
The shifting mantra for the Fast Small 8-speed transmission: For high-low gear shifting, the shift paddle should be operated while still in gear. For example, when shifting from 4th to 5th gear, while in 4th gear, flip the paddle upward, then press the clutch and shift to neutral. Keep the clutch pressed for a moment, during which the auxiliary box completes the shift. Then, push the gear lever to engage 5th gear in the main box and release the clutch. Fast, short for Shaanxi Fast Auto Drive Group Company Limited, was restructured from the Shaanxi Automobile Gear Factory. It is a large specialized production base mainly manufacturing heavy-duty vehicle transmissions, transfer cases, power take-offs, and various automotive gears and their forged and cast components.

As a veteran truck driver, I use the FAST Gear small 8-speed transmission every day. The mantra is 'depress the clutch, start in low-range first gear, release the clutch and accelerate slowly; when upshifting, depress the clutch, rev the engine, and shift to high-range gears, with sixth and seventh gears for medium speed, and eighth gear for high-speed fuel efficiency.' This mantra simplifies operations, avoiding gear grinding or engine wear, especially when shifting smoothly during mountain climbs. New drivers must practice the rhythm thoroughly—never force upshifts. Matching speed is key, such as staying below 20 mph in first gear and cruising above 60 mph in sixth gear. Remembering this mantra ensures smoother gear changes, protects the chassis for longevity, and saves fuel costs.

From a maintenance perspective, the mnemonic 'Clutch in, Rev up, Shift gear' for the FAST Gear small 8-speed transmission is designed based on mechanical principles to ensure smooth synchronizer engagement and reduce impact damage. The transmission features high and low range gears, and the mnemonic helps drivers operate precisely, avoiding power interruption or overheating caused by incorrect gear selection. Using the mnemonic during routine maintenance checks makes it easy to detect issues like clutch wear, extending transmission lifespan—a practical tip. Remember the gear logic: low range for stable climbing, high range for fuel-efficient high-speed driving, requiring quick and decisive operation.

At the driving school, I teach truck driving with the mantra 'Start gently in first gear with a light throttle, transition smoothly in second gear, climb strong in third gear, and rev up to shift into higher gears.' This mantra simplifies the operation into three steps, making it easier for beginners to avoid stalling, with safety as the top priority—don’t rush. It’s also important to match the gear to road conditions, such as using lower gears for better control in rainy weather. The mantra helps cultivate safe driving habits.

Just started driving a truck, the Fast Gear small 8-speed transmission gave me a headache. The mnemonic 'Step on the clutch, engage the gear, release the clutch, add throttle, upshift, rev, engage the gear' is like a rhyme that helps me remember. After practice, shifting becomes smoother, starting in low range gears is stable, and high range gears provide quick acceleration. More practice strengthens muscle memory. The mnemonic is just the starting point; it's effective only when you're skilled, reducing the tension caused by mistakes.


