Good Set Up?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by GoneAgain, May 20, 2015.

  1. GoneAgain

    GoneAgain Bobtail Member

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    I'm looking at a 2005 379 EXHD with an 18 speed tranny 550 Cat with 3:36 gear ratio to pull a reefer trailer and possibly a low boy trailer. Is a good set up to pull heavy weight. I just don't know about 3:36 ratio. Thanks in advance.
     
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  3. Ezrider_48501

    Ezrider_48501 Road Train Member

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    what do you consider heavy weight?
     
  4. TripleSix

    TripleSix God of Roads

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    The unanswered question remains.

    For a reefer it would be great. As far as the lowboy goes, he didn't give any details on the trailer either, so I will assume he's talking about a 2 axle. It will do the job you need it to do. Most of the time, you shouldn't see more than 94000 lbs.

    The thing that you have to be careful about is, that big motor. A proper running 550 horse should be stout. You go hill climbing, and the rpms drop but seemingly hold at 1000 rpms or less. On a long climb, those EGTs get too hot for too long and you will wind up burning holes in the tops of your pistons. So you have to learn to resist the urge to play King of the Hill. Downshift. There's no shame in downshifting. Let those 18 gears do the work. Keep those rpms above 1300 and you should be okay on a hill. Let the gears do the work. It's the primary reason to buy an 18 speed.
     
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  5. Oscar the KW

    Oscar the KW Going Tarpless

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    I had an 04 KW, same specs, pulled a reefer for years, then a 2 axle rgn, always had plenty of power. If it's set at 1850 torque it will do you good.
     
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