Driving your Promaster Efficiently with Tow Haul Mode
Tow/Haul Mode for Converted Vans: A Vanlife Guide
If you’re driving a converted van — especially a Ram ProMaster 3500 or similar cargo van— understanding how Tow/Haul Mode works can improve your safety, protect your transmission, and enhance your driving experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about Tow/Haul Mode for converted vans, including when to use it, what it does, and why it’s a must-have for full-time van life and travel enthusiasts.
What Is Tow/Haul Mode in a Van?
Tow/Haul Mode is a driving feature found in many trucks and vans, including converted cargo vans like the Ram ProMaster. It changes the transmission’s shift logic to handle heavy loads better. For van lifers, especially those driving high-roof, built-out vans weighing 8,500+ lbs, Tow/Haul Mode helps manage climbs, descents, and long-distance travel with ease. You will find the button next to your gear shift.
How Tow/Haul Mode Works for Van Conversions
• Holds lower gears longer to prevent premature upshifting
• Engages engine braking by downshifting sooner on descents
• Minimizes gear hunting — improves efficiency under load
• Reduces wear on transmission in mountainous terrain
• Keeps temperatures stable during long drives
When to Use Tow/Haul Mode in Your Converted Van
• Driving uphill or downhill in mountainous areas
• Carrying heavy gear, full water tanks, or extra passengers
• Towing a trailer, bikes, or additional equipment
• Experiencing frequent transmission shifting
• Navigating switchbacks, steep grades, or rough roads
Why Tow/Haul Mode Is Essential for Van Lifers
Tow/Haul Mode isn’t just for towing — it’s essential for anyone living or traveling full-time in a camper van conversion. It adds control, safety, and reliability to your road trips. It helps preserve your brakes, reduce strain on your drivetrain, and maintain confidence on steep or winding routes.
Fuel Efficiency and Tow/Haul Mode
Yes, Tow/Haul Mode may slightly lower MPG due to higher RPMs, but it’s a worthy trade-off when your van is working harder. Turn Tow/Haul Mode OFF on flat highways or during light-load driving to save fuel and minimize engine noise.
Real-World Van Life Experience
As full-time travelers in a Ram ProMaster 3500, we rely on Tow/Haul Mode regularly in Colorado, Oregon, and Baja. With a fully built van weighing over 8,800 lbs, this feature gives us smoother climbs, safer descents, and peace of mind.
Tow/Haul Tips for Cargo Van Owners
• Use Tow/Haul Mode whenever your van feels sluggish or overworked
• Pair it with engine braking on long descents
• Use it on dirt roads, backroads, or rough terrain
• Monitor transmission temps during long climbs
Conclusion
Tow/Haul Mode is one of the simplest but most powerful features for anyone driving a heavy, converted van. Use it wisely to make your drives safer, smoother, and easier on your van’s systems.
From Amy & Marcy at One Life Van Life
We’re passionate about helping others travel smart and safe in their vans. This blog is for women and full-time travelers who want to feel empowered on the road.
You’ve got one life — live it well, and drive smart.
