OPERATOR'S MANUAL

OPERATING THE TRANSMISSION STARTING AND OPERATING THE VEHICLE
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Medium Duty (R05/09)
5. Release the clutch pedal, then gradually accelerate to
permit smooth starting,
6. Do not allow your vehicle to roll (even a little) in the
opposite direction during clutch engagement. If you
need to start up on an incline, apply your service
brakes before you release the parking brake. Then
release your service brakes as you engage the clutch
and apply throttle.
For further instructions on operating your transmission, see
the transmission manufacturer's manual that is included with
your vehicle.
If you have a misaligned gear condition in your vehicle's
transmission and cannot start, gradually release the
clutch, allowing the drive gear teeth to line up properly.
Then the drive gear can roll enough to allow the teeth to
line up properly and complete the shift.
The best engine performance and maximum economy is
obtained if gears are properly selected. This efficiency is
achieved by always selecting gears within optimum
engine rpm, which is where maximum torque and power
are obtained. For further information, see “More Driving
Tips and Techniques” on page 130.
Shifting Gears in a New Vehicle
Shift carefully in a new vehicle. The transmission may be
a little stiff at first. Avoid gear clashing by closely following
these procedures.
When you are operating a new vehicle or one that has
been exposed to cold weather, you want the transmission
lubricant (fluid) to circulate and coat the contacting sur-
faces of the gears. Metal contacting metal in moving parts
may seriously damage your transmission—do not drive in
one gear for long periods of time until the transmission
lubricant has a chance to coat all contacting surfaces.
Carefully observe the free travel in the clutch for the first
few hundred miles. As the clutch lining wears and high
spots get worn smooth, you will get less free travel.
Clutch Brake and Travel (9–, 10–, and 11–Speed
Transmissions only)
These transmissions utilize a clutch brake, rather than
synchronizers. The clutch brake works by stopping all of
the gears in the transmission, allowing you to easily shift
into first gear or reverse without grinding gears. The total