[buckspear]

I have a 2008 Tundra 4x4 DC SR5 TRD towing a 8500lb Jayco 32RLS Travel Trailer. There are a few issues I can't seem to find the answers for from my dealer regarding trailer towing:
1. When towing the trailer in tow mode - All other pickups I've owned the truck will not shift into overdrive when driving in the tow mode. With the Tundra it seems it will shift into 6th (high) gear regardless of what mode I'm in - is this normal? This may be fine in a perfect world but I find the xmission will hunt between 5th & 6th (on cruise control) unless you get your speed exactly right. Would it be best if I towed the trailer using the sequential shift mode only shifting into 6th when the conditions were right. This would also allow me to down-shift on hills to try and keep the RPM at the max torque of 3600rpm?
2. The operators manual mentions trailers can be towed without using the tow mode which can improve fuel mileage. However, the manual is quite vague explaining the proper conditions under which this should be done. Considering the weight of my trailer, I have tried going out of the tow mode only when up to speed on the highway and have found a marginal increase in the fuel mileage as they claim.
Any of you more experienced Tundra hands out there have any advice you could send me.