which gear to tow in?
 

Hey guys, i was just wondering something. If you guys tow a trailer do you tow in D or 3? Does 3 mean that the tranny is always going to be in 3rd gear or will in downshift? Same with 2, will it downshift to 1? I know this is probably a really dumb question, but I have to ask it, lol. Thanks

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

When you're in "3" the highest gear it will hit, is 3rd, same with 2nd and 1st.

I can't remember if there's a tow/haul mode on the auto, or not...

But you should probably be in 3rd when towing... Depending on how much of a load you have.

If, in total you've only got like 500lbs, don't bother... other than that, I'd say use 3rd

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

Thanks drperry. So if i put it in 3, it will still downshift right? I should probably just go out and try it, but i was wondering, only because a lot of cars say 1 2 D OD, so is 3 just like drive and D just like overdrive? thanks again

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

3rd gearis a 1to1 gear ratio. 4th gear is overdrive.
some shifters list the gears as 1, 2, 3, D and some list is as 1, 2, D, OD They are the same thing. 3rd and D are the same gear just labeld differntely. Same with D and OD. Confusing, yes!

If your tranny is hunting for gears, shift it to 3rd gear. Yes it will down shift if your pushing 3/4 throttle. Doesnt matter which gear your in when you hit 3/4 throttle, it will downshift.

If your tranny is hunting gears, it isn't locked up and generating a ton of heat. This heat will lead to tranny failure over time. You will burn more gas driving in 3rd gear compared to 4th gear. You will burn more gas towingas well.

If you want GMs explaination.
[sm=icon_rtfm.gif]

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

Thanks hanr3. Boy you sure have a lot of Blazers, which one is your favorite?

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

I like them all.
I like the '87 becuase its my off-road toy.
I like the '93 becuase I did my first engine swap in it, and it has a healthy cam which sounds great with a glasspack. Check the sound forum.
I like the '00 because its my DD and I am seriously considering dropping in a 5.7L when the 4.3L decides its time.
I still have the 4.3L out of the '93 and plan on rebuilding it. It will be my first rebuild and then that engine will go into the '87 off-road toy. I have a lawn tractor engine I want to rebuild before that, and then I want to rebuild a 5.7L for the '00.
I like em all and have some plans. It just takes time and money. Time I got, I am working on the money part. Gotta take care of teh wifes want list first. :D

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

Hanr3, thats awsome how you swapped engines and are now goin to rebuild a 4.3. Your Blazers definitely sound like they hold some strong sentimental value. That Blazer is goin to be a torque moster if you swap with that 5.7. Good luck

RE: which gear to tow in?
 

Thanks!
In reality, I am too cheap to buy another vehicle. Besides I really like the S10-Blazers. They suit my needs and lifestyle well. Only wish GM still made them.[:@]