Multi-Function Stalk Switch
Eaton automated transmissions use shift selection software and electric clutch actuation; a clutch pedal is not needed to operate the vehicle. These transmissions use the multi-function stalk switch, shown in Fig., to select mode, direction, neutral, low, and to make manual shifts. To know what gear the transmission is in, see the driver display. Forward shifts can be made either manually or automatically.
Automatic Mode (A)
In automatic drive mode, upshifts and downshifts are made by the transmission without driver intervention.
Use the mode switch on the shift control to select the automatic mode (A). Rotate the D/N/R switch to drive (D), and press down on the throttle pedal. The transmission will shift automatically.
Note: If attempting to select a non-neutral mode without applying the service brakes, the transmission will not shift into gear. To shift into gear, select neutral, apply the service brakes, and select the desired mode again.
In drive, the start gear is automatically selected. The selected start gear can vary depending on several vehicle inputs such as load, grade, and axle/transmission ratio. The start gear can be changed using the shift control, provided the selected gear would allow the vehicle to launch without damaging the transmission. If the start gear is changed using the shift control, it will be the default until the vehicle is powered down or the selection is changed again manually.
Important: Prior to ascending a steep grade, either reduce the default start gear by one (using the shift control) or apply full throttle for the duration of the grade so the vehicle maintains the proper engine and vehicle speed during the entire grade.
In drive, the transmission automatically performs upshifts and downshifts. However, when the transmission is near the shift point, the shift can be forced using the upshift or downshift function of the shift control.
Note: The transmission may deny a shift while ascending or descending a grade if the load of the vehicle and grade of the terrain in combination with the drivetrain ratio and engine torque fall outside of the acceptable range to perform a shift. If the shift is denied, a tone will sound.
See Table for a description of control functionality.
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Rotate for drive (D), neutral (N), or reverse (R).
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Short press for automatic mode or switch between available modes.
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Long press for manual mode.
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Pull for upshift (+) request.
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Push for downshift (-) request.
Fig. 1, Automated/Automatic Transmission Shift Control
Manual Mode (M)
In manual mode, the driver requests upshifts and downshifts instead of letting the Eaton transmission select them automatically. Manual shifting may be helpful when traversing a work site, railroad tracks, or steep grades, for example.
Use the mode switch on the shift control to select the manual mode (M). To drive forward, rotate the D/N/R switch to drive (D), and press down on the throttle pedal. To shift up, pull the lever up (towards you); to shift down, push the lever down (away from you). The system holds the current gear unless a shift is requested or if the system initiates a manual mode override.
Note: The transmission may deny a shift while ascending or descending a grade if the load of the vehicle and grade of the terrain in combination with the drivetrain ratio and engine torque fall outside of the acceptable range to perform a shift. If the shift is denied, a tone will sound.
Note: If attempting to select a non-neutral mode without applying the service brakes, the transmission will not shift into gear. To shift into gear, select neutral, apply the service brakes, and select the desired mode again.
Manual Mode Override
The system is equipped with a manual mode override function. If the vehicle is being ‘back driven’ (for example, descending a grade and the engine speed is excessively high), the system will upshift automatically. Also, if the start gear is changed and it causes the engine to lug at takeoff, the system will override the current position and select the best available gear.
Low (L)
Use low when wanting to maximize engine braking and minimize the use of the brake pedal—for example, when driving down long grades or when coming to a stop. To select low, push down on the multi-function stalk switch, and hold in the down-shift position for half a second or more. The lowest available start gear will be selected (the starting gear cannot be changed in low).
If low is selected while moving, the transmission will not upshift (unless the system initiates a low override). The system will downshift at the earliest opportunity to provide maximum engine braking.
Note: If attempting to select a non-neutral mode without applying the service brakes, the transmission will not shift into gear. To shift into gear, select neutral, apply the service brakes, and select the desired mode again.
Low Override
The system is equipped with a low override function. If the vehicle is being ‘back driven’ (for example, descending a grade and the engine speed is excessively high), the system will upshift automatically. Also, if the start gear is changed and it causes the engine to lug at takeoff, the system will override the current position and downshift.