252STARTING AND OPERATING
Automatic Transmission
Select the DRIVE (D) range when towing. The
transmission controls include a drive strategy to
avoid frequent shifting when towing. However, if
frequent shifting does occur while in DRIVE, you
can use the AutoStick shift control to manually
select a lower gear.
NOTE:
Using a lower gear while operating the vehicle
under heavy loading conditions, will improve
performance and extend transmission life by
reducing excessive shifting and heat buildup.
This action will also provide better engine
braking.
AutoStick
When using the AutoStick shift control, select
the highest gear that allows for adequate
performance and avoids frequent down -
shifts. For example, choose “5” if the desired
speed can be maintained. Choose “4” or “3”
if needed to maintain the desired speed.
To prevent excess heat generation, avoid
continuous driving at high RPM. Reduce
vehicle speed as necessary to avoid
extended driving at high RPM. Return to a
higher gear or vehicle speed when grade and
road conditions allow.
Speed Control — If Equipped
Do not use on hilly terrain or with heavy
loads.
When using the Speed Control, if you experi -
ence speed drops greater than 10 mph
(16 km/h), disengage until you can get back
to cruising speed.
Use Speed Control in flat terrain and with
light loads to maximize fuel efficiency.
Cooling System
To reduce potential for engine and transmission
overheating, take the following actions:
City Driving
In city traffic — while stopped, place the trans -
mission in NEUTRAL (N), but do not increase
engine idle speed. Highway Driving
Reduce speed.
Temporarily turn off air conditioning.
SNOW PLOW
Snow plows, winches, and other aftermarket
equipment should
not be added to the front end
of your vehicle. The airbag crash sensors may
be affected by the change in the front end
structure. The airbags could deploy
unexpectedly or could fail to deploy during a
collision.
WARNING!
Do not add a snow plow, winches, or any
other aftermarket equipment to the front of
your vehicle. This could adversely affect the
functioning of the airbag system and you
could be injured.
20_WD_OM_EN_USC_t.book Page 252
