rblackwell
Adventurer
The only U500 I have driven had the Telligent transmission - shift the lever when ever you like but the trans does not change until you depress the clutch - can easily skip gears.
charlieaarons
Explorer
The EAS is basically the Telligent system with a computer controlled clutch and automatic shifting depending on speed and load; over-ridable with the "M" position of the control switch.
Charlie
dzzz
™
I think that will work well except for being "busy" in Urban driving. Although the EAS shifts too much in that condition, IMO. So there is some advantage to human intervention.
charlieaarons
Explorer
You can minimize unwanted downshifts with the EAS by being careful with the right foot, i.e. not suddenly flooring it unless rpms are above 17-1800.
Charlie
Charlie
dzzz
™
I don't have a problem when accelerating, but rather decelerating from highway speed. It downshifts as if it thinks I want engine braking. Not a big deal, just not like a car.
charlieaarons
Explorer
You DO want engine braking if you don't want your brake pads to wear out really fast. I try to use the exhaust brake (which includes gear downchanges automatically) always when decelerating at any significant rate.
Charlie
Charlie
dzzz
™
The issue isn't when I'm braking, but slowing into a slower speed zone. Like you (I'm sure) I do use the engine braking function always when down hill in the mountains. I think that feature is nicely implemented as it integrates with EAS. One beneficial aspect of a CDL is that certainly gets one to pay attention to brakes. Although I expect a modern mog with a camper is safer from failure than heavy pickups with campers. I haven't had an emergency stop yet. I guess I'll see how well the braking works when that finally happens.
I do like being well under weight for the vehicle specs. I'm reminded of that constantly with the discussions of extra long Earthroamers and loaded Sprinters.
I do like being well under weight for the vehicle specs. I'm reminded of that constantly with the discussions of extra long Earthroamers and loaded Sprinters.
charlieaarons
Explorer
The brakes will put you through the windshield if you aren't belted in with a panic stop.
Charlie
Charlie
dzzz
™
Yeah, that concerns me about the dog. I bought a harness for him, but it's not ideal.
Where are you now?
charlieaarons
Explorer
Home in Anchorage. The truck is in Perth.
Charlie
Charlie
Last edited: