M4 for towing with a Hybrid, I know but...

[38JMD]

I understand the reason for towing in M4 only, but for the sake of asking: If I am towing 4200 lbs of boat on a flat 0% grade, could I then shift into D and take advantage of the overdrive? It sure doesn't seem like the truck is struggling on these flat Ohio freeways...

2013 Yukon Denali Hybrid

 

[Marc Marc]

I asked my dealer when I bought my 2013 Denali Hybrid this very question, and was told to keep it in drive. All my previous Yukons had the tow-haul button which I used religiously, but since the Hybrid didn't come with this I asked the question.

I have 165K miles on mine now, and tow a Ranger Bass boat; with no transmission problems due to towing. Would be interested in the answers others offer on this.

 

[BG1988]

I understand the reason for towing in M4 only, but for the sake of asking: If I am towing 4200 lbs of boat on a flat 0% grade, could I then shift into D and take advantage of the overdrive? It sure doesn't seem like the truck is struggling on these flat Ohio freeways...

2013 Yukon Denali Hybrid

Don't do it you will Blow the CVT portion of the transmission towing 4200 pounds in D Avoid backing up as well with a trailer (esp backing up hills)

you will destroy the transmission pretty quick... M4 is 4th gear 0.73 ratio


the electrical motors will help you out in M4

 

[38JMD]

Don't do it you will Blow the CVT portion of the transmission towing 4200 pounds in D Avoid backing up as well with a trailer (esp backing up hills)

you will destroy the transmission pretty quick... M4 is 4th gear 0.73 ratio


the electrical motors will help you out in M4

Thanks for the advice. The reverse up a hill comment is rather concerning...

 

[BG1988]

Thanks for the advice. The reverse up a hill comment is rather concerning...

it's a CVT on the reverse gear... that runs off the electrical motors and not the engine

 

[lt1gmc]

FWIW I have towed a 5000 lb pontoon and trailer a few times a year for the last 4 years with my 09 Hybrid, always using Drive. Now at 199,000 miles and no trans problems.

 

[rdstrattan]

I have a 2008 Tahoe Hybrid and I tow vintage cars & trucks on flatbed dual axle 7,000 lb trailer regularly. I use M4 when climbing or dropping down, but usually use D on flat land. Not high miles, about 130,000 now and maybe 20,000 towing. No problems so far.