Towing concerns

[3kids]

Hi to all the knowledgable people commenting here.
After trolling through a lot of threads it has become apparent there are potential issues with towing for the 3 litre auto and hills due to over heating of engine and the auto gearbox.
Mine is a stock standard 2012 series 8 and I was hoping to be towing a 1500kg camper trailer, with maybe an extra 500kg's added to the tug. An electric brake controller will be installed shortly.
The max distance initially will be 200-400kms.
Also when not not towing the patrol will be the boss' taxi travelling up and down Welshpool rd hill to Lesmurdie WA and I am slightly concerned that it wont cruise up there at an easy 70-80kmph.
Are there any must have mods that are recommended for the situations metioned above.
Thanks again for the great read so far

[gu8 patrol]

Gday 3kids,ive got a 2012 GU8 AUTO,i reguarly tow a 2ton camper with mine no problems,i have had a 2 3/4 inch beaudesert exhaust put on which really opened the 3ltr up,other than that i installed a oil temp gauge on the tranny,temp never goes over 50c and up to 80 on long hills,make sure when towing you dont drive with the overdrive on,quickest way to cook the tranny.

[Clunk]

Not sure how many gears you guys have in your autos, my old gq only has 1,2 and D plus overdrive....... if you have 4, I'd be dropping down to maybe third gear on Lesmurdie Hill

What you tapin at!!!!!????

[3kids]

Thanks,
As I am new to the 4wd world and a little naive concerning diesels, will the 2 3/4 exhaust have warranty impacts.
Also how is your fuel consumption driving moderately, I plan on enjoying the ride and scenery
I was aware that towing in top gear/overdrive wasnt wise
As stated in intro I am picking up the new toy in 2 days (well the boss is as I am up north) and am getting pretty excited.
Can anyone recommend a reputable Perth based diesel mechanic / 4WD mod centre??

[Clunk]

Not sure about diesel mechanics but the Robson Brothers in Welshpool specialise in 4wd servicing, probably do mods too...... they're not cheap but have a good reputation.

What you tapin at!!!!!????

[3kids]

Thanks Clunk.
Yes I am new and not understanding the "Tapin at" comment (sorry)
The auto is as you stated with 1st, 2nd, drive and overdrive.
I will make sure the lady drops it to 3rd when cruising up the hill.
FYI I wanted a manual but as it was to be the main family car I had to settle for the auto. I figure it was a small compromise to get into my first ever near new vehicle and a 4WD to boot

[3kids]

Cheers Clunk,
Just worked out the tapin at is your signature.
I cant seem to be able to thank you for your assistance by just clicking an icon.
Good help and service in Perth is never cheap, you just want a reliable, recommended company that is referred by others

[Lieney]

Feel free to down-shift (if tranny doesn't do it) and keep engine near on top of torque curve and keep suitable speed.
Down-shift can also assist in ensuring your converter remains locked-up during the climb, as overdrive may cause the converter to slip and cook the oil over time.
Temp gauge in the tranny is one thing you could add to see where you are at.
If you find trans temps are high, you can get aftermarket or larger transmission coolers to increase the cooling efficiency.
Bigger exhaust and chip for increased power and cooler egts. But I'd consider boost and egt gauge if you want to up-size the exhaust. (lots of threads on this)

[Clunk]

No worries 3kids ........... Mines an old GQ patrol auto and always tend to drive with the overdrive off, unless I'm doin over 90 on the flat. Uphills, downhills again overdrive is off

Don't stroke it, TAP it!!!!.....

[3kids]

Thanks again GU8 Patrol, Clunk and Lieney,
I have a lot to consider (including future proposals to the finance minister)
One thing I enjoy and should add to my profile is researching topics that directly interest me.
It is a plus getting advice from enthusiasts and not a salesperson.

Will keep the site posted on my growth into 4WDing.