What is the correct gear sequence for a cab-over-engine truck?
2 Answers
The correct gear sequence for a cab-over-engine truck includes 5 forward gears and 1 reverse gear. Step-by-step shifting procedure for forward gears in a cab-over-engine truck: Neutral to 1st gear: Push left then forward to engage; 1st to 2nd gear: Hold the gear lever and pull it diagonally down to the left; 2nd to 3rd gear: Return to neutral then push straight upward; 3rd to 4th gear: Return to neutral then push straight downward; 4th to 5th gear: Push straight right then upward. Reverse gear engagement procedure for a cab-over-engine truck: Push straight right then pull downward to engage; From neutral position, push down, then left, then forward; Lift the button beneath the gear knob with middle and ring fingers, then push left and forward; Press down the gear knob, then push left-forward or right-backward to engage.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience operating flat-front trucks, I believe the core of proper gear operation lies in dynamic adjustment based on road conditions. When starting off, you should use 1st or 2nd gear—the low speed and high torque make stalling less likely, especially when hauling heavy loads where you need to patiently engage the clutch and apply throttle. Never get greedy with high gears when climbing hills; shifting to a lower gear and raising the RPM ensures stability. Otherwise, the engine struggles and burns more fuel—I remember once hauling cement up a mountain in 4th gear, and the truck shook so violently I had to reverse and start over. On descents, use lower gears or intermittent braking to avoid losing control at high speeds—safety comes first. For everyday city driving, avoid frequent gear changes; just maintain steady speed and RPM. On highways, smoothly engage 5th or 6th gear. The key is to attune yourself to the engine sound and vehicle speed—with practice, it becomes as natural as breathing. Also, regularly check the transmission to prevent minor issues.
