Training Course for a New O/O?

I have to say...TOO MANY companies took his seminar. One size fits all indeed !!

My most recent conversation within our company, was about getting a 13 speed (which we do have). The response was "Why do you need it hauling furniture?" Too which I replyed....what furniture?

Long story short, I was advised I would be considered for a 13 in the future since I don't always haul furniture LOL.

I miss my 13

 

I was always told 13 and 18 speed transmissions simply had more lower gears as compared to a 9 or a 10 speed. The only difference is smaller steps to make it to the same final gear. I am not an expert but have heard this from many different sources.
An 18 speed is great for heavy hauls in gravel pits and 13 might be beneficial in mountainous terrain but with the higher horsepower engines of today (500 and even 600 horse) and higher torques a 9 or 10 speed will accomplish the same thing in the mountains.
It seems many drivers are not aware of these issues and simply believe more gears means a better truck.

 

I have never had an 18 speed, but as I have experienced with my 515 Detroit and 10 speed that I have a wide powerband 1200-2000rpm and it will pull anywhere in there (One of the good points of a Detroit). Not requiring more gears as a Cat would with less band. Had a Cat once and boy did it love to pull, but torque range was smaller than a Detroit. I think a Cat with an 18 (to keep it in the band) would be a good fit for a heavy hauler; going to try it with my 10 and 515 Detroit. Does fine grossed out (flatbed) running all 48.

 

The number of gears and engine HP are only part of the equation. You must also consider Torque band and Final Drive Ratio.