[2MileHi]

Ford dealer says to pull in 3rd gear, not OD. The manual says nothing that I can find. I've pulled 6500# in OD and am now going to be pulling 9000+. When I asked the question at RV.Net no one pulled in 3rd, all used overdrive, many with heavier loads. Of course, OD would be turned off on hills or if it starts searching. What do you all think?

 

[lariat 7.3]

i pull a 11,000-12,000 lb boat in OD at 65 no problem

 

[Ravenscliff]

I also pull 11000-12000 pounds all the time, it is rare that by truck would go out the drive without my trailer. I pull local with the OD off, once I'm on the highway I put the OD back on. 146000 miles, I service the trany every 30,000 and run synthetic fluid.

 

[SyN]

I pull our 13K lb 5th Wheel in OD with no issues...{But} I live in Oklahoma where most of the highways and Interstates are somewhat flat...If I pulled in more hilly or mountain area? It might have to go in and out of OD...

 

[Mark Kovalsky]

The dealer is wrong. If it stays in OD leave it there.

 

[tonystoll23]

I cant pull in 3rd. Temps will gradually rise until it starts to overheat. I pull 8k here in Utah in OD with no probs (stepping down when I hit the grades.)

 

[2MileHi]

I can't remember ever getting good information from a dealer. Why did I even ask one.

 

[Griz]

The dealer is wrong. If it stays in OD leave it there.

I agree with Mark...once my transmission shifts down into third I cancel the OD until the condition that caused the down shift is gone...usually hills, passing, slow speeds or whatever. What hurts the transmission is the heat generated from shifting back and forth between OD and third...not the driving in OD.

Griz

 

[Mrit]

Also, just FYI, but if the torque converter is locked in 3rd you can manually downshift to 2nd gear and it will stay locked. Had my truck for 6 years and I just recently learned this.

 

[lance1955]

The dealer is wrong. If it stays in OD leave it there.

Agreed. Let the tranny do the thinking you just do the driving. :lol:
I never mess with the OD button nor would I every listen to what the dealer says. 90% of the time they are wrong. The other 10% is questionable

 

[2MileHi]

Hooked up the trailer this p.m. and hit the interstate. Tows beautifully in OD. Can't believe I even called a dealer. I know better.

 

[Chafalls7.3Powerstroke]

Yup I have towed 15k 16k in overdrive at 65 no problems