Hey, so i was reading about the Gen3 Runner (I have a 96 LTD w/all the options for 96) and it said the ECT was to increase torque? So what does it REALLY do and when should i use it?

 

changes ur shift points in the ecu, it basically makes it shift at the redline when u get on it, i leave mine on all the time. doesnt do much unless u are on it

 

I use it when I haul stuff...

Makes me feel special mainly. I get to see a glowing ETC Power emblem on my dash.

 

When you want VTEC to kick in.

 

i believe it also advances ur timing, when u get on it... not 100% sure about that tho

 

Leave it on all the time.

With the 3.0, you notice a BIG difference from when you have ECT "electronic controlled transmission" on. As said above, it does change your shift points, and was invented for towing action.

There is no harm in leaving it on, as mine has been on for the last 10 years straight lol.

 

Does it suck more gas though??? Because I always notice a big difference (power wise) when I turn it on in my second gen...

 

from the FSM:

A pattern select switch is located near shift lever on center
console. Pattern select switch contains a POWER (PWR) and a NORMAL
(NORM) operating position. When pattern select switch is depressed
(PWR position), transmission upshifts and downshifts will occur at a
higher vehicle speed than with switch released. An indicator light on
instrument panel indicates pattern select switch is depressed (PWR
position).

 

Wow! look at that...the answer is right there in the owners manual! Yotatech saves the day again!

 

Not only holds the gear longer. but will down shift sooner. which depending on where your driving could make the difference in using it or not.
I use it in the city. But, not so much out. Say when im out of town on typical Iowa rolling hills. I turn it off, because it will down shift on a hill near the end when its not needed and could have held the gear. It hard enough for the cruise to deal with these hills let alone turn on the ECT too.

 

Past 2 days i been offroading. Beach sand then crawling. I used it then. 2nd gear ECT on, dono if it made a difference but it felt good knowing im giving it all its got.

 

i leave mine on all the time.

 

won't do anything if you are crawling and are holding it in 2nd. Just delays the upshifts and keeps a closer eye on the TPS and downshifts quicker. I use it when I tow my roomates boat and works great. Almost can't feel it back there.

 

my 97 sr5 tends to get better gas mileage with the etc button on