Some guidance on shifting a Eaton Fuller 13-speed!!!!

Sooooo how did it go?

 

On a 13 speed the difference between say 6th and 8th is about the same as the different between 7 and 9th. So if you want to skip a split you can and just shift it like a normal 9 speed, whether you are on the high side or low side of the split. Basically, the way it works is this: you do 1-4 normally, with the splitter knob back. Flip your range selector to hi and drop it back up and left into 5th. Now, to keep climbing gears (lets say you are loaded heavy and need the grunt of the splits) you run the rpm to just above peak torque on the engine, pop the split selector forward, ease off the accelerator and it'll do it's thing. As you get used to it you'll be able to do it quicker since you'll have the feel for how much you need to let out the accelerator to get a shift to occur (and not so far as to allow the jakes to come on or so slowly that the truck loses speed.) Now, you simply get back on it. You should be about 250rpms below where you were when you started the shift (vs the 500 or so when you do a full regular shift.) Now, to get to 7th once you raised the RPMs again you simply pop the splitter back and shift like normal (double clutch or float, however you do it.) Etc etc, wash, rinse, repeat. Downshifting is the opposite. Say your in 12th and need to drop to 11th. You simply pop the splitter back, push on the accelerator and it'll do it's thing. You don't need to mash it to the floor, or stab it and let off. A steady push should do the trick. Voila, you are now in 11th.

As long as you remember to pre-select your shifts and have the splitter where you need it for the gear you want, it's easy peasy. Just keeping track of your gears can be the hardest thing to learn, though how far to push/let off the accelerator to get a shift to happen can be a bugger too if you move trucks alot.

 

Step on the gas like it was grape. Soft and easy. Learn throttle application. With the truck parked practice throttle/rpm. 1000 rpm to 1200 rpm then back down to 1000.

 

Well congratulations.. See how easy it really was. You'll do alright. Everybody screws up when they are under a stressful situation like that flight of mine. But funny thing.. It all works out. Best of luck on your next drive.

 

Conrats Driver !

Not sure where you got the 13 speed info from, glad they still have 10 speeds.

I think you'll find,

you made a wise decision.

Take care.