BRAKE SAFETY AND EMERGENCY PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
– 106 – Y53-6007 (R10/06)
Driving Bobtail or with an Unloaded Trailer
We recommend that you do not use your engine retarder
to slow down when you are bobtailing or pulling an empty
trailer.
WARNING! Using an engine retarder can
cause a wheel lockup. The trailer is not load-
ing the tires enough to give the traction you
may need. When you are bobtail or unloaded,
you can have a serious accident if your
wheels lock suddenly during braking. You
could be injured. Don’t use your retarder
when you are driving bobtail or with an
unloaded trailer.
Pyrometer
Maintaining Correct Operating Temperature
The optional pyrometer indicates engine exhaust gas tem-
perature. Because it responds almost immediately to
changes in exhaust temperature, the pyrometer is an
excellent indicator of engine output.
If you watch engine speed and exhaust temperature
ranges, the pyrometer can help you operate your truck
more efficiently and avoid sudden changes in engine
operating temperature.
CAUTION: Do not allow the pyrometer reading
to exceed the specified maximum operating
temperature. If the pyrometer has no label
specifying the maximum operating tempera
-
ture for the pyrometer, contact your engine
distributor for a recommendation.
NOTE: Different size injectors or changes in alti-
tude may affect engine operating and exhaust
temperatures.
Procedure For Reducing High Pyrometer Temperature
Readings
1. If the pyrometer indicates excessive temperature,
ease up slightly on the throttle.
2. If RPM and speed drop, downshift one gear to help
lower the exhaust temperature.
3. Observe the pyrometer reading. If the temperature
continues to be high, continue downshifting until
acceptable operating temperatures can be main
-
tained.
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