Just got my SCrew last week. I have a short commute to work (half city/half freeway). The dealer told me to keep the "overdrive off" button on while driving on city streets. It's supposed to help gas mileage and improve power. If he's correct, what is happening to the transmission when it's in "overdrive off" mode and why is it a good idea when driving below 45MPH?

Thanks

 

When you are driving at speeds around 45 mph, your transmission will be getting close to wanting to shift into OD. Since you aren't gpoing to be going any faster than this in town, and you don't keep a constant speed, your tranny keeps making unnecessary shift in and out of OD. The OD gear is too high for city driving. I'm not positive about any potential wear and tear on the trans, but i have heard it can be hard on it.
Tony

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'01 SCrew 4x4 XLT 5.4L

 

I drive a Ford Crown Victoria at work for about 12 hours a day (city driving in a police vehicle). When I started having trouble with the transmission (irregular shifting), the car was sent to the fleet maintenance department and then to the Ford dealership. Both mechanics told me to keep the overdrive off unitl I reached highway speeds and then only activate the overdrive if I was going to travel a significant distance. Since then I have had no problems with shifting. I would summise that the same plan will work for the SuperCrew. I also practice this in my truck with no problems noticed yet (17,000 miles).

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2001(Gen I) SuperCrew XLT 4X4, Solid Toredor Red w/Running Boards, 5.4L EFI, 17" 10-spoke Wheels, Trailer Tow Pkg, 3.55 Limited Slip, Sliding Rear Window, Light Graphite Gray Cloth Cpt. Chairs, AM/FM Cassette w/ 12 Disc CD Changer

 

I wonder if that is all that button does. These transmissions are all electronically controlled so it is possible that it may firm up the shifts as well. I know that is a long shot but it does seem like, around town when the button is depressed, the tranny feels a little firmer.

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Supercrew 4x4 Lariat
Solid Black , 5.4 Triton, 3.55 Limited Slip, 6750# GVWR Package, Skid Plates, Moon Roof, Sliding Rear Window, Trailer Tow - Class III, Cargo Cage, Grey Leather Captains Chairs, 6-Disc CD Changer

Mods:
305/70/16 Goodyear ATS
American Racing Atlas 16x8
Chrome Westin Steps
Flowmaster, Delta Flow 50 SI/DO
Cranked Torsion Bars 1"
Mobil 1 @ 1,000 miles

Planned:
Toneau Cover
Expedition Console Mod.

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