What setting to run a programmer on?

[RWagner]

I have just recently installed a new upgraded auto transmission in my 05. I have an MBRP 5" single exhaust and a Bully Dog Triple Dog/Outlook Combo (I know, I know, I didn't know about a Smarty at the time of purchase). I do about 90K a year driving, sometimes towing a full load but a lot of the time empty. The upgrades I did were mainly for fun and they sure put a smile on my face everytime I got in the truck. I should have joined the Register sooner and it may have saved me cooking my stock transmission completely. Anyway an expensive lesson learned.



I would like to know with my upgraded transmission if there is any long term negative effects with leaving my Triple Dog set on the "Performance" setting (level 3, est. at about 90 extra hp) all the time.



Is there any negative effects to the engine?



Any other upgrades you would recommend to give me the long life I'm looking for?



With my stock transmission I saw a consistant slight increase in the distance I could go on a tank of fuel in that setting opposed to the "Stock" setting if I kept my foot out of it. Any recommendations or suggestions on what the pros or cons of running at the higher settings of the programmer would be helpful. I really can't afford another big suprise like the transmission replacement right now. Anything else I should be on the look out for?



Rob

 

[R_Painter]

I was always told the best fuel economy is on the extreme setting due to the timing increase but the tempation the play will have negative effects on fuel mileage.