Quote:
Originally Posted by MetroMPG
Depends if you're talking about killing the engine in the glide or not. Most automatic transmissions aren't designed to coast in N without the engine running (lubrication issues).
|
Darin -
This is one point that I would have agreed on several months ago, but now, I find that it's more than likely a misconception. I've been EOC'ing my Caravan for a little while now, literally for miles at a time, and have seen no problems in the transmission. I'll know for sure once I take Cara off the road, because I'll drain the fluid and drop the pan to check for problems in the trans before selling it, but I don't foresee any issues.
The thing about this, is that the lubricant in the bearings will remain there for awhile... it's not just going to let them dry out instantly if you shut the engine off. Because of this, I can't imagine another reason why you couldn't put the transmission in neutral and coast for a few hundred feet up to a stop sign or red light, or the like.
The relatively short distances that you can coast while in P&G or the like are almost guaranteed to be far under the manufacturer's recommended tow distance (read owner's manual) and speed, but almost all vehicles can be towed for a short distance at low speeds before damage is really even a consideration.
I'm not openly saying that it won't hurt anything, but in my (limited) experience, it's safe.