Is an automatic transmission best in buying a truck to pull an RV or does it matter?
by admin on Sunday, May 15th, 2011 | 7 Comments
I’m in the process of purchasing a truck for the purpose of pulling an RV? Being new at this I am wondering whether an automatic or standard is best for pulling.
a manual is better for pulling loads
20 or 30 years ago id say manual…but todays auto are sooo good…get a tranny cooler and change fluid and filter often……
if yiou have the proper size pick-up and a towing capacity rating for more than your trailer your fine just take care of your tranny fluid
on the open highway a manual is better, if you were to be driving in stop and go often an automatic would be better.
Reason is stop and go in a standard will burn your clutch. And pulling over the highway in an automatic is slower, less fuel eff. and will burn your tranny.
your first two responders are both correct.
If you handle any big hills, I would suggest the stick.
If you only cover relative flat land, then it is personal choice.
IF you do decide on the slush box, upgrade to a deeper pan, synthetic fluid, and a oil cooler.
I myself, prefer the stick
Many RV’rs use automatic.
The most important thing is to buy one with a transmission suitable for pulling the weight of the loaded RV. Wrong transmission the biggest mistake I,ve seen. You will be climbing up to 15% grade if not more. Canada has some steep grades should you go there.
Have this info when you shop. Be careful that the salesman knows what he/she is talking about.
Consider the fresh water, Extra fuel tank and propane if applicable, all personal belongings, kitchen wares, any sporting equipment, etc.
Good luck and have fun.
If you’re buying a truck specifically for towing, buy an automatic, not manual. Make sure the vehicle is equipped with a towing package which usually includes a trans cooler, bigger radiator, larger washer fluid reservoir and heavy duty battery. It’s important NOT to used overdrive while towing because it has a lot less heat transfer and can burn up the transmission. Be sure to buy one that has a tow/haul mode, which you will need to use.
In addition, check the the towing limit v/s how much the RV weighs. Good Luck!