BD Tow-Loc or ?

[ScottLewis]

I now have a BD Autoloc on my CTD and want to be able to hold the TC locked up at speeds below the normal unlock speed (22 MPH as now configured). I want this to be as an override of normal Autoloc function when going down steep grades in 2nd or 3rd and at speeds of 10, 15, 20 mph for example.

BD suggests I buy their Tow-Loc system for $399. Does anyone here have an opinion about the option?

Dan

 

[DavidWhite]

Did you ever get any other feedback? I too am curios about a tow loc.

 

[Kennywould]

Dan

If you do forum search on torque converter lock up switches i know there are guys who have done these. I was think of one myself and I wouldn't pay 399 for a lock out control if you can wire up your own with an led to to remind you its on.

Ken

 

[ScottLewis]

No, this is the first response I got on this thread. I did quite a bit of research outside of the forum and finally decided to go ahead with the Towloc which I installed last week.



As reflected in my profile, I already had the BD Autoloc on my truck, and had adapted it to Torqueloc with the guidance of BD staff. What I wanted was a controller that would allow use of my e-brake at lower speeds but still with the ease of operation of the automatic control.



It appears that the Towloc is going to fill these expectations with the added benifits of programability of shift speeds, downshift e-brake switching, etc. .



So far, it is working OK although I'm still tinkering with fine tuning.



I'd be happy to provide more detail to anyone interested. Just let me know via PM or e-mail.

 

[ScottLewis]

No, this is the first response I got on this thread. I did quite a bit of research outside of the forum and finally decided to go ahead with the Towloc which I installed last week.



As reflected in my profile, I already had the BD Autoloc on my truck, and had adapted it to Torqueloc with the guidance of BD staff. What I wanted was a controller that would allow use of my e-brake at lower speeds but still with the ease of operation of the automatic control.



It appears that the Towloc is going to fill these expectations with the added benifits of programability of shift speeds, downshift, e-brake switching, etc. .



So far, it is working OK although I'm still tinkering with fine tuning.



I'd be happy to provide more detail to anyone interested. Just let me know via PM or e-mail.



Dan

 

[Bob Wagner]

you will fry a stock transmission in short order using any lock up device :{ feel lucky?

 

[Diesel Nut]

Make sure you keep on your atf changes and flushes!

 

[GSchroder]

Bob

What experience have you had with the Towloc? I've been running one and like it fine. You must have had some trouble somewhere along the line.

 

[ScottLewis]

FYI, I ran the BD Autoloc for over 4 years and 50K miles, towing an 11K 5th wheel for at least half of that throughout the US including Alaska, before swapping out for an updated BD product. I did replace my TC at 93K on the truck, not because it was "fried" but because I wanted a heavier duty one. I do have the transmission serviced per Dodge specs and don't race. I believe driving sensibly and care of my truck will help it last until I'm ready to trade it, probably years from now.



Dan

 

[dodgeguy44]

My experience... ... ... ... anything but BD. There are other manufacturers that make similar products with warrantee. Been there, done that, paid the price with BD.

 

[Josparkz]

As reflected in my profile, I already had the BD Autoloc on my truck, and had adapted it to Torqueloc with the guidance of BD staff.





Dan

I am curious as to how you did that. How did you like the results? I guess not that much , or you wouldn't have still switched to a Towlock.

Inquiring minds want to know

Thank you.

 

[ScottLewis]

Basically it was rewiring a couple of leads on the Autoloc and inserting a switch. I answered your P/M with more detail and my e-mail address. The unit worked fairly well, I just wanted something a bit more sophisticated in operation. I could have had it hold lockup down to 15 mph but without downshifting, that led to shudder.



Dan

 

[Josparkz]

Thank you

Thank you very much.