What
is the best way to operate an automatic transmission when towing?
How
do I drive in the city with an automatic transmission?
How to maintain an automatic transmission.
A little info about manual transmissions and
differentials.
What
is the best way to operate an automatic transmission when towing?
Your vehicle
must not tow excessive loads as this will cause component failure.
Excessive loads on a transmission when towing will generate a high
oil temperature. It is recommended to drive in power mode if equipped
and to use overdrive gears sparingly.
When ascending
and descending hills it is recommended to use the transmission in
manual mode. This will reduce the amount of braking required and
allow the engine to assist in applications as previously mentioned.
When the vehicle
is used for towing we recommend the full use of synthetic oil which
can withstand high temperatures and assist in better lubrication.
The fitting of an oil cooler will also assist in lowering transmission
temperature. The most common cause of transmission failure is due
to overloading and high oil temperature.
4WD Vehicles
are more suited for towing due to their weight ratio and extra traction.
It is important all tyre sizes and tyre wear is equal front and
back, and air pressure is maintained to manufacturers’ specifications.
Failure to adhere to this will cause severe damage, as in “Jeeps,
Subaru, Rodeos, Mazda and in some Nissan and Toyota Vehicles”.
It is recommended that 4WD vehicles have transfer case and differentials
oil changed every 60,000 kilometres.
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How
do I drive in the city with an automatic transmission?
We recommend
that if you are driving in the city you have the overdrive off to
assist with engine braking and transmission gear shifting.
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How
to maintain an automatic transmission.
The maintenance
of a transmission is extremely important. Most manufacturers do
not specify automatic transmission servicing in their service schedules.
Transmissions are like engines, they use oil and filters to operate.
The transmission is subject to the harshest environment in the vehicle.
Manufacturers use the term “The transmission is sealed for
life”. This is not true. Instead of having dipsticks they
have oil level plugs located on the transmission. Changing of the
oil, the filters and sometimes flushing is essential. We recommend
oil changing and filter replacement on a regular kilometre basis
to extend the life of your transmission.
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A
little info about manual transmissions and differentials.
It is recommended
that oil in differentials be changed every 60,000 kilometres and
LSD additive to be added where applicable. Tyre tread depth and
air pressure is vital for differential operation.
It is recommended
to avoid fifth gear use under 95 kilometres in a manual transmission
as this causes extreme strain on the gear box, especially in diesel
engines.
The use of synthetic
oil greatly improves gear shifting quality, oil lubrication and
operates on lower temperatures. Servicing of manual transmissions
is recommended at 60,000 kilometres.
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