How to Drive & Shift 8, 9, 10, 13, 15 or 18 Transmissions | THEORY

[@Trump985]

Never understand the point of double clutching? I don’t use the clutch to shift and I don’t know of any drivers that do? I’ve heard it makes the transmission last longer but I’ve never seen any evidence of it? I have put almost 700k on my truck and I’ve never had any transmission problems never done anything but adjust the clutch and change the oil it the transmission? Can you explain the reason why driving schools teach double clutching?

[@smartdrivetest]

Love your username my friend. Yes...yes I can. First, double clutching is more forgiving than floating the gears. And because it's not as precise, students can pick up shifting faster. This allows driving instructors to get all the other information into them that they need to pass their on-road CDL test. Second, if you're slip-seating trucks all the time, it's easier to just double clutch rather than figuring out the nuance of every transmission. But, like you, if you're driving the same truck all the time, it's easier to just float the gears. Happy trucking. All the very best, Cheers Rick

[@Trump985]

@@smartdrivetest Thanks for the response makes sense now, It has had me scratching my head for years!

[@smartdrivetest]

No worries my friend. And drivers can easily figure out how to float the gears if you teach them double-clutching first. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@tomcander3669]

Back in the day, you needed to with most trucks!

[@Dachamp2001]

Must never been a heavy hauler yes you can float pulling that typ of weight but your risking blowing your clutch out. Double clutching is your best friend 😆

[@RickyCoyote]

When I first started driving big trucks in 1999, it took me about 1 month before the principles of what was going on while down shifting actually made sense. It was like a lighting bolt hit me and all of a sudden it made sense as to how my actions were accomplishing what had to take place inside the transmission. It's more fun and less frustrating when you actually understand what your trying to accomplish while down shifting. I immediately started to double clutch and even float the gears in my Honda Civic too...didn't have to with the synchromesh but it still worked. My family and friends wondered what I was doing...I hadn't even paid much attention that was even doing it. 🤔 After 21yrs of trucking, I still learned something in this video; I wasn't aware of the color coded splitters on the 13,15, and 18 speeds. I had noticed them but had never knew that was how to distinguish between them. Thank you for the video! My Dad was a public school teacher for 42yrs...one of his quotes: 'We get good at what we spend our time doing.'

[@lowkey87685]

This is a must watch for every truck driving student or anyone considering a career in trucking every topic is covered in full and clear detail. Thank you for your contribution.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Paul - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@dontkarebear9485]

Excellent explanation. I've had engineers from Eaton offer training to my students and their tutorial was not as good as this. One thing not mentioned in this presentation is the fact that shifting at low rpm as described improves fuel economy dramatically. Best presentation on shift theory I've seen to date.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Mike Sutton - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and awesome compliment. And you are correct my friend; by keeping the revs down it improves fuel economy. I was always on new students when they reved over 1,500 to shift gears. One of my sayings that I'm fond of is: "fuel economy is easy: the highest gear for the lowest rev. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@TristanHarvey-u3m]

This is one of the best vids I’ve found so far ….. driving road trains in aus , loaded we are 210tn ….. we even split bogcog ….. I’ve used this vid many times helping newbies understanding how to get that sorta weight moving, floating gears all the way …. Double clutching ain’t really practical in our situation!

[@freelookmode9837]

I have no idea how this video got recommend to me since I have never driven a big truck in my life.... But I watched the whole thing! Nice job. Fascinating.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Andrew - Thank you for your comment. Now in the event that you get an opportunity to drive a big truck, you'll have the theory in place. LOL If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@souhalandolsi2771]

the best explanation of double clutch , and downshifting in the internet

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi toukebri souha - Thank you for your comment and compliment. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@souhalandolsi2771]

can u explain the best way to use engine braking and retarders ??

[@quassymoto1473]

Yes i got my HR in sequential gearbox because i couldnt get my head around using the throttle to speed up the gears to match when downshifting, this vid really helped me and got me thinking i now could do it now. Also i had 2 days practice in a non sequential and had to go sequential to get my HR license. Great vid and has helped me a lot to figure out the downshifting part, thank you. Im from Australia by the way .

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Quassymoto 1 - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're glad to hear you figured it out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi toukebri souha - apologies for the late response. Have a look at this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnymqppoodOSZ6c All the best, Cheers Rick

[@tylerschulz8844]

I have never driven a big truck and probably never will... but I watched this whole video! Don't know how I got here but watched it. The more you know lol

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Tyler Schulz - LOL. I can't believe you watched the whole video on shifting theory - that's is awesome. And thank you for your comment and compliment. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@residentgood8605]

Same here, I found this video after watching several videos on professional drivers backing trailers into tight spaces. I, too, watched this whole video on shifting theory. It was actually quite interesting and Rick kept my attention. Thanks for a good video, Rick!

[@anonamos225]

Tyler Schulz I've never even been inside a truck and I watched it 😂

[@-hiphopanonymous-7093]

Me too! Ive never driven a semi or anything with a weight over 26,000 lbs with a standard transmission but I find this video very entertaining and informative. It gives me better insight into what a trucker does on a regular basis.

[@ericwashington7375]

Tyler Schulz Hey Tyler, you stop doing hvac?

[@michaelmccaffrey2731]

When I used to heavy haul I drove a 15 speed for years. It is by far my favorite transmission. No floating, every gear is definite. Those deep gears make all the difference.

[@michaelsmith9332]

Man you have it down!!! I drive the haul road in Ak and 60% I still run my 18 Speed like a 13 . What you tell these people about the power band is spot on. Keep up the great work!!!!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Thanks for sharing - so happy to hear we could help out. All the very best, Cheers Rick

[@mobileonegaming]

Rick, your probably the most in depth, how to shift video teacher that I have come across on KZbin! Before watching your video I had NO CLUE at all how to shift a gear and after it watching it was still confusing but I got the gist of it! No I don't even ever plan to drive truck but the video did help with my driving simulator game! Thanks for all the content, working to watch all the video you post! Great Instructor and teacher! All the best your friend - Colin

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Travel and Gaming - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. Glad we could help you improve your performance on your video game my friend. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@drhputra1635]

I got zero experience on big truck transmission, yet the way you explain it made me understand the whole things. You know how to teach well.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Dermawan Saputra - Thank you for your comment and compliment. Keep in mind that that is only the theory part of learning to drive a non-synchromesh transmission; the other part is the practical. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@oscarolave8065]

What a great teacher you are. Congratulations! I remember when i was 13 or 14 years old and i used to drive my father's truck around a parking lot. It was a Fuller -equipped semi tractor and it was great to learn how to make double-clutching. Great memories of the eighties' trucks. Greetings from Spain.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Oscar - apologies for the late response. Yes, learning how to drive a truck is one of those memories that sticks with you through your years. Learning how to drive a truck in the 80s would be different than today with most being automatic, synchromesh or 9 & 10 speeds as they are here in North America. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jodycockerham7556]

I own a 2000 pete 379 I replaced my 18 speed Eaton fuller 18918b at a million five hundred thousand miles I replaced my clutch 2 times I only put my foot on the clutch to stop and take off and I match my gears in trans with engine speed my pete also has a cat 6nz 550 so I lug the hell out of it. I had a detroit 60 series before this truck and if your engine speed isnt over 1500 it will not move so it is a huge change in driving styles. Once you get used to a cat you will never be happy with anything else. I feel bad that the new driver will never know what old school trucking was like. Most of you will never drive a 18 speed with a big cat 550 . I really liked your video. You have a good teaching voice and approach .

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jody Cockerham - Thank you for your comment and great endorsement. I totally agree with you sentiments about a CAT engine. They are incredible engines. And I only advocated 2X clutching for learner drivers; after they get their license, all the power to them to dispense with the clutch. Safe travels my fiend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@brettedward3035]

Thanks Rick, One of the best tutorials that I have seen. All the best from Australia

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Brett Churchyard - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bikerboy3k]

I'm watching this only for American Truck Simulator, but this lesson kept me alert taking notes for 25 minutes. Very good instructor.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Travis Schpeltinger - Thank you for your comment. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@GerOffYeWeeBastard]

I'm pretty sure based on this vid and some others that I've seen, that the gear ratios for ATS are all wrong.

[@gamtax]

@@GerOffYeWeeBastard There's a mod that includes plethora of Eaton-Fuller transmission from 8-speed to 18-speed and wide range final gear ratios. Don't if they are all accurate or not but shifting between low split and high split (not range) seem real to me.

[@zhoongiidaay-ay8529]

My AZ road test is tomorrow, and I am proud of how far I've come with my training considering I had zero experience in a truck or shifting any vehicle. Clutching was something I found difficult and it was messy for awhile. My instructor said I improved with each training shift/class. This video was very informative and a good touch up for my test tomorrow. Thank, Rick. Your videos are awesome!!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Zhoongiidaay- ay - Thank you for your comment. You're going to do awesome owing to your great attitude. Remember to breath; that will cause your body to relax. Good luck on your road test! Be sure to let us know how it goes. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@zhoongiidaay-ay8529]

well, my test yesterday resulted in a fail. I passed my Z endorsement but didn't achieve the AZ. It was a tough pill to swallow and it was minor errors on my exterior inspection portion. I got 2 out of 4 wrong unfortunately. Aside from that, I did great everywhere else, Air brake, couple and uncouple, driving, and aced my 90° backing. I'm not beating myself up too much bc of how well I did overall. So it ended as a half win basically, leaving with GZ license. I've already paid for my retest, just waiting for the date.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Zhoongiidaay- ay - My sincere apologies for the late response. Thank you for your for letting us know. Sorry to hear about your unsuccessful attempt. You've got a great attitude and we're confident that you'll get your license on the next attempt. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick PS - you'll have a different examiner on the next attempt.

[@kevwheeler5464]

For a non-truck driving car/van driver, 13 and 18 speed meant maximum confusion. Listening to this, it makes so much more sense. Thanks for the great video.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi kev wheeler - you are most welcome my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@gamtax]

Not gonna lie, 15-speed IMO is the worst. Would rather drive an 18-speed than 15-speed.

[@razorworks9942]

Hey Rick, It's been a good 30 years since I got behind the wheel and probably a good ten years before that when I was in the military! Good refresher here. Your very well spoken, and you explain things very well. Thought I'd chime in as my "adopted" step son was asking me these questions when he went to his training course, and all is well as he passed his course and driving test with flying colors. He's been at it now for almost a year, and doing well. Now you can do a video on "double sticks"... That's two shifters for those wondering.... Razor! Thanks for sharing!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Razor Works - Thank you for your comment and compliment. I've seen a lot of guys do the double sticks, but it's beyond my ability. Perhaps one day I'll find an old timer with a truck that can give us a demonstration. Happy to hear your step son got his license and is doing well. I'm certain your experience contributed greatly to his success. And we're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ianspeckmaier9565]

Excellent speaking. No filler words, ums, or pauses. Impressive. This is like a university lecture.

[@jimnull4077]

I've been driving over 30 years and just learned a lot of new stuff. If all new drivers had this lecture there would be no need for automatic transmissions. Well done, teaching went from general.to.specific instruction, easy to understand. Nice job.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jim - Thank you for your comment and inspiring words. And yes, if the industry spent some of the money they now spend on maintenance for training, there wouldn't be the move to automatic transmissions - great point. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@desetmedia]

21:45 Downshift into Correct gear depends on the speed of the truck. Slow down to gear down "Into correct gear" as per road speed. What helped me to downshift correctly is to observe the Road speed to determine the correct gear selection ( which in some cases you have to skip gears due to excessive speed reduction) : 7th gear range 40-45mph, 6th gear range:30-40, 5th gear:20-30mph, 4th gear 10-20mph, 3rd Gear:5-10mph

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi DESET MEDIA PRODUCTION - Thank you for your comment and information. As you indicated, sometimes you have to skip gears when you're downshifting. For new drivers, I find that it's easier to watch the tachometer, and the revs have to be allowed to drop to 1,000 or less for it to downshift. Now 5th to 4th, the vehicle has to be travelling less than 20km/hr (15mph) for you to be able to downshift successfully. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@mikemotorbike4283]

@@smartdrivetest we used freightliners at trucking school(hint: TRU-ly in your backyard!), and they were always a bit higher than your numbers. But same principle applies. Applying your shifting points, upshifting lugged below 1000. Generally 1100 got us going. All round, we played mostly 1100 to 1800. "Sweet Spot" at middle tach 1500. 2000 back off! 2300 no-no, and 2800 kaboom, I think? oooops ....lucky no kaboom.....hehe. God bless my instructors.

[@easunda]

@@smartdrivetest Oki

[@magicwand6746]

Teaching ability is inborn ..ability to teach is learned ,this guy is an incredible teacher

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi magic wand - Thank you for your comment and incredible endorsement my friend. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@providencia94]

Bless your heart, Mr. Rick, this video, and especially the bit of getting the speed below 12 mph to downshift from 5 to 4, is a lifesaver. I was able to do it easily on my test on Thursday (which I passed, by the way), while I struggled with it during all my training. Downshifting by ear and feel, like my trainer did, required experience I don't have yet, so it was great to learn the theory behind. Thank you so kindly.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi providencia94 - that is a awesome news. Would you stop over at the Smart Drive Test and register your success with our 100K campaign - www.smartdrivetest.com/contact/donation Thank you for letting us know, and you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. I'm sure you had a huge celebration, and it is well deserved owing to your study, practice, and tenacity. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick 🏎 PS - where in the world did you pass your test and do you have any job prospect lined up yet?

[@providencia94]

@@smartdrivetest , I apologize for the late answer! I went to the page and registered. Left a little something as well, I cannot thank you enough. Passed my test in MT, USA in the worst weather ever - hard in training, easy in battle, right? Starting my new job tomorrow, got a local seasonal job with an agricultural supplies company. After that, I hope I'll have gained enough experience and confidence to go OTR. There's such a shortage in the area that I already have a few potential employers lined up.

[@SURFRAT2]

what does OTR mean

[@paxonbuajoeh4084]

@@SURFRAT2 ....OTR stands for On The Road...an "Acronym for Overland/Long Distance Drives" commonly used in the (US) World of Transportation.

[@nameyourchannel7844]

This video was literally exactly what I needed. I worked for The City of Calgary for 19 yrs driving automatic 7-ton trucks. Recently moved to BC. Have tons of experience doing the job and now looking for work but never driven a non-syncro trans.. I totally get it after seeing this video. Much appreciated!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi NameYourChannel - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Famous_Athlete_Hashimoto]

This video was really helpful for me. I've only been driving trucks for about 4 months and just started a new job in which I drive my uncle's 13-speed Kenworth. Before that I only drove 10-speed, and so I've had difficulty adjusting to the new transmission. The very first time I drove it, I accidentally shifted it from 4th to 6th because I'm used to the ten-speed pattern. Immediately my uncle says "This is not a super ten! Pay attention to where the gears are!" And then, of course, I also shifted a lot without using the splitter because, again, not used to it. With more and more practice I've gotten better, but I still struggle with downshifting a lot. Now that I've watched this, I have a better idea of what to do and I think I'll get the hang of it in no time. Thank you so much for what you do! It's hard to find quality instructional videos about truck driving

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi SilverbulletJT - Thank you for your comment and great story. And you are most welcome. Because I've driven mostly 13 & 18 speed transmissions--like you--I take some time to adjust to a 10 or 15 speed transmission and am always forgetting to go back to the first gear slot. Yes, getting better at driving truck simply takes practice and time. I'm surprised that your Uncle knows what a Super 10 is - they had such a brief appearance in trucking that hardly anyone knows what about a Super 10. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rustyrails3225]

Where was this guy when I was trying to learn to drive the old international. Probably the best teacher I have ever seen

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Rusty Rails - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@starastronomer]

This video should be shown at every truck driving school. Great teacher!!!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi starastronomer - Thank you for your comment. And your spectacular endorsement - greatly appreciated. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rumbletruckin6409]

I didn't know Red from That 70's show was a truck driver...

[@smartdrivetest]

LOL - Hi RumbleTruckin - I would say that I'm better looking than Red!! Thanks mate for your comment! All the best - keep the bugs off your glass, and the bears off your ass! Cheers Rick

[@rumbletruckin6409]

Smart Drive Test thanks for the videos... better looking with a FOOT UP YOUR ASS... lol Cheers...

[@smartdrivetest]

Too funny RumbleTruckin!! Keep the rubber bits down - Cheers Rick

[@blackflagqwerty]

Jedi Dumbass

[@Kroy5312]

Was thinking that the whole time then literally lol'd when your comment was first.

[@rexblokland7778]

Took my first truck driving lesson yesterday ( DAF XF , 12-speed manual) and wished I had seen this great instructional video before-hand! The instructor explained the shifting procedure pretty well.. but... while driving you have to keep track of many variables. In my case it was rain, sunset> darkness, pedestrians, cyclists, rush-hour and of course the dimensions of the truck. It will take a few lessons to translate knowledge of shift handling into 'muscle memory' but I'll get there.. Your video helps a lot, thanks for that :-)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Rex Blokland - congratulations on taking the bold step to pursue a new career my friend. Happy to hear we could help out with the shifting. Yes, there is a lot to keep track of; but it will get easier my friend. You're gong to do awesome. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@craigmiller45]

MR RICK --GREAT PRESENTATION !!U NEVER SAID "UM" ONCE !!! VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND READILY TRANSLATED THAT THEORY INTO PRACTICE !! MY FIRST TRUCK WAS AN F-MODEL MACK W/5 SPEED!!! -IM RETIRED AFTER 40 YEARS AND LIKE MANY OTHERS ONLY USED CLUTCH FOR STARTING AND STOPPING-- U SIR ARE A CREDIT TO "OUR" PROFESSION--

[@vayseazimi7270]

Great instructor... sound explanation very useful and in depth step by step guide to new students... thanks mate... your the rolls Royce of trucking instructors...

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Vayse Azimi - Thank you for your comment and stellar compliment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@jonathangaviao2387]

Thank u very much u r doing a great job keep it up big man godbless

[@frankgonzalez24]

Driving a big rig has changed my style of driving my five speed manual car. I tend to drive in 4th or even 3rd and foot off accelerator instead of 5th while going down hill. I see people's brake lights come on as they go around a curve/turn to slow them down. All the while, I'm in 4th or 3rd and never step on the brakes on those same curves/turns. The only time I step on the brakes is when I approch a vehicle so I don't hit them.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Frank: thanks for you comment. I'm going to make a video on downshifting, but unfortunately, it's going to run opposite to your current thinking. In a big truck, or your personal vehicle the only time you should use the drivetrain to assist in slowing is when you're downhill braking. Not using your brakes to slow the vehicle is ole' school: that thinking came out of earlier generations, because well into the 1960s, brakes on vehicles were unreliable, and it was a must to use the drivetrain to slow the vehicle. That aspect of technology has been corrected - brakes on all vehicles are reliable and seldom fail. And all brakes are divided into two subsystems - if you look inside the master cylinder, you'll see two chambers. One is for the front brakes, and the other is for the rear. So the question becomes: why are drivers using a $15,000 drivetrain to save $400 brakes? On a big truck we teach downshifting so a driver can get into a lower gear when going around a curve or corner. It’s not for slowing the vehicle. Although many driving instructors still persist with thinking that surrounded the old technology. So the same question can be applied to a big truck: why are driver’s using a $40,000 drivetrain to save $2,000 brakes? Thanks, Cheers Rick

[@stedwill6931]

Engine brake?

[@Krieghandt]

Engine brakes came later, and were louder than an AC/DC concert. That's why you see so many cities have them outlawed. Modern engine brakes have come a long way.

[@tanbuddy100]

Did u actually drive down a long hill with a load? If u just used the service brakes you would be on your roof pretty quickly

[@RonaiHenrik]

Frank Gonzalez that's pretty common knowledge (at least in Europe). I've never driven a big truck but use engine braking where possible.

[@cooperbrown1]

Thanks for making this! I'm a long time stick shift driver but new to my class 1 and a 15spd Freightliner. They are very different. Watching this video really helped me understand the mechanics of my truck. Thank you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Chris Brown - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@peterwilliams4795]

When I learned to drive a big truck was in the Australian Army the driving instructor told me in no uncertain terms that the Manufacturer put a clutch in it to be used So USE IT each and every time and I have never forgotten that advice even when driving 18speed transmissions

[@TheFreightlinerman]

As an instructor I thank you for this!!! Gave me some great insight on how to describe shifting to my students. Very well put video, and you are 100% right different instructors will have different techniques. Thanks again!!!

[@omakis965]

First day behind the wheel!!!! Ahhh!!!! Yeah I'm going to Canadian tire and getting me plunger!!! Downshifting was a mega pain for me. And keeping my foot off the clutch when not in use.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Maki Omakis - thanks for your comment. The first 3 days are the most challenging - hang in there. The reason is is because most instructors throw everything at you - turning, shifting, pre-trip, backing, and coupling. But after those first days, it's wash, rinse, repeat. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@darrinkulyk9560]

Just Feather It At First .... Till You Got The Ratio . 1 month you'll only need it on Steep grades ... say if you're slow shifting.

[@robertp.wainman4094]

Such a well explained video, I'd certainly choose you to teach me if I was learning! It's interesting how the US has retained so many manual transmissions in semi-trucks compared to here in Europe where they're pretty much all auto' nowadays. However I completely understand the feeling of being more 'in control' with a manual!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Robert P. Wainman - We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@SethCocker05]

Especially since the transmissions favoured in cars for each country is exactly the opposite of that.

[@caseykoelbl3729]

Wow. Great instructional video! My dad drove trucks and he always made it look easy yet confusing. This really made it much more understandable. Thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi casey koelbl - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@simplefaithforall3174]

Great presentation! I am an electronics engineering instructor and know when another good instructor is present in the classroom and you certainly fit the bill! I was surfing the net for information on electric trucks and that is how I happened upon your presentation. It is interesting that the electric trucks have instant torque and no gearbox as conventional diesel ones do. It seems like it will ease the learning curve for the future and give less stress on the body for current and future drivers! Lastly, I grew up in my grandmother's house in Detroit and where I lived, Central Transport had a hub for their trucks across Six-Mile Rd there. They came and went all day and night and I used to play on the trailers and explored those big diesel tractors most of my life when the terminal was closed. It was something that I enjoyed and I also built small plastic models of many diesel tractors! I always appreciate the trucks now as I ride alongside some of them and remember those great childhood dreams and exploration! God Bless! ;)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi SimpleFaith ForAll - Thank you for your great story my friend. I'm not convinced that electric trucks are going to be the panacea that the media is currently banging on. First, electricity somehow has to be generated. Our current power grid is in no shape to handle that kind of demand. Second, there is absolutely no evidence to suggest that this equipment will stand up to the rigours of transporting freight and services. We are already seeing the cracks in Telsa's operation. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ChristianeFortin]

You rock as an instructor. I’m returning to trucking after a five year brake this refreshed my memory thank you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi C F - you are most welcome my friend. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@naska8701]

Thanks for this videos, i was able to understand better after watching this, my instructor uses slightly different method but the downshift is same with him where you're required to bring down the rpms(tacometer speed) to lower than 1200, clutch in bring gear into neutral and give it gas to put the gear into the next lower gear (example 4-3). The downshift shifting is the hard part for me right now even though i haven't yet mastered the up-shifting, downshifting throws me off sometimes and i loose track of where my gear was and where i want to put it next. Also need to learn the sequence, brakes on a little bit, clutch into neutral and increase rpm to move gear back into next lower gear. Today is the first day taking the tractor-trailer on the road for me, grind the gear many times and stalled as well. I pray it gets better tomorrow. Thanks for the video again as am just hoping i am able to be confident within the next 7 days.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Nasir Olajide - Thank you for your comment. And you will get better my friend. Remember, the first 3 days of truck driving school are the hardest. If you can make it through those days, after that it is wash, rinse, repeat. And downshifting is the hardest for every new driver, so don't fret. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick PS - the "gas pedal" in a big truck is called a throttle. And don't put gas in the diesel tank when filling the fuel tanks - gas doesn't make a diesel go faster. Actually gas is quite hard on a diesel engine!

[@thefilthywon5249]

I learned by being thrown in a log truck when I was 17 never had it explained to me but this would have helped out a lot lol. Still very useful best tutorial I've ever heard

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi THE FILTHY WON - Thank you for your comment. Yes, driver training and online education didn't exist for most drivers a couple of decades ago my friend. Unfortunately many drivers were left to their own devices to figure out how to drive a truck. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@arndliebenberg1924]

Yeah, I learnt on a 15 speed concrete bowl. You had to turn left out of the yard, go 50m uphill, and stop to turn right or left on the main road. Any jerky take-off, and you left a a few wheelbarrows' worth of wet concrete on the side of the road, for someone else to clean up, and for a talking to from the plant manager. And the cheeky questions: "Finding your gears?" (Little grin) "Hmmyeah ..." "Find any new ones?" (Big grin) "But don't worry too much. They can growl at you, but they can't get out of the box and bite you!" (Laughter)

[@josephkim7368]

Great video! Got fascinated by this and I dont even now anything about trucking. It's nice to learn something refreshing!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Joseph Kim - Thank you for your comment. We're excited to know that you were fascinated by the topic. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@zachwalker1287]

Thank you. Drove 10 speed twin screw. Doing silage. Now I got my LP and am doing 13 speeds. Telling me so many thing feeling more confident in the why of the way we do things. Especially the range of the clutch no one told me and I wouldn't of figured it out for years. Learning to match rpms and feel the tickle. Lol you'd love our trucking school. Never been in a truck before. "Doesn't matter" don't know where were going " Road no. 7" follow that guy.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Zach Walker - Thank you for your awesome comment. Yes, many of the older guys learned to drive that way. Not much help and mostly working to figure it out themselves. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@savdude]

Rick I wish I had you as an instructor back in 2002. Very clear and concise. Excellent teacher.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi savdude - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and compliment. That timeframe would have been tough - I was in Australia at the time. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@moofasa6953]

Always LOVED big trucks. Thank you for giving me such insight into the way massive "Wide Load" trucks handle their shifting patterns. Gives me another reason to count the shifting patterns!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi MooFasa - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@truckerchickshk5751]

Great video! You explain it so well and the quality is great. Thanks for taking the time to make it!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi kat - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@73caddydaddy93]

This was extremely helpful and well done. Thank you for this great video, it completely answered all my questions and some I didn't know I had.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi 73caddydaddy93 - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@21wdwrkr]

Don't know why KZbin suggested this, but I enjoyed it. I haven't driven large trucks since the mid 80's but this is the best explanation of how to shift those transmissions that I've ever heard. My immediate response to your question at the end of the video asking what was hardest on me when I started driving brought up my complete confusion when I got into the truck and there were two gear shift levers. I started on a conventional International with a 671Detroit on a five speed transmission and a three speed+reverse auxiliary transmission I got hired on as a driver in the oil field and the guy who hired me drove me to the truck giving me a far less than this explanation on how to shift the truck ie. shift the lever close to you four times, shift the other lever once, then the close lever again four times, then the other and so on Reverse is on the other lever and you can shift through the gears in reverse too, although you probably shouldn't do that. The double clutch explanation was, up or down, let the clutch out in neutral, push it in again and shift. His parting wisdom was, "your pickup is at my house twenty miles away, you'll either figure this out or walk to your truck. I ain't paying you if you walk." I figured it out and worked all day driving but it weren't pretty. I got a lot of tips from other truck drivers and eventually got pretty good at it. I went from this truck to a GMC ten speed, a Mack six speed with a Hi/Low/Reverse auxiliary, then to an International with a 13speed. Driving in the oil field is off road driving and a lot of fun in large trucks but it's a young man's game. I got my contractor's license in 88 and have turned nice wood into sawdust ever since.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi 21wdwrkr - Thank you for your comment. Thank you for your compliment my friend. And I enjoyed your story of learning how to drive a twin stick. Yes, too many men weren't all that helpful when it came to learning how to drive in those early years. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@kd-zb5pz]

Thank you for your teaching. I'm a CDL class A DRIVER and been years since I driven and the school I attended never explained the science of shifting gears like you have. Your helped me understand the importance of shifting. Thank you very much.

[@968hbo]

I noticed you had Phd behind your name. Does that stand for Put Hammer Down?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Glen Akines - Thank you for your comment. On good days that's what it means; on bad days it means Piled Higher & Deeper! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ooo_Kim_Chi_ooo]

His website says his PhD is in Legal History. Impressive! How did you end up driving trucks???

[@onebabyguerilla]

Yes! He puts the hammer down. But when it's time to relax, he puts it in fifth!

[@keetonfagnani8662]

Awesome video. I just finished day 2 of my 40 hour course and so much of this video is filling in the gaps of what my instructor has been telling me. I'm learning as I go, and my instructor said I'm basically ready to pass with flying colors anyway, but I think after watching this video I'll definitely be able to get all my shifting down after an hour or two in the seat tomorrow. I have to add that I'm driving a 10 (or 11 or 12 with reverse?) speed Peterbilt for my test, and the shift pattern is slightly different than what you concentrated on; High range starts with 6th gear, but I can translate everything you demonstrated to my shift pattern. On the other hand, the Mack truck up at my Actual job is an 18 speed H pattern like you showed. I might have to watch this again in the morning, and maybe a couple more times before my test. Really good stuff, thank you for taking the time to put it together! One of my biggest challenges with shifting a big truck non sycromesh is not pushing the clutch in so far, especially since I drive a manual 7.3 at home. Sure I float the gears in my pickup half the time, but the actual shifting technique is a bit different, and its hard to break the habit when the pedals and the shifting lever require the same motion, yet I need to double clutch and not coast among several other nit picky things for the test. on that note I like that you showed the clutch being divided into 4 zones; that gives me a good visual to work with!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Keeton Fagnani - Thank you for your comment. It sounds like you're doing really well for day 2 my friend. With pushing the clutch in too far, have a look at this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/e4O7i4eDfa55eKM If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ebolantigua3201]

Thank you so much for this Rick. I repeat the video, Rick breaks it down. All of a sudden, I get it. Thanks again.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Ebo Matser - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear that we could help with your understanding of how to shift a non-synchromesh transmission. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@ebolantigua3201]

Ty .Will Do!

[@ebolantigua3201]

Starting school soon in EL Paso, Tx ... Been a move of my life from Brooklyn NY.. Want to learn. I feel I will feed my family. TY again

[@mobileonegaming]

Same! I have no clue how to drive truck, but this video did catch my attention and it's confusing to lay the least! Thanks for the information about shifting maybe it will come in handy later down the road!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Ebo Matser - Thank you for your comment. And good luck there in El Paso. Be sure to start looking for work even before you start truck driving school. Have a look at these videos to help out with finding a job as a CDL driver: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g4WYfaCJYrmjj7M&list=PL0x-bChcUvwGCubq7hwj5EPege1hjY0om&index=2 If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@darrelfuhrman8217]

Rick I grew up on a farm in north east Montana. I was shifting grain trucks on country gravel roads before I had my driver license. Most were 4, 5, & 6 speed crash boxes. With electric, vacuum, or manual shift 2 speed rear axles. Like you said, start out double clutching, then when you are more comfortable, try speed shifting. There were some things that you mentioned that I did not know about, or had forgotten. Most of the used semis around here seem to have 10 speeds if a manual. Thank you for the videos. Hello from north east Montana. 10 miles from the Canadian border.

[@yondidier9576]

Congrats, very well done video. I'm not a truck driver but a jazz musician from Italy who also enjoys engines and driving and understood well the concepts. I'll try to shift that way in my car next time I drive to a gig... It's not necessary on my car since it's synchronized but it's still fun, like heel and toe and rev matching

[@norcanexs.g.llc.4625]

Driving and shifting gears now is so simple when l compare it to when l started driving on heavy haul in the late 1970s, we ran trucks with 350 Cummins 6x4 double transmissions, 24 forward gears and 4 in reverse, and yet you had to monitor everything manually. Engine temperature, exhaust temperature, transmission temperatures and differential temperatures all had to be monitored. Air supply main reservoir, emergency reservoir, supply line, application line and steering axel brake limiter all had their own air pressure gauges. Driving those old Kenworth's with the horrible steering they had in those days was a full time job.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Norcanex S.G. LLC. - Thank you for your comment. And you are so right my friend. Technology is a fantastic thing! One time I was given a replacement truck with an ole' mechanical diesel, and that was something of a treat in the cold weather when you're use to electronic fuel injection. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@randysharpe9677]

Some instructors should review this video before teaching. Thanks.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Randy Sharpe - Thank you for your comment and compliment. And you are most welcome. Are you a driver or student working toward your CDL? If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@randysharpe9677]

Student.

[@deepsouthtrucker4203]

The best way ever explained how to shift transmissions

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Deep South Trucker - Thank you for your comment and endorsement. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@angelamcdowell1087]

Smart Drive Test dds

[@dannydirt1778]

wrong

[@robertkaplan1146]

A great explanation. Heavy truck manual transmission operation for non sincro is something to get your head around for everyone in the beginning. It is also a critical operation of a truck under load. This is the best explanation that I have come across on the net. Thank you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Robert Kaplan - Thank you for your comment and exemplary compliment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@saifulepul1495]

@@smartdrivetest I'm in Australian if I want to join the driving school do I need visa

[@Trucker_gh.opk.]

i really love this video illustration. i learnt to drive a truck from a senior colleague in Ghana who has a lot of experience and professional certificates. Ive been a trucker for about 3years driving mostly and have been practicing all of the topics treated in this video which i learnt from my Colleague he did well to explain a lot to me but not as detailed as i learned from this video. Ive really understood and cleared my doubts on a lot of bouts and questions bothering my mind about the topics discussed above. Finally, i can call myself a truck driver😊😊. Thank you.. you've been very resourceful. I am currently in Germany yet to start my career again as a Trucker. I sure will subscribe and ask questions on any challenge i encounter in my trucking career. Thank you once again🚚🚚🚚🚚

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi TRUCKER_GH@OPK - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@WhatnotSoforth]

This is a great primer on shifting, the only thing you need after watching and taking good notes is actual seat-time. The only other thing I could add is that this should also have some animations showing the transmission to demonstrate what happens when shifting, and why you need to rev up when shifting up. I know what happens and I love to double clutch when I drive 5-speeds, but its a skill that doesn't come naturally and its a really important point for new truckers to learn, or anyone who drives a standard transmission. Save your dog teeth and synchronizers, learn double clutching today!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi WhatnotSoforth - Thank you for your comment. As you pointed out, there are lots of times that I double clutch in my passenger vehicle to get a smoother shift and prolong the life of the clutch. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@aussiebloke609]

@WhatnotSoforth It's certainly a useful skill to have - especially if you like to drive older vehicles, or drive in snow and want to smooth out one's downshifts to maintain traction. I learned on my first car (a classic Mini - back when they were common and cheap as chips.) It came with a whole 30 hp from the factory, and like many cheap and abused cars of that period, there was no synchro left on the first 2 gears, and bugger-all left on 3rd - and it came with barely-there drum brakes all 'round - so constantly rowing through the gearbox and double clutching up and down was mandatory. A bit of a baptism by fire, but I just practiced until I didn't have to think about it any more. I still do it every day, and I've never worn out a synchro or baulk ring (or a clutch!)

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi aussiebloke609 - Thank you for your reply. Yes, some of those older vehicles were a bit of a challenge to drive and required a bit more "finesse." All the best my friend, Cheers Rick

[@ipatron_gen]

The best teacher ever👍 perfectly detailed and precise.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi joseph mashinsky - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and compliment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@davejones485]

Been driving truck off and on for 42 years. I had learned how to float gears when I was a teenager and have never double clutched. I’m a seasonal driver now and will be getting back into my truck in April. I’m going to take some of your double clutching technics and give it a try. If not I’ll keep floating ‘em.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Dave Jones - Thank you for your comment. I only advocate 2X clutching for new drivers or those that are moving between trucks all the time. If you're in the same truck my friend, then by all means, float the gears. All the best with getting back in the truck. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@alastairprout6960]

This is the best shifting video I have watched : some of the best tips like 5th gear rules , the 20 Kph rule with down shifting to 4th , revving up a bit more when down shifting down hill .

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Alastair prout - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@TheSayanTurtle]

Great video, in the summer i went with my dad in his semi and he taught me the rpms, low/highgears shifting and clutch and it was easy wen i watch your video i immediately understood everything you said im only 18 but with studying and practicing i could get a cdl easy like my dad

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi TmntBoy2001 - Thank you for your comment. You are going to do awesome my friend. Add the theory to the practice and it makes everything much, much easier. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@donarsenault2327]

Jeez, started out watching videos of the truck in the movie “Dual” with Weaver. Ended up here. Didn’t realize it was that complicated to shift a big rig. I drive a Ram 2500 Cummins with a 6 speed manual and that’s enough work for me. Love it though.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Don Arsenault - Thank you for your comment. If you can drive a BIG Dodge with a 6-speed transmission my friend, you can drive a "BIG TRUCK." It's just a slight variation on jammn' and rammn' my friend! All the best, Cheers Rick

[@plumbingstuffinoregon2471]

Wow! I've learned so much in this half hour! I'm probably gonna be driving an 18 pretty soon, but I'm also learning how to drive a 5&4, which has been a lot of fun.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi the GOOPER - Thank you for your comment. And happy to hear you found the information valuable. Not too many 5 & 4s left in the world - that must be interesting!?! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@plumbingstuffinoregon2471]

Smart Drive Test Thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

You are most welcome my friend! Cheers Rick

[@A-Z__124]

I have to say, the 18 speed is easy to get used to.

[@paco5272]

excellent video...been driving 18wheelers for almost 10 years....and there is always something new to learn...lots of important information in this video..keep it up..👌

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Paco ! - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@randysmith7292]

absolutely perfect.. highly recommend this.. bit of a hick-up about 10 speeds but they are so rare these days it's a silly quibble.. this guy knows what he's talking about

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Randy Smith - Thank you for your comment and great endorsement. 10-speeds are rare here in Canada, but in the larger fleets in the US, these are commonplace. Where are you located in the world? Interesting fact: I was working up at the Kenworth dealership here in town yesterday, and the salesperson was saying that the proverbial "they" are not making the 15-speed transmissions anymore. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@darrinkulyk9560]

I drove a 10 speed lol lol about 15 yrs ago ...... was Like A BAD DATE LOL LOL

[@robparker8342]

That was great I enjoyed the whole thing, I have a 15spd reverse overdrive which is a little different to what you were saying but still a good box, scary part is changing down the teeth are fairly shiny!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Rob Parker - Apologies for the late response. Is that the ole' transmission with 3rd and 4th reversed? All the best my friend, Cheers Rick

[@rp1645]

Thank you for this Demo. Very good stuff on shifting, especially the clutch. My 71 SeaGrave ( Restorer project) is a straight 5 speed. There is a nice RED pointer on Tac. For shift area. I like what you say about one down shift. I thought I had to down shift more. But the Engine basically stops itself, by just one down shift. I do double clutch, if I don't, it is hard to get in gear. Like you said. I play with it out on Road. And it shift's so much smoother when I double clutch. Sometimes I'm lucky and it will shift without clutch, just seems like in 4 th. To 5th Thank you again for explaining this shifting.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi R P - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@rp1645]

@@smartdrivetest Just put out more Educational videos. I have been driving Dumps( 12 yard) for over 20 years. But alas, they have all been auto. Very little driving manuals till I got my SeaGrave. It like learning all over again. I can feel the wht. Turning proper all that. It's the shifting you can always learn more about. Thank you from my Heart for putting the learning videos out. My Friend.

[@smartdrivetest]

You’re most welcome my friend. Always happy to help. Drop us a note if you have further questions. All the very best, Cheers Rick

[@ladonnad.steele2470]

never ever was I taught any of this, had figure it out...sad really. Wish someone had done this to let me know!

[@Krieghandt]

I know right? I learned to drive a grain truck: Here's first, here's reverse. When you need to go faster, pull this knob up and clutch. Push the knob down before shifting . See you in 40 minutes.

[@ladonnad.steele2470]

Krieghandt I went through trucking school and wasn't taught!

[@kevinfetterolf9992]

Ladonna Steele

[@rcfreaks6281]

Ladonna Steele me too.

[@homefront3162]

LADONNA S. Yeah, me too Bro..... I thought it was fun

[@matthewshambler2644]

Excellent video, no fancy graphics and animations- just old fashioned explanation with a whiteboard! Great job!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Matthew Shambler - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@kentbullard6917]

I was, for a short time, a otr driver in automatics. I had previously trained in manuals and could get by but didn't get enough road time to be proficient. I have watched your video two or three times and each time get a better understanding. I would like to get in the seat of a manual now and see if I could put the knowledge to good use. Thanks for your very understandable explanation on the subject.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Kent Bullard - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@zachslusarcyk3907]

Can we get this guy a cup of water? lol

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Zach - yes a glass of water would be nice!! Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@zachslusarcyk3907]

All cheekiness aside, as a young aspiring truck driver, I did find your video quite informative. So thank you! I think we need more information like this on youtube.

[@andrewroberts553]

@@smartdrivetest if your still alive and COVID hasn’t got! Thanks for the presentation 🚚🚛

[@smartdrivetest]

You are most welcome my friend. Still alive. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bobmorris9687]

I've been driving for thirty years and have never used the clutch for anything other than taking off and stopping?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bob Morris - Thank you for your comment. And I only advocated double clutching for learning drivers. I find that they are able to learn to shift faster because the transmission is more forgiving. And if you've been driving for 30 years, I might suggest a break - you must be exhausted! 🤓 All the best my friend, Cheers Rick

[@joegraves7739]

Same here Bob 36 years only thing a clutch is good for is stopping and starting

[@geraldmank347]

I've been driving 8 months, haven't double clutched since my state test where it was required. But a learned how to float in a stick shift car. Driving school was miserable being told I had to use the clutch.

[@mikequaid]

I’m working on my CDL now. I had one in the early 80’s but never got the chance to drive professionally because of my driving record. I’m grown up now and am changing careers. That said, I learned in a 13 speed and was taught not to use the clutch except to start and stop. I also rode dirt bikes in the desert which can leave you with your hand full at times. Never used the clutch on any motorcycle after that unless I’m stopping or riding slow in terrain and feathering.

[@patty1542]

Yeah I'm being taught right now not to use the clutch

[@qbertguy]

I was always told the most common transmission was a 10-speed. Although I would imagine nowadays the most common transmission is the automated one, whether it's the i shift the Eaton or the dt12

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi doinken - for running on the flat with the bigger companies in North America my friend, that would be correct information. Operating in the mountains though, 18-speed transmission are going to be a much better option. And you're correct - automatic transmissions are becoming more and more common. Drop us a note if we can help further my friend. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@qbertguy]

@@smartdrivetest thank you. I've been driving for almost a decade now but I like to come back and watch videos like this once in awhile. My company just bought two brand new 2022 Cascadias, and thankfully my boss had them equipped with 18 speeds despite Freightliner pushing her really hard towards the dt12. My old truck was a 10-speed and while I don't really do a lot of mountains I run up and down 75 through Tennessee and Kentucky weekly and a 10-speed just doesn't cut it for me. 9th gear is too low and 8th gear is too high.

[@lory2622]

I grew up with standard and have tried and tried to explain double clutching in a performance application and people just can’t seems to get it. Rev matching down and prepowering on the way up is so helpful. This video was a great experience because I had never heard of the pedal clutch braking. I would have screwed it up thinking I know what I am doing. Clutch braking is a new concept. Very cool, and thank you.

[@SuperNoncents]

I'm a rat rod guy....this knowledge is fantastic. Keep on wrenching and driving straight!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Nick - Thank you for your comment and inspiring words. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@arthouston7361]

Good explanation. I would show kids how to shift, and talk them thought it, and then ask questions to gauge their retention. I probably should have used a white board.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Art Houston - Thank you for your comment. Yes, having a visual helps to emphasis your words. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@6771Randy]

I learned to shift clutch less. Hated using the clutch except to start and stop.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi 6771Randy - Thank you for your comment. And I only advocate using the clutch for new drivers. In my professional experience, I've found that new drivers are able to learn faster by learning how to 2X clutch. After they get their license then they can dispense with the clutch. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@stickykingpin4517]

Best shifting theory video out there

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Sticky Kingpin - Thank you for your comment and compliment. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@FiddlesMcGee1]

This is one of the best explanations of how to shift a big truck transmission that I have every heard. Rick August is great!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi FiddlesMcGee1 - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and awesome compliment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@FiddlesMcGee1]

One week is not a late reply. Heck, one month is ok too. Was looking for you on facebook but do not see you. Will be doing my gear jammer tshirts again... soon - wanted to send one to you. WIll keep looking to directly connect to you. Best, Giovanni Branzino.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi FiddlesMcGee1 - Thank you for your comment. And a "T" shirt would be awesome my friend. You can email: [e-mail], or find me here on FB: facebook.com/smartdrivetest/ All the best, Cheers Rick

[@mattwaldman1086]

Rick, thank you for this great explanation, I took a job a week ago, as a fueler Oiler for a heavy equipment company, nowhere in the ad did it say it was a CDL position, I’ve never held a CDL license, or driven a rig. But they hired me anyways. Soooo in a week, I’ve had to learn the vast range of the job, study and obtain a CDL permit and observe my trainer drive the 13 speed, on Tuesday after I test for my hazmat endorsement and cargo endorsement, I hop in the seat... thank you for this great tutorial, it has explained a lot. I’ve been riding with the guy I’m replacing, and was pretty shocked that he doesn’t use the clutch very much. I drive a manual Subaru, I’ve driven manual trans in all of my vehicles since I started driving a car. But it is a whole different animal and pretty intimidating to learn all of these aspects of becoming a truck driver.. all in one week. I can do it, but this is a great way to learn what’s really going on in these rigs. Thanks again, I’ll check out the rest of your videos, I’m sure I’ll learn a lot from you.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Matt Waldman - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. Yes, a week is a short time to learn how to drive a rig my friend. And yes, if you're driving the same truck, you can do it without the clutch. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bimaljitnarwal5125]

Sir , you are realy great personality and teach very well . thanks

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bimaljit Narwal - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@DavidMcbrady]

EXCELLENT AND THOROUGH SHIFTING VIDEO. Thank you!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi David - Thank you for your comment. And you are most welcome. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@atrocious_pr0xy]

His face is teaching me how to shift, while his hands are trying to tell about "all the CRAZY deals we have for ya at the dealership!!"

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi atrocious _ pr0xy - As one smart driver said, if I lost my hands in a terrible industrial accident, I probably wouldn't be able to talk. ;0) All the best, Cheers Rick

[@atrocious_pr0xy]

@@smartdrivetest thanks for the video, though. Was just funning. You are an excellent instructor.

[@billarroo1]

Even though I know how to drive a twinn stick, I could never explain it this well. It took me about 6 month, But I finally got the knack. 1966 Pete 359, 5&4, Tow Truck, my hard part to learn was coming up to a street, when the light turns green, now I have to go down maybe 4 or 5 gears, once I finally could find the correct gear i got it, Easy after that, GREAT VIDEO, Thanks William Orange county, Ca

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi William Ambrogio - Thank you for your compliment. Yes, there's a reason that the ole' twin sticks have gone the way of the do-do bird. Tough to learn how to drive. And drivers today think it's hard to learn how to drive a manual truck!! They don't know the half of it. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@autotomk]

Had my first test drive, peterbuilt 18 speed. I had most of the theory, and thought I'm going to impress the instructor. Nope, you are so right only time in the seat will teach how to shift. Thumbs 👍 on this video, way better understanding for down shifting, now I'm going to impress instructor 😆

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi autotomk - And you are most welcome. We're happy to hear we could help out. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@randybobandyscheeseburgerp4387]

I’m 16 and learning on a 4-speed in a Bombardier Iltis. Ooh-rah!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Jack Watt - Thank you for your comment. Never too soon t get started my friend! If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@aussiesmoko]

Well stay at school mate and become a doctor or lawyer or pilot .... or engineering

[@chrismardare8368]

What the fuck?!? That's insane! Don't ever cut off a big truck! They have so much work to do to slow down!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Chris Mardare - Thank you for your comment. And this is a family channel - LOL. Actually, stopping isn't the hard part - getting it going is the hard part. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@chrismardare8368]

Smart Drive Test kzbin.info/www/bejne/n57Lc6J7apuCe9U but in all seriousness this is a great video and really gives you a good idea of what truck drivers go through.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Chris - LMAO - that is a great video clip. Thank you again for your inspiring words. I'm going to make more videos for new drivers to learn to drive truck - show the practical aspect. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Rhoedision]

Is changing gears with out clutch good idea..

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Truck Driver - Thank you for your comment and query. If you can shift without the clutch and not shock the drive train, then you're good to go my friend. I only advocate the clutch for new drivers and those moving between trucks a lot. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@laughton57]

When I was a kid I worked for a road construction company - it had a 5x4. It took some learning to get it to shift cleanly. You had to moderate the speed yourself - no air assist. But it wasn't so bad after you used it for a while. Our lowboy tractor had a 13spd RR trans - nice.

[@kimhongyay7848]

great explanation, this video should be played in truck driving schools in Australia.

[@proudcanadian1905]

Starting my class 1 in about 2 weeks, right off the bat they teach you to float gears, no clutch, can you make a vid on floating gears in an 18 speed?

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Proud Canadian: thanks for your comment. I passionately disagree with teaching a new driver to shift without the clutch. I would even go so far to suggest that you look for another school that does teach you how to use the clutch. Not teaching a new driver how to double clutch and shift is like a brain surgeon not going to medical school and learning the fundamentals of medicine before specializing in neurosurgery. Saying that however, all the principals for shifting without the clutch are somewhat the same - it's just that you have to be more exact. And for students and new drivers this is a difficult and challenging task. The transmission is somewhat more forgiving when you use the clutch. I'll put together a video for you. If you have any further questions, drop us a note. Thanks Cheers Rick

[@goofwarrior]

Smart Drive Test I have to disagree with you when I was being taught how to drive I was taught how to float gears and floated gears on my personal car, I don't believe that floating gears alone will tear the transmission. Even if you use the clutch the transmission is eventually breakdown. As long you don't grind the gears then it shouldn't matter what method of shifting you use as long as it is done right. I know in each state the driving test for your class a is different but here in Texas you are allowed to float if you want. I also don't think that calling out a driving school for teaching students how float is very fair. But since I was taught how to float I guess that means that I am an idiot.

[@EireAnPoblacht]

Smart Drive Test Great Video, first of all....I couldnt agree more regarding dbl clutching versus floating in regards to shifting. You do eventually get enough of a feel through repetition and experience that floating gears becomes very routine and you know where and when to shift. Of course, once you get this feel, you'll find that double clutching becomes a breeze as well, as youve learned when and where your shift points are. I think the main point is that there is a technique to properly double clutching/shifting a non synchro transmission, and there is honestly no substitute for practice. I imagine those schools taught you that way because they were more concerned with getting you graduated and out on the road than they were with the long term health of the transmission youd end up shifting.... Anyways, great video....

[@EireAnPoblacht]

And....to be clearer....99% of the time, once you have a steady truck, the clutch is for stopping, starting, and backing up or docking....Floating will become second nature, once you have a feel for it.... That said, there are specific instances where you might need, or at least wish to double clutch for convenience' sake. For example, im thinking of the times where you are descending a grade in a lower gear, and need to shift up to carry your speed into a flat section that leads to another up grade.... Lol....its funny trying to explain these things in words when they end up becoming second nature, but....this is why i respect the work put in on these videos....

[@davidsteckley8846]

I learned how to DBL clutch for the first day. after that floating came natural to me. I've been driving class A for 18 years , DBL clutching is almost forgotten.

[@karolgadki3126]

When I was in army I had 2 trucks assigned to be driven and maintained only by me, one made in 2005 and other in 1968. Both of them had synchronized transmission which is easier to shift and no need for reving engine, double clutching, matching rpms etc . In 2019 North America still uses non-synchro transmissions on trucks makes me think one thing: your trucking "technology" is far behind and you still live in 60's. Great explanation anyway

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Karol Gładki - Thank you for your comment. And you may be correct my friend. However, these non-synchromesh transmissions are more robust and cost less to maintain than non-synchromesh or automatic transmission. I suspect that it has more to do with costs. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@edlvsgng]

@@smartdrivetest I agree 100%.

[@salvadordollyparton666]

I've driven 2 trucks, so I'm an expert... any army truck is gonna have to have the easiest, and probably most expensive transmission there is. Because people are stupid, and grow up in bubbles for the most part, so don't know how to do shit. And guess what? Our army trucks, ALL of them, are automatic, and have been for decades. Who's stuck in the 60s now? That said, GM and the manufacturer formerly known as Chrysler pretty much are with their ancient pushrod v8's and all. But Dodge or whatever they call themselves are Italian now anyway, so who cares? It's easier to use one foot and match revs, than having to use the clutch every 3 seconds... if you're not an idiot.

[@arndliebenberg1924]

I drove international longhaul across Europe in the early 90s. Mercedes had syncronised ZF 16 speed Ecosplits, and MAN was always running constant mesh 13 speed RoadRangers, which I found much easier to shift smoothly AND quickly, giving you much better control. I'm just glad that I never had to take a ZF Electronic Power Shift into Spain, which is very mountainous, or across the Alps. It has a joy stick gear lever that allows you to drop or raise one or two gears maximum, which is MOSTLY fine. But sometimes you want to drop three years at once - but the computer won't allow it ...

[@Nickearl1]

Wish this was around when I was training! Thanks for taking the time! I float but I keep a truck for 3-4 years.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Nicholas Earl - Thank you for your comment and compliment. Floating the gears is perfectly acceptable after a driver gets his/her license, and if you're driving the same truck all the time. I find it easier for new drivers preparing for a road test to use the clutch. I find the transmission is more forgiving. Also, use the clutch if you're moving between trucks all the time. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@b1gr3dm4n66699966699]

Been driving trucks lil over 10 years myself and actually learned couple of things. Great video mate.

[@smartdrivetest]

b1gr3dm4n - thanks for the great comment my friend! Keep the rubber side down. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@bryansullo9798]

Not sure how this ended up in my suggested videos, but I now have a newfound respect for anyone who drives a truck. Never knew there was this much to it, or this much variation!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Bryan Sullo - Thank you for your comment. We're happy to hear that the information proved useful and illuminating. If you ever get an opportunity to drive or ride in a big truck - have a go. It's great fun. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick