TV - RPMs

I'm basically new to towing and definitely not mechanically inclined. I noticed when we brought our 179 home the RPMs were generally running about 3000 vs. the normal 2000 on our Honda Odyssey. My concern was that this would put too much stress on the engine if run all day. (so far it has been towed less than 100 miles) I talked to the local mechanic today and he indicated that running at higher RPMs is to be expected and that the engine should handle it without a problem. He recommended not letting it go into overdrive and to constantly run it at D3 so that the transmission didn't slip too much. His view was that is much better to stress the engine rather than the transmission. Do others agree?

Welcome to the 12mpg club. Yes I second that. My Odyssey did fine with that, except I didn't use it as much as I should have. The transmission gave up Thanksgiving day, probably because 130k. Towing will shorten the time between rebuilding the transmission on any vehicle, but the Odyssey should be suprisingly capable. However, you will receive mixed opinions on this. One of the two mechanics at my shop laughed that I was trying to tow 3000 pounds and the other one argued with him that I should be fine. In europe, the same van is rated at 4500 pounds and all they do is move the wheel to the other side.

Higher RPM's are fine for the engine and will actually COOL the transmission. Being in the highest gear, D5, is great for fuel economy when not towing; but it will generate way more heat when towing. Heat is what kills a transmission. If only the Odyssey were capable of staying in 4th gear, that would get the best of both worlds. 3500 rpm may leave you with an uneasy or anxious feeling in your gut while driving, but the engine handles it fine. Food for thought - Generators usually run at 3650 rpm all the time.

Traded the broken Odyssey for a Durango V8. I only spent $1500 more than a tranny rebuild to get another vehicle. But I would have rebuilt the Odyssey if I still needed three car seats in a second. Only one child in car seat now. I miss my sliding doors already.

Originally posted by wildfire305 ... In europe, the same van is rated at 4500 pounds and all they do is move the wheel to the other side. ... Traded the broken Odyssey for a Durango V8. I only spent $1500 more than a tranny rebuild to get another vehicle. But I would have rebuilt the Odyssey if I still needed three car seats in a second. Only one child in car seat now. I miss my sliding doors already.

"move the wheel to the other side" = right-hand drive

Ah, got it!