High Revs when Towing - Santa Fe

[MicBee]

I have a 2005 Santa Fe (2.7 L) - when pulling a camp trailer it tends to rev up somewhat when climbing a hill (or accelerating) - This drives my co-pilot crazy although the revs never get close to red-lining. I would like some opionions / facts on how these higher revs will affect engine life, chance of burning out engine ????

[DSHornet]

When towing a trailer you are contending with the extra weight and aerodynamic drag of the trailer. To maintain speed on the highway you push the accelerator far enough to make the transmission downshift. It's normal operation and nothing to worry about. No, it won't damage the engine. You do have the proper weight oil in the engine, don't you?

If it bothers your right seater a lot, go to sport shift and keep it in 4th gear but be prepared for a big loss of power if it can't downshift when it wants to. If it was me, I'd let it downshift like it wants to.

[Ruperts Trooper]

Holding a high gear when towing on hills isn't a good idea as the torque converter has to work at maximum, which generates immense heat which in turn can soon wreck an autobox.