Tow/Haul switch

[nimmor]

I have a 2001 Silverado that I just bought. It has a tow/haul switch on the gear shifter that the owners manual says to engage when towing or hauling a heavy load. My boat is not a big one, 14ft v-hull with a 9.9 johnson, but I have been using it anyway. My question is is it working correctly? It takes a really long time for the gears to switch in this mode, especially going uphill. I thought all it was supposed to do was keep the overdrive from kicking in.

 

[rjlipscomb]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

No, it changes the shifting limits as well. Depending on speed and throttle position (load). You will notice it staying in the lower gears longer and at higher speeds than usual. What is the weight of your boat and trailer (and additional items/persons in the truck)? Tow mode is intended to save the engine and trans.

 

[Shrub88]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

My boat is not a big one, 14ft v-hull with a 9.9 johnson

You do not need it at your trailer weight, just more rpm and fuel for no reason, leave it off.

 

[solar7647]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

I have a 2000 silverado with the same thing. It is working correctly. It changes the transmisions shifting so that when you are hauling a heavy load your engine dosnt have to work so hard to get going and to help with fuel consumption. You should only turn it on when hauling 1/3 the max tow weight of the truck witch is 10,000lbs. If your boat was larger you would see the differance it makes. My boat and trailer weigh 4700lbs and that feature makes a huge differance, I still get 18mpg when i am moving my boat its a good option. wish my old truck had it.

 

[shorts&chanclas]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

I don't see a need for it in your case.

 

[sportsmanphil]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

Everyone is correct, its a great tool but you dont need it for what you are towing.

The T/H switch is basically a second program for the PCM. It changes the shift points, converter lockout and shift firmness. The defalt program will work for an empty truck and most light cargo/towing.

When towing anything that causes the trans to hunt for a gear, its time to engage the T/H switch.

The T/H will also allow the trans to go into full overdrive, where as the old style will not, it kept the RPM's higher, causing higher engine temps and loss of economy.

I never use mine until I hit around the 3500lbs mark on what I am towing or if I am pulling something through the mountains. Just listen to your trans

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

I doubt you need it for your outfit. For heavier loads it is needed to save excessive wear on the tranny.

 

[nimmor]

Re: Tow/Haul switch

Good deal. I really didn't like the way the truck performed with it on. As far as my total weight I am not for sure. Like I had said it is a14ft v-hull with a 9.9. Gear would consist of a trolling motor, battery, about 6 poles, tackle box, cooler and usally I am by myself so not much of anything else. It is light enough I use my lawnmower to move it to mow.