travel trailer towing

[edadmartin]

I have a rookie question. Is it ok to use 4x4 high when towing a trailer? We just cam back from a trip to Silverton Colorado which has some of the higest towing requirements Ive seen ,meaning I was in second gear most of the time and at 3400 rpms. By using 4x4 would I get more pulling power ,would it be helpful? Please advise.

 

[DF5.4]

Using 4x4 will only give you more traction on loose of wet ground. Using 4WD (not 4auto) on dry pavement is not recommended since you can break parts. You may even loose power to the ground since now the some of the power is lost through the transfer case, front differential and axles.

 

[jacks3am]

No, using 4x4 would not give you more pulling power

The only time it would is if you use 4x4 low and you travel less than what, 10 mph?

I would say I dont know why you would leave it in second, just keep it in drive or turn off O/D

if your truck is having that hard of a time towing, you probably should look into a different tow vehicle that is capable of handling the stress

 

[DF5.4]

What are you towing?

 

[Stoned06]

Bad idea as being in 4Hi for any length of time on DRY pavement as it could easily damage the 4x4 system. It really will not help with pulling a trailer either. I have to use 4Lo to get the boat out of the water, but as soon as it's out, back into 2wd it goes. Plus you'll burn through more fuel if in 4WD.

 

[edadmartin]

on the steep grades

I found that leaving in drive the thing wants to change gears automatically, but to me at the wrong time.If it has downshifted into second at say 3000 rpms and then upshifts to 3rd the rpms drop to 2200 rpms I lose power,slow down and then shortly it downshifts back to second . Makes me nervous all that back and forth shifting.so I watch the rpms and listen to the engine in stead. It doesnt matter what Im towing except it is class III. Thanks for the advise on runniung 4x4 too.