I honestly forget about it when hauling,but,I am going to try and remember to use it. Think maybe it would be easier on engine if I did. Thanks for info(maybe I need to read the manual on my truck about tow-haul) much good for thought.
@Tiersmoke92555
2 ай бұрын
Don't forget tow haul mode increases pressures inside your transmission to help you not burn up your clutches
@meatrobot
2 ай бұрын
Nice work. To answer your question, yes. I always use tow/haul mode when I'm towing or hauling. I have a 2015 2500hd with a 6L gas. It needs all the help it can get.😉
@reberhardt
2 ай бұрын
On my 2015 F350 they told me that you might get better mileage by turning off tow/haul. So when going down the interstate over fairly level I don’t use tow/haul. In the mountains or hilly roads I’ll use it.
@jamesborden7731
2 ай бұрын
Excellent absolutely excellent description of tow/haul There is nothing in the truck manual to explain it. I even asked at the RV dealership about using it and basically crickets. No one could explain it or why we should use it only in conversation with other RV was I able to learn about it and your video just totally clarified everything of what I thought it did and how it works so thank you big time thank you.
@craftytraveler9238
2 ай бұрын
Thank you for the explanation. I have a 2019 MH and I tow a Honda CRV. I always use my tow/haul mod when towing my car. Sometimes I don't tow the car and I use it for just what you said to help with going up and down grades.
@jamesr208
2 ай бұрын
Great explanation! We use it every time we tow, and our 4000 lb trailer is less than half the max rating for the vehicle. I kinda agree with the ford engineer, in that we use it for comfort more than necessity. You have a greater sense of control when the vehicle is working with you to manage the load.
@StasiaD
2 ай бұрын
Wow! Thank you so much for this info. We never used it before in our F250. The timing is perfect. We are in New River Gorge NP and we are definitely using it now.
@charlesperry1051
2 ай бұрын
I live in east Tennessee, so hills. I have three trailers: 36 ft fifth wheel, 20 ft equipment trailer (hauling a tractor), and a 10 ft landscape trailer (hauling lawn mower or ATV). If the fifth wheel or equipment trailer are attached to my truck, I am in tow/haul mode. My truck is a 2011 F250 diesel. The landscape trailer has so little weight that I do not use tow/haul.
@Freightmeister
2 ай бұрын
What a great switch up video Jason. And great information.
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
Thanks 👍
@bethannperkins-simmons4793
2 ай бұрын
Excellent video. I have often wondered what tow/haul mode is and how to use it. Through your video, I have a better understanding. Thank you!
@olbluetundra881
12 күн бұрын
Not sure for everyone else but when it's slick out I turn off the tow/haul mode and just use my manual shift. I had a test of the emergency pucker system while pulling my 5rv on wet roads. Learned my lesson. These modern trucks leave something to be desired. I miss my manual when towing.
@markparr7224
26 күн бұрын
Thanx for explaining that, it is very helpful. I have been just manually downshifting, even when no load. I always shake my head when seeing people ride their brakes all the way down a long hill.
@alanremple4621
2 ай бұрын
My 2005 Chevy Silverado Duramax (5 speed Allison ) does not an “engine brake” per se, but tow haul mode works absolutely perfectly for downhill downshifting. 2023 990 Arctic Fox with a Wells Cargo Cycle hauler tandem trailer.
@MannyWC
2 ай бұрын
Great explanation ! I discovered my TH mode after 2 years of vanlife in my Promaster 2500. total game changer! I actually get better gas mileage also! Great to hear about what it does on the down hill too! 🎉
@sherriweber7105
2 ай бұрын
Thank you Jason for doing this video! I think you dud a great job of explaining the Tow/ haul mode. I’m very glad you did that. It’s good to know when to use it and how to. You explained it well. Thank you.
@nickmartin9403
23 күн бұрын
At about 8:20, its mentioned that 9th qnd 10th gears are overdrive gears, on that truck. Actually, 8th, 9th, and 10th are overdrive on that truck, 7th is the direct drive ratio gear for that transmission. Its printed in the specs and manual.
@rickskidmore3075
2 ай бұрын
Great video. I use my tow/haul mode on my 2023 F-150 whenever I tow our TT. Thanks for the information, much needed.
@davids9780
29 күн бұрын
Great content and nice video of Wolf Creek Pass! The next 3-4 weeks are absolutely gorgeous down in that part of the state!
@whiskeytango9769
2 ай бұрын
I love the tow mode on my duramax. Different shift points, better engine braking. It works extremely well when towing. I also use it when the truck bed is loaded up too.
@Sstantial
Ай бұрын
I have always loved how the tow/haul works in my dad’s’05 F350 with 6 liter diesel. His driveway is on a fairly steep grade and he uses it to slow down without using brakes every time he returns home. The fact that just touching the brake pedal gets it to downshift is perfect! My ‘04 Chevy express 3500 with 6.0 LS engine also has a tow/haul but it only changes the shift points on acceleration. Towing or not, going down a slope with tow/haul engaged and tapping or even actual braking, there is absolutely zero braking from compression. Very disappointed and waiting for my dad to upgrade so I can get his F350 for that among other reasons. The Express has very similar acceleration power with less torque so it hauls great! But lacking the deceleration qualities in tow/haul really hampers tow performance as I am using brakes a lot more!!!
@kwaste
2 ай бұрын
Did a cross country from Sacramento CA to South Carolina then to Rochester NY then to Yellowstone then Tacoma Washington then crater Lake then Mt Shasta then Sacramento CA. I tri d all modes in my Ford F150 with coyote engine learned rather quickly of benefit of tow haul. Power when u need it and braking when needed. My trailer was only around 5500 lbs but driving at high speeds to keep up with traffic the power to keep me steady was great. Did lose fuel mileage but gained pulling and stopping confidence.
@JeffBush1
2 ай бұрын
2017 Ford Explorer Sport towing a 5,000 lb boat without any trailer brakes. I live in Florida where we don't really have any hill except for the highway onramp. The Explorer knows when it is being pushed by the trailer and will engine brake automatically with the T/H mode turned off. These vehicles are smarter than what we give them credit.
@gadgetneck
2 ай бұрын
I have a 21 F-250 with a 7.3L We just got home from a trip from Shipshewana, Indiana to NC so I went through WV via 77. My truck kept flooring it and pushing the RPMs to 4500+ so I put it in manual which resulted in less stress and better mileage. I plan to speak to ford about my miserable experience using tow/haul in drive. Thanks for the info… very timely.
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
In those situations (hilly terrain), you'll find it's much more enjoyable without cruise control. High RPMs are ok when they are needed, but CC really pushes harder than needed for my taste when in T/H on hills. It doesn't know where crests and dips are, or how long the hill is.
@Daniel-pz4wm
2 ай бұрын
Thanks for explaining it!!! 🤓 LOVING the you tube experience!!!
@maryjohnson2700
2 ай бұрын
Overdrive is when the drive shaft spins faster than the engine -- not wheels spin faster than transmission.
@richardjones529
2 ай бұрын
I pull a 35’ 5th wheel behind a 2017 Chevy 2500 Duramax. We’ve pulled all over the country and if I’m hooked to my trailer, the TH is on. Ditto to everything you have said in the video - it is the best explanation I’ve seen and is must see for new RVers!
@perrymahnke886
2 ай бұрын
Really great video & excellent job of covering the different reasons for using or not using tow/haul mode &/or OD on or off. Another scenario when to use tow/haul mode &/or OD on is dealing with strong winds. Thank you for sharing your experiences & knowledge.
@j.l.salayao8055
2 ай бұрын
We all agree of activation of the truck's tow haul mode and engine brake is good for towing experience. Now, we can agree that Ram Cummins has the best tow haul mode/engine brake combo when towing heavy.
@bobmartens1089
2 ай бұрын
Ive also learned to hear and feel what rpm band your engine performs best at. Its different for each engine, my f150 5.0 likes a higher rpm to be in its best torque band for power and fuel economy. Ive found sometimes when towing higher rpm can give me better gas mileage
@steveclauter6802
2 ай бұрын
In my 2017 F-250 with the 6.7l diesel I use TH mode when towing my 5th Wheel and it really helps keep my speed down IF I also turn on the engine brake. I don't know why the engine brake is a separate button but I find it works so well I don't have to use my brakes going down some pretty long grades. Thanks for the information!
@sledfam3659
Ай бұрын
One technical thing that is important. Tow mode on most transmissions raises not just shift pressure but most importantly clutch pressure.. Modern trans can learn but if you hook your 5th wheel on and the first hill you hit is a crazy steep hill. How long does it take to adapt???
@berniegilles4110
2 ай бұрын
Good video... On my pickup, I only use tow/haul when I have an extra load through the mountains, mostly level roads it's a hassle and I use more fuel like Jason said. When driving my Class A, it's always loaded with gear, water and fuel. I use tow/haul all the time. Not only does it drive better from stops, I can stop so much faster with the added engine braking (emergency stops or yellow lights) in town or on the highway. The previous Class A owner I bought from, never used tow/haul or engine braking, the pads and Rotors were burnt and cracked from excessive heat. I love the engine braking going down 6%-9% grades, far less brake pedal, far less brake heat. Engine braking uses so little fuel (if any) that the engine and transmission temp gauges show very low when engine braking.
@kenpolzel412
2 ай бұрын
I have a 2022 F350 Tremor with the 7.3 gas, I always use TOW/HAUL mode regardless! Because I can. Thanks for the video.
@raymosworld_8062
Ай бұрын
Yes sir I do the same thing
@dannylayton1106
2 ай бұрын
Very helpful insights, same truck/engine. Used eco for a 500+ interstate tow last week on a 2k lb. load (19' skiff ). The boat cover caused more drag than anything else. Very good info and keep it coming.
@patrickrobichaux
2 ай бұрын
I had an instance where I wasn't on tow haul mode and needed to accelerate extremely quickly to merge. It felt like the transmission slipped. Hasn't done it since and never noticed any effect from it. But that being said, since then I've always towed in tow haul mode. Not only does it provide a better driving experience, but like you said the lower gears when breaking makes slowing down much easier and safer. I notice I lose probably 1 mpg because of it, which like you say is worth the cost to me personally.
@jamesezell2000
Ай бұрын
Good video other than skewing the lines between exhaust brakes and tow/haul mode braking.
@srt1178
Ай бұрын
I was towing with my Tundra and using the tow/haul mode and cruise control. I thought it was weird that it would slow down automatically and get me out of Tow/Haul mode. Now I know why 👍
@luisfigueroa3300
2 ай бұрын
Thanks for the explanation. I have always used tow/haul mode when towing my travel trailer. I feel a wee bit safer, especially when going up and down the grades here in the Sierra’s. 😊
@robynidyllwild6755
2 ай бұрын
I live in the mountains and we use tow Haul mode in our class B van every time we go down the mountain or up the mountain. We keep the van off the mountain in winter as she is not AWD.
@russellriggan2088
2 ай бұрын
I used tow/haul on our Ram 1500, and used it yesterday on our new (to me) Ram 2500 w/ the 6.7. Just part of what my wife does when we jump in the truck when towing.
@earlreaganjr9381
2 ай бұрын
Thanks, really good content. I've a F250, 7.3Lt. gas, 10 sp xmission. 7,000 lb. trailer. I always use tow haul when towing. Plus when using cruise control, I limit xmission to 7 gears out east & 8 gears Midwest & West, not in mountains. This prevents a lot auto gear hunting. I use Manual +/- selector in mountains.
@earlreaganjr9381
2 ай бұрын
Experience: 20,000 miles towing.. GA to NY to Colorado. 5 major passes in CO. Up to WY & Idaho. All 5 NPs in Utah; Southern Cal..most of AZ & NM. Across Texas, North & South.. & most of the Southeast.
@airstreamer
2 ай бұрын
This was a great explanation! We are going out west next spring/summer and will be towing our RV. Appreciate having a better understanding of these settings. Thank you. Jim & Michelle
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
Glad it was helpful. Enjoy the west and safe travels!
@airstreamer
2 ай бұрын
@@RVMiles Thank you!
@ChuckHarbert
2 ай бұрын
I use tow haul mode every time I pull my camper. I figure if I need trailer brakes, the pull is better in tow haul. I love the engine braking on step inclines in the mountains. I also use if I'm getting over a ton of weight in the back, usually pavers. I didn't know not to use tow haul mode in icy conditions.
@montanadan2524
2 ай бұрын
Well close. Downshifting for the purpose of engine breaking in tow/haul mode is not availible in earlier production modles. My 2010 GMC 1500 Serria 6.2l has the engine breaking you described. Our 2003 Chevy 3500 Express 6.0l has tow/haul but no auto compression breaking.
@gregraines8082
2 ай бұрын
Great explanation. I still go into manual mode in mountainous terrain. Thanks
@debvoz
2 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for explaining this! I just purchased a 2020 Promaster 3500 and wondered what the Tow/Haul button was for. Your explaination was great!
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
Glad I could help!
@derrickwatson6597
2 ай бұрын
I use it every time I tow my 12,000 lb 5’th wheel. Works great.
@danjetsfan1155
11 күн бұрын
For the 3rd generation Tundra, it also changes the steering responses and the engine RPM.
@richardwatson4500
2 ай бұрын
I live in the North Georgia mountains and own a 2012 Ram 3500 and 2016 Ram 1500. The owner’s manual states to use tow/haul in hills, so I use tow/haul every time I crank up.
@johnirwin1837
2 ай бұрын
I also have tow/haul mode in my 2018 Ram 3500SRW with a Cummins. Normally I use tow/haul only on accelerating hard to get on a freeway. Otherwise it is off because of fuel mileage. My engine has way more power than needed to tow our 14K 5th at all speeds in normal gear change cycles. Plus my engine has an exhaust brake for the down hills and I may use a lower gear too. Not sure my Ram tow/haul mode works like your Ford does. Just my 2$ worth.
@wendyschonhardt1532
2 ай бұрын
I use my tool mode when I’m going downhill pretty regularly and/or if they’re high winds, I’ll tend to use it then as well.
@bparkinson1234
2 ай бұрын
Dam. You are the first video on KZitem to explain down shifting engine braking after tapping the brake. I have you same truck. Drove a powerstroke for 26 years. Went to the new 7.3 gas with the 140 powerstroke trans. Just pulled the camper 9200 miles around the country. Love love the auto down shifting. Great video. Here in colorado I do use tow haul without trailer going down passes Good point
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
Thanks!
@wayneandrews1022
Ай бұрын
One thing I found that I don’t like about steep downhills in TH is that if you have to get on the brakes a lot, the transmission will continue to downshift until you’re revving very high and may still be gaining speed. I’ve had to pop it out of TH and use brakes only or in combination with manual to keep the engine revs reasonable. I think from now on I’ll just go manual for steep downhills and save myself the trouble.
@garryharris9098
Ай бұрын
I have a 2013 2500 duramax. If I pull a heavy load, i use the tow haul. A small load no. As a rule, though, once the truck gets up to highway speed, I turn it off until I get into towns for low-speed torque. As it seems to use more diesel in tow/haul.
@gowiththeflowcouple
2 ай бұрын
I have a 2014 Ram 2500. Just before a long cross country trip I noticed I didn't have as much power. Turned out my turbo was dying. After having it replaced, $$$$, my mechanic said to operate occasionally even when not towing to keep the actuator limbered up. Thanks for the great explaination.
@j.l.salayao8055
2 ай бұрын
My 2023 Ram 3500 Cummins dually high output has its engine brake activated 99% since day one.
@scottzipperer6146
4 күн бұрын
I have a lawncare business I have 2 zero turn mowers on the trailer they are 4500 lbs plus the trailer 2000 when I go over the bridge 200 in elevation I put in tow /haul most of the time if trailer is hooked up
@kenneysmock3764
13 күн бұрын
I have a 300 gallon tank in my 14’ f250 gas. My general rule is I put on tow haul if I’ve got 100 gallons or more in the tank.
@EmptyEnigma
2 ай бұрын
Thank you so much for this video, you answered all my questions about tow mode!
@RVMiles
2 ай бұрын
You are welcome!
@crashweekly7925
2 ай бұрын
I have a 2018 F350 Dually with the 6.7 and on the dash it actually has a button above the radio that turns on the automatic dynamic engine breaking or if you hit it twice it will select manual. I also have a tow tune on my SCT tuner which will also use engine breaking if I let off the gas and it will automatically drop gears when slowing down. I have used this going through the smokey mountains of Tennessee where the grades can be crazy. I just have to be careful to take the tow tune out of the truck when I'm not hauling my 45' 5th wheel, there is so much torque at the rear end when in the tow tune I can light up the tires on my dually and actually drift around corners. It turns heads seeing a large truck going sideways down a street .
@MaureenAdam-w9l
2 ай бұрын
This was a wonderful and helpful explanation. Thank you!!
@calledtojourney
2 ай бұрын
I always use tow/haul mode when towing our 10k lb. fifth wheel with our F250 with the 7.3L gas engine and have always been very pleased with the truck's performance. However, after watching this, I think that I'll try turning off tow/haul mode when we'll be traveling through some very flat terrain in a month or so just to see the difference.
@daviddcook432
2 ай бұрын
I tow a 3500# GVWR TT, a 3000# GVWR cargo trailer and a 2000# GVWR flatbed trailer with my F150. Never ever have I used the Tow/Haul function. I am an old school manual transmission guy. This is my first auto tranny vehicle. My programming is to use the +/- button to down shift for up/down hills and let the engine do the work. This way I am in direct control of the vehicle rather than letting the computer control it. Also most folks don't load there trailers correctly or adjust the trailer brakes correctly putting a greater load on the tow vehicle's brakes.
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