2008 Dodge Ram 2500 Pickup Owner Manual - Page 401

STARTING AND OPERATING 399 NOTE: Using the "TOW HAUL" or "OD/OFF" range while operating the vehicle under heavy operating conditions will improve performance and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting and heat build up. This action will also provide better engine braking. The automatic transmission fluid and filter should be changed if you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation. See Maintenance Schedule in section 8 of this manual for transmission fluid change intervals. NOTE: Check the automatic transmission fluid level before towing. Towing Tips - Tow/Haul (If Equipped) To reduce potential for automatic transmission overheating, turn the "TOW HAUL OD/OFF" feature ON when driving in hilly areas or shift the transmission to Drive position 2 on more severe grades. Towing Tips - Electronic Speed Control (If Equipped) − Don't use in hilly terrain or with heavy loads. − When using the speed control, if you experience speed drops greater than 10 mph (16 km/h), disengage until you can get back to cruising speed. − Use speed control in flat terrain and with light loads to maximize fuel efficiency. Towing Tips - Cooling System To reduce potential for engine and transmission overheating, take the following actions: − City Driving When stopped for short periods of time, put transmission in neutral and increase engine idle speed. − Highway Driving Reduce speed. 5