OD, by definition, has gear multiplication so that the output shaft
rotates at a higher speed than the input shaft. This OD gear set
will produce more heat than the 1 to 1 ratio used for "drive".
Also, in the old FWIW column, I currently tow with a Ford HD Club
Wagon with the V10. I have been towing a 24' enclosed trailer for at
least 85K of the 110K on the vehicle. I have always used OD as the
Ford dealer advised and have not experienced any problems. When I
start to get into the "high mileage" zone I guess I'll see if this
was a mistake.
I use the OD Lockout button (there is no "Tow Mode" button) for
engine braking in hilly terrain.
Greg Scharnberg
At 02:43 PM 11/29/2006, you wrote:
>From: "John Innis" <jdinnis@gmail.com>
>snip.......... I have seen the same thing in Ford owners manuals.
> > Most of thier trucks now have a Tow Mode button, whose sole function
> > is to lock out the overdrive.
>
>Interesting. This is counter-intuitive, but you can't beat
>first-person experience.
>
>I have no idea if my transmission is a GM 700R4 derivative. I'll be
>checking that owner's manual.
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