Thank you. Sounds like you know your stuff. What are your parameters for transmission temperature while towing?
So call expert opinion says 170 to 200 is normal and allows optimum life to the fluid. I disagree! I would say 160 to 180-185ish is better. Of course it's all dependent on a lot of factors. Like current outdoor temp, pulling heavy loads, gearing and pulling an uphill grade. If the temp approaches 200, you're in tow/haul and you know there's a downhill to the uphill side your driving over, then I wouldn't sweat 200-210 too much knowing it's temporary. It will cool down when there's less of a strain on it (something like Wolf Creek Pass in Colorado). I certainly wouldn't let it get much hotter than that without having to think for the tow/haul system!
BTW - My comment yesterday, "...I would add strong headwinds,
starting from a stop and excessive shifting..." I meant to imply starting from a stop and disengaging once you're moving 45 mph+. Personally, I engaged tow/haul in towns I travelled through. Too much to watch for traffic and wearing out the tow/haul button at the same time. Once I found open road, had all favorable conditions going with me, then I would disengage tow/haul. This came from the Chrysler southwest service rep's mouth to my ears.
Why run without tow/haul down the highway? Meh! In my case it had a lot to do with shifting to a higher gear quicker and having the 5.7 MSD system engaging (Apple and oranges again?). Better MPG! That's all...
And "Yes", there's nothing wrong with running tow/haul if you don't mind hanging in the lower gears for a longer time (It's just insignificant wear n' tear in my book).
Remember! This all applies towards "Lighter Loads!!!" For crying out loud, DON"T EVER disengage tow/haul if you're pulling 3000#+ and watch that transmission temp!!!