2004 Dodge Dakota Owner's Manual - Page 149

STARTING AND OPERATING 149 If the transmission temperature gets extremely hot, the transmission will automatically select the most desirable gear for operation at this temperature. If the transmission temperature becomes hot enough the O/D OFF and/or TRANS TEMP light(s) may illuminate and the transmission may downshift out of Overdrive until the transmission cools down. After cooldown, the transmission will resume normal operation. When To Lock Out Overdrive When driving in hilly areas, towing a trailer, carrying a heavy load, or whenever frequent transmission shifting occurs, press the "O/D OFF" button. 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 is included in all automatic transmissions. A clutch within the torque converter engages automatically at a calibrated speed at light throttle. It engages at higher speeds under heavier acceleration. This may result in a slightly different feeling or response during normal operation in high gear. When 5 The "O/D OFF" feature must be selected, if desired, each time the engine is started. NOTE: If the vehicle is started in extremely cold temperatures, the transmission may not shift into Overdrive and will automatically select the most desirable gear for operation at this temperature. Normal operation will resume when the transmission fluid temperature has risen to a suitable level. Refer also to the Note under torque converter clutch, later in this section.