I was on a muddy trail today got my Ram semi-stuck. After spinning the tires going backwards for a few seconds ( I had it in 4hi) I went forward so that when I tried to go in reverse the next time I could have some momentum. After doing this a few times, I finally got out. However, I was working the engine pretty hard while it was spinning in reverse. It may have even been somewhere in redline for a few seconds. My question is, I been worried that I may have somehow hurt my engine if it went into redline. What do you think guys? What will happen in your experience? Will it even rev high enough to do damage without hitting a limiter or something? Will being in the red for a few short bursts do anything?

I would sure appreciate it if you guys could put my mind at ease.

 

I wouldn't do it to much I try to keep mine around 2-3k when wheeling.

 

All redlining will do is tell the computer and it will retard the timing for a moment. Nothing should be worng. You are not supposed to go over 20 MPH (I think) while being stuck and tires spinning. Next time use 4WD low and you prolly wont get stuck. 2200 RPM in 2nd gear and going 10 MPH is a beautiful thing!

 

I have been told high range puts a lot of strange on the tc so I have been told so when I go its right to low range. Plus if you get stuck you are already in your "best" gear so to speak.

 

I've always gone with the assumption that if you get stuck in 4hi you have somewhere to go lol, but I may be wrong just my opinion.

 

I have found it spot I can't make it in high but I can do it in low range fine she pulls right threw the holes. I almost had to pull my buddies 04 hemi out last night he was in low range just spinning.

 

How would putting it in 4HI put stress on the TC? Unless I'm using it in the rain like Miami or vmann...

 

It just what I have been told from a guy from private 4x4.

 

The only stress comes from lugging it or over-revving it. You should match the gear to the terrain. Putting it in low just because can get you stuck easier and quicker in sand or mud because you will likely spin the tires more easily. And having it in low on hardpack will cause you to over-rev if you get going too fast.

As for the over-rev, sustained and/or frequent over-revving can damage the engine, but an occassional redline shouldn't be cause for concern. Generally, damage from over-revving is instantaneous. Something (pushrod, valve, timing chain, lifter) gets stressed and breaks immediately or shortly thereafter. The real danger is valve float and that typically takes a prolonged over-rev to cause damage.

 

think about it...if you do a dyno pull...its gonna get redlined and then some, everytime.