Starting in S Mode

yes

 

Not disagreeing with the summary of your experience, just that it differs from my own.

 

“ S “ mode 5 level loaded

“ S “ moded 4 loaded moderate grades

‘ ECT ‘ not necessary if Ur weights correct ( not typical)

 

Could've fooled me

 

I'm sure this has already been stated but get the KD Maxx tune and never have to think about it. ECT Mode...whats that? S Mode.. I suppose if you really want to. My trailer and gear weight out at around 4,300 lbs and the KD Maxx tune has drastically improved towing. Seriously

 

Discussions about torque converter lock up made me want to look into it, some good info in this thread, especially the graphs in post#10 if accurate. I learn something new every day.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/lock-up-confusion.733602/

 

While driving at speed, the impeller and turbine are near matching speeds and the fluid is in laminar flow. Temperature raise during is time is negotiable at best. For decades transmissions didn't have lock up clutches and towing didn't destroy transmissions. Over working the entire system and not cooling it properly is the most common cause of towing driveline failures.

 

Your load is nothing. You could run around in D. S5 + ECT would be my recommendation.

 

How much does it cost to change the trans fluid? If towing often on hills and in heat it would be wise to change often. Burn the fluid then replace unless there is a reason to make the oem fill last forever.

 

With the late year 2020's and beyond lacking the trans cooler I am definitely playing it safe on long/heavy towing trips

 

Found S5 about perfect pulling that weight. ECT not needed. I think even in the D mode 6th would be ok on a flat grade.

 

I say let the transmission shift for you. That's why you bought an automatic instead of a manual, yes?

When I owned my 2016 with an auto, I did play around with S-mode, but it never caught on. It's nothing like a true manual. I think it's mostly only useful for engine braking. I did use ECT on a regular basis though. I'm curious now what the manual says S-mode is for beyond engine braking.

EDIT: page 212 of manual says that S-mode is for engine braking; not towing; not drag racing; engine braking.

 

A load or mountain driving I leave it in ECT and use S for passes/grades/descents. The driving is easier and I think it is easier on the powertrain.

 

It depends some on the the year you are driving. My 2017 needed S4 or S5 plus ECT. My 2021 would be fine without ECT in D or S5.

I used ECT all the time just daily driving the 2017. I never use it with the 2021.

 

You’re over thinking it. So You can’t actually start in S1 because it will need a shift up. ECT is good if the trailer is heavy but 1200 pounds is not heavy. I would just get in it and drive.

 

Same reason for just sticking it in S5...Transmission will downshift automatically when needed. Imo, its perfect for light towing.

 

Well I used S4 there and back - pushed RPM's around 3200 and was cruising at 75~80 pretty easy.
Made a friend there too.

 

Your friend is pink?

 

Yea.. has a nice rattle on it too.

 

Please tell me you used zoom to get that shot