Question for the Mad Dr.

[Jackpine]

Originally Posted by orygunf150

Well I was hoping to hear from Bill on this one (I'm sure he is pretty busy) but there is a definate reduction in power. I monitored comm gear while taking off in 2nd gear, after a few seconds shifted to 3rd and it took off like a different truck. Didnt shift to 1st, nor did the tc ever lock. I wonder if it does it in 4WD?

We're back from Sedona. Here's what I learned:

If I start my truck moving with the shifter in 2nd gear, that's the gear it stays in - period! No 1st gear at all.

I observed my torque converter lock up in 2nd, 3rd and 4th gears, depending on the load and speed. Once in a while, it would shift from 3rd with the torque converter locked directly to 4th without unlocking the torque converter and that would feel "harsh". With the speed control on, coming down a hill, as long as the torque converter stayed locked, I could feel engine braking, but if I tapped the brake to disengage the cruise control, the torque converter would also unlock and the feel of engine braking would disappear.

The TC would lock in 4WD, which I used on a few "unmaintained" roads for improved traction and control. But, now I have a VERY dirty truck!

- Jack

[SinCityFX4]

Good info thanks Jack

That sedona red dirt/mud is alomost worse than beach sand isn't it.:gag::whistle:

[Jackpine]

Originally Posted by SinCityFX4

Good info thanks Jack

That sedona red dirt/mud is alomost worse than beach sand isn't it.:gag::whistle:

The Sedona dirt is almost like red talcum powder! Super, super fine and all over everything. There was a very nice, steep, "sharp-rocked" road out of Sedona called Schnebly Hill Road that we drove up. Beautiful drive at about 5 -10 mph and a great test of tire durability. My understanding is that it was the original route in and out of Sedona. Doesn't look like much has been done to improve it since then.

Bill, I wonder if the reduced power in 2nd is just to minimize slippage on startup in snow or on ice? I do know though that it's a good gear to pull a trailer up a steep grade (7%+) in the mountains.

- Jack