13spd vs 15spd transmission?

Discussion in 'Trucks [ Eighteen Wheelers ]' started by ErieMcDreary, Nov 3, 2020.

  1. ErieMcDreary

    ErieMcDreary Medium Load Member

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    I now have a 10 spd which I hate, I considered going to a 13spd, but that costs too much, due to all the changes, (trans cost, bell housing different, drive shaft length, etc.).
    I think that a 13spd is basically a 9 spd where you split the high side 4 gears, is a 15 spd basically a 10 spd where you split the high side 5 gears? Does that mean it would be a more cost effective swap, where in I could use the same bell housing, drive shaft, etc?
    Truck is a Volvo, D13, Eaton trans.
    Looking more at when/if trans need rebuilt, rather than just swapping it for no reason.
    Thanks.
     
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  3. 201

    201 Road Train Member

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    Hate a 10 speed? With todays power, a 10 speed should be all you need. I've had 13's that wouldn't split when cold, or worn. I'd say 75% of the trucks I drove had 10 speeds, and I never remember a problem. I'd leave it alone.
     
  4. xsetra

    xsetra Road Train Member

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    15 spd you split the low range.
    Not much use unless you run heavy.
    I shift mine like a 10 spd
    Don't use the low low range
     
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  5. SmallPackage

    SmallPackage Road Train Member

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    If you don’t like a 10 you will not like a 15. Nothing to gain above 20 mph.
     
  6. bjrc

    bjrc Light Load Member

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    A 15 speed splits the low side gears, actually gives you two more low gears so really has 12 forward and 3 reverse but they are one of the tougher transmissions. Basically a 10 speed with a back box.
     
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  7. Cat sdp

    Cat sdp . .

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    If your gonna spend the money just get a 18 and be done with it.....
     
  8. Socal Xpress

    Socal Xpress Road Train Member

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    @ErieMcDreary how much was the quote for the 13speed swap?
    I am considering doing the 10speed to 13speed. My tr
     
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  9. okiedokie

    okiedokie Road Train Member

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    I'm confused. You split a 15? It's 3 ranges. DR, Low & High. You can shift DR to Low but not Low to DR on the roll.
     
  10. black_dog106

    black_dog106 Road Train Member

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    ^^^^^^^^^^^^ Right here^
    Had a 15 sp direct. Gained 1 maybe two gears( i forget) below the ten. When needed shifted the five lo-lo range gears as needed. When ready shifted from lo-lo range gear to the next gear lower in low range and be ratio correct(?). Example, go from 5th lo-lo to 4th lo.
    Had a RT direct trans.Maybe the overdrive tranny's are different?
    Now have an 18 sp and a very happy with it.

    Take a look at Roadranger site. It will tell all.
     
    Last edited: Nov 3, 2020
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  11. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    A 10 speed is kind of hard to beat, as far as price and durability. Depending on how much torque you have, you may end up dropping whole gears even with a 13 spd.
     
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