demozg1000

I pull a small snowmobile trailer and was wondering if i need to use tow mode. It seems to be ok with out it but im not sure when to use it. Sure a big trailer needs but 2000lbs seems light to me. It locks out 10th gear among other things.

Thanks

idrive

iTrader: (3)

Technically, you don't need "tow mode" for anything. It is designed to make towing better, easier. Some agree that it does, some do not. It's what you personally prefer.

javelina1

I use it when towing with our Aluma trailer and Can-am ATV. I figured it came with the truck, might as well use it. Plus, I like the shift point change.

mhamershock

Not really. I tow 2500 lb enclosed (dirt bikes) and it's not much use. Always use it towing my 8k lb toy hauler tho.

Mike

D2Abbott

When plugging my trailer lights in my truck automatically switches to tow mode. Actually, my motorcycle only weighs 1,000lbs or so with all three bikes on it so I wish that it wouldn't go into to mode.

Jeff1024

As others have said the main purpose of Tow/Haul is to change the transmission shift strategy. The normal shift points are designed to squeak every MPG out of the F150, which is why under low load situations you will often see the transmission shift into very high gears - think 5th gear going 30mph Tow/Haul mode changes shift points to keep the truck in the power band longer at the expense of MPG. It also keeps the truck in lower gears longer to help /w engine braking.

So while you dont "need" to turn it on, it does make towing easier. Also, dont just think of using it only when towing. When I had a cord of firewood in the bed of the truck I turned it on.

Try it and see, you are going to get reduced mpg while towing regardless so can't hurt.

wadekaminski

I use it when pulling my ~3,000lb boat. My trailer doesn't have brakes and I feel that tow mode puts less strain on my truck brakes.

pilotpip

If I'm towing my smaller trailer with 1 atv, I don't use it. If I have 2 on the back, or a boat, or my travel trailer, I use it. On my 13 with 6 speed, it didn't lock out 6 but I often did with the travel trailer. I haven't had a chance to use it yet on the new truck. I do like the earlier downshifts to help slow down. I

D2Abbott

SSowinski

Doesn't tow mode also set the torque converter to full lock for less wear and tear coming in and out of gears? If so, then use it when towing or hauling to avoid excessive wear.