Good news, I think.

I called up a different dealership, asked to speak to the Service Manager, and told him right out that I was "shopping" for a place to get my new Nitro serviced. I explained my concerns regarding the torque converter (and the speeds at which it locked in). Yes, he explained that just about all of the vehicles now did that, but was still very sympathetic to my concerns. He agreed that the Tow/Haul mode SHOULD be affecting the TC operation.

So, we're set up for a test drive (next friday) with a Tech and the computer hooked up. (And I'm supposedly assigned to the Team with the best people!)

If the Tow/Haul mode is actually supposed to delay the TC operation, and can be made to do so, I will finally be a happy camper. I can deal with manually engaging and disengaging the Tow/Haul setting when doing City driving!

keep us updated!

During the test drive with the tech this morning, he suggested that what I felt was the engine lugging (when the TC kicked in at 15 or so) was actually the TC shuddering a bit.

Well, just got a call from the dealership ... they flashed the software for the torque converter (saying that sometimes the update doesn't "take") ... tested the Nitro, and now there's a more noticeable shudder!

So, a new torque converter is on order (coming cross-country from Orlando), so we'll see what that does when installed.

The dealership's hands may be tied as far as affecting the programming of the transmission, but at least they are listening, and trying to do all they can.

I'm gonna take another look at the Jet chip, see if it actually affects the shifting and TC operation (or not) ... I mentioned the Jet chip to the tech, and the response leads me to believe that they don't "frown" at you if you have one ... but if issues arise, okay, we'll take that when it comes!

Well, the new torque converter got installed on friday (yes, it was the new model converter)! I believe there must be a "break-in" period, because for the first 150 miles, the torque converter seemed almost RELUCTANT to engage! But soon after 150 miles on the new converter, it started acting properly! Now, except for some minor miscues and occasional little grumbles, she's shifting beautifully!!! And now I rarely even touch the Tow/Haul switch!!!