Howdy.

This has been done to death, but do you think it is a problem to tow a 5x8 U-haul with overdrive on (for economy)? The trailer is 905# empty and maybe 1000(?) payload on flat terrain.


The trans. has an overdrive band (4r70w) with 4.6 motor.


Thanks.

 

As long as it can hold OD without shifting back and forth all the time, keep it in OD. If it's shifting in and out every mile or so, just leave it in 3rd. If it holds it for miles on miles at a time, you should be fine...

Mitch

 

It's not the in and out of overdrive that's the problem - it's the torque converter locking and unlocking. Unlocked builds up too much heat.

You DO know that the speed limit with a single axle U-haul trailer is 55 mph, right? (Tire and axle limitations) At 55, your mileage won't be too bad out of OD and the 4.6 will run better at the higher revs.

 

There we go. I wasn't aware of one axle--@ 55 mph. I didnt care for one axles but that's the way this tow was arranged by other family. A bigger box is a waste of money for them.

They figured a 6 hour tow and I dont think they calculated that with 55mph.

If I had a CB handle it would be Tortoise.

 

You'll find that no matter how fast you try to go while phycially moving, your overall AVERAGE mph for the duration of the trip is going to be in the 50-55 range anyway. This is calculating total time on the road for the day.. Stops, slow downs, lunch, etc...

I always use 50 mph for my estimating time wise and come pretty darn close!

Have a safe trip!

Mitch

 

With 30" tires and 3.55 gears, in OD it will be turning about 1500 rpm at 55. In 3rd, that goes up to about 2200. The 4.6 will be a lot happier there.

 

We ended up having to get the 6 x12 Uhaul. Way more stuff to move once we got there.

I didnt even attempt overdrive with this weight, and the RPM sweet spot was around 2000.....OD in normal cruise is at 1550 @ 60.

I also have a power tune on it too, and the data chart shows an extra 13 ft lbs. at 1750- 2000 rpm , or a 6 % increase in torque (on reg. gas).


Thank ya for the support.