Quote:
Originally Posted by Zythaxus
putting the automatic transmission in neutral with the engine running disengages the geartrain, like depressing the clutch pedal on a manual transmission. - note that with modern automatic transmissions, the engine must be running to keep the transmission fluid circulating; which lubricates the geartrain.*
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however, my state and probably many others, prohibit the practice of coasting down hills with the transmission in neutral.* the logic behind this is that first, the engine helps with braking on downgrades, and reduces heat and wear in the brakes.* second, if the transmission is disengaged, then the transmission will have to be reengaged before the driver can accelerate to avoid trouble.
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While I wouldn't recommend coasting in neutral for extended periods (eg, down a long grade), coasting in neutral on an exit ramp or coming to a stop sign is not going to damage the transmission. I can't see any reason to do so under normal driving conditions, but it won't harm the tranny.
That may be the law, but it sure sounds like more legislative BS to me. Especially the part about being able to get back into gear - one can go from neutral to drive with a quick bump on the stick. Once again, it's not something I recommend doing, but it's not dangerous if one is paying attention to the road and traffic.