2009 Dodge Dakota Owner Manual - Page 252

250 STARTING AND OPERATING operating in TOW/HAUL mode, 5th gear (if equipped) is disabled and 2-3 and 3-4 shift patterns are modified. Shifts into Overdrive (4th gear) are allowed during steady cruise (for improved fuel economy), and automatic closed-throttle downshifts to 3rd gear (for improved braking) will occur during steady braking. The TOW/HAUL light will illuminate in the instrument cluster to indicate when the switch has been activated. Pressing the switch a second time restores normal operation. If the TOW/HAUL mode is desired, the switch must be pressed each time the engine is started. 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 the vehicle speed drops below a calibrated speed, or during acceleration, the clutch automatically and smoothly disengages. The feature is operational in Overdrive and in Drive. NOTE: The torque converter clutch will not engage until the transmission fluid and engine coolant are warm (usually after 1-3 miles [1.6 - 4.8 km] of driving). Because the engine speed is higher when the torque converter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the transmission is not shifting into Overdrive when cold. This is normal. Pressing the TOW/HAUL switch, when the transmission is sufficiently warm, will demonstrate that the transmission is able to shift into, and out of, Overdrive. NOTE: If the vehicle has not been driven in several days, the first few seconds of operation after shifting the transmission into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the fluid partially draining from the torque converter into the transmission. This condition is normal and will not