transmissions

HE__ NO!!!!!

 

Not as much as a manual, but they are getting there. The main problems are..if the computer goes bad..no shift, clutch goes bad..no shift, even if the batteries get too low...no shift.

 

i would stick with the 13-18 speed myself! the will get there sooner or later.

 

I agree. Unless something serious goes bad, you won't be stranded.

 

^and you will actually be a truck driver.

 

The main trouble with "automatics" is in the electronics; just like everything else these days.

Couple this with "mechanics" who don't really know the first thing about anything more complicated than plugging in the computer analyzer.

Finish it off with the fact that new trucks are no longer checked the way they used to be coming off the assembly line or pre-service at the dealership. We currently have 57 brand new Macks waiting their turn for a "factory recall" on the "automatic" transmission (4 days to fix each).

Just think.... these will be your "good ol days" before long. Makes me shudder to think what your future will be.

 

In my experience, yes, they are fairly reliable. However, the statements above are true. IF there is a problem with the electronics you're probably going to need to get towed to a dealer. I just got rid of a 2007 Columbia with an Ultra shift - 611,000 miles with no problem. I also owned a 2008 KW with an Ultra shift - towed twice, wiring harness and X-Y assembly.

As far as being a "real truck driver", guess that is subject to interpretation. I am capable of driving a manual transmission and have. I no longer use a rotary dial telephone either although I know how. Sometimes I curse the day I bought an auto shift but most of the time I love it. To each his own I guess.

 

Give me a break....

These comments get so old it's not funny. I've been driving for 14 years. 13.5 of them with an 8LL, 9, 10, Super 10, or 13 speed MANUAL transmission. I know how to shift, but now that the company bought and assigned me an automatic, I'm somehow not a real truck driver anymore?

 

yeah, I know what you're saying. Right now I have a 13, but I have driven an auto shift. I guess if you have air ride, A/C, brakes you have to adjust yourself, no anti lock, air ride seats, a sleeper bigger than 24" you are not a truck driver.