[Greg Reimer 7376]

After 209,500 miles, the direct clutch pack in the 700 4R trans in my Chevy Silverado started slipping,flaring on the upshift, as it failed completely. The clutches were burnt up, the fluid stinks,this trans went the distance and owed me nothing. It's time for a rebuild. I did tow with it, used this truck for everything, no complaints. The 4L80 E in the shop truck at work came with a towing guide that specified not to tow in the overdrive position. It makes sense that that would put more stress on the direct clutches and the overdrive planetary set. Ford and Chrysler say basically the same thing about not towing in the overdrive range. That also prevents constant up and down shifting under varying road conditions under load which can't possibly aid longevity. Planetary gearsets are pretty reliable anyway,since they are in constant mesh. Heat and load seem to do in a trans more than anything else.Just ask a motorhome shop.