Peterbilt Medium Duty Truck Owner's Manual - Peterbilt Motors

OPERATING THE TRANSMISSION
• Upshifts: let the engine and gears slow down to the
rpm required for the next gear.
• Downshifts: press accelerator, increase engine and
gear speed to the rpm required in the lower gear.
4. Now quickly press the pedal to disengage the clutch
and move the gear shift lever to the next gear speed
position.
5. Release the pedal to engage the clutch.
More Transmission Tips
“Riding” the Clutch
The clutch is not a footrest. Do not drive with your foot
resting on the clutch pedal. It will allow your clutch to slip,
causing excessive heat and wear—damage could result.
Release Bearing Wear
When you must idle your engine for any period of time,
shift your transmission to Neutral and disengage the
clutch (take your foot OFF of the pedal). This helps prevent
unnecessary wear to your clutch release bearing,
and it is less tiring for you, too.
STARTING AND OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Clutch Adjustment
Inspect manual clutches according to the manufacturer's
recommendations. Regular maintenance should be followed
to maintain correct clutch adjustment. Have your
dealer's Service Department perform any adjustment necessary.
Tips
• Always use the clutch when making upshifts or downshifts.
• Always select a starting gear that will provide sufficient
gear reduction for the load and terrain.
• Never downshift when the vehicle is moving too fast.
• Never slam or jerk the shift lever to complete gear
engagement.
• Never coast with the transmission in Neutral and the
clutch disengaged.
• To provide smooth gear engagements while shifting,
use proper coordination between shift lever and
clutch.
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