should i drive with the overdrive on or off in my truck?

Question

truck is a1997 dodge dakota 4x4

Answer 1

Depends on how and where the truck is driven. If you're pulling a trailer leave the OD off and let the engine RPM rise. You might loose a bit of fuel mileage but you won't lug the engine, and the transmission won't be constantly shifting up and down (the vehicle's onboard computer likes to get into a higher gear as quickly as it can). Also, if you're driving in the mountains, as I do, with constantly changing grades, leave the OD off. But for most day to day city and highway driving let the transmission go to OD when the computer says it's OK. That works for me with an '03 Ford Explorer V6 with an AOD and 3:54 rear gears. Hope this helps you.

Answer 2

I Have A 93 Dodge Dakota. 5 Speed. But In Your Case It Really Doesnt Matter. The Means Of Having The Option Of 5th Gear/ Over Drive In Our Case. Is Basically A Highway/ Economy Gear. Meaning That You Will Get The Most Gas Milllage Out Of Your Vehicle. Think Would You Rather Go 50 In Third Or 50 In 5th. Running In Overdrive Means Cooler Motor, Less Stress, Work And Tention On The Motor. Resulting In Efficiency And Better Gas Mileage.

Answer 3

The overdrive is intended to give you better gas mileage by lowering the engine rpm's at highway speeds. Not using the overdrive will have the engine turning higher rpm's and using much more gas. Except when climbing steep grades, or when towing a trailer, I would use the overdrive and save some money on gas.

Answer 4

It really depends on what kind of road you're driving on, and other conditions. If you're going flat-out on a level surface, and you're maintaining speed, go for it. If you're climbing a steep hill or changing speeds all the time (such as in a city or other crowded area), I'd leave the OD off.

Answer 5

Turn the overdrive on only if you are constantly driving at higher speeds which will require it. if you are driving any far distance at a speed over 55ish, use it, if not, dont need it on.