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3rd Gen Ram Tech2002-2008 Rams: This section is for TECHNICAL discussions only, that involve the 2002 through 2008 Rams Rams. For any non-tech discussions, please direct your attention to the "General discussion/NON-tech" sub sections.
This is my first truck, and a buddy of mine said that if I'm doing city driving, turning off OD will help alot with mileage. Is this true? Is the only thing I have to do is hit the "Tow/Haul" switch? Also, and more importantly, will it cause any problems, or is it a win/win situation.
Using the OD off during city driving is a good thing. It keeps the transmission for wearing out quicker. I will try and explain the best I can. With the OD "ON" it routes the fluid through a different way than with OD off. It has to do with keeping the tranny fluid cool. During city driving it heats up more. This has always been my understanding anyways. Usually, at least with the truck I had, (not dodge but the idea is the same) if you were crusing 45 or 50 mph's the turn the OD back on.
There should be a different switch for turning off the OD. the "tow/haul" switch is for what it says. If you are towing or hauling heavy loads you switch this. Basically it sets the computer to shift later so you get maximum torque for hauling.
Hmmmmm, so how do you turn OD off? Reading the manual said that the "Tow/Haul" turned OD off to prevent overshifting, but aparently thats not the same thing.
I didnt see any other switch for it...maybe I'm being blind, LOL.
On my old Bronco If I put in drive it would go into overdrive after 42 mph. ,but if I pulled the lever down one letter it would stay out of OD. I'll let you know later I'm taking the Dodge for a ride in a couple of minutes. Be back later.
Ya, the Tow/Haul buttone is the same as the OD off button in the 03's, they relabled it becuz ppl were burning up the trannies, by towing in OD, i myslef always drive with the OD locked out.. to many hills around where i live.