Downshift help

Really?

oooo Grasshopper... you are lucky.

Promise us this... use a Manual for the first few years of your Trucking. Do not wuss out and use a Automatic.

Someday having a manual, particularly if it is something you are afraid of, to master same; will be a accomplishment that will make you happy beyond your years and tears.

I mean this with respect and salute you for not quitting under a Manual. You will master it eventually and in a world filled with autos being driven by people unwilling to master a manual, you will be a asset, not a liability to any lucky trucking company happy to have you.

 

I'll agree with what everyone has said already. Just keep in mind when your downshifting where your tachometer/speedometer is. The gear/speed guide is close to accurate with a EF 10spd. Just keep in mind you have +5 mph to get it in the next lower gear but you have to bring your rpms higher in order for it to go in.

Knowing this is half the battle and always shift with confidence. If you don't, you'll end up slipping up and stalling it on a hill like a new student will.

We took a loaded flatbed with 27k on it last Friday through the hills and my portion of driving was the worst. Felt like the truck was having some pull issues. I remember on this one particular hill I missed going into 9th twice but caught 8th right away because I was dropping speed so fast. Our fill in instructor noticed it and said "nice save" Never had a problem after that lol Just takes one close call.