2013 Dodge Dart Owner Manual - Page 479

STARTING AND OPERATING 477 Towing Tips Before setting out on a trip, practice turning, stopping and backing the trailer in an area away from heavy traffic. Manual Transmission - If Equipped If using a manual transmission vehicle for trailer towing, AutoStick௡ all starts must be in first gear to avoid excessive clutch When using the AutoStick௡ shift control, select the highest gear that allows for adequate performance and avoids slippage. frequent downshifts. For example, choose Љ4Љ if the Automatic Transmission - If Equipped desired speed can be maintained. Choose Љ3Љ or Љ2Љ if The DRIVE range can be selected when towing. Howneeded to maintain the desired speed. ever, if frequent shifting or changes in engine speed occur while in this range, use the AutoStick௡ shift control to Extended driving at high RPM should be avoided to select a lower gear ratio. prevent excess heat generation. A reduction in vehicle speed may be required to avoid extended driving at high NOTE: Using a lower gear ratio while operating the RPM. Return to a higher gear or vehicle speed when vehicle under heavy loading conditions, will improve grade or road conditions allow. performance and extend transmission life by reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup. This action will also provide better engine braking. If you REGULARLY tow a trailer for more than 45 minutes of continuous operation, then change the transmission fluid and filter as specified for Љpolice, taxi, fleet, or frequent trailer towing.Љ Refer to the ЉMaintenance ScheduleЉ for the proper maintenance intervals. 5