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If I understand well, using manual shifting would keep the TC locked?
How do you know if it is locked or not?
im not sure how to make the TC lock.
The only way ive been able to tell when the TC unlocks is when the RPMs increase but the trans does not show it drops down a gear. RPMs will increase about 400-500RPMs.
I very rarely have unlocked converter condition while towing with my 5.0. Only time it unlocks the TC while towing is in 5th gear between 50-60mph on rare occasions.
For me it is more of a feel than anything. I know when it is locked and unlocked based on how the RPM's react. If I feel that the TC is unlocked, I will drop a gear, and then the transmission will be able to lock the converter. I also know where the RPM's are supposed to be at a given speed in a given gear because I drive it so much, and if I see it is about 400 above that gear, then I know it is not locked up.
The only real way to know is to have a diagnostic tool connected that shows the transmission status. I have a Diablo Sport tuner that was for my 99 F350 Powerstroke, it has that ability, but don't know if it works on a truck nearly 20 years newer.
Heading out shortly from Columbus NE to Colorado Springs CO with 12,000lb+ trailer behind my 5.0L 3.73 6R80. Will report back on how she tows in the higher elevations.
Heading out shortly from Columbus NE to Colorado Springs CO with 12,000lb+ trailer behind my 5.0L 3.73 6R80. Will report back on how she tows in the higher elevations.
I have a ‘14 with the 5.0 that I tow my travel trailer with, Ive pulled it over the Black Hills in SD a few times and it does pretty well with those elevations up to 6000 ft or so. About the only time it really had any trouble was interstate travel in high wind, I think my mpg was about 3 that day and my first time pulling it in that kind of wind. Knowing that the newer generation 5.0 is more capable I think you would do fine with the 5.0 at 8000 ft.
Originally Posted by Sirikenewtron
I'm on my 2nd ecoboost truck now but would really like to get a 2018+5.0 next truck for nothing more than something different and I'll be keeping it for as long as
possible.
My only fear is that I will really miss the low end torque of the EcoBoost when towing and just everyday driving.
I will be towing a travel trailer about twice a year that will weigh 6k lbs wet/fully loaded and that will be up and through at least 8k elevation with multiple mountains.
Anyone else with a new 10 speed 5.0 tow in simular conditions? Or any year 5.0 for that matter and how do you like it?
I understand the ecoboost will tow better that's not the question and if I planned on towing a lot more often and more weight I'd probably go that route again or a diesel.
For the record I have to admit I have a little bit of ecoboost PTSD from my old 2013 3.5 and it's endless dealership visits for warranty work, so that is a big part of wanting a 5.0 next truck.
I currently have a 2017 2.7 which has been great but it's more of a get me by truck because I just had to get rid of my 2013 due to all the issues.
If I do go with a 5.0 it will definitely have 3.73 gears and will be tuned.
Thanks for any input I appreciate it
2011 5.0 crew 4x4 3.73 (stock, 180K miles) pulling 7000 lb 30 ft TT, WDH, no sway reducer.
Just completed 3000 miles of varying terrain TX-IN-OH-FL-TX. The hills in KY and TN were nice as always.
Tow-haul was on most of the time but removed on some downhills to stop the engine braking.
Cruise control was on most of the time (65mph) but disabled on selective inclines to compare manual throttle against cruise gear selection at the same speed. Speed on inclines would slow to around 60 before being held by cruise in 3rd around 4000rpm or by me in 4th with heavy throttle around 3000rpm. Engine probably preferred 3rd.
Trans temps averaged 203 with OAT 92. Trans temp got to 208 on several occasions, 210 less than half a dozen times. On two occasions trans temp hit 215 on a series of short hills (multiple gear cycling) with cruise and tow haul on. Trans temps dropped back to 203 in about 20 seconds on the declines or level terrain. You could see the TC lock (tach) after most shifts. Gear cycling means down-shifting to go uphill then up-shifting at the top or transition to down-hill. Trans never "hunted".
Towing MPG was 8.5 in headwinds and 9.8 without. Saw 11.5 in areas of 55-60 MPH.
2.5 oz in the catch can.
2011 5.0 crew 4x4 3.73 (stock, 180K miles) pulling 7000 lb 30 ft TT, WDH, no sway reducer.
Just completed 3000 miles of varying terrain TX-IN-OH-FL-TX. The hills in KY and TN were nice as always.
Tow-haul was on most of the time but removed on some downhills to stop the engine braking.
Cruise control was on most of the time (65mph) but disabled on selective inclines to compare manual throttle against cruise gear selection at the same speed. Speed on inclines would slow to around 60 before being held by cruise in 3rd around 4000rpm or by me in 4th with heavy throttle around 3000rpm. Engine probably preferred 3rd.
Trans temps averaged 203 with OAT 92. Trans temp got to 208 on several occasions, 210 less than half a dozen times. On two occasions trans temp hit 215 on a series of short hills (multiple gear cycling) with cruise and tow haul on. Trans temps dropped back to 203 in about 20 seconds on the declines or level terrain. You could see the TC lock (tach) after most shifts. Gear cycling means down-shifting to go uphill then up-shifting at the top or transition to down-hill. Trans never "hunted".
Towing MPG was 8.5 in headwinds and 9.8 without. Saw 11.5 in areas of 55-60 MPH.
Heading out shortly from Columbus NE to Colorado Springs CO with 12,000lb+ trailer behind my 5.0L 3.73 6R80. Will report back on how she tows in the higher elevations.
Test drive the crap out of a few of each and get a feel. They likely won't let you tow with it but at least you can get a feel.
Well I've done just that, not towing with them but test driving them like crazy, it's really looking like I'm now gonna end up going with another ecoboost next year, 2019 3.5..
Im just to spoiled from that nice long flat powerband of the EcoBoost, especially for towing
06-12-2018, 10:24 AM
