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caulk04
Dodge Dakota
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3/27/2005
20:06:09
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 Subject: 45RFE manual downshifting
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Message:
Ok, I've heard from several 'old timers' (thats a relative term, I'm 18) that downshifting an auto tranny on a fairly consistent basis is not a good thing.
I live in fairly hilly country and often have to slow or stop at the bottome of inclines, so naturally I tend to downshift and use the engine to take some of the momentum (plus it sounds great with a Magnaflow!).
I understand that the 45RFE does not have bands and such like most transmissions, correct?
I've got two questions really:
1 - Is it detrimental to my transmission to downshift to slow momentum and, as a bonus, listen to my engine rev a bit?
2 - Can anyone point me to any in-depth articles on this transmission or transmissions like it? I don't care if it's a low of reading, I like to be informed and HATE making ignorant statements because I don't know what I'm talking about.
Thanks a ton,
Soon to be member
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dak287
Dodge Dakota
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3/28/2005
18:52:49
|  RE: 45RFE manual downshifting
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Message:
ummmm i dont think so maybe hard on your motor. i do it myself 16000 miles and not a hint of problems on my dak. i also have driven alot of older vehicles and i do this all the time!! 206000 thousand miles on my ford i had it for its last 75000 and nothing. if im not mistaken the 2nd gear is for going down hill. i learned how to drive on a manual so when i got auto's i just shifted out of habbit.
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DanK
Dodge Dakota
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3/28/2005
22:37:03
| RE: 45RFE manual downshifting
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Message:
One "old-timer" heard I was doing that (I still do), and he said "New brake pads are a lot cheaper than repairing an automatic transmission." Well, that kinda put a new perspective on it.
Yea. I wonder sometimes if we do more harm than good by downshifting the auto tranny, but I think if it's maintained properly with fluid changes every 12000 to 15000 miles, that tranny should outlive 7 or 8 sets of OEM brake rotors.
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DimBulb
Dodge Dakota
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3/28/2005
22:48:44
| RE: 45RFE manual downshifting
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Message:
Just keep in mind that unlike a manual trans, you can't match engine to trans revs, and the downshifting now causes the trans to drive the engine, and increase engine RPMs.
This auto trans, like almost all auto trans these days are designed so when you take your foot off the gas pedal, the torque converter unlocks. You can coast better that way, and makes downshifting easier on the trans innards. Might still cause a bit of extra wear and tear on the clutch packs.
Just go easy.
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