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23 Aug 2011 |

Hi I own a 2007 3.0 ltr automatic Patrol and I have just got a 20' 6" full van. question do I hace the overdrive in the off position all the time when the caravan is connected? Thanking you in advance, Des

Des Pagett, NSW
COMMENTS (7)
Comment by Unknown
posted 1 year ago
I have a 2005 3.0 ltr patrol dsl auto towing an 18' pop top at 80km/h with overdrive locked out. I averaged 14.85ltr/100 last year going round Australia. I have been advised by the auto trans experts not to tow in overdrive.
Comment by Unknown
posted 1 year ago
Hey Des, I have an 06 3.0lt Patrol, Nissan advised me to leave overdrive on and the power button on. So far i have not had any problems, over 10,000 clicks of towing. I have kept the email, just incase.
Comment by Unknown
posted 1 year ago
I tow a 17ft6inch van weighing approx 2100kG with an auto series 90 Prado. Toyota in their handbook advise against using Overdrive when towing. As a matter to be considered I have towed a smaller van in overdrive and with the larger unit and using only 3rd gear my economy is better without using overdrive. This is possibly due to turbo boost being close to optimum.
Comment by Unknown
posted 1 year ago
Hi Des, I have a Patrol 3 litre disel auto towing an offroad van taring 1300kg. I support Tow Pro's comments, and would add that the torque converter lockup function which is present on third and top gear can pull a lot harder in 3rd before letting go and letting the torque converter slip than it can in top. Torque converter lockup is vital for economy and staying "locked up" is beneficial for gearbox life. Towing in O/D can result in heat and wear if the lockup keeps letting go and re-engaging. Towing in 3rd at 100 klicks when locked up requires engine revs of 3000/min, which is quite comfortable for cruising when conditions require.
Michael Walker
Comment by Unknown
posted 1 year ago
We have a 2006 Ford Territory and tow a 19'6" full van. I have had transmission troubles but NOT relating to towing. The Auto Service people told me I could tow in overdrive with no problems to the transmission provided, on uphill and downhill runs go out of O/D and change down. The vehicle does not labour and tows beautifully at 90 - 100 k/h and the engine runs UNDER 2,000 revs. Glen.
Comment by Unknown
posted 1 year ago
Hi Des,I have a 03 auto patrol and a 21" van so far i have have traveled 17000Km towing the van with the overdrive locked-out, at this stage i have had no trouble, have average 18 lts per 100km towing.Hope this helps.
Regards
NWK
Tinaroo
Comment by The Tow Pro
posted 1 year ago
Lock-out overdrive when towing as a rule in the Patrol 3.0-litre. When travelling down a gentle slope there is no reason why you couldn't engage overdrive for better fuel efficiency - but if you choose to do this, remember to disengage when the downhill run is over.
If the hill is steep enough that you feel you need to ride the brakes - don't. You should lock-out overdrive to permit engine braking so the rig can more easily maintain speed rather than gaining it. Trying to slow a rig weighing four tonnes-plus by riding the brakes will increase brake wear and can lead to brake fade.

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