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mjbtx
06-20-2005, 10:22 PM
I pull a 33' ZX, approx 9800 lbs dry, 175 gallons fuel, and
approx 2500 lb painted steel triple axle trailer with a 4x4 Diesel
Ford Excursion. The other week after pulling the boat home
from the lake, approx 20 miles, I went to back the trailer/boat
up the driveway. Driveway has a maybe 12"-18" rise over
30 feet and I have to pop the trailer slowly over the curb
to make the driveway turn. After doing this, tranny puked
out about 1 quart of oil and has been fine since. I put a question
out on Dieselstop.com and one answer was to always use
4x4 low when doing this and if I wanted could disconnect solenoid
that makes front axle live. What do you think?

David Ochs
06-20-2005, 10:36 PM
I have a similar vehicle with diesel(f-350). I ordered mine with part-time 4x4 for the purpose that you explained, sure makes it convenient to have low range without engaging front end. I think if you do a search on dieselstop, you can find a method for having a switch to more easily do what you describe.(locking out the front hubs)
I hope you're enjoying your Excursion, they make great tow trucks.

Chili 18
06-20-2005, 10:40 PM
Would 'deactivating' the front, somehow imbalance the transfer case? I dont know. Have heard not to tow in 4wd, not sure why except to protect the t-case. Know that OD is suppose to be switched off when towing anything. But that wouldnt matter in reverse. Hmmm Does it have a trans cooler?

Just some wild thoughts in the night...

mjbtx
06-20-2005, 10:55 PM
I started using their advice and now use 4x4 low when pulling out of
the water on the ramp and whenever backing up. Every other point
I use 2 wheel drive.........Truck rated to pull 12.5k and I'm pulling right
around 13k if I still can add......

motorcity
06-21-2005, 06:40 AM
Fluid coming out the dip stick tube sounds like a overheating issue with the trans. You might need a larger trans cooler.