Torque converter clutch – Ram Trucks 2015 Chassis Cab Commercial - Owner Manual User Manual

Page 349

Advertising
background image

WARNING!

Do not use the “TOW/HAUL” feature when driving
in icy or slippery conditions. The increased engine
braking can cause the rear wheels to slide, and the
vehicle to swing around with the possible loss of
vehicle control, which may cause an accident possi-
bly resulting in personal injury or death.

Torque Converter Clutch
A feature designed to improve fuel economy has been

included in the automatic transmission on your vehicle.

A clutch within the torque converter engages automati-

cally at calibrated speeds. This may result in a slightly

different feeling or response during normal operation in

the upper gears. When the vehicle speed drops or during

some accelerations, the clutch automatically disengages.

NOTE:

• The torque converter clutch will not engage (and

66RFE-equipped trucks will not shift to sixth gear),

until the transmission fluid and engine coolant are

warm [usually after 1 to 3 miles (2 to 5 km) of driving].

Because engine speed is higher when the torque con-

verter clutch is not engaged, it may seem as if the

transmission is not shifting properly when cold. This is

normal. Using the Electronic Range Select (ERS) shift

control, when the transmission is sufficiently warm,

will demonstrate that the transmission is able to shift

into and out of Overdrive.

• If the vehicle has not been driven for several days, the

first few seconds of operation after shifting the trans-

mission into gear may seem sluggish. This is due to the

fluid partially draining from the torque converter into

the transmission. This condition is normal and will not

5

STARTING AND OPERATING 347

Advertising