I've been towing a travel trailer for over 6 years, and I have a question. I have a 2004 Quad Cab, Hemi, towing package, etc. that tows my travel trailer with no problems. I've heard mixed reviews concerning towing with the cruise control engaged.I don't do it now, but if I'm traveling on level roads, is there any harm in setting the cruise control?

 

Not really sure myself. I have the Quad cab 1500, without the Hemi. And i haven't really done any towing with it...Someone will chime in shortly. Alot of these guys do towing....Sorry couldn't help.

 

If you’re traveling on level roads and your transmission is not shifting around and stays in gear, I see no problem. I would shut it off as soon as she starts shifting. Just my thoughts. I’ve driven many highways miles pulling a travel trailer with a lot less truck than what I have today! (This was back in the 80’s) Red

 

If you are teaveling on level roads, then cruise will be ok. Mountains and hilly areas, I would advise against it. The bad with it is that if you run the cruise and hit a noticeable grade the truck will search for the gear, without knowing you what you are towing, thus possibly causing to hunt quickly for another gear to get the truck to the respective speed. If you are handling the speed yourself, you wourself will know if the truck can handle the grade at 70 mph or whatever and if you think it can't, then you quickly know to let the truck bog down to a lower speed to maintain. Less stress on the drivetrain.

 

I agree with L and R Two. I've towed a 26' box car hauler back and forth from AZ to FL, and AZ to OHa few times and i run Cruise 80% of the time. I turn it off when going into steep grades (6% or more) or if it is a hilly up and down as the tranny will continually shift 4 to 5 to 4 to 5 ect. with cruise on, but with off you an maintainand keep the truck in 4th. That's my .02and i've not had any problemsyet...

 

if you are in tow/haul mode will it not shift into OD?

 

It will shift into OD when in tow/haul mode. I tow a 30ft trailer that weighs 6,200 lbs loaded. No problems towing, but was just looking for an easier way to maintain speed other than keeping my foot on the accelerator. At that weight, even the slightest difference in pressure on the gas pedal causes decreases in speed. I tow primarily in the Southern part of Louisiana, and the roads are relatively flat other than an occasional highway overpass. I would certainly disengage the cruise control on any steep inclines.

I usually tow between 60 and 65 mph, and can maintain that speed at around 2,000 to 2,200 rpm.