Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Steep grades & automatic Transmission

[HWright]

How do I drive long steep grades without burning up my 2002 automatic. I also read something here about automatics not liking low rps. Is breaking in second or first bad for the transmission?



I'm carrying a Lance 1030 on an 2002 , 3500 and the total weight is 11000lbs +.

 

[DLBurns]

I use 3rd gear when I am pulling my 30' Fiver over the Siskyous.

I have had plenty of throttle but forced to keep it at 45-50 MPH due to EGT's.

I have recently added 1. 5 injectors and upgraded my turbo to the HX35/12 in hopes to get a little more MPH out of it and still keep my EGT's in check.

Haven't towed with this setup yet.

 

[keimmmo]

I pull a stretch of mountain road with lots of sharp curves. You are FLYING at 25 mph!!! At that speed, all I can run is 1st gear in high range. The trans would heat big time and fast with 8,000 lbs of trailer behind and a heavy load in the bed! I wound up putting a cable shift on the 4 w/d so I have a 2 w/d low range. I run in low range in 3rd lock-up. Trans temps will never get over 140*.



If you have a 2w/d truck, you have a major problem.



Steve

 

[Bob Wagner]

On passes keep the OD locked out and the RPM's up, you should have at least a set of gauges, and dont overlook the transmission temp with the sender in the line to the cooler.



gauges are your friend

 

[HWright]

Woops - i was thinking of the down hill effects.

 

[keimmmo]

It must not be too hard on the trans... I have been downshifting both of mine almost every time I drive the truck since they were new. On long down hill grades down shifting the trans will make it run hotter than going up the same grade. I commonly see 190* while engine braking, which still isn't dangerous. The 01. 5 now has over 100,000 miles on it and not a problem with the trans!



If you are towing, GET A TRANS TEMP GAUGE!!! I have NO DOUBT that mine has saved me from frying the trans!!!



Steve