driving a 4 speed?

Question

Ok. I need on driving bigger vehicles like fire and grain trucks with 4 or 5 speed stick shifts. Our 1970 tanker doesn't have power steering and has a 4 speed manual trans. What tips can you give me on driving machinery like this. Do I need to double clutch? and what about which gear is best for driving at slow speeds w/o reving up the motor. All help will be thankful!

Answer 1

Tthe transmissions are usually non synchronized or straight cut gears for strength on older trucks. You will learn the proper rpm to shift smoothly through practice, the double clutch method will work till you learn what rpm or mph are a match for the gear you want , And done that way you don't need the clutch at all. You will learn the proper gear by driving it as there would only be a quess because they are mostly different than another truck. Practice, practice, practice,

Answer 2

Depends on loaded/empty. They'll behave differently. Double clutching is kinda old. Chances are the 4 speed tranny is a syncro and there's no need. A 5 speed if it's old enough might be cranky in first. Empty, you can go in second. Full load, you've got to start in first. Quick shift 1-2 at 18 mph on a flat. 2-3 at 25 or 30, high gear on the 4 at 35 and 4th at 30, high gear at 35 to 40 on the 5. Keep the gas on, let up a
little when you clutch and back on as the clutch comes back in. A little practice and you will be an expert. Hills will be a challenge! You'll wish you had 3 legs and feet!