Advice in proper shifting techniques!

[JuanSJO]

I've owned my '99 SR5 for a couple of years now. But the owners manual doesn't specify very well how to shift and use the various features of the automatic transmission along with ECT button. So, the intention of this post is the following:

How can I take full advantage of shifting and ECT? Here is one example: when I'm on the highway about a 45 mph and want to pass a car, should I shift to 2 using the ECT? Will this generate more acceleration power?

For a fast start, with the truck not moving is it convenient to use low and press all the way down the accelerator , rev til 3 or 4 thousand and then shift to 2 rev again to 3 or 4k and then Drive? Will these damage the engine?

The other question is regarding compression. I've noticed that during down hill driving using 2 don't use engine braking much, it's better using L, but the thing with L is that the engine revs a lot, and I don't know if this is harmful for it.

Finally, what about when speeding with the truck and you need to deacelerate quickly, say I'm going 50 and want to help the brakes with 2 and L, can I engage L at approximately 35 mph?

I would really appreciate shifting techniques from you guys.

Regards,

JJ

 

[004Gunner]

You can not be serious. . . if your engine is not blown it will be shortly with this driving style.:awais:

 

[004Gunner]

Try this: http://pressroom.toyota.com/Releases/View?id=TYT2001112051162 and your owner's manual will give you allowable speeds for the different gears.

 

[techno]

Are you used to driving with a manual transmission? It sounds like you are.
Let the auto do the work for you, thats why its called an automatic.
1. If you want to accelerate to pass on the highway, try turning O/D off and flooring it at the same time. Then turn O/D back on after you have passed. Leave it in Drive all the time.
2. For best acceleration from a standing start, put it in D and turn ETC on, and floor it!
3. Auto's do not allow the same engine braking performance as manual transmissions do. Unless you are off road and in 4Lo, then I really wouldn't bother down shifting to help with braking. Just use the brakes. If you are on really long downhill sections and dont want to ride the brakes, then consider first turning O/D off, then go to 2 if you want more braking.
There are a few brake upgrades that you can do if you as well, like Tundra brakes for example.

 

[JustAnotherT4R]

shifting into different gear while driving will cuse tranny failure.

For braking I would just do the brake upgrade Tundra or Big brake system.

For more power just add the S/C. It will give you a boost.

I wouldnt shift into any gear while driving at speed. Only to help towing at a stand still and pulling things out of a ditch.

I have learn this many times in different cars that are automatic.