Overdrive

[Pogo]

2002 F350 dually 7.3L turbo diesel pulling a 10k lb 5th wheel. Owners manual explains how to turn off the overdrive, but does not address the issue of towing in overdrive. I have diesel mechanics giving me yes, it's OK, and no, don't ever do it. Can someone please set the record straight?

[Austin G]

Really depends what you are towing, and how much it weighs. I would usually tow with overdrive on until it starts jumping in and out of overdrive up a hill or something and then switch it off.

[Stroken7.3]

Originally Posted by AgentAustin

Really depends what you are towing, and how much it weighs. I would usually tow with overdrive on until it starts jumping in and out of overdrive up a hill or something and then switch it off.

X2 What he said. Also watch trans temp gauge if you have one. Towing in overdrive will build more heat in the trans.

[ZachBoyer]

X2 on both answers

[jmaroon]

i kinda wondered the same thing.. as long as i tow without the cruise on, it's not to shifty, (fairly flat down here except for overpasses).. and at 70 mph i'm at the same rpms as if i'd be unloaded.. so i just need to keep an eye on tranny temp.. (I gotta get a guage pod!!) seems to me it'd get hotter pulling at 3 grand in 3rd gear than at 2 grand in od...