Would it be hard on the Auto Tranny to drop down into 2nd gear durring deceleration so I dont use my brakes as much? I hardly ever used my brakes in my jeep, all I ever did was downshift, but it was a manual.

thanks

 

I wouldn't unless it was an emergency situation. I would however not drive in overdrive, the tranny will downshift faster that way. Also driving it out of overdrive will help save wear and tear on the brakes

 

using the OD to downshift is useful too.. still saves on brakes, and yuo can shift OD on and off in sequence to reduce your speed from 100 to 70 without touching the brakes in about a half a click.

 

Yeah, I never drive in overdrive unless im on a long trip on the Highway, Ive found it dosnt really affect my MPG that much, and well, I drive a truck, so MPG isnt really one of my concerns.. I just miss being able to slow down completely to an almost stop without using my breaks..
Plus, this is going to sound kind of wierd, but Im still not 100% used to the power boosted breaks. I drove my Cj-7 for almost 9 years with no Power Breaks.

 

What you need to do more than anything is monitor tranny temp. I am quite sure that even the current Rams have it set up where the torque converter is unlocked in 1st and 2nd gears. I have a diesel. If you have a controler that would keep the tc locked up till 17mph or less, then you would more than double your braking. Especially with an exhaust brake. And exhaust brake however is an investment too and you have to have exhaust valve springs changed.

For the time being tho, my opinion is you can use second, for what little it's worth, but watch the temp. Get a good autometer gauge. They are a sinch to install. Good luck.


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