Apologies if this has already been asked, but I can't find anything about it using the search menu. Other than fluid changes, the only thing I know about Automatic Transmissions, is that they are metal cans filled with mysteries, magic, and hopes and dreams. Does turning over drive off in the city actually improve fuel economy? Google search results seemed mixed, but I do it any ways. Just curious...

Thanks~

 

Understanding what overdrive is would be a good start to finding out your answer.

 

From what I understand it's used to maintain low RPM at highway speeds. Overall it's a rather elementary question I suppose, more or less just curious if running without OD helps in stop/go traffic..

 

I forgot where I read it but it said something like driving 30mph/50kmh its beneficial in stop and go traffic. I've never actually attempted it tho. Maybe give it ago and let us know how it goes. Cheers.

 

Its a gear that is higher than top gear or drive gear. Hence the name over drive.

 

Sounds good, thanks for the responses ~
I'll play around with it and see what I come up with.

 

Generally you drive gear or last one before overdrive is a 1:1 gear meaning same RPM in as out. Overdrive is just as it sounds as in more RPM out than in whereas all gears prior are more RPM in then out.

To answer your question, no, turning it off will not result in better fuel economy in town. What you would be saying is that you know better than the computer what gear is best for fuel economy and power.

When the truck goes into overdrive your engine has a lower RPM to go the same speed therefore using less fuel.

The only reason to shut off overdrive is to stop the truck from hunting or changing gears too often. This normally only happens when you are hauling a load or heavy trailer as the truck wants to get into overdrive but cannot maintain the speed due to a lack of power and so downshifts.

 

Thanks for the in depth response, DT18. Guess there's no need then, oh well, I like the increased exhaust sound anyways lol.