Any advice on transmission temperature towing trailer up mountains? How do I figure out my truck/trailer limits / gradeability to avoid routes that would exceed my truck's limits.
2014 RAM 3500 DRW LB Crew
6.7L I6 / 68RFE 6-Speed
3.73 Axle Ratio
27,000 lb GCWR
19,000 Towing Capacity
Fifth Wheel: 16,000 lb GVWR
Last week I was worried about my transmission towing up a narrow winding 6% grade. The transmissions temp was 220F for maybe 10 mins and peaked at 226F. No warnings lights.
1200' climb over 3.5mi
2400' elevation
40F outside temp
~14,750# trailer
~750# in truck
1. The advice I received was to avoid 220-240F. Is that right? That did not seem like a serious climb to hit the transmission temp limits.
2. We maybe averaged 15mph. Would it have been better to go faster to increase airflow and maintain momentum? At the time, I thought I was helping by going slow. I maybe could have done 25 mph.
3. Are there more expensive transmission fluids ATF products that improve heat transfer?
Thank you,
Tyler
2014 RAM 3500 DRW LB Crew
6.7L I6 / 68RFE 6-Speed
3.73 Axle Ratio
27,000 lb GCWR
19,000 Towing Capacity
Fifth Wheel: 16,000 lb GVWR
Last week I was worried about my transmission towing up a narrow winding 6% grade. The transmissions temp was 220F for maybe 10 mins and peaked at 226F. No warnings lights.
1200' climb over 3.5mi
2400' elevation
40F outside temp
~14,750# trailer
~750# in truck
1. The advice I received was to avoid 220-240F. Is that right? That did not seem like a serious climb to hit the transmission temp limits.
2. We maybe averaged 15mph. Would it have been better to go faster to increase airflow and maintain momentum? At the time, I thought I was helping by going slow. I maybe could have done 25 mph.
3. Are there more expensive transmission fluids ATF products that improve heat transfer?
Thank you,
Tyler