PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
PB1319 (CAT. NO. 5296 ) —67— 22-01691 (R02/02)
• Check that the transmission is in Neutral.
• Release the clutch pedal.
If you have a two-transmission combination:
• Put the main transmission in gear.
• Put the auxiliary transmission in Neutral. This will allow the trans-
mission countershaft to turn, agitating the oil and warming it.
Idling the Engine
Under most circumstances, idling your engine for long periods merely
wastes fuel. In severe arctic weather conditions, however, you may
need longer idling to ensure all parts of the engine are fully lubricated.
During the time it takes you to drink a cup of coffee, your engine can
cool as much as 60° F (33° C) below normal operating temperature.
To keep the engine warm during a short break, turn it off.
Putting The Vehicle In Motion
This section discusses the clutch and transmission operation to get
your Peterbilt underway.
Shifting The Transmission
You will find a shift pattern either on a decal in your cab or on a
medallion in the shift knob. Check to be sure you know the correct
sequence for your particular transmission. Refer to the transmission
WARNING! To reduce the chance of personal injury and/or
vehicle damage from overheated engines, which can result
in a fire, never leave the engine idling without an alert
driver present. If the engine should overheat, as indicated
by the engine coolant temperature light, immediate action
is required to correct the condition. Continued unattended
operation of the engine, even for a short time, may result in
serious engine damage or a fire.
CAUTION: Do not allow your engine to idle, at low rpm’s
(400–600 rpm), longer than five minutes. Long periods of
idling after the engine has reached operating temperatures
can decrease engine temperature and cause gummed pis-
ton rings, clogged injectors, and possible engine damage
from lack of lubrication. The normal torsional vibrations
generated can also cause transmission wear.
WARNING! Do not carry loose objects in your cab, it can be
dangerous. In a sudden stop, or even going over a bump in
the road, they could fly through the air and strike you or a
passenger. You could be injured or even killed. Secure all
loose objects in the cab before moving the vehicle.