1999 4Ltr WJ Laredo in New Zealand.

[labmanjustme]

Is it normal that the auto always starts in Overdrive by default? It seems to me the motor has to lug around town at 1250rpm. Can this be changed.
We do a lot of towing around 1000kgs over steep ( 15deg ) hills. Would love that OD switch on the trans lever not hidden behind the wheel on the dash. Anyone out there with some ideas please?

[rick_YJ]

On my 2002 the OD Off button is on the gear shift lever. I don't think I've ever driven an automatic that wasn't in overdrive by default.

[Billy Ray]

Or are you saying that it starts in overdrive? (4th or 5th gear)

That would be a transmission problem.

The default in US version WJs is Overdrive is enabled and engages at about 35 mph.

Is your Jeep a (American built)WJ or a built European built WG?

[labmanjustme]

Originally Posted by Billy Ray

Or are you saying that it starts in overdrive? (4th or 5th gear)

That would be a transmission problem.

The default in US version WJs is Overdrive is enabled and engages at about 35 mph.

Is your Jeep a (American built)WJ or a built European built WG?

Hi there and thank you for your interest. The vehicle starts in low and the trannie works through the gears just fine. My concern is the default OD activation. I guess then if it was built to do this then it is ok to drive like that. I usually flip it out around the city and certainly once we hit the hills.

[labmanjustme]

Originally Posted by Billy Ray

Or are you saying that it starts in overdrive? (4th or 5th gear)

That would be a transmission problem.

The default in US version WJs is Overdrive is enabled and engages at about 35 mph.

Is your Jeep a (American built)WJ or a built European built WG?

Sorry...How would I tell where the Jeep was built. It was sold new in New Zealand ( driver on the right like the Canadians )

[labmanjustme]

Originally Posted by rick_YJ

On my 2002 the OD Off button is on the gear shift lever. I don't think I've ever driven an automatic that wasn't in overdrive by default.

Hi and thanks. My previous vehicles were Isuzus. They also had gear stick OD switches and would retain the setting that was active when the vehicle was turned off. Much better place for the switch. I may have to look at getting a setup from a later model. Cheers.