I tow about 7k twice a month and was wondering were the rpm range should be. When I start out from a stop I get to the 4k rpm range in second gear until i get to my desired 65 mph on the freeway and then it shifts into third and i cruise along pretty well.

It goes up and down the mid 5-10% grades fine but occasionally there's the steeper 15% grade to which it kicks down to 2nd gear and runs 4k rpm's up the hill.

Is this a normal thing for the amount of weight I'm pulling with a 97 dodge 1500 5.2L 4x4 sport.

Based on the link below, the 4k rpm range is where my 5.2L engines power lies.

http://www.rm-indy.com/Towing%20Tips.htm

Sorry about the long post. Open to any opinions.

 

When the TC is locked up goin 60MPH on a flat road, its around 2100RPM. Mine usually runs around 3000RPMs going up a hill in 2nd gear.

 

Well I'll see what happens this trip. Last time the truck over heated so since then I added a set of electric fans from a ford and new fan clutch and pulled the T-stat. I should be fine for this trip.

 

What Ford were the fans from? I'm interested in cheap electric fans!

 

To be honest I don't know. I've read here on the forum that 90-94 Ford Tarus had good reliable fans.

I went to a scrap yard with some knowledgeable people and told them what I wanted, "14'' dual electric fans" from any vehicle. He went to the pile he had and said here you go, they are from ford. I paid $30 for them and got a 30-day warranty as well.

I tested to make sure they work then installed them. They run from 2 switches.

 

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo...eat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo...eat=directlink

http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo...eat=directlink

 

Thanks!

 

you should put the thermostat back in. it helps keep your truck cool. without it it will stay cool for a while but once it warms up there is no way to regulate it and it will keep getting hotter.

 

I was thinking the same thing i the back of my head but haven't had a chance to try and confirm this. Any other opinions on this thought.

 

^no, no, no...
t-stat keeps an engine at hot temp (180-195) by partially closing and restricting or blocking coolant flow.

no t-stat allows it to cool to its maximum potential.

i think 4k is a little high. that seems likes its one gear too low.