Transmission Overdrive
The automatic overdrive operates only when the control handle, next to the hood control handle and marked OD, is in its full forward position. It engages automatically when the accelerator is released momentarily at or above the overdrive cut-in speed of 30 to 35 miles (50 to 55 km.) per hour.
If, while in overdrive, it is desired to gain more power for passing cars in traffic or on grades, push the accelerator to the floorboard. This cuts out the overdrive and it will remain inoperative until the accelerator is again released. At that time the overdrive again engages automatically.
The overdrive control can be pulled out, thereby locking the transmission in the conventional position. This should be done for descending steep, mountainous grades, or when pushing or towing the car to start the engine. The circumstances under which this change can be made safely are as follows:
1. To change the transmission from overdrive to the locked-in conventional position while the car is standing still, merely pull out the OD control.
2. To change the transmission from overdrive to the locked-in conventional position when driving below the overdrive cut-in speed of approximately 30-35 m.p.h. (50-55 km.) accelerate the engine and at the same time pull out the OD control.
3. To change the transmission from overdrive to the locked-in conventional position when driving in overdrive, completely depress the accelerator past the wide-open throttle position and as soon as the transmission is in conventional, pull out the OD control.
If the OD control is in the locked-in conventional position (pulled out) it can be placed in the overdrive position while the car is standing still. To make this change when the car is moving at any forward speed, accelerate slightly and push the control fully forward.
Overdrive is available at extra cost.