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

Learn how to shift a 9, 10, 13, 15 or 18-speed transmission here! Watch the video. AIR BRAKE CHECKLIST: www.smartdrivetest.com/cdl-ai... SUBSCRIBE TODAY! ► / smartdrivetest See TOPICS below!!
#truckdriving #smartdrivetest #shifting
Driving a non-synchromesh transmission is the coordination of the clutch, the throttle, and the shifter.
In order to shift a non-synchromesh transmission, or some times referred to as a "crash box", the driver must line up 3 things:
1) the road speed
2) the engine speed
3) the gear
If these 3 things do NOT line up, the transmission simply will not shift.
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0:00 Introduction
1:34 Shifting Patterns
3:10 Range Selector
4:40 Splitter
5:03 13-Speed Transmissions
6:27 18-Speed Transmissions
7:12 15-Speed Transmissions
8:44 Synchronizing the Transmission
10:12 5th Gear - The Happy Gear
11:44 Progressive Shifting
14:26 The Clutch
16:41 Double Clutching
18:04 Correct Seat Adjustment
18:48 Downshifting
22:44 Uphill | Downhill Shifting
24:14 Not a Spectator Sport
25:04 Conclusion
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Most transmissions in tractor-trailers in this day-and-age are either a 13- or 18-speed transmission. And all transmissions are essentially a 5-speed "H” pattern.
And progressive shifting was designed to maximized fuel economy on large electronic diesel engines. Progressive shifting indicates that you should bring the revs up approximately 50 rpms and then shift to the next gear. However, when pulling heavy, or shifting uphill, the driver will have to bring the revs up higher to compensate for a drop in road speed.
Finally, the clutch on a non-synchromesh transmission looks like any other clutch, but must be used in a completely different manner than a manual transmission on a car or light truck. There are 4 points along the clutch's travel path:
1) freeplay
2) friction point
3) dead space
4) clutch brake
The clutch brake on a big truck is only used to get the vehicle into a starting gear, whether that is first, reverse or whatever gear the driver start the vehicle in. And to coordinate the speed of the transmission with the the road speed, the driver has to double clutch. Simplistically speaking the driver clutches once to bring the gear selector into neutral and then again to put the transmission in gear.
One of the gears that we like the best is fifth gear. If you lose a gear and you're trying to recover and find a gear - eighty-five percent of the time the transmission--a 13- or 18-speed transmission--will go into fifth gear. So fifth gear - up here with the range selector up, back to the first slot - fifth gear is your go-to gear. 85% percent of the time the truck will go back into fifth gear and you can carry on. Sometimes it may not be pretty, but you can get it back into fifth gear and go.
In conclusion, shifting theory. All transmissions are basic 5-speed patterns. What allows a 5-speed transmission to become a 10-speed transmission is the range selector. Down for low, up for high. The only time you use the range selector is between fourth and fifth. You're going from 4th to 5th, pull it up, and shift to fifth.
If you're going from fifth to fourth, push it down before you come out of fifth and it'll shift as you go through neutral. And you'll hear it after you get a bit of practice with it, you'll be able to hear the transmission click from high range too low range as you're moving through neutral.
The splitter gives you 13- or 18-speeds. If you get in a 15-speed it's going to be a blue button. So it's red, blue, or grey. Red is 13-speed, blue is 15, grey is 18-speed. The clutch is very different than most clutches that you're going to find on a car or light truck. Top of it's the freeplay, the friction point, the dead space and then the clutch brake.
And the engine speed is a misnomer - it's not actually the engine speed that were worried about when we're shifting the truck. It's the transmission speed, but we don't have any way to measure the speed of the transmission gears in a non-synchromesh transmission. So we use the engine's tachometer.
The clutch pedal has to be out, especially when you're down shifting and throttling up. Make sure the clutch is out when you're throttling up. As soon as you finish shifting the gear, get your foot off that clutch.
The last piece for non-synchromesh transmission: when you're down shifting, slow down to gear down.
Good luck on your road test!
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[@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.'

[@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?

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@user-bb1uh1rt3s]

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!

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@DrJohn493]

I grew up driving hay trucks and grain trucks. Flying an airplane for 40+ years was never this complicated.

[@smartdrivetest]

Flying an airplane for 40+ years...you must be really, really tired!! All the very 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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@Not_Lewis]

As a car guy and a gear head in general, I'd probably never drive one of these trucks but they're fascinating pieces of engineering

[@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.

[@ericsunda5848]

@@smartdrivetest Oki

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@wes11bravo]

Here I was thinking I was a superstar because I knew how to double clutch driving my '64 Land Rover! This is a skill!! Anyone who undertakes a career as a truck driver has my respect.

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@remylebeau9344]

100% respected you must drive first to really put all this together but in the sense of preparing for you very first class, before even the road test, this is solid advice. Thank you :)

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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)

[@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--

[@b374mxg]

I’ve replaced many broken clutch brakes back in the day! Small tangs where it is “keyed” to the input shaft of the transmission. Brings back a lot of memories.

[@smartdrivetest]

Good ones I hope 🤞 Cheers Rick

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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!

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@jsr_ffd2]

I should have sought this subject earlier. Thank you truck instructor. You're so good, I would want to have *you* as my IRL truck driving instructor. I'm currently running a lot of simulation hours in different trucks, and this video gives me a lot of background knowledge of what I;m doing. THank you

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Mike {Testing} de Graven - 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

[@georgerisha6555]

I think you were the best instructor so far you explained the mechanics so it was easier to understand why and how to double and rpms

[@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

[@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.

[@bh7538]

Good refresher video, thank you automatic hahaha. Floating gears makes things a bit easier. A+ video mate. Down shifting was the hardest part to learn, hit and miss with those rpms when your thinking about everything else going on, but you get used to it and start to listen for it.

[@christianmadrigal8054]

Youre a great teacher and explained everything really well! And got into detail within every aspect of shifting. Wish I learned this when I was younger!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Christian Madrigal - Thank you for your comment & compliment. And you are most welcome. And it's never too late to learn my friend; I teach this stuff everyday, and I still learn from many of the smart drivers that leave comments on the channel everyday. 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

[@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.

[@marquismainville6924]

About to start my incab and so happy this video was referred to me as I feel much more confident seeing I received the knowlege verbally of how shifting works....thank you

[@smartdrivetest]

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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@nicholasmurano9539]

Great tutorial.. the explanation of gradual stepping up rpm difference as you shift to a higher gear in low range vs high range was perfect as well as the downshift methods regarding adjustment of rpm using braking..with different terrains... I am a self learning rookie ..with a new 550 Cat and a 13 speed in a Kenworth Glider dump... I can't give higher regards for this tutorial, as it helped me improve immediately ! ..and get me ready sooner to start carrying payload..It covers all the gray areas... especially the clutch stages , and the consequences of getting into the clutch brake area affecting smooth shifting... Nice job Sir!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Nicholas MURANO - 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. Enjoy your new career and we're happy that we can help you advance your skills. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@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

[@kartamap]

Thank you Rick, great video.

[@smartdrivetest]

You are most welcome kartamap - if there's anything else we can help you with, drop us a note. Thanks 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

[@luckedout9044]

Never knew that why we down shift, we just say to match the revs, but you really explained it perfectly and I really get it now!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi VeryRare AllStar - 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

[@kfelix2934]

This is a good video. I found this for a cousin who ask me to find a shifting. The lo/bull is line up in this fashion for if you ned to go forward/back/foward. On syncro-mesh vsr un-syncronized, I always go back to when I torn down a borg-warner T5 30+ years ago, and if you play with the syncronizer when the top-cover is off, you can fully understand what and why it's called a syncromesh transmission.

[@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

[@enumahchukwuweikesteve3222]

Wow I love every bit of this lecture process I could see me driving already right on my seat the challenging part made clear the lower the number the higher the engine transmission to get a lower transmission speed I move the gear from 5-6-7-8 in progression. Thanks a lot

[@smartdrivetest]

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

[@garypollard9770]

Best explanation of shifting these transmissions I have seen! Very good job. Now the 5, 6, 7 and 8 speeds. Then we can go thru the various 2 stickers!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Gary Pollard - Apologies for the late response. Thank you for your comment and endorsement. All the best, 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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@RODALCO2007]

Excellent explanation.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi RODALCO2007 - 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

[@bookoobeans]

Respect to all the truckers who do this with finesse every single day ... WHILE keeping safety and professional behavior top priorities. Other drivers on the road have no idea... that's just the way it is but this video helps.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi bookoobeans - Thank you for your comment and respect to those that drive professionally. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@Diragonoman]

Toretto once told me I was granny shifting and not double clutching like I should. Thanks to this video I now know how to double clutch and will have no problems racing my car

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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!!!

[@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

[@NathanCAY1010]

this may help me, drove my boss peterbilt 379 with 13 speed and i got the gears in, downshifting is my problem even this week i was driving a c15 with 18 speed and it was kind of difficult getting in the gears (since it been like a year and 3 months since i got to drive a truck) revv matching is so crucial for driving a truck!

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi NathanCAY1010 - Thank you for your comment. I'm sure that information will help. A bit of theory always helps one to do the practical side of it a little bit more. If there's anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@ElectricEnfield]

Im from Germany. At work im driving a Mercedes Benz Unimog for Pulling Rail Cars and Snowplowing with a Sychronized 8/16 double H Side by Side Speed and a Slipper Clutch (Doesnt know how its called in English) like an Automatic Transmission. To put in or change Gears you have to Push the Clutch all the Way down like a normal Standard Transmission in a Car or Pickup. To Start Rolling or stopping, you can do it without Clutch Pedal. Good for pulling heavy Loads like 600 or more tons. Example: Engine is runing, Neutral. Push Clutch Pedal down to put in 1st Gear, slightly release Clutch. If you are complety of, u can acelerate. If you want to stop you only need to brake, till youve stopped. Get of the Brake you start rolling like an Automatic. Shift Plattern is like a double H side by side. The left H are the low Gears and the right H are the high. Between High and low is a Blockage. Example: You are in the Middle in Neutral. First Gear is in the left H Plattern at top left, 2nd bottom left, 3rd top right, 4th bottom right. To switch to go to high Range u go back to middle push the stick to the right, into the right high H Plattern. You can hear a Air switch in the Garbox under the Cab like these two speed Axels. And the another H Plattern like 5th top left, 6th bottom left, 7th top right, 8th bottom right. To Switch between High and Low you have to put in the 3/4 or 5/6 Gear, you cant get from 1/2 into high Range or from 7/8th Gear into low Range. But Where is the Reverse? Simple an Stupid- You have a Second Stick for moving Direction. So you have 8 Forward and 8 Reverse Gears. Its running Reverse as fast as Forward. Thats good for pushing/ pulling Railcars but also Plowing, so you can backing up very quick. If you are Bobtail/unloaded you dont need to start in first. You can also start in 4th, cause the 1st is like low Gear on an 13/18 Speed, starting at a speed of 0.3 mph. Some other Specs (but metric): Build Date 1984, Straight 6, Engine Displacement 6 Liters, 92kW Turbo Charged, Max Speed ~50 Mph but both directions ;-) (Max Road legal Speed for Trucks more than 3,5 tons max Gross), 4 WD All Differential lockable, Disc Air Brakes, 3x Hydraulic PTO, Fuel Consumption 2 Liters for 1 km (Low Range, Pulling hard) to 20 Liters for 100 km at max Speed. I hope thats Interesting for someone in other Countries where the Unimog is not an Usual, every Day seen Tractor.

[@good_king_guitarman1334]

This is an excellent presentation Rick, you are a fabulous educator.

[@smartdrivetest]

Hi Good_king_guitarman - Thank you for your kind words my friend. We're so happy that you're part of the smart driver community. If there is anything further we can do, drop us a note. Always happy to help. All the best, Cheers Rick