UltraShift vs. Manual, the 18 speed review for 2019
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- Опубликовано: 22 май 2019
- Do you love rowing through 18 speeds of glory? Would you rather let the truck do the rowing so you can concentrate on the road while getting better fuel mileage? These are some of the biggest questions in the trucking industry right now. To shift, or not to shift....that is the question....and we answer it.
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Seems like there would be less driver fatigue. I understand the macho thing but more energy and focus will allow a driver to focus on his surroundings and leaves more energy for when he climbs out of the truck and not be so exhausted. I enjoyed the manual in CDL-A training but I learned how to time and control the automatic transmission with my foot pressure, and timing on the diesel pedal and service brake while in tow/haul with full exhaust brakes. Works almost as well as a manual for control.
YES!!!! That's a true driver! Someone that adapts and learns how to use the equipment to the fullest advantage rather than just complaining about it. Kudos to you!
If shifting gears makes you fatigued then I'd suggest seeing a doctor because shifting is not strenuous
@@erics5952 it's not, but it is just one more thing to do, and also takes your hands from the wheel.
@@KenworthofRichfield // The automatic is my truck but I was very surprised at the difference the manual made in control. It took me about six weeks to understand how the automatic full exhaust brakes interact with the diesel pedal and how the automatic transmission "learns" how I drive - but I was learning how IT drove, so there was some adaptation and brain scrambling but I figured it out. Now, it's just a matter of paying attention to the terrain and traffic because I do a lot of partial shipments in this truck. On rolling hills and skinny country roads with a load, I really pay attention to every detail and time the exhaust brakes along with pressure on each pedal and timing on and off the pedals. It's fun to me. 🤷♂️
For me the ultrashift is a better option in aspects of a bad knee,my left knee has a pin in it,so shifting causes alot of pain,though I prefer it and yes I can float gears,however the clutch still gets used in certain areas
I’d like to see the same comparison under a load.
Earl Harman yeap and on a steep grade💪🏽
How about under 225000 lbs? With a 2017 Volvo VNX and an I shift. 12 speeds.
Yeah, I agree. The manual has more control over speed. Ultra shift is basically a glider under load... Most drivers like them because they can pull away from a stick shift just before a merge or construction, ECT... I have seen a dump truck get him self into trouble by racing up to and behind a four wheeler. He had to lay rubber, and peel off the road after passing me 2 minutes earlier... He was following to close! If some drivers could get it in their little heads that it's not about speed, it's about safety. Things would be better, and less accidents would happen... Restrictions on drivers have made them desperate...
@@paulbickley658 unless you have a high low shifter like i do. No real
Loss in hp and tourqe.
No shit. I had a carrier take away my manual Freightshaker and give me one of those iShit Vulvas with a snot green D13 sewing machine. Found out I couldn't manually control the transmission with 44,000 pounds chasing me down the Cascades eastbound. Which basically meant I could not get engine RPM up enough to let the engine brake do its job without overspeeding for the grade. I put my notice in the next day. If that's the way they set automated transmissions up, I will never drive another, they are unsafe.
After 30 years of driving all kinds of stick transmissions, I’ve really learned to appreciate the luxury of the automatic transmissions.
It just flat makes that much of a difference at the end of the day.
Exactly right! So many years and I finally got one. I loved it pulling a reefer. Can't use one at current job though wish I could.
You still select manaul for of job s don't you.....
Think open tell the truth guys. Auto is not 100 correct.
@John Smith You haven’t driven a decent automatic it sounds like, a good one is very smooth shifting, and starts off in the right gear according to the load you’re pulling.
It’s not always about power, it’s being comfortable behind the wheel for hrs on end. Every truck has its purpose, remember when there were no autos what so ever, hauling aggregate everyday, shift after shift..clutch in clutch out..! Time to enjoy the drive!
Agreed!!!
You actually use the clutch to shift?
@@MG-ks1qg ikr
I've been driving 21 years CDL A and 10 of those years have been in automatics in The Cascadia and Peterbuilt and Kenworth models and they have not only performed without any real issue but have been surprisingly reliable. I do sometimes miss shifting at times but remember the chore it can be in tight spots on hills in traffic vs the automatic. Either one is fine for me so it's just a convenience to have the automatic. I think they have come a long way and if proven reliable a decent alternative to a standard transmission.
YES!!!!! Finally someone that has the experience in both and gets it. :D
Love how they park those dumps almost as close together as 2 swift drivers in a flyingJ lot
Real drivers know
not swifts fault pilot makes the parking so tight.
Swift can do some impossible stuff like i guarentee they can hit 17 foot bridge with a 14.6 foot truck
@@zandertappen6150 quickest way to empty a truck stop restaurant is walk in and say " wow that swift driver is gonna try backing in to that parking space"
@@zandertappen6150 don't you mean a 13'6" truck.
Shifting after a while is second nature, Eventually you dont even look or think about it it just becomes part of you
After 56 years, 2.8 million miles on 2continents and most of the pacific rim, I can say it in two words “muscular memory”. Chiefd
I couldn’t agree more. When an RTLO18 becomes a part of you.. you don’t think about it, you aren’t any more distracted.. and ultimately have more control. Why retrain your body to manipulate the decisions of your machine when you can make those decisions directly.
Auto are great but times depending on the grade on an interstate or pull autos will continue to shift dropping to the bottom of power curve when manals hold a better speed and better rpm when heavy. Maybe can retest with a load on a grade where the auto wants to change all the time thanks
@@griffindaniel3264 auto is crap I can just imagine being stuck in mud or ice with an auto and trying to rock it to get out. Having to somehow figure out how to use the brake and gas without just spinning the tires on an auto is actually way harder then manual
Tyler Chauvin after 4+ million miles of my dad driving. Shifting becomes extremely easy, and it is to the point where he drinks and eats while he drives. After 18 years of haulin ass. It has become a joke to him lol
The real test is how many miles can each trans get under load and how much does it cost to replace or repair them.
That module on the automatic is $4000 to $6000 to replace, not cheap, I will stick with my old fashioned 18 speed. And mine does not tear up the docks when I gently bump the dock... ;-)
You are exactly 💯 right on that my reman, just cost $7,900 have no idea what a automatic would cost.
Depends who’s driving the 18 manual only take one people who S new driver to mess up your truck
These 2 questions to be answered are my biggest concerns on whether to choose an automatic or a manual trans; fuel differences and maintenance cost comparisons. For, the auto should be much less fatigue in a daily 500 mile run versus the manual but is it worth it or not?
I'm going for my CDL this week and the fact that automatics exist makes me so happy lol. Respect to the guys that can bang gears.
As others have said, the test for these is NOT tooling around bobtail on flat ground.
The real test is 90% max load, on 10% grades up and down. That is where the true test is.
There are no Interstate roads that are 10% grade there's no more than 8% in America not argueing I've done some research on this.Knowledge is great
I owned a 2011 Volvo with an I shift and a Volvo engine 425 HP and was working in the oil and natural gas industry leased to Bruce Oakley inc. out of Little Rock Ar.(Pneumatic Tank Divison) hauling any where between 42000 lds.and 48000 lbs. of frac sand up the side of single lane dirt mountain roads some with gravel to get to the well site in the the North East Pa. in snow and muddy condishtions in the winter "chains in the winter some time of corse"and these roads are anywhere between 8 and 10 percent grades not your average interstate roads at all and most of the time we start from a dead stand still at the base off the mountain road with no running start like on the interstate and my truck pulled just as good as any other truck with a standard shift and did this for 2 years without "ANY" problems at all.There is not an "INTERSTATE ROAD"in America that has 10 or 9 percent grades. I'm a driver sence April 9th of 1999 this my 21st.year I comment on my actual hands on experiences not what I hear on the cb radio or the grapevine bs talk "I have actually done it"
@@truckpro5665 You seem to be implying that these trucks are only ever going to be driven on the interstates.....
Come on mate. You claim to be a Truck Pro. You know that these are going off the interstates, hell even off road in some cases.
Load it to 80 thousand and go up black mountain North Carolina come down and go up Fancy gap and down. Then go run Hwy 321 from kings tree TENNESSEE to Charels town SC then I will say it has been tested.
@@philthelawnman I've been there and done that when I was leased with Land Star I've driven over the years 9,10 super 10,13,&15 standard,I owned a 2011 Volvo with an I shift and a Volvo engine 425 HP and was working in the oil and natural gas industry leased to Bruce Oakley inc. out of Little Rock Ar.(Pneumatic Tank Divison) hauling any where between 42000 lds.and 48000 lbs. of frac sand up the side of single lane dirt mountain roads some with gravel to get to the well site in the the North East Pa. in snow and muddy condishtions in the winter "chains in the winter some time of corse"and these roads are anywhere between 8 and 10 percent grades not your average interstate roads at all and most of the time we start from a dead stand still at the base off the mountain road with no running start like on the interstate and my truck pulled just as good as any other truck with a standard shift and did this for 2 years without "ANY" problems at all.There is not an "INTERSTATE ROAD"in America that has 10 or 9 percent grades. I'm a driver sence April 9th of 1999 this my 21st.year I comment on my actual hands on experiences not what I hear on the cb radio or the grapevine bs talk "I have actually done it"For adverse conditions like snow,ice,mud,etc.the automatic needs to be put in M for manual so it can be shifted like a manual and have control in those conditions and "MOUNTAINS"up and down use the + and -- signs to shift when needed.
The issue is not acceleration with empty trucks, what matters is control of the truck when loaded. With a manual I know exactly what the truck is doing and going to do, which is extremely important in adverse road conditions.
Now personally I like autos for city work, but that’s it.
I owned a 2011 Volvo with an I shift and a Volvo engine 425 HP and was working in the oil and natural gas industry leased to Bruce Oakley inc. out of Little Rock Ar.(Pneumatic Tank Divison) hauling any where between 42000 lds.and 48000 lbs. of frac sand up the side of single lane dirt mountain roads some with gravel to get to the well site in the the North East Pa. in snow and muddy condishtions in the winter "chains in the winter some time of corse"and these roads are anywhere between 8 and 10 percent grades not your average interstate roads at all and most of the time we start from a dead stand still at the base off the mountain road with no running start like on the interstate and my truck pulled just as good as any other truck with a standard shift and did this for 2 years without "ANY" problems at all.There is not an "INTERSTATE ROAD"in America that has 10 or 9 percent grades. I'm a driver sence April 9th of 1999 this my 21st.year I comment on my actual hands on experiences not what I hear on the cb radio or the grapevine bs talk "I have actually done it"
...right that''s ...on the clock...9-5-...city...LTL-Driver..!!
Dam right
...yeahhhh...and ...what''s He ...pulling...paper...Towels...or...candy...LOADS...for ...'''WAL-Mart-'''...
Modern-day transmissions and engines are well equipped with bunch of sensors. ECU reacts much faster than human brain. The only advantage of human brain is prediction, but that is the privilege of experienced drivers
I have never driven a truck, but I have driven commute, charter and tour buses for 30 years and I am now retired.
I have initially driven the “stick-shift” manual transmission buses in the ‘70s because they were the standard at the time. Until I have driven the newer buses with the automatic transmissions, it is pure “heaven” on wheels. It’s like driving a big luxury car. No more “double-clutching.” I can concentrate on my driving with greater attention without being occupied with the thoughts of the gears, governor speeds, optimal moments to shift, engaging the clutch, etc. It’s a lot less of a workload and is more relaxing. I love it. Today, all the contemporary new buses are now equipped with the automatic transmission as standard equipment, for the manual “stick-shift” is obsolete and is no longer available. What a way to drive and work! I love it! 👍.
I dunno - I like to full control of what gear I'm in for up/down grades & road conditions. That just me tho
I can understand that Keith, but you'd be surprised as how much control you have with the throttle in terms of what the transmission will do.
There is a "manual" setting for the Ultrashift. You drop/pickup gears to suit yourself, skip gears, etc.. I've driven manual and auto and semi-auto. And a few Quads.
On the automatic trucks now you can push a manual button where you can choose the gear.
With full lockers the automatic will crawl it’s way out of a bog. When you have only a 6*2, with no diffs, you’ll be relegated to the road. Also the run of the mill fleet spec with a ten speed automatic doesn’t do Ultrashift any justice.
myself, i find the shifting therapeutic. Its a calm for alot of us that you miss out on with an auto. Really it is more a matter of preference.
There is a calming effect with it that I do understand....until I get in traffic. lol
theodoreisthebest;
I agree!- I don’t like automatics, I still prefer a stick👍🏽😈
@@Aleiria13 I can totally understand that still.
In Europe the trucks of Scania have an Auto but you can have a Clutch for the start off. Idk how to call that. Im Swiss so excuse my bad english
@@jopaxx3914 We had that setup before, but not the computer controls the clutch also.
To me, the most impressive thing about this video was how close you parked those trucks to each other. I know people who can't park a car between the lines in a parking space let alone what you did.
Also, am I the only one who was wondering what that red flashing light was in the speedometer? It took me a minute but I figured it out....
Thanks man!!!! I take great pride in precision driving. Mirrors never touched, but I couldn't fit my thumb between them. :D Yeah....to GoPro had the red light.
I was thinking the same thing. Great job lining them up.
@@johnrossi6212 Thanks. I've always taken pride in doing "precision driving". As a kid, I always wanted to be a stunt driver (blame the Dukes of Hazard) and I knew that precision driving was part of that. :D
One of the first things I noticed. I thought it was so it would fit in the camera frame better.
@@antpoo It was actually. It'd look bad with 10' in between them. :D
This was an EXCELLENT video! 💯 Thank you.
Awesome videos mate you do a great job changing gears
Thanks Tom!!!! I do what I can to keep it fun and to keep it rolling. :D
Been driving since I was 18 hauling grain. I've hauled everything part time to full time and back to part time. The autos are getting better. And in traffic you cant beat them. Especially Atlanta rush hour. But going up a grade like Mount Eagle on I24? Cant beat the 18 manual. So flat ground the auto has its place but in the mountains. The 18 manual rains supreme. Just my experience.
I think you did a fine job shifting the manual...not that you need my approval.
Thanks Scott!!!! I'll take it!
I agree,did great, i didn't see,any problems with it .
It’s like the difference between wearing shoes with laces or shoes with Velcro. Both work just fine. In fact, Velcro may be better in some cases, but do you really want to be the guy with Velcro?
My favorite shoes have both. :D
Touché, sir.
hahahahahahahaha
If you were talking about the paint scheme, or how much chrome on the truck, or how many lights to put on the truck, then your argument might be valid (i.e. a fashion statement). I think that a closer comparison would be: Boxers or Briefs? You lady (etc) truckers will have to opine on other styles of undies...
That's not the same and plus velcro was old the automatic is new
I drive a bicycle, been driving one fore years. And I have to say I prefer manual any day of the week. Not only does it help with the hills but also the love of the ride. For anyone wondering I drive a 2002 mongoose, got it on sale at Walmart.
Why didn't you go with the Huffy?
LOL
Lets hear it for Cru Jones!!!
Ultrashift operators Manuel.
1. Release park brake
2. Apply pressure to service brake pedal
3. Select desired gear being forward or reverse
4. Have truck towed to local repair facility because transmission will not go into gear
xD
For paving the 2018 auto shifters are a nuisance! The pave has to come to a COMPLETE stop before the truck will engage into forward gears to leave the pave! With the manual transmissions I DON'T need the pave operations to stop so I can leave the paver. I just slip the transmission into gear, & leave.
Yeah. You get that damn blinking
Light. Uh oh!!
Michel Reineking the ultra shift has 4 sensors and their all the same sensor ,and not that hard to get to if you don’t mind getting under the truck. It’s a good idea to carry one with you.Sometimes you can get it going by disconnecting the battery cables and let it sit a while.
Problem is the sensors are more often than not, not the problem.
Just my humble opinion on the matter, Automatic for the COMPANY, and Manual for OWNER OPERATOR. The company may have 5 - 500 rigs out there with a variety of drivers and skills, but a O.O. is responsible for his or her rig SOLELY including all the maintenance and repair costs. When those Autoshifts stop shifting you're HELPLESS without dealer support. Again just my humble opinion. Any reputable repair shop can fix/rebuild/maintain a 9-10-13-18, 5×4 etc. trans.
Secondly, especially in the on/off road market as I drove for decades, I feel that you will always have a better level of drivers and driver skills with the stick shift operators when running off road.
I'll probably get a lot of haters here but I feel that NOTHING can or will ever replace the feeling of a direct Mechanical connection between engine and drive wheels, especially off road.
The video and comparison is of dump trucks which are often used on and off road, hence my input on the subject.
Makes sense as I can follow your logic on it, but we're getting more and more owner/operators that are going to automated for their own trucks also. Times are changing....
Agree 100% I work for a small company (2 trucks) and we will run 13&18 speed manuals as long as possible. They are far superior off road and pulling tanker. I’ve experienced too many problems with an auto to want to drive one and as a small company we don’t have the proper tools to trouble shoot or repair them.
That fleet truck will have, on average, 15 or 20 different drivers (at one of the "better" bottom feeder mega carriers) in one year.The autoshift, two or three pedal, along with the endorsement on the license is nothing more than dumbing down the skill level. More seat meat for the bottom feeder megas.
The "macho" comment is always first in the comments before resale value and application. Having driven ATL to the bay area and back in a 4070 with a 13 coupled to a 318 I dreamed of having an automatic since the autoshift was years from being even a dream. Allison did make an automatic but it was too heavy for a 73,280 pound gross weight to be realistic. Cruise control was an add on advertised on a clear channel (Charle Douglas anyone?) AM radio station. Point being don't be so quick to quote the "trainer" who can have years and years of experience if you're lucky, or, as little as six months experience and reading a script written by some college graduate. If I could use an autoshift at my current job I would welcome it.
10 4 on that brother!!
Working for an LTL company for 14 years I can say that I've spent alot of time in both manual and auto and prefer the manual over the automatics. Almost every automatic are company owns have had problems at around 400-600k miles. It's not about feeling like a billy-big-rigger it's about longevity on your investment. But LTL have to get butts in the seat so they will do anything to make it easy for someone coming out of driver CDL schools.
After shifting all day, the last thing I wanted in my personal vehicle was shifting all the way home.
I started driving in the early 80's with an 18 speed. Loved having half gears when needed. Didn't care for 9 speed transmissions. I never used the clutch while moving forward so matching rpm and syncros is an art and actually removes boredom at times. Never driven an automatic rig, it seems cheap to me.
What about an automatic in the mountains with a full load of 80,000 lbs.? Is there a big chance of burning out the brakes?!?! Is a manual transmission better for this scenario?
@@lukedkleinful You can still shift gears manually with an automatic, plus engine brakes. Shouldn't be too much different. I don't drive in the mountains, but if I'm going down a big hill, I shift down to control my speed. I drive a 10 speed Eaton Ultrashift automatic.
@@lukedkleinful not with engine braking, three sets of engine braking with the 3rd one being recommended for downgrades as you mentioned hauling 80k pounds.
@@Evan_Horvath yes.
I feel more safer in the mountains in a manual
Been driving automatics for three years now! They are less fatigueing and operate great!
Totally agree! As long as you adapt a bit to what they want, it makes for a great driving experience.
no matter what you need to get out and walk around erery 8-12 hours or you will lose your legs from the knees down from not flexing legs. i know a guy who had to amputate legs from knees down due to the run and gun days of no layover time resting and walking legs. so save legs and walk around often .
@@davidicousgregorian what does that have to do with Automatic or Manual?
@@Prost81 That has a lot to do with auto vs manual. If you're constantly shifting your leg is tired. If you aren't having to do that you are less tired/fatigued and able to do more outside the truck.
@@TehDigz how many times do u shift 🤣🤣 if ur leg goes to sleep while speeding up im sorry but u need to get checked out
The proximity of those mirrors to each other is giving me anxiety.
hahaha. Even when I shut the trucks off, they never touched. :D
uh huh
Why?
Had some close calls?
I have an 2018 peterbilt 500 isx 13 speed ultra shift trans dump with 18 foot box super 10 like you say not thinking about shifting does give you as a time to pay attention to everything else around you plus around the job site you can use manual mode , I have however had mine reprogrammed to the second stage much effective putting the power down 30 plus years of driving I quite enjoy it , but I will tell you this I run Southern California so living Orange County or LA county in the afternoon it is so nice to only have 2 pedals
I would love to see a comparison with a full box
I've been driving for 34 years....any tech that keeps a cup of coffee in my hand.....sign me up
YES! Gotta stay fueled up!
Take a sip. Set the cup down. Shift. Take another sip. Repeat. Do not spill a drop. Easy on fuel. Easy on the drive train.
Shouldn't have a cup in your hand the whole time your driving.
@@genwatie2191 Meh. All it take is co-ordination, steady application of the foot on the long thin one on the right. You can even shift gears, brake, steer, check mirrors, push the clutch in and out. When turning or stopping put cup on the the flat dash. Oh wait they don't make them like that any more. But back when they did make them like that. If you spilled it you were wasting fuel. Even worse shifting the load. That is if the dumb asses in the 4 wheel go fasters are not driving stupid as usual.
@@warrenpuckett4203 I didn't have a problem with your comment I agreed with you. It's the other one that thinks he needs a automatic to drink coffee. It's not like the cup is in your hand the whole time you drive. That's way they make cup holders.
I like manuals better in the snow and ice
Yea they just down shift when you don't think ther going to ....snow ice on off ramp ...not fan of auto
Agreed. Downshifts when going around an icy corner. No thanks.
You need to put the auto in manual mode when in adverse conditions.Thats what the M is for.
David Mccully The auto needs to be put in manual mode when in adverse conditions that’s what the M is for on the shifter or dash.
Victor Brown yet almost every mega carrier that has automatics turn off manual mode for their drivers, because “fuel savings”
I have yet to get better fuel mileage with an automatic over the manual I had before. In fact I’m planning on buying a manual just to get out of these shitty autos. They shift weirdly, don’t know what gear to pick, and either lug or overspeed the engine. I also know for a fact that it leads to more complacent drivers. All of my company’s trucks have collision avoidance radars and lane departure warnings. Combine that with an automatic transmission, and it becomes easy to see why so many people text, or watch videos going down the road, instead of paying attention to the road as they should be. Manual drivers tend to be the safest drivers on the road, because THEY ARE PAYING ATTENTION TO THE ROAD!
Personally, I'll always prefer manuals. But that's because I find it enjoyable, and I take pride in getting it just right. I always hear people say, "autos are so much better in stop and go traffic". For those who like autos, all the power to you. As far as stop and go, I still like my manual. Im a local driver and I'm rowing the gears all day long, still love it over an auto.
Now, our company has T800s in both auto and manual. As it pertains to our company, I prefer the auto. But this is solely because the manuals are 10 speeds, and the autos are 13 speeds, so they pull the hills better (got plenty of steep ones, even locally, where im from). But, if they had manual 13s or 18s, I would take them all day long.
All that said, if you have the choice, drive what you like.
I would agree except that Americans always heavily prefer automatics to standards, and there goes your choice of transmissions right out the window.
I totally agree. The ultrashift wins hands down. Enhanced safety AND efficiency in both easier on the drivetrain and reportedly slight improvement in mpg numbers, and I’d guess less emissions as well and greater tire and brakes longevity. And, yeah, with about 2.5 million miles in my career, sure I worked that 9speed overdrive pretty darn good in my BullDog. But I think the two pedal AMT is best.
I like the comparisons and I like both of the trucks I think the ultra shift that’s pretty cool but what I would’ve like to see you do was not only show it up shifting but to the show us the downshifting and the braking distance. Thanks great video. 👍🏾
Thanks! I'll probably be doing an update on it here in the next few months so that'll be a great thing to show.
hate automatic especially in the snow . companies like the auto because they can scrape the bottom of the barrel for drivers
I worked at a truck stop I hated seeing the imported drivers, most are entitled and entirely unprofessional. Also I've seen a lot more drivers struggle on ice.
I had trucks with the Stupid AT545 Allison auto (no lock up converter and no retarder) and the only way it would upshift, is if you had hit a specific RPM in each gear, it would then hit so hard in that next gear the rear tires would break loose in the snow and you would fishtail...there was no easing it thru the gears and on a slippery road...and yes it made the for the ease of hiring "inexperienced drivers" at a lower wage and it stinks!
You hit the nail on the head sir. I keep telling my company to stop settling. Just get good drivers.
The shitty part here guys, is the fact that drivers are getting harder and harder to come by. Finding people willing to make the sacrifice and drive around this country day in and day out just isnt appealing to the new generation. And the ol boys that been doing it for 40 - 60 years (mad respect for sure) just ain't gonna be in it much longer. So instead of giving the new gens a hard time about being "bottom of the barrel" let's pass the skills down and show them right.
@dez nutz you right man... people need to get in the ball tho or our nation gonna go through a helluva lack of freight movement
heres my opinion of the ultra shift 18. I drove a 567 6 axle dump grossing at 70-75K lbs daily. The ultrashift did do a surprising job managing gears going up and down hills. It rarely missed. But if it does miss, which happend once climbing the big hills close to West Virginia for the oil fields. Was climbing what I would have to guess was a 10% grade. She started at 35 in 13th gear and by the time I was half way up, I was around 20ish mph and losing fast. Up to this point its been downshifting great. But then It missed the shift to 6th. The truck jump off the ground I swear. I damn near hit my head on the roof of the cab when it missed and tried to grab a random gear. she then came to a stop on the hill and gave a "trans fault" code. I had to shut the truck off and disconnect the batteries just so it could reset and I can get gears again. She climbed the rest of the hill in 3rd gear at about 7 mph.
Now that was a pretty extreme case. over all shift is ok. What I dont like about it is how often it will go through every gear from a dead stop unloaded even, or the amount of times I roll to a stop sign and then hit the gas to go, and nothing happens for a solid 3 to 5 seconds. Plus dont get me started with the amount of break downs Ive had with that trans. In the 10 months I drove it, putting on 80K miles in that time, that truck has been towed 3 times because of electrical issues and failures on the trans.
its a great trans when it works but its a highways transmission. It does not like working on soft terrain and will often give up and pop out of gear when the tires sink 3 inches into mud, mean while our other trucks with an 8LL in deep reduction could plow through mud axles deep. Again, when it works, its great, comfortable and a nice luxury. I can eat my sandwich while leaving a stop light! But it just had too many faults that kept me stranded or cursing the thing out when ever something screws up.
Until the kinks are worked out and they are more reliable, I will stick to a manual trans of any sort. Once they fix those things, I can welcome it with open arms. But the manual trans can never go. Manufactures need to realize that and they need to still offer it. Fleet companies may buy automatics these days but Ill bet you most owner ops will buy a manual.
For sure. Owner-ops so often need to do a bit of rough work and I'll take a manual every time, also for engine braking and jake brake.
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TRACTOR?
Tuesday, December 10, 2019
1:20 AM
It just blow my mind to see how fast the automatic transmission tractor drove without any problem whatsoever. Madly in love with the automatic. WOW! In the very near future I want to lease to own a tractor with trailer, but I want an "Automatic Transmission Tractor. This wonderful video just changed my mind and way of thinking about tractor trailers in general.
Thanks Nelson! It's definitely a great way to go!
I've driven both the only clear advantage I see is backing into loading docks and hooking up loaded trailers for those two things I definitely have to give the edge to the manual. I've also driven the old autoshift that had a clutch pedal which gave the control hooking trailers and backing into docks and it is probably my favorite of the three.
Totally makes sense.....although they get better and better at those things as the programming gets better.
Give me the stick shift its more fun plus it helps to keep you more alert
I just like shifting man.
@@roadrunner4910 👍
Same here @roadrunner
I'll keep my stick shift. Ya I'm a noob to trucking (less than a year). So far I've only shifted a 13 as school trucks and the company ones I've driven were all 13. Keeps me doing something, especially in the hills under load. Maybe a day when my shoulder says nope, but not yet.
You must LOVE tight stop and go traffic 😅😂🤣
I would of loved to had an automatic in my day,yes shifting gears was fun but after a while it got old, especially in heavy traffic,my main problem was arthritis in arms and legs , automatic would of been much better,
There's a ton of advantages to it....
im not a trucker, but stick to start and auto as you age.
Great point.
I don't miss all the rocking caused from the stick, plus legs and shoulder never get tired from being away from a clutch. After 2 weeks you adjust to either or.
Worked in California for a nation wide grocery chain, retired three years ago. When we first received Volvos with D13’s and automated manual transmissions the old school drivers whined. After one year all drivers were in love with the automated transmissions. Great in LA traffic and pulled the Grapevine just fine. As a mechanic I loved them because no more twisted driveshafts, snapped power divider input yokes or sheared power divider output shafts.
On flat ground maybe, but I’m never on flat ground. On a 11% grade I’m choosing the manual every time.
I've driven both on grade. You can actually shift the autoshift manually.
You are very right. Autos never know when to shift on hills
I have yet to see a auto shift properly on a hill, any gearbox.
@Tyson Mars Ill just set my cruise to 70 and i always have my jakes screaming down hills
@@sheldon_fivenine8212 That's where the driver goes from driving to operating the rig! Much harder to dock an automatic. I prefer manual when backing and on hills, but auto on road and in traffic. I miss shifting, but not when drinking coffee! Hahaha
I work for a aggregate company and I drive a Peterbilt 579 automatic and I wish it was a 10 speed. Yeah It hauls ass when empty but loaded not so much.
I owned a 2011 Volvo with an I shift and a Volvo engine 425 HP and was working in the oil and natural gas industry leased to Bruce Oakley inc. out of Little Rock Ar.(Pneumatic Tank Divison) hauling any where between 42000 lds.and 48000 lbs. of frac sand up the side of single lane dirt mountain roads some with gravel to get to the well site in the the North East Pa. in snow and muddy condishtions in the winter "chains in the winter some time of corse"and these roads are anywhere between 8 and 10 percent grades not your average interstate roads at all and most of the time we start from a dead stand still at the base off the mountain road with no running start like on the interstate and my truck pulled just as good as any other truck with a standard shift and did this for 2 years without "ANY" problems at all.There is not an "INTERSTATE ROAD"in America that has 10 or 9 percent grades. I'm a driver sence April 9th of 1999 this my 21st.year I comment on my actual hands on experiences not what I hear on the cb radio or the grapevine bs talk "I have actually done it"
They work just fine empty on ice if you put the trans. in manual so that it stays in 1 gear till you deside to change it to a lower or higher gear manualy and yes you can do this rolling at hwy speeds they are designed to do that.
Enzo Itzep depends on what automatic you have.... the Allison automatics are turds, and I feel like that’s where most people have the negative view of automatics in class 8 trucks comes from.
I drive a 2016 Western Star tri- axle dump with a ten speed ultra shift. I hate it! It doesn’t have the “Creep” feature that they have come out with that helps when feeding an asphalt spreader. Its not as slow starting as older versions, still slow, but a hell of a lot smoother starting off. Older versions dumped the clutch at 900 RPM, thought it would be great in Atlanta traffic, not so much! Nearly gave me whiplash from lateral torque trying to creep along in stop and go traffic, especially with an unbaffled tanker. Also, seems like it takes a lot harder pressure on the brakes to stop, i think because you can’t hit the clutch and disconnect from the driveline, you have all the fly wheels: tires drive line transmission all pushing the truck as you are stopping 27 tons of rock. Only way to disconnect is to put in neutral.
Then there is the delay starting off from a dead start, has hill assist that’s supposed to hold brakes on for a few seconds to keep truck from rolling until computer decides to go, but better keep that brake pedal covered, cause its going to roll before it begins pulling.
Pay attention to what gear you are starting in, 10 speed will start in 1st, second, or third, but you have to be completely stopped to select gear. Nothing like pulling out into traffic thinking you are in third , and its actually in first because you didn’t come to a full stop when you selected gear, and its taking its sweet time up shifting, and if you happen to be bouncing over a rough spot as you are holding your breath to get going, the damn computer cuts the throttle because it sensed wheel spin and now you are really in a pickle!
Yes i most definitely prefer straight shift for dump trucking and heavy haul, but would like to try an 18 speed ultra shift, just for the hell of it!
Drew w The Allison is a full automatic tranny. Ultra shifts are basic ten /18 speed boxes with computer controlled servos that engage the clutch, move the shift linkage.
What I like the most with the automatic less time in the shop. Especially when there are multi drivers.
I was a truck drivers I shift gears all the time I thought that is the way to go until I became a heavy equipment operator I drove those big earth mover they do not have to shift gear most of them are all all them are all o matic go up heal up straight up and damp we do not need to shift gears love you all keep up the good work
I've been driving 10 years . I've driven 9 , 10 , super 10 and (currently drive a ) 13 speed manual. I've driven a couple automatics . My issue is every automatic has given me problems with the Jake Brake properly engaging and holding the right gear in mountain terrain. The other issue is all 3 automatics have been very aggressive shifting . You have to tie down everything , including your coffee and yourself to keep from getting thrown around and maybe even out of the truck when it shifts ( mainly up shifting ) and they wont engage reverse at idle speed or allow you to feather in reverse which is needed to dock without slamming the dock . In a standard I bump the dock and connect to trailers so lightly that you barely feel it . I also notice reversing with an automatic leads to more accidents at truckstops because reverse wont engage at idle speed .
That said as far as driving foward .... when they shift softly , I think the automatics are great for and only useful in city driving .
Maybe newer autoshifts are getting better because in this video it shifted beautifully but I also noticed it appeared to have 300 miles on a truck designed ( historically) to be used for 1.5 million miles or more . Now I know maintenance contributes to how well either transmission functions but both in my experience and just general observation it seems like after 3 or 4 hundred thousand miles the aitoshifts are going to shit while the manual is just finally broken in at that perfect sweet spot .
But no automatic can ever truly replace a manual in my opinion no matter how much better they perform if reverse wont engage at idle speed and allow you to feather the pedal to control both reverse speed and shifting pattern as well . For example Bob tailing I shift around 900 rpms with my 13 speed . Empty with a trailer around 1050 rpm and I adjust my rpm shift point as needed for weight . An automatic wont give you that kind of smooth control and that advantage of fuel usage because they only seem to want to shift at same rpm no matter what the load weight is .
Some people feel only macho super truckers drive and want to drive manuals but I would find it insulting to be called a SUPER TRUCKER yet I prefer manual because I know it's more reliable and as I pointed out about both reversing and shifting allows me greater control and adaptability.
There's two points I'll make on your automated transmission opinion. 1. If its in the most aggressive programming, yes....it will jerk you around a bit. 2. If you adapt to them and let them do their thing, they work pretty well. It may be something different than what you'd think it should do, but adapting to it will make you both a lot happier. Now, we aren't in the mountains, but I have driven on some hilly terrain around here and as long as I paid attention and let it do it's thing, I was happy with how it worked.
I'll stick with a 13, 15 or 18 Speed. Depending on what I am using the truck for, but cant go wrong with the 18 speed. Can use it as a 13 speed pulling and empty trailer, 9 speed bobtail, 15 pulling 80k flat, or 18 speed pulling hills.
Doing the test at 80k will really show the difference.
...'''THANKS- for that ...now Tell ...'''em...AGAIN '''...'''cause'...i don''t think they HEARD...you...13'6''...&-...Tree-TOP-TALL...pedal to The metal...and that''s all...
I prefer driving the rig instead of it driving me.
More or less, I prefer stick because I have more control over the rig.
I also prefer the direct drive you get with gears.
The automated transmission uses the same gears that the manual does. Also, you have about 90% of the control over the truck that you do with a manual if you just learn to adapt to it.
i drove a Western star log truck quad axle trailer tri drive with the ultra shift and the off road program in it for five years and we never touched the drive line.That was in b.c. canada.I retired in 2019 and that truck was still going strong the only thing is i was the only one that would drive it all the other drivers hated it. I loved driving it. WE log in the winter up here in bc. and that trans performed just perfect in the snow and ice, its a new learning curve
I love the fact that people are willing to bash another driver for their choice in transmission, but it doesnt change the fact they're doing the same job as you are.
Thanks for the comparison btw!
It's the ridiculous mentality that playing with a stick makes you a better driver, if you can get your truck in and out of a tight situation and back your truck up in one go then I'll consider that impressive, it's a constant argument that manual will always be better but I usually tell them to take their opinion and stick it where the sun don't shine because it's my money and I buy what I want to buy, if you like a manual good for you, you don't like that I drive an automatic? Well guess what? I don't care, it's not gonna stop me from doing my job
Another great video Josh.
THanks Luciano!!!!!
Great comparison. Completely agree with you!
Thanks Rob!!!!
I think its personal preference not how fast it gets to 60
How fast it accelerates is important to me....if I don't get moving fast enough everybody and their mama think it's ok to swerve in front of me.
*70
110% right on driver mindset and education. Having worked in an ultra shift fleet the driver's style has a lot to do with the life of the clutch and how they shift.
I spent 43 years over the road behind the wheel of a 18 wheeler, as an O/O. Long before and during the benefit of a jake brake. Because of those years shifting, I’ve had a knee replacement and numerous issues with arthritis. In my next life I’ll take automatic over stick every time. Thanks for asking.
Driving since 74
Owner since 83.
Have now had 2 automatics.
No drive line issues. No clutch rrplacements, no hassles.
Your focus on how fast they get to 65 is fun but of small import to ownership.
Its about downtime and repair costs first and last.
Yes its a thrill to learn how to drive but that was 47 years ago.
Ohhhh this is the comparison I've been waiting for!!!
You rowed the 18 speed like a boss. Seems like the ultra shift got to 65 a tad faster. That being said my hats off to you on the awesome comparison.
seems like helping to reduce fatigue if you drive auto and for truckers, its never ever a bad thing
Ive been shifting for 10 years this last year i got a automatic and love it !!!! One day i took my bathroom plunger with me and stuck it to the floor of the truck just so it looked like i was shifting i needed to put a splitter on it though i was stuck in low gears lol
That is awesome!
Empty on ice
I’ll keep my manual
I just press the ice button on my auto box.. I take it your manual truck has stability control and traction control ..
Canadian driver here, so I drive like 6 months of the year dealing with snow and ice. More so since I drive a lot of northern Ontario roads. Never had a problem with an auto. The real issue is when they stick that damn bumper sensor for distance on a truck. Now that is something that will kill people. Having the tractor brakes lock up because of some jackass in a 4 wheeler cuts you off is absolutely terror.
Auto shift is great in heavy traffic. And don't have to worry about driver error.
...or grinding...or missing....or lugging...or overreving...or...or....or... lol
@JEFFREY HARMON True but when your in big cities with stop and go traffic it helps with a Automatic. If you never driven a automatic you wouldn't understand.
@@scubatrucker6806 bro tell me about it
i love taking 5 attempts to grab a gear. it's funny
@JEFFREY HARMON please stop using caps lock...
Great vid. And a surprising outcome.
Thanks!👍
Just curious.
What is the cost difference between the two?
As you get older and wiser, you don't want the extra work of changing gears, with auto you sit back and enjoy the drive.
Agreed. It takes just as much thought....but so much less effort.
I would say this was a lousy test of Auto vs Standard.
Now I don’t have any fancy trophies, but I have driven for 40+ years Accident free, zero CSA score.
Lets try to do a real comparison of Auto VS Standard.
The big one is driver control, automatics remove control, the plus side is the computer can keep the engine rpms in the most fuel efficient range at all times, something a driver can’t do.
Some of the Negatives are, downshifting when braking, the computer is trying to help as you slow down by downshifting, however on slick roads, this locks your wheels, putting you in a slide.
Snow and ice, you get stuck, very common after sitting or unloading, with an Automatic call a wrecker, your stuck, no ability to rock your truck out.
Backing under a trailer, with an automatic, you very slowly apply throttle, trying to
back under a trailer, then suddenly, it moves, slamming you into 5th wheel pin.
Reverse, get a loaded trailer and try backing up an incline at an angel ( Such as backing into a dock). Likely outcome is your truck will violently jump up and down, trying to rip your drivetrain out, not move at all or go into Critical fault mode.
Hesitation, when you put the throttle to the floor, you have a 1/2 -2 second pause before things start going, in that time, in a standard transmission, you could be 2-3 gears.
One of the very things that Automatics are touted for is a drawback.. lessen driver fatigue. In an over the road truck, boredom is the key factor, your not supposed to be on electronics, phone, eating.. nothing. So how many hours can you sit with your mind numb before you fall asleep? If you have to shift gears, it keeps you alert and going.
Expense, Automatics are more expensive but tout longer life, this would be somewhat reflective of driver care, In my experience, I get almost a million miles out of a standard. Some drivers tear them up much faster.
So would I recommend an Automatic, yes exactly for what this video showed, a local, stop and go straight truck. This would be a terrific truck. For an over the road truck, these are a horrible idea. Just my 2 cents.
Tony, You make some great points, but we've found that a great driver can adapt. When it comes to these automated transmission, they become very predictable if you pay attention to them. They are quite a bit more sensitive to road conditions than you think also. A deft right foot can make up for the lack of a clutch in terms fo the control of the truck.
There are modern truck autos that support rocking mode, mud, crawling, towing and more. You just activate the program for it on the shifter.
The trucks you drove must of been shitty, i drive auto and while slowing down have "slipped", auto isn't as bad as people make them seem, but yes you would have to adapt!!
You also make a valid point with the backing, but i think newer trucks are fixing that problem, i drive company and had a 2017 t680, and for some reason it would jerk up and not move, i would had to let the truck start rolling backwards and real lightly engage the throttle, but now I have the same truck and its a 2020, much more smoother, doesn't jerk up at all and I'm always able to back up smoothly, its all about finding the right equipment i guess!!
@@Kemozabe and also since the US truck market looks a bit different from Europe
, you can get alot of mixed brands in a truck with a overall quality that differs.
Different suppliers of engine, transmission, rear axles and cab.
How are you able to get a optimum quality and functionality with that?
Nice comparison and contrast. I'll take the manual until my shoulder says no. Oooh, and "Cleveland Rocks!"
OK, whatever. Boxers or Briefs though? Everyone is afraid to answer the real questions.
Those trucks looks so fresh and shiny that I can feel smell of new car inside the cabin)
Hi
I'm Matthieu, french truck driver.
I'm driving a Volvo fh540 with automatic shifting. I round or really cool. More attention on the road !👍
@@matthieuabt2248 why did you adress it to me?
You're a beast! And thanks for the great video.
Ultra shift for urban and city driving, road ranger for long distance hauling.
Hmm! Yes it's my preference manual tranny city/highway. 👍
Heavy loads in hilly areas manual transmission all day long driving truck down in Florida automatic all day just because of the traffic
Steve Jory I agree. to take the automatic for City driving
...OLD-SCHOOL-...saying...you take ...a...10-spd-ROADRANGER-350-CUMMINS-...pull...anyLOAd...anyTIME...anyWHERE..!!
At the end of the day I don't care which one's faster I just love rolling through 18 gears
Totally makes sense. If it's fun and makes the job better for you, roll with it. :D
It was odd getting used to an auto shift after decades of driving a manual, but I’m now all in on the auto, and so is my left knee.
Like with anything it's about how you use it. It does make it easier for a less experienced driver. The only negative thing I have found is backing into a dock situation and the hill assist can sometimes fail.
First year with a Alison auto, no complaints empty or loaded northern mn snow or dry.
drove the first truck like a boss,nice job dude.
actually both are pretty good and i like both them as a future driver of the trucks and i appreciate this video,thank you very much my uncle.
Thanks for watching!
Having driven both manual and automatics over 100k miles …
I personally feel more “attached” and integral with a manual … it insists I stay alert over the long hours. Also there are many situations where the absolute control is important … like on ice.
Do it uphill, fully loaded
What>? Gonna get to your destination 10 minutes sooner?
Well I have drove both I say both have good and both have bad I will take the trade and be the one NOT STANDING ON A CLUTCH
I've been driving for about 25 years. I did not want to switch to an automatic.
Having said that, I've been in a freightliner with a D12 auto shift. I like it.
Driving in congested traffic is easier. You can focus more on the traffic.
Going up steep grades not a big difference but coming down the automatic is much better in my opinion. I don't use the foot brake as much to control my speed.
It's all about learning to work with it instead of against it. :D
My Daddy at 56 bought a 50 chevy with power glide and complained about the automatic. He never drove a stick again and lived to be 90. The world changes and comparing today with 2011 doesn't work.
I agree with you
Thanks for sharing
seriously i love your videos man!!
Thank you!!!!!!!!!
Very good detail in introducing the difference in Auto shift and manual
Thanks Daniel! I'll be working on something similar here as an update in the near future.
I drove a new ultrashift T680 last yr really liked it
It's truly a slick setup. :D
I've driven Freightliners with the "smart shift" and found that rolling out of the throttle as its shifting did 2 things. 1 it shifted faster. 2, which was more important to me it was a smother ride, didn't get jerked around NOWHERE near as much as if I drove it like it was an actual manual. What I didn't like about it is it ALWAYS started off in 1st gear, EVEN if I had it in manual mode and tried starting in 2nd. Also didn't like driving in snow or on ice with it, it changed gears when I wasn't expecting it to. About the only thing I liked was didn't have to hold a clutch in in traffic all day, most of my driving was in town.
That's the Freightliner system. This is definitely different than that.
The real test is a loaded truck same amount of weight on each truck that tells the story
Bo Ward yes full tilt, 80,000lbs...uphill 5 degrees
And soft ground.
The real test since he was using dump trucks is soft ground spreading gravel.
@Mr Sunshines You seem like a really swell guy.
He's right though. The transmission is the same as the manual one with a robot that shifts the gears for you. Performance-wise, the only difference is the speed of shifting and gear selection logic. Can't beat an experienced driver, regardless of how optimized the tranny software is. All those "semi-autos" are junk.
I started buying the ultra about ten years ago for new and inexperienced drivers little did I know I would fall in love with the auto shift myself! But about six months ago a friend needed a driver for his own personal truck one that he build or put together from several others with a older cat motor and a 18 speed painted it up the way he always wanted to and so on. He was proud and rightly so, I’ve never had my picture taken and been videoed so much. I felt like I was back hauling cows in my outlaw years. LOL I’ll just say I was having fun living on air horns and air seats “with no air in the seat of course “ . So to have been on both sides and I still say to anyone who gives me the “I want to be in control of my truck “ thing that how do you figure you have more control when you got to take one hand off the wheel to sshift and work the gas pedel or double clutch with a chance of missing a gear? I love the simplicity and the smoothness, theres nothing like turning a corner and just hitting resume and sitting back to steer i say to each his own but to me it is progress and i have nothig to prove anymore by showing the world i can sshift cool test this was a good test
Thanks Darrick!!!! Had fun doing the test and also agree......there's nothing to prove here. It's sometimes fun to shift. It's also really nice to not shift. :D
Not to mention, as someone that had several hernia surgeries, being able to use either foot to drive and to stop in an emergency is a big plus.
Have a 2006 ultrashift 10 speed behind a C13 with 368,000 on it. Been used for local all it's life. Has not been trouble free. Had the shift top with actuators replaced once. Clutch once, needs another clutch now.
Can start off any higher than 2nd gear, major drag when you empty but still makes you start in 2nd. Won't up shift till 1500 rpms.
I am sure they have improved them since back then.
Matthew....I've driven them from that era. The best analogy I can give is that in 2006, you were using a flip phone... :D
14 year difference, no comparison.
Just shift it manually. rev past the green and pull two gears at a time. Thats what i do empty
@@williamwhite9943 I have a 2008 Pete with ultra 10 speed, it has 870,000 miles on it. I replaced the clutch around 600,000. Its terrible in mud and ice and snow buts its pretty much idiot proof. If my Pete would have had one years ago when I was married chances are I would still be married, it drove me crazy watching her try to shift my 15 over with deep reduction,,,lol
2 clutches in 14yrs doesnt sound bad.
Here in europe we use powershift for decades. Here is lot traffic, small curvaceous roads, cyclists, pedastrians and crasy drivers from east. Powershift is faster like manual and sensor controlled. At slippery roads you have a manual mode. Under load, the quality of the gear selection depends on the software. I had some problems with Mercedes with the parameters. The MAN switches smoothly and has a reduction gear for heavy terrain.
It is a ZF TraXon 12 speed gearbox. More gears is a sign of low engine torque.
Yup......but people are resistant to change over here....so there are some things that are tough to get changed.....
I have a small fleet. 7 trucks. My truck I love it. 18 . Big Kitty Cat. My 6 other drivers. All automatic. I actually had to go to Chicago to drive one back due to the driver flying home on an emergency at the house. My first time driving an automatic. I went ahead and finished his 8 day run. I was totally blown away on the performance and it does cut down on the . Adaptive cruise control was awesome. It is a mind thing. . Oh fuel mileage was knocking it out of the park.
Great video.. thank you
I just have to add......Road conditions & types of weather. Compare them both on winter roads & hill's. Which one has better control from starting up a hill and going down. Plus in triaxle truck's on job sites your in muddy and or soft ground also so again like to see the comparison. I must say I'm curious to know
That's where the big difference is. I drove a automated a few years ago up north and it was pretty nice until it snowed. Damn thing just wanted to upshift upshift upshift or get stuck in one gear in manual mode because it took to long to shift when you needed it to. It also felt disconnected going down hill. They may (hopefully) have gotten better in the past few years. Great in traffic and nice weather, bad on hills or bad weather.
I've driven over the years 9,10 super 10,13,&15 standard,I owned a 2011 Volvo with an I shift and a Volvo engine 425 HP and was working in the oil and natural gas industry leased to Bruce Oakley inc. out of Little Rock Ar.(Pneumatic Tank Divison) hauling any where between 42000 lds.and 48000 lbs. of frac sand up the side of single lane dirt mountain roads some with gravel to get to the well site in the the North East Pa. in snow and muddy condishtions in the winter "chains in the winter some time of corse"and these roads are anywhere between 8 and 10 percent grades not your average interstate roads at all and most of the time we start from a dead stand still at the base off the mountain road with no running start like on the interstate and my truck pulled just as good as any other truck with a standard shift and did this for 2 years without "ANY" problems at all.There is not an "INTERSTATE ROAD"in America that has 10 or 9 percent grades. I'm a driver sence April 9th of 1999 this my 21st.year I comment on my actual hands on experiences not what I hear on the cb radio or the grapevine bs talk "I have actually done it"For adverse conditions like snow,ice,mud,etc.the automatic needs to be put in M for manual so it can be shifted like a manual and have control in those conditions and "MOUNTAINS"up and down use the + and -- signs to shift when needed.
@@truckpro5665 the problem is if you own it they aren't that horrible but if you work for a company and they lock out the manual mode in them.... That's a joke. The funny part about the entire thing is most companies lock them out sooo.... Manual if you are a company driver hands down.
Terrific but I'd rather see the same video but fully loaded and going down a mountain road
...yeahhh...nobody answered my QUESTION...about ...I-80-...into SACRAMENTO-CALIFORNIA-...with no -jake-BRAKE...and ...stupid AUTOMATIC-TRANSMISSION...FULLY-LOADED ...coming ...off...that...Damn...Mountain...!!! ???
There is a button with an M on the dashboard. That gives you the same percentage of control as the manual (100%). It's so easy.
Over here in Europe, there basically are no manual trucks anymore. I did my license on a manual and I really enjoyed it. Shifting definitely is fun and a clutch controlled by foot gives you a better feeling, especially when handling lower speeds, parking and so on.
Around here, automatic gearboxes are a huge fuel saver. They are combined with the data of the streets, meaning they can shift down before a hill climb without the driver doing anything.
Technology is crazy. On the other hand, with all this fancy tech the driver is basically just holding the steering wheel. Acceleration, braking, distance keeping - the truck does it itself. Even warns you when you come to close to the road markings.
I would love to learn how to shift a real 18 speed under load. That is what trucking is about. Anyone can drive an automatic, that's nothing special. Shifting, distance keeping - it lets you be part of what you are doing, thus you are more focussed on the road. My experience with the fancy tech is that I get tired easily. So I try to stay awake by doing something else. When you only need to hold the steering wheel you are more like a passenger. And there is no passenger being able to focus on the road like a driver. If the tech does the job, you automatically start doing something else. Because you will get bored. Everyone will. It's human. If what you do has nothing to do with skill you won't do it with all your heart...
Interesting take on things.
@@KenworthofRichfield
Sorry for the late response.
I have been working nightshift only for a year in Europe. And it definitely is a thing (getting tired by feeling useless).
It's a mix and I don't think there is a universal answer to it. Some people do better on the road with auto/fancy tech, some don't. Guess it is a personal thing.
As an OTR truck driver to shift is the only way to operate a OTR truck. as a driver that has been at it for many many years with many safety awards. I would always pick a standard transmission every time. this video shows the amount of speed and the amount of time those are not factors I would even consider. one factor that I might consider is longevity.
I've been driving for over 17 years automatic works for me and cruise control...😍😍😍 At the end of the day it's all about the money you make... That matters to me..
Yes!!!! It's funny on here. So many guys are more concerned about looking good and "being manly" than they are making money :D
@@KenworthofRichfield Amen...if it gets the job done, why not..I am just looking to get pay not looking to make a statement... 👍 🚛
Was an owner / operator in the 1980’s getting paid % of revenue which means the more cargo I carried, the greater the revenue and my pay for the trip.
When you start out, you think a custom extended sleeper, massive fuel capacity, 18 speed and an extended hood is everything. Then you realize how to make more money and that new tractor and trailer is spec’d to be able to carry an extra 5,000 pounds of cargo and that additional revenue just paid all the trip expenses.
I like manuals. My 2017 beat alot of automatics coming back through BC also 600hp 2050 tq
Here in England Manuals are on the way out. Only over 50s have Manual Licences. Young drivers have 'Automatic only licenses.
@@robertcroft8241 if you don't do your test here in a manual now its automatic only
Number one the red truck was skip shifting because of the weight in the bed it can skip shift better than we can number two the torque down low it's that way on all inline 6 cylinder that is why I love all in line 6 cylinder and it's basically lack of a better term a tractor with more tires and more gears you put it in whatever gear you need and you go you don't have to worry about it I love that great video very informative hope you're staying safe and healthy
Thanks for the video