I am going to be towing over 6000lbs over I80 (a pretty serious grade. 200 miles and probably 5000ft elevation change in a short part of that distance.) I have a 4l80e with 3.73's, and my tranny temp probe in is the socket above the shifter linkage on the driver's side. How hot can I let it get before I need to give it a break, also as I am watching my egt's, would it be benificial for me to pull down 3rd if I can't keep my torque converter locked in 4th?

This is my first time really towing with this truck so I am excited...

Thanks guys,
Cody

Definitely do not try to keep your truck in overdrive going up a grade. Always put it in manual 3rd or 2nd to keep the RPMs up and to keep the engine from lugging, which is very bad for it.

Thats what I figured.... Any tips on max trans temp?

200 if you want it live a happy life. 220 is starting to push the envelope. If your still running the stock cooling system on your 95 you may want to be more concerned about the engine temps climbing.

Yeah I still have the weak water pump and all other stock cooling. Belive me, my eyes will be glued to my guages. Still though, I wanna see how the old girl does....
Thanks for the help guys

Make sure that the area between the radiator and condensor is clean, and that your fan clutch is working properly. These things will help to keep both the engine and tranny cooler. Watch the guages and don't push her to hard.

At 210 and above, Dex 3 starts to become worthless because it's on the verge of cooking.

sweet thanks for the info fellas
Cody