Auto setting for Predictive vs Lockstep

How does the client determine if/when to switch modes? If it is a threshold based on ping variance over time, and my connection is such that it crosses that threshold often, could that manifest as extra lag, stutter, screen freezes for several seconds or disconnects?

I wouldn't call the connection here, consistent.

Lots of problems with inconsistent and spiky latency last night in particular, but also off and on since relocating to Alaska several months ago.

No not on Satellite.

http://imgur.com/a/HOxEjx5