Why additional tow capacity for automatic transmission?

[bjc]

I just ordered the H3 in my signature this morning. I never noticed before, but apparently the automatic transmission is rated for towing 4,500 lbs while the manual is only 3,000. I still ordered the manual, but I was disappointed with the reduced tow capacity news.

[bjc]

I just ordered the H3 in my signature this morning. I never noticed before, but apparently the automatic transmission is rated for towing 4,500 lbs while the manual is only 3,000. I still ordered the manual, but I was disappointed with the reduced tow capacity news.

[f5fstop]

I honestly can't give an answer that is exact, but I can speculate. Could it be the clutch? Many vehicles do the same, autos can tow more than a manual. Yet most manual transmissions tend to be stronger than an automatic. So, my guess is it is something to do with the clutch.

Any experts out there?????

[DWPC]

I think you complaint is closely related to the I5 power complaints. It appears to me that GM is wants to challenge Jeep and perhaps Nissan in the mid-price offroad-capable market, and heavy hauling and high performance aren't in the profile (though I admit 3,000 lbs is lower than the Wrangler's trailer rating). I'm an old school pre-luxury SUV type, and kinda glad to see that GM is taking the SUV back to its roots...and I hope they give Jeep a scare.

[f5fstop]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by DWPC:
I think you complaint is closely related to the I5 power complaints. It appears to me that GM is wants to challenge Jeep and perhaps Nissan in the mid-price offroad-capable market, and heavy hauling and high performance aren't in the profile (though I admit 3,000 lbs is lower than the Wrangler's trailer rating). I'm an old school pre-luxury SUV type, and kinda glad to see that GM is taking the SUV back to its roots...and I hope they give Jeep a scare. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Want a used '03 Wrangler in great condition?

It has been a great vehicle, but not anywhere as comfortable as the H3, and from what I say this summer in Moab, not as capable.

[H3Lady]

My son says that the computer adjusts for towing and the shift point change with the auto. You can (off the record tow the same) but to get warrany cost down, they limit it on the manual. The autos are made to tow too.

[afretiree]

My Wrangler was the same, higher towing capacity for auto. Dealer said it was because of the clutch and the stress dumping it can cause for the driveline. If I remember right Dodge trucks are the same. It has nothing to do with the engine.

[DWPC]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content"> I remember right Dodge trucks are the same. It has nothing to do with the engine. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
I didn't mean that the tow rating was related to the engine, but that complaints about its light tow rating are similar to complaints from those wanting more H3 power. The H3 is what it is; and thats not a luxury cruiser or a heavy hauler. If GM had designed that way, it would be just another $40K pick-up-based gas-guzzler SUV.

[DWPC]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by f5fstop:
Want a used '03 Wrangler in great condition. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Nope...took our second H3 test drive this morning and the Jeep is all but forgotten. (Provided I can get a GMID certificate!)