Can You Switch Between No-Load, Medium-Load, and Heavy-Load While Driving?
2 Answers
You can switch between no-load, medium-load, and heavy-load while driving by using the fuel economy switch. This allows manual selection based on the loading condition, balancing both power performance and fuel efficiency, avoiding issues like excessive fuel consumption. Below is additional information: 1. Function: The fuel-saving switch must work in conjunction with the electrical control unit. When the electrical control unit receives the signal from the fuel-saving switch, it automatically limits the engine's torque and speed based on other operating conditions, ensuring the engine operates within specified torque and speed ranges. This reduces unnecessary power consumption, thereby achieving the goal of saving vehicle fuel. 2. Fuel Economy Switch: Generally, commercial vehicles with national Tier 3 or above high-pressure electronic injection diesel engines have an engine fuel economy switch in the cabin instrument panel. Some use numbers 0, 1, 2 (e.g., Xichai), while others use labels like no-load, medium-load, and heavy-load. The three gears of the fuel economy switch indicate that the engine operates in its most economical state under three working condition modes. In no-load mode, the engine limits the maximum speed, with power output at about 30% of the rated power; in medium-load mode, it is around 60%.
I've been driving for over a decade, and this is indeed a topic worth discussing. Whether you can switch between empty/medium/heavy load modes while driving depends on your vehicle's configuration. Many vehicles with electronic suspension do allow mode switching, but you must observe speed limitations. When I was driving a pickup truck on mountain roads and switched from empty to heavy load mode, I clearly felt the vehicle body sink and become more stable. However, the manual recommends doing this below 40 km/h. Switching at high speeds may cause the suspension system to react inadequately, leading to severe bumps or even loss of control. Once during heavy rain, I switched modes too abruptly and the rear of the vehicle skidded sideways by half a meter. Additionally, frequent mode switching isn't good for air suspension lifespan, as it can cause premature aging of the rubber air springs. My advice is to avoid switching modes while driving unless absolutely necessary. If you must adjust, make sure the road is straight and your speed is below 30 km/h.
