OD and trailer towing

[JoeR]

I was towing a fairly light (~2500) trailer last week at 75 mph with the OD on, when tranny fluid began dripping out and hitting the exhaust, causing some smoking. The closest dealer said not to run OD, even with a small trailer, because it will cause overheating, which causes fluid to boil out the vents. Seems odd with the 4.6L V-8 and towing package ('02).

So I'm thinking of adding a tranny temp guage--anyone have any advice on how to do this?

 

[dogfriend]

Remember that aerodynamic drag force is proportional to velocity (speed) squared. Depending upon the shape of your trailer, you will need a lot more power to pull the trailer at 75 than at 55 mph. So even though it is a light trailer, it will put a lot of stress on the tranny at 75 mph.

I would change the trans fluid if you haven't already, because overheating the fluid reduces its ability to protect the expensive parts inside the trans.

I'm not as familiar with the tranny in your 02 (5R55W) as the eariler models but you can add a temp sensor at the cooler line coming out of the transmission (ideally as close to the trans as possible) or add a threaded drain to the pan and install it there. A third option is to install it in the line pressure port, but my opinion is that this is somewhat risky, in the case that the sensor comes out or fails.

Here is a thread on installing a trans temp gauge in a 2002. Unfortunately the pictures don't show up any longer:

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=63100&page=1&pp=20&highlight=trans+temp

 

[410Fortune]

I tow with OD on at higher speeds on long trips during flat surfaces.

Never overheated my trans. I tow a boat, HOWEVER my truck was prepared for towing (cooling, gears, etc)

People are back and forth on this and you can try a search, it has been discussed here many times.
Lots of people tow in OD, if you do, turn it off for hill climbs, and slower speeds (below 65, 60 etc)
If you are towing the #1 thing to do is monitor the transmission fluid temp.

 

[Timoteo]

I had a similar experience. I was towing my boat (3000 lbs) up a long grade a month ago. It was a hot day, I only have a V6, but it does have the towing package and higher tow rating; anyway I was only in 3rd gear and taching 3500 rpm's when I noticed smoke. Apparently the same thing, fluid coming out a vent and dripping on the hot exhaust. This is a bit disappointing considering that I've got the extra tranny cooler that comes with the tow package. I guess I may have to add another cooler. I did tow in OD through the desert with 110 F temps and no additional smoking, but I kept the speed at about 60-65 and never pressed too hard on the gas. I still need to get the fluid changed.

Good Luck, Keep us posted.

Tim