OPTIMUM USE OF ENGINE RPM

TM 9-2320-273-10

CAUTION

The governed speed is 2,100 rpm. If the engine is allowed to

exceed governed speeds, serious engine/transmission dam-

age will result. Never allow the engine to exceed this rpm.

It is not necessary to operate the engine at maximum rpm in order to get good

performance. The engine will perform efficiently at the low and middle speed

ranges and offer a definite fuel advantage at these reduced speeds. Control rpm

by tailoring engine speed to the load requirements and the roadspeed desired.

The operator who insists on running in low gear at top rpm when restricted to

25 or 30 miles per hour is wasting fuel and creating noise unnecessarily.

AVOID OVERSTEERING

CAUTION

The steering wheel should not beheld at full steer for

more than 10 seconds. Oil overheating, loss of oil from

the power steering reservoir, and pump gear damage can

result.

Become familiar with the steering characteristics of the truck before attempting

maneuvers in limited space.

DRIVE EFFICIENTLY AND ECONOMICALLY

a. Driving at Highway Speed:

When driving conditions permit, maintain the legal highway speed in a gear

that permits running the engine below governed speed This is the engine's

cruising range and it affords better fuel economy than higher engine speeds

Recommended normal highway cruising range is 1,800 to 1,900 rpm.

Operate in the economy range at full throttle if you are satisfied with the

way the vehicle performs. However, there are times when hilly terrain, high

winds or other conditions make it impractical to operate without reserve

power. Such conditions are better met if the truck is operated in a lower

gear with reserve power available for changes in terrain, wind, etc.

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