Cruise Control & Tow/Haul

[Brady]

I've read that it's not a good idea to use cruise control while towing. Why?

I tow an 18-1/2' aluminum bass boat. I don't know the actual weight, but I can't imagine it being more then 3000# if that. The roads I travel to the lakes are mostly flat, 60mph two-lane highways. I use the tow/haul function and cruise control. This is fine, right? Truck acts as if the boat isn't even there, which is what I'd expect with that lil bit of weight. Just wanna hear opinions....

-Brady

 

[AzRamDiesel]

I've not heard that, but I would say the transmission is smart enough to know to shift out of overdrive (To control temps). Just my thoughts!

 

[Brady]

That's what I'm thinking. I'll also add that the weight I'm pulling probably doesn't warrant the tow/haul function. Would keep RPMs down = save fuel. Maybe manually keep it at 7th if needed?

 

[AzRamDiesel]

That's what I'm thinking. I'll also add that the weight I'm pulling probably doesn't warrant the tow/haul function. Would keep RPMs down = save fuel. Maybe manually keep it at 7th if needed?

That's an option. But on a nice open flat road the extra gear would help with fuel mileage.

 

[Brady]

Yea I agree. The few trips I've taken so far it seems the tow/haul is just too much for my application. I can see it's benefit in heavier situations, but I think my next trip will be in normal D. Thanks for the opinions.

 

[seiko]

My understanding, the tow/haul affect shifting. It will stay in gear longer, so that you don't get into a shift down and up. If you are not experiencing too much shifting. It be okay. I have 5000 lb trailer, and go into the mountains. I don't use tow/haul, as it not an issue. On the hill, I don't use cruise control, that save on fuel a lot.

 

[EARL KITCHENS]

Glad you asked this question. i plan to tow my boat this Friday. My local terrain is mixed with hills and flats. I thought on the way to the lake I would try without tow haul at 60 mph and with tow haul at 60 mph on the way back. i will post the results.

 

[Brady]

Glad you asked this question. i plan to tow my boat this Friday. My local terrain is mixed with hills and flats. I thought on the way to the lake I would try without tow haul at 60 mph and with tow haul at 60 mph on the way back. i will post the results.

I'm betting you won't need/want it even with that heavy glass rig.

 

[EARL KITCHENS]

Real world got in the way so I did not get to tow my boat on Friday. Oh well, maybe next week.

 

[Brady]

Well, report what you find, when you do!

 

[WesMgc]

If trailer tow/hull is engaged and it lets you use cruse control should be okey
I have not tried this don't use cruse