Dodge 2009 Dodge Ram Pickup 2500 - Manual (Page 67)

WARNING!
Do not use the Tow Haul feature when driving in icy
or slippery conditions. The increased engine braking
can cause the rear wheels to slide, and the vehicle to
swing around with the possible loss of vehicle con-
trol, which may cause an accident possibly resulting
in personal injury or death.
When To Lock Out Overdrive
When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a
heavy load, etc., and frequent 6–5–6 or 5–4–5 transmis-
sion shifting occurs, press the “TOW HAUL” switch. This
will improve performance and reduce the potential for
transmission overheating or failure due to excessive
shifting.
Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been
included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.
A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-
cally at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly
different feeling or response during normal operation in
high gear. When the vehicle speed drops or during
acceleration when the transmission downshifts to 1st
gear, the clutch automatically disengages.
NOTE:
• The torque converter clutch will not engage until the
transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm [usu-
ally after 1-3 miles (1.6 - 4.8 km) of driving]. Because
the engine speed is higher when the torque converter
clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmis-
sion is not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is
normal. Pressing the “TOW HAUL” switch when the
transmission is sufficiently warm will demonstrate
that the transmission is able to shift into and out of
Overdrive.
STARTING AND OPERATING 65
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