2008 Expedition- axle ratio and load leveling suspension

[safari 28]

I could not find e85 in California except one station in Oceanside. Anyway, good to hear from those who have recently purchased a 5.4 set for towing. I also did your grapevine with no issues and really the big thing is to let the engine rev at or around 3200-3400 rpm on steeper grades. I use over drive for most of the trip nationwide, pop itout on hilly terrain, and go down to 3 on steeper grades. Same thing on downhill grades. I have done the worst from the rockies to the steep hills in New Mexico. 3 times the rockie mt national park. One real steep SOB out of Mesa heading to las Cruces. Never a problem. The real winner for rough roads and long grades is the truckee pass. I must have passed dozens of fifth wheels/motorhomes/trailers way over loaded and blowing diesel smoke. It is also why like the console shifter, you just feel like shifting more and I use it for braking even on red lights that come up fast. Enjoy!!!

[Relentless]

I have an 06 Expedition. I have been told never to tow with overdrive on. Interesting that you do except " on hilly terrain." I cruise at about 2500 RPM at 60 MPH with OD off on relatively flat roads. I could probably save about 1 mile per gallon if I did what you do.

[safari 28]

The way I see it, why not use overdrive if the engine is able to stay at a steady state, usually depending on grade and headwind. I see nothing in our owners manual that requires operating out of overdrive, only if the engine is hunting for the right gear. Again, having a console shifter makes this seem easier.I always ask at the 5k oil change how the trans fluid looks. Answer is perfect. So, despite punishing hills and temps that huge cooler upfront and the 250 series trans must be just about bullet proof.