How to Operate the Gear Shift in a Truck?
2 Answers
Trucks use a dual-range gearbox with a range selector lever. This lever allows switching between high and low range modes, and then the gear shift lever is used to change gears within each mode. Here is some relevant information about trucks: 1. Introduction: Freight vehicles are generally called trucks or lorries, referring to vehicles mainly used for transporting goods. Sometimes they may also refer to vehicles capable of towing. They belong to the commercial vehicle category. Generally, they can be divided into heavy-duty and light-duty types based on weight. Most trucks use diesel engines as their power source, but some light-duty trucks may use gasoline, liquefied petroleum gas, or natural gas. 2. Operating Principle: A truck consists of four main parts: the engine, chassis, body, and electrical system. The operation of a truck mainly involves the engine and chassis, with the chassis including the transmission system, running gear, steering system, and braking system. After starting the engine, it generates power and transmits it to the gearbox. The gears in the gearbox convert high-speed, low-torque power into low-speed, high-torque power, which is then transmitted via the drive shaft to the rear drive axle. The rear drive axle then turns the rear wheels, setting the vehicle in motion.
I've been driving trucks for long-haul trips for over a decade, and gear shifting is truly an art. When starting off, press the clutch all the way down, engage first gear, and slowly release the clutch while gently accelerating once the truck moves before shifting to second gear. When the speed reaches 40 km/h, you can shift up to third. Trucks usually have more gears—mine’s a 12-speed with a range splitter. I use the low range for city driving and switch to the high range on highways for better fuel efficiency. The key is listening to the engine sound: shifting too late strains the engine, while shifting too early causes rough vibrations. I often practice double-clutching for downshifts, especially useful on steep climbs. Never force a gear—grinding noises aren’t just unpleasant, they damage the transmission. Over time, you’ll realize how crucial these details are for the truck’s longevity. Before every trip, I check the clutch pedal travel to ensure it’s normal.
