Shifting RPMS

what was funny was when they tried to talk me into leasing a truck.

Six: You want ME to pay for a POS beancounter spec'd truck????

Beancounter: Yes, we have done extensive studies and have concluded that with our setup, you would be the most successful.

Six: Lady, you must be out of your mind! That truck won't see 4 mpg on its best day running 64 mph. Your trucks are set up completely wrong.

Beancounter: You truck drivers all come in here with your mistaken opinions, but it's a proven fact that our setup is the most successful.

Six: Fact? Where the hell did you do this test...pulling a box on a calm day between Jacksonville and Miami? I got twice the fuel mileage out of a 93 W9 running 74 mph 20 years ago!

Beancounter: I don't believe you!

Six: It doesn't matter what you believe. It will be a cold clammy day in hell before I pay for a Beancounter truck.

 

I drive a 06 international 9400i with a 10 speed. Though I have only been driving truck for 4 months I have found that I can shift better by the sound of the engine than watching my rpms. I usually stick to 62-65 mph, 65 being top speed because I'm governed. When I pay attention to the sound and look at where my rpm's are at from 2nd to 5th gear I'm shifting at 1200 in 2nd each gear up the rpm's rise about 150-200. From 5th to 9th I'm closer to 1400-1500. Progressive shifting seems to help things just fall into place better and acceleration is smoother making the engine not have to work as hard to get going. Usually by the time I get to 9th My rpms reach 1600-1700 depending on the load and if there is a hill when I shift to 10th. I am averaging around 6.4 to 6.5 mpg loaded (75000-80000 gross weight). Highest I ever got was 7.9 but that was with an empty tanker. So far since I've started where I am at now I have gotten all my fuel bonuses with no complaints. I think progressive shifting helps a lot.