Driver Controls
Ignition Switch and Key
The ignition switch is located on the left-hand dash, below the headlight switch. See Fig. 5.1 .
- 1. Headlight Switch
- 2. Ignition Switch
Fig. 5.1, Left-Hand Dash
The ignition switch has four positions: OFF, ACC (accessory), ON, and START. See Fig. 5.2 .
Fig. 5.2, Ignition Switch
In the OFF position, the ignition switch is vertical. The key can be inserted and removed only in the OFF position.
The following functions are operable when the ignition switch is in the OFF position (regardless of whether the key is inserted):
low-beam headlights
taillights
brake lights
road lights
dome lights
clearance lights
hazard warning lights
utility lights
baggage compartment lights
spotlights
electric horn
clock
refrigerator
CB radio
power mirrors
power receptacle
fuel heater
electric oil pan heater
electric or diesel-fired engine coolant pre-heater
Turn the key counterclockwise to reach the ACC position. In addition to all the functions that are operable in the OFF position, the following functions are operable when the switch is in the ACC position:
radio/stereo system
heater and A/C fan
mirror defog
windshield fan
ether start system
air dryer
backup lights
Turn the key clockwise past the OFF position to reach the ON position. With the switch in the ON position, all electrical systems become operable and the warning and indicator lamps illuminate. Wait for three seconds before starting the engine.
The SAM Cab vehicle controller automatically cycles all exterior lights off and then on when the headlamps are on and the park brake is released, or set. This rapid flash of the exterior lights is a self-test to detect any bulb that is not operational. Drivers may notice all lights flash simultaneously during this process. This is the normal operating sequence. A fault code is set for any bulb that is out.
IMPORTANT: Do not crank the engine until the ICU self-check is complete.
Turn the key clockwise past the ON position to reach the START position to start the engine. Release the key the moment the engine starts. Do not operate the starter longer than thirty seconds, then allow the starter to cool between attempts. If the starter overheats, the starter protection system will prevent operation of the starter until it has cooled. Release the key the moment the engine starts.
The ignition key also locks and unlocks the cab doors, the baggage door(s) and if equipped, the bunk door(s).
Lighting Controls
IMPORTANT: Unless otherwise noted below, press the upper half of the switch to activate the desired light(s). Press the lower half of the switch to turn the light(s) off.
Exterior Lighting Controls
Exterior light controls are listed here in alphabetical order. See Fig. 5.3 for exterior light locations.
- 1. High-Beam Headlight
- 2. Fog Light, or Auxiliary High-Beam Light
- 3. Low-Beam Headlight
- 4. Marker Light
- 5. Turn Signal
- 6. Side Turn Signal and Marker Light
- 7. Clearance Light
- 8. Stop Light, Taillight, and Turn Signal
- 9. Back-Up Light
- 10. Identification Light
Fig. 5.3, Exterior Lights
Auxiliary High Beam Lights
Auxiliary high-beam lights may be located in the front bumper. To activate the auxiliary high beam lights, press the upper part of the dash switch. The auxiliary high beam lights will illuminate only when the high-beam headlights are on. They will switch off temporarily when the low-beam headlights are on, until the high beams are on again. Press the lower half of the switch to deactivate it. See Fig. 5.4 .
- 1. Auxiliary High Beam Light Switch
- 2. DRL Override Switch
- 3. Utility Light Switch
- 4. Cab Foot Well Light Switch
- 5. Panel Lights Switch
- 6. Rear Cab Dome Light Switch
- 7. Rear Cab Dome Light Switch (mounted in sleeper)
- 8. Sleeper Rear Dome Light Switch, Driver Side
- 9. Sleeper Rear Dome Light Switch, Passenger Side
- 10. Sleeper Reading Light Switch, Driver Side
- 11. Sleeper Reading Light Switch, Passenger Side
Fig. 5.4, Dash-Mounted and Sleeper-Control Light Switches
Backup Lights
Backup lights activate only when the vehicle is in reverse, and are designed to be used while backing up at night.
Daytime Running Lights
The daytime running lights (DRL), if equipped, are automatically activated when the ignition is switched on and the parking brake is released. The DRL turn off when the engine falls below 400 rpm, the parking brake is applied, or the headlights are turned on.
Daytime running lights are mandatory for vehicles domiciled in Canada. Vehicles domiciled in any other location may have an optional override switch ( Fig. 5.4 , ref. 2). This is a momentary switch that enables the driver to deactivate the DRL. Press the upper half of the switch briefly to activate or deactivate the DRL.
Fog Lights
Fog lights are designed to reduce glare in foggy conditions. The low-beam headlights must be on in order to turn the fog lights on. Pull the headlight switch outward to activate the fog lights.
Hazard Warning Lights
The hazard warning light switch is located on the dash in what is referred to as the master module. See Fig. 5.5 . The hazard lights can be activated regardless of the ignition switch position.
To activate the hazard lights, press the center of the switch once. The switch will blink at the same rate that the hazard lights flash. Press the switch again to turn them off. All the turn signals on the vehicle and trailer, as well as the turn signal indicators in the ICU, flash simultaneously when the hazard lights are activated.
- 1. Hazard Warning Switch
- 2. Panel Lights Dimmer Switch
Fig. 5.5, Master Module
Headlights
The headlight switch is a rotary switch located to the left of the steering column, above the ignition switch. See Fig. 5.6 .
- 1. Fog Lights (optional)—Activate by pulling the switch out when the marker lights or headlights are on.
- 2. Off
- 3. Marker Lights
- 4. Headlights
Fig. 5.6, Headlight Switch
If the Follow Me Home feature is activated, the low-beam headlights will remain on for nine seconds after the vehicle is parked, if the headlights were on prior to engine shutdown. This feature provides temporary lighting in the path of the headlights while walking to a building or other destination. If a vehicle door is opened or closed while this feature is active, the timer will add an additional 10 seconds of lighting. This feature can be temporarily disabled by turning the ignition switch on, or by cycling the headlight switch from the off position to one of the other two positions.
High-Beam Headlights
To activate the high-beam headlights, press the turn signal lever forward towards the windshield while the low-beam headlights are on. Return the turn-signal lever back to its neutral position to deactivate the high beams, and return to low beam headlights.
When the high-beam headlights are on, a blue light illuminates on the instrument cluster. For vehicles with fog lights, switching on the high beams will switch off the fog lights. The headlight low beams remain on continuously during high-beam operation.
NOTE: The ignition switch must be on for the high beams to work.
Marker Lights
Turn the headlight switch clockwise to past the off position. See Fig. 5.6 .
Marker Interrupt
The marker interrupt switch, located in the right-hand switch pod of the steering wheel, temporarily flashes the marker lights. See Fig. 5.7 .
Fig. 5.7, Steering Wheel-Mounted Controls
Spotlight
The spotlight switch is located on the pivoting handle of the spotlight. There may be a single spotlight assembly mounted above the driver's door, or one above each door.
Turn Signals
The turn-signal lever is on the left side of the steering column. See Fig. 5.8 .
- 1. Wiper Control Dial
- 2. High-Beam Icon
Fig. 5.8, Multifunction Turn Signal Lever
NOTE: The optional self-canceling turn signal lever will automatically return to the neutral position when the steering wheel returns to the straight-ahead position after a turn.
Move the turn signal lever downward to turn the left-turn signal on; move it upward to turn the right-turn signal on. To manually cancel the signal, move the lever to the neutral position.
When a turn signal is activated, a green indicator light flashes on the instrument cluster.
Turn-Tip Feature
The turn-tip feature is advantageous in lane change situations when the steering wheel does not travel far enough to cancel a conventional turn signal request. Pushing the turn-signal lever halfway to the normal turning position to activate the turn-tip feature. The signal will flash for a few seconds, then cancel. Activation of the turn-tip feature is immediately canceled when a request for the turn signal in the opposite direction is made.
Utility Lights
Utility lights can be swivel-mounted on upper half of the cab, mounted on the exhaust support, or flush-mounted on the back of the cab or sleeper. Press the upper half of the switch to activate it. Press the lower half of the switch to turn it off. When activated, a red indicator light in the switch is illuminated. See Fig. 5.4 .
Interior Lighting Controls
Interior light controls are listed here in alphabetical order.
The interior lights include panel lights, dome lights, red map lights, clear reading lights, and courtesy lights. Vehicles come pre-set from the factory with theater lighting, which ramps up lights from low power to full power when activated.
Sleepers have rear dome lights, bunk reading lights, sleeper floor lights, and baggage compartment lights.
Baggage Compartment Lights
Baggage compartment lights are located on the underside of the lower bunk, on both sides. Both lights turn on when either baggage compartment door is opened to illuminate the baggage compartment. The lights also come on when the lower bunk is raised.
Foot Well Lights
When the driver or passenger doors are opened, red lights illuminate both foot wells. These lights can also be activated with the foot well light switch. See Fig. 5.4 . Press the upper half of the switch to turn the foot well lights on, press the lower half of the switch to turn them off.
Overhead Console Lights
The overhead console includes a clear reading light, a clear dome light, and a red map light. See Fig. 5.9 . The dome lights illuminate when a door opens, then stay on for a short time after both doors are closed. Press the lens of the reading light, dome light, or map light to activate each one independently of the others.
- 1. Clear Reading Lamp
- 2. Clear Dome Lamp
- 3. Red Map Lamp
Fig. 5.9, Overhead Console Lights
Panel Lights
The panel lights illuminate when the headlights are turned on. To adjust the brightness of the panel lights, use the panel lights switch, usually located in the master module next to the hazard flasher switch. See Fig. 5.4 . The panel lights brighten and dim in 5% increments, depending on whether the upper half or the lower half of the switch is pressed. When the headlights are turned on, the panel lights setting will default to the intensity that was last set.
Rear Dome Light
A rear cab dome light is located on the roof, between the bunk and the cab on sleeper vehicles. See Fig. 5.10 . The rear cab dome light will activate with the dome lights when a door is opened, then stay on for a short time after both doors are closed.
Use the dash-mounted switch or the switch in the sleeper panel to activate the rear cab dome light. See Fig. 5.4 .
Fig. 5.10, Rear Cab Dome Light
Sleeper Dome Light
Two dome lights are mounted on the sleeper roof, close to the outside walls.
There are two switches in the sleeper that control the sleeper dome lights. The passenger-side switch will activate both dome lights. The driver-side switch operates the driver-side light only. Press the upper half of the switch to turn the sleeper dome light on, press the lower half of the switch to turn it off.
Sleeper Foot Well Lights
The sleeper foot well switch is located in the lower switch module in the sleeper. It looks identical to the cab foot well switch. See Fig. 5.4 . When the switch is activated, two lights illuminate the sleeper floor.
Sleeper Reading Lights
Clear reading lights are mounted above the lower bunk in the rear corners of the sleeper. There are two switches in the sleeper control panel for the reading lights. To turn a reading light on, press the upper half of the switch. Press the lower half of the switch to turn it off. See Fig. 5.4 .
The reading lights can also be activated by pressing the lens.
Horn Controls
Air Horn
Air horn(s) may be mounted on the roof of day cabs, or under the driver-side floor for sleeper cabs. The air horn is controlled by a wire lanyard that hangs down inboard by the driver’s door. See Fig. 5.11 . Pull downward on the lanyard to sound the air horn.
- 1. Lanyard
Fig. 5.11, Air Horn Control
Electric Horn
The button for the electric horn on a vehicle without an airbag is located in the center of the steering wheel. See Fig. 5.12 . To sound the horn, press down on the button.
The electric horn on a vehicle with an airbag is activated by pressing down on the top of the steering wheel center pad. See Fig. 5.13 .
The horn will sound for the duration that the button is pressed, up to 60 seconds. The electric horn will operate regardless of the position of the ignition key.
- 1. Horn Button
Fig. 5.12, Steering Wheel, No Airbag
Press down on the top of the steering wheel center pad to activate the horn.
Fig. 5.13, Steering Wheel With Airbag
Powertrain Controls
Aftertreatment System Regen Switches
NOTE: See Chapter 12 for detailed information about the operation of the regeneration (regen) switches and the aftertreatment system (ATS).
IMPORTANT: Depending upon local jurisdictional emissions guidelines, vehicles that are domiciled outside of the U.S. and Canada may not have engines and/or emissions aftertreatment systems that are compliant with EPA07, EPA10, GHG14, or GHG17 regulations.
The regen request switch, located on the dash, is used to initiate a parked regen. See Fig. 5.14 . To access the regen request switch, lift the guard and press the yellow button.
Some vehicles may be equipped with a regen inhibit switch. See Fig. 5.14 . To stop a regen in progress or prevent the start of a regen, press the lower half of the switch. Regen will be delayed until the switch is no longer active.
- 1. Regen Request Switch
- 2. Regen Inhibit Switch
Fig. 5.14, Regen Request and Inhibit Switches
Axle Switches
Some vehicles are equipped with an interaxle differential lock switch and/or a switch for each driver-controlled differential lock (DCDL). See Fig. 5.15 . For more information about differential locks and using them for traction control, see Chapter 16 .
- 1. Interaxle Differential Lock Switch
- 2. Fifth Wheel Slide Switch
- 3. Driver-Controlled Differential Lock (DCDL) Switch
- 4. Air Suspension Dump Control Switch
Fig. 5.15, Axle and Suspension Switches
Engine Brake Switch
The Hi/Med/Lo engine brake 3-position switch controls the amount of engine braking. See Fig. 5.16 . Press the lower third of the switch for low, center for medium, and upper third for high.
Fig. 5.16, Engine Brake Switch
There is also an engine brake switch located in the right-hand switch pod on the steering wheel. See Fig. 5.7 . Press the ENG BRK switch once to engage or disengage the engine brake. Refer to Chapter 13 for instructions on using the engine brake.
Engine Fan Switch
The engine cooling fan can be turned on by the engine fan switch.
To turn the engine fan on, press the upper half of the switch. The fan will continue to operate for a set amount of time and then turn off unless the coolant temperature is high enough to continue fan operation. To turn the fan off before the set time period ends, press the lower half of the switch. See Fig. 5.17 .
Fig. 5.17, Engine Fan Switch
Hill Start Aid Override Switch
Some vehicles are equipped with a Hill Start Aid (HSA) feature to prevent the vehicle from rolling while on steep grades and to allow for a controlled launch. HSA is "on" by default. It can be turned off by pressing and releasing the HSA override switch on the dash (see Fig. 5.18 ).
Fig. 5.18, Hill Start Aid Override Switch
PTO Switch
To activate the PTO function, press the upper half of the switch. Press the lower half of the switch to deactivate the PTO function. See Fig. 5.19 .
WARNING
Fig. 5.19, PTO Switch
Transmission Controls
Detroit™ Automated Transmissions
NOTE: See Chapter 15 for complete Detroit automated transmission operating instructions.
Vehicles with Detroit transmissions use the multifunction control shown in Fig. 5.20 . This control moves in two directions and has two switches. It is used to request manual shifts, change shift mode, set engine brake levels, and control specialty engine brake functions during cruise control operation.
- A. Front View
- B. Shift Requests
- C. Four positions for engine brake settings
- 1. Engine Brake Symbol
- 2. D/N/R Switch
- 3. Mode Switch
- 4. Gear Shift Symbol
Fig. 5.20, Detroit Multifunction Control
Eaton Automated Transmissions
NOTE: See Chapter 15 for complete automated transmission operating instructions.
The SmartShift electronic transmission control is installed with the Eaton® Fuller® UltraShift™ and Eaton Fuller AutoShift™ transmissions. The SmartShift control is operated by the fingers of the driver's right hand, allowing both hands to remain on the steering wheel.
A two-position driving mode slide switch is mounted on the body of the control lever just before the paddle widens out. The slide switch allows the driver to choose automatic (AUTO) or manual (MAN) mode. See Fig. 5.21 .
To upshift manually, pull the lever back (towards the driver). To downshift manually, push the lever forward (away from the driver).
- 1. SmartShift Control Lever
- 2. Slide Switch (forward driving mode switch)
- 3. MAN Mode (of slide switch)
- 4. AUTO Mode (of slide switch)
- 5. Upshift Direction
- 6. Reverse Position (of selector switch)
- 7. Selector Switch
- 8. Neutral Lock Button
- 9. Neutral Position (of selector switch)
- 10. Drive Position (of selector switch)
- 11. Low Position (of selector switch)
- 12. Downshift Direction
Fig. 5.21, SmartShift Control (Eaton Fuller UltraShift and AutoShift transmissions)
Manual Transmissions
NOTE: See Chapter 14 for complete manual transmission operating instructions.
If so equipped, the transmission range control and splitter valves are attached to the gear shift knob.
The range-preselection lever allows the selection of the low or high range for each transmission ratio. It is used once during an upshift sequence and once during a downshift sequence.
Dependent on the transmission model, some ratios can be split using the splitter-control button.
Allison Automatic Transmissions
Automatic transmissions have up to six forward speeds and one reverse speed. These transmissions have electronic shift controls that can be programmed to allow the use of different geared speeds. See Fig. 5.22 .
- 1. Indicator Panel
- 2. Mode ID
Fig. 5.22, Allison Push-Button Shift Selector
Cruise Control
WARNING
NOTICE
IMPORTANT: On vehicles equipped with VORAD Collision Warning System with SmartCruise, see Chapter 6 before operating the cruise control.
NOTE: If the vehicle is equipped with a Detroit multifunction control, setting the cruise control with the engine brake on will activate Descent Control Mode. Moving the lever to the top position will resume the set cruise speed. Moving the lever down to engage the engine brake after the cruise control has been set will activate Deceleration Mode. See "Descent Control and Deceleration Modes, Detroit™ Automated Transmissions" in this chapter.
The cruise control is operated by four buttons mounted in the left-hand button pod of the steering wheel. See Fig. 5.7 .
ON/OFF Button—Press to turn cruise control on or off. When cruise control is on, a green telltale illuminates in the ICU. The speed memory will be retained until the cruise control is disabled with the ON/OFF button, or the ignition is turned off.
DEC/SET Button—Press to set the cruise speed while the vehicle is traveling at the desired speed. Press and hold to decrease the set cruise speed.
CNCL Button—Press to pause the cruise control, while retaining the speed setting in memory. The cruise control can also be disengaged, while retaining the speed memory, by depressing the brake or clutch pedals.
ACC/RES Button—Press to resume the set speed. Press and hold to accelerate the set cruise speed.
1.
To cruise at a particular speed:
1.1
Press the ON/OFF button to turn cruise control on.
1.2
Depress the accelerator pedal until the speedometer reaches the desired speed.
NOTE: Cruise control is cancelled if the brake or clutch pedal is depressed, or vehicle speed drops below the minimum cruise control speed.
1.3
Press the DEC/SET button to set the desired speed.
NOTE: The speed memory is lost whenever the ignition switch is turned to OFF, or cruise control is turned off.
2.
To disengage the cruise control, do one of the following:
Press the CNCL button.
Depress the brake pedal.
Depress the clutch pedal (on a manual transmission only).
3.
To resume a preselected cruise speed:
3.1
Ensure cruise control is on.
3.2
Press the ACC/RES button. Cruise will return to the last set speed.
NOTE: If vehicle speed drops below the minimum cruise control speed, cruise control will disengage. To resume to the preselected cruise speed, increase vehicle speed to above minimum cruise control speed and press the ACC/RES button.
4.
To increase cruise speed, press the ACC/RES button until the vehicle accelerates to the desired speed.
5.
To decrease cruise speed, press the DEC/SET button until the vehicle decelerates to the desired speed.
Run Smart Predictive Cruise™
Predictive Cruise Control (PCC) is an optional fuel savings application that adjusts vehicle speed predictively, based on the approaching road. Using 3D digital map technology and GPS, PCC evaluates the upcoming road grade about a mile in advance to determine the most fuel-efficient vehicle speed. Vehicles equipped with PCC have a sticker on the dash. See Fig. 5.23 .
Fig. 5.23, Run Smart Predictive Cruise Control Sticker
The 3D digital map database contains profile information for over 200,000 highway miles (322,000 km) in the 48 contiguous United States. PCC will vary the set cruise speed by up to 6% depending on the approaching road grade. If the engine brake is enabled, PCC will automatically engage the engine brake when actual vehicle speed exceeds the cruise set speed by 6%. This is different from conventional cruise control, which maintains the speed set by the driver.
WARNING
IMPORTANT: PCC adjusts the vehicle set speed to achieve maximum fuel economy, but it does not account for traffic flows or surrounding vehicles.
Driver interaction with PCC is the same as conventional cruise control, using the standard cruise control buttons. In the event of a problem with PCC, or when driving on a road with no profile information available, the system reverts to conventional cruise control.
Cruise Control ("CC") Limiter
On vehicles equipped with a CC Limiter (or CC Band) switch (see Fig. 5.24 or Fig. 5.25 ), the cruise control limiter allows the vehicle to exceed the set cruise control speed before engine braking is applied. The CC limiter switch provides more flexibility to the existing cruise control limit function, allowing the driver to tune the cruise function to better suit driving preferences and conditions. To select a limit, use the three-position CC Limiter switch on the dash. See Table 5.1 for switch settings.
Fig. 5.24, CC Limiter Switch
Fig. 5.25, CC Band Switch
|
CC Limiter Switch Settings |
|
|---|---|
|
Position |
Approximate Overrun Setting |
|
Top in |
3 mph (5 km/h) |
|
Middle |
6 mph (9 km/h) |
|
Bottom in |
Unlimited |
Table 5.1, CC Limiter Switch Settings
Descent Control and Deceleration Modes, Detroit™ Automated Transmissions
On vehicles equipped with a Detroit multifunction control ( Fig. 5.26 ), the functions of the lever positions for engine brake control change when cruise control is set. Two distinct modes can be activated:
Descent Control Mode—engine braking keeps the speed below cruise set speed; throttle is not automatically applied.
Deceleration Mode—engine braking activates to reduce vehicle speed (with no lower limit) at a constant rate.
Descent Control Mode
Descent Control Mode keeps the vehicle speed below the set cruise speed on a downhill.
To activate Descent Control Mode, set the cruise control speed with the engine brake on ( Fig. 5.26 , positions 1, 2, or 3). In this mode, all three levels of engine braking will be employed to to keep the speed below the set cruise speed. This mode will not keep the speed above the lower limit of the set speed, so it is possible to eventually coast to a stop, unless the lever is moved to "engine brake off" (position 0), or throttle is applied. After throttle application, the Descent Control Mode is resumed.
Moving the lever to "engine brake off" (position 0) cancels Descent Control Mode and resumes cruise speed. To reactivate Descent Control Mode, reset the cruise control speed with the lever in position 1, 2, or 3.
0. Resume cruise control set speed.
1, 2, 3. Descent Control maintains set speed.
Fig. 5.26, Descent Control Mode Positions, Detroit Multifunction Control
Deceleration Mode
Deceleration Mode reduces the vehicle speed at a constant rate.
With the cruise control speed set, activate Deceleration Mode by moving the lever to engine brake on ( Fig. 5.27 , position 1, 2, or 3). This mode engages one of the engine brake levels, depending on the lever position. The vehicle will decelerate at a constant rate until the vehicle comes to a stop, unless throttle applied to override the deceleration, or the lever is moved to "engine brake off" (position 0).
Moving the lever to position 0 resumes the previously set cruise control speed.
- 0. Resume cruise control set speed.
- 1. Low
- 2. Medium
- 3. High
Fig. 5.27, Deceleration Mode Positions, Detroit Multifunction Control
Dash-Mounted Brake Controls
NOTE: See Chapter 13 for detailed information about brake systems.
Parking Brake Control Valve
NOTICE
The yellow diamond-shaped knob operates the parking brake valve. See Fig. 5.28 . Pull the knob out to apply both the tractor and the trailer spring parking brakes. Push the knob in to release the tractor spring parking brakes. Before the spring parking brakes can be released, the air pressure in either air brake system must be at least 65 psi (447 kPa).
If the trailer is not equipped with spring parking brakes, pull the parking brake valve out to apply the tractor parking brakes and the trailer service brakes.
- 1. Trailer Air Supply Valve (red knob)
- 2. Parking Brake Control Valve (yellow knob)
Fig. 5.28, Brake Valve Control Knobs
Trailer Air Supply Valve
The red octagonal-shaped knob operates the trailer air supply valve, which charges the trailer air supply system and releases the trailer spring parking brakes. See Fig. 5.28 .
After the vehicle and its air hoses are connected to a trailer and the pressure in the air system is at least 65 psi (447 kPa), push the trailer air supply valve knob in (and leave it in) to charge the trailer air supply system and release the trailer spring parking brakes. Pull the trailer air supply valve out before disconnecting a trailer or when operating a vehicle without a trailer.
Trailer Brake Lever
The trailer brake lever is used to apply the trailer service brakes without applying the truck or tractor service brakes. It is usually mounted on the right-hand control panel. See Fig. 5.29 . The valve can be partially or fully applied, but in any partially on position it will be overridden by a full application of the service brake pedal. Move the lever down to apply the trailer brakes; move the lever up to release the trailer brakes. The lever will automatically return to the up position when it is released.
Fig. 5.29, Trailer Brake Lever
Antilock Braking System
The Meritor™ WABCO® Antilock Braking System (ABS) passively monitors vehicle wheel speed at all times, and controls wheel speed during emergency stops or wheel lock situations.
During emergency or reduced-traction stops, fully depress the brake pedal until the vehicle comes to a safe stop. Do not pump the brake pedal . With the brake pedal fully depressed, the ABS will control all wheels to provide steering control and a reduced braking distance.
The ABS is designed to communicate with a trailer ABS, if they are compatible. Compatibility will result in the illumination of the trailer ABS lamp during vehicle start-up and fault detection. The trailer ABS lamp will not illuminate unless a compatible trailer is connected to the tractor.
Vehicles with ABS may have Automatic Traction Control (ATC). On these vehicles, the ATC system automatically limits wheel spin during reduced-traction situations. In normal braking applications, the standard air brake system is in effect.
ATC includes a deep snow and mud option to increase available traction on extra-soft surfaces like snow, mud, or gravel. A switch labeled ATC will be located on the dash. See Fig. 5.30 . Press the switch to temporarily allow more drive wheel spin. The activation of the deep snow and mud option is indicated by a flashing WHEEL SPIN lamp. Press the switch again to cycle the system back to normal operation.
Fig. 5.30, ATC Switch
NOTICE
Windshield Wiper/Washer Controls
The multifunction turn signal lever is attached to the left-hand side of the steering column, just below the steering wheel. See Fig. 5.8 .
NOTICE
The wipers are operated by a rotary switch in the wiper control dial, which is on the end of the turn signal lever. There are five intermittent settings, marked on the dial by lines of increasing length, and two steady speed settings: LO and HI.
Turn the wipers on by rotating the control dial counterclockwise. Rotate the control dial further to increase the speed of the wipers through the various intermittent settings, then to LO and HI.
Rotate the control dial clockwise to slow the wipers down. Rotate the control dial clockwise as far as it will go to turn the wipers off.
The windshield washer button is located at the end of the turn signal lever. Momentarily press the windshield washer button to initiate a single wipe without activating the washer pump. The wipers will swipe one full cycle and return to the inactive position.
To operate the windshield washers, press and hold the button in. After a short delay, the washer will pump windshield washer fluid onto the windshield for as long as the washer button is pressed. The windshield wipers will turn on at low speed while the washer button is pressed. After the button is released, the wipers will continue to operate for one to several wipe cycles, depending on how long the wash button was pressed initially.
Suspension/Trailer Connection Controls
Air Suspension Dump Control Switch
NOTICE
The air suspension height control switch may be used to aid in connecting or disconnecting from a trailer. See Fig. 5.15 . When the switch is set to LOWER, the air-suspension dump valve deflates the air springs to lower the rear of the vehicle. In the AUTO position, the automatic ride-control valves operate for normal driving.
NOTICE
A red LED in the switch is illuminated when the suspension is deflated.
ECAS Dash Switches
Vehicles with Electronically Controlled Air Suspension (ECAS) may be equipped with either dash switches or a remote control unit, not both. See Figure 5.31 and Table 5.2 .
- 1. Load Transfer
- 2. Suspension Height
Fig. 5.31, ECAS Dash Switches
LOAD XFER (Load Transfer)
This switch controls the ECAS Manual Load Transfer function by adjusting suspension air pressure. Use this function to minimize wheel slippage in road conditions where traction may be a concern.
The ECAS Load Transfer feature applies the maximum available vehicle load on the drive axle, up to the maximum allowable limit, determined by the gross axle weight rating (GAWR). In bobtail or with a loaded trailer less than the GAWR, the tag axle supports a negligible load while the drive axle supports nearly the full weight. Above the GAWR, the drive axle is loaded with approximately the maximum allowable load and the tag supports the remainder.
Load transfer mode can be deactivated by holding up on the dash switch for 4 seconds. Load transfer mode will automatically deactivate when the vehicle reaches 45 mph (72 kmh).
For vehicles equipped with the ICU4Me, when Load Transfer mode is active, "Load Transfer" will display in the message field of the driver message center. See Figure 13.3 .
Fig. 5.32, Load Transfer Notification, ICU4Me Only
Suspension Height
If the suspension is at normal height:
each up press increases the suspension height an increment, unless the suspension is at maximum height
a down press lowers the suspension to its lowest set-point (usually axle stops)
If the suspension is below normal height:
an up press increases the suspension height to normal ride height
a down press does nothing; the suspension is already at its lowest point
If the suspension is above normal height:
each up press increases the suspension height an increment, unless the suspension is at maximum height
a down press lowers the suspension to normal ride height
On vehicles equipped with the ICU4Me, messages about the ride height status will display in the message field of the driver message center. See Figure 5.33 .
If the suspension is outside normal ride height (amber lamp on), the ECAS system will automatically return the suspension to normal ride height when vehicle speed reaches or exceeds a set speed (usually set to 5 mph).
Fig. 5.33, Example of Ride Height Message, ICU4Me Only
ECAS Standby Mode, Dash Switch
Once the key is turned off, the ECAS will enter Standby mode, remaining powered and adjusting to level and load changes for 1 hour. To cancel Standby mode on vehicles with ECAS dash switches, turn the key from OFF to ON to OFF in less than 1.5 seconds. Confirm the deactivation of standby mode by pressing the suspension height switch, which should not adjust the suspension.
ECAS Remote Control Unit
Some vehicles equipped with Electronically Controlled Air Suspension (ECAS) have a remote control unit to lower and raise the rear suspension. See Table 5.2 for keys and functions.
If the suspension is outside normal ride height (amber lamp on), the ECAS system will automatically return the suspension to normal ride height when vehicle speed reaches or exceeds a set speed (usually set to 5 mph).
Messages about the ride height status will display in the message field of the driver message center.
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ECAS Remote Control Keys and Functions |
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Key |
Function |
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Remote Control On/Off. The middle light will remain lit while the remote is active. |
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Memory keys. Pressing the Stop key and a memory key simultaneously will store the current height. Once stored, pressing the key will adjust the vehicle to the stored height. |
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Normal height key. This key will return the vehicle to normal ride height. |
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Lift and lower keys. These keys will raise or lower the rear suspension height. |
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The Stop key. Pressing the Stop key will interrupt and stop all adjustments being made by the remote control. When the key is off, holding the Stop key for 2 seconds will cancel the 1 hour Standby mode. |
Table 5.2, ECAS Remote Control Keys and Functions
ECAS Standby Mode, Remote Control
Once the key is turned off, the ECAS will enter Standby mode, remaining powered and adjusting to level and load changes for 1 hour. To cancel Standby mode on vehicles with a remote control, turn on the remote control then hold the STOP key on the remote for 2 seconds. Confirm the deactivation of standby mode by attempting to turn the remote on and adjust the suspension, which should not be possible.
Fifth Wheel Slide Control Switch
NOTICE
The fifth wheel air slide switch permits repositioning of the sliding fifth wheel from inside the cab. See Fig. 5.34 . Moving the air slide control valve switch to the lock position deactivates the control valve and locks the fifth wheel to the baseplate. Moving the switch to the unlock position activates the control valve and unlocks the fifth wheel slide mechanism, allowing changes to the total length of the tractor-trailer and changes to axle loads to comply with varying jurisdictional laws. For detailed operating instructions for fifth wheel slide, coupling, and uncoupling procedures, refer to Chapter 18 .
Fig. 5.34, Fifth Wheel Slide Control Switch
Trailer Auxiliary Switch
Trailers that are equipped with pneumatic brakes and used in North America or South America are generally equipped with power for the trailer lights. The connection is passed from the vehicle to the trailer via the primary receptacle, controlled by a dash switch.
Press the top of the switch to activate the trailer auxiliary function. Press the bottom of the switch to turn trailer auxiliary function off. See Fig. 5.35 .
Fig. 5.35, Trailer Auxiliary Switch
Climate Controls
NOTE: See Chapter 8 for detailed climate control panel operating instructions.
Cab Climate Control
The climate control panel allows you to control the heating, ventilating, defrosting, and air conditioning (A/C) functions. The cab climate control panel has three switches to control the functions of the cab temperature system; see Fig. 5.36 :
fan switch with recirculation button
temperature control switch with A/C button
air selection switch (with bunk-override button on sleeper cab only)
- 1. Fan Switch with Recirculation Button
- 2. Temperature Control Switch with Air Conditioning Button
- 3. Air Selection Switch with Bunk-Override Button
Fig. 5.36, Cab Climate Control Panel
The fan switch controls the fan speed, and forces fresh or recirculated air through the air outlets. To increase airflow, turn the switch clockwise to a higher number. To decrease airflow, turn the switch counterclockwise to a lower number.
Recirculation mode limits the amount of outside air that enters the cab. Press the recirculation button to prevent dusty or smoky air from entering the cab.
NOTE: To prevent the buildup of odors and/or oxygen depletion inside the cab, the system switches from full recirculation mode to partial recirculation mode after 20 minutes.
The temperature control switch is used to select the desired temperature. Turn the switch clockwise to the red area for warm air. Turn the switch counterclockwise to the blue area for cool air.
The A/C cools and dehumidifies the air inside the cab. Press the A/C button, located in the center of the temperature control switch, to turn the A/C on and off.
The air selection switch allows the control of air flow through the face outlets, the floor outlets, the defrost (windshield) outlets, or a combination of these outlets. See Fig. 5.37 .
- 1. Face Mode
- 2. Selection Between Face Mode and Bi-Level Mode
- 3. Bi-Level Mode
- 4. Selection Between Bi-Level Mode and Floor Mode
- 5. Floor Mode
- 6. Selection Between Floor Mode and Defog Mode
- 7. Defog Mode
- 8. Selection Between Defog Mode and Defrost Mode
- 9. Defrost Mode
- 10. Bunk-Override Button (on sleeper-cabs only)
Fig. 5.37, Air Selection Switch With Bunk-Override Button
Bunk-Override Button
The bunk-override button is located in the center of the cab air-selection switch (sleeper-cabs only). See Fig. 5.37 .
Press the bunk-override button to make the cab controls override the settings on the sleeper temperature control panel; the sleeper temperature will mimic the cab settings. An amber LED in the button is illuminated when the bunk-override mode is activated. When the override switch is not activated, the cab climate control panel can be adjusted without affecting the sleeper settings.
Sleeper Climate Control
The sleeper temperature can be controlled from the sleeper climate control panel or from the cab climate control panel if the bunk-override button is activated.
The fan switch controls the sleeper temperature fan speed. To increase airflow, turn the switch clockwise to a higher number. To decrease the airflow, turn the switch counterclockwise to a lower number. See Fig. 5.38 .
- 1. Fan Switch
- 2. Temperature Control
- 3. Air Conditioning Button
Fig. 5.38, Sleeper Climate Control Panel
The temperature control switch is used to select the desired temperature in the sleeper. Turn the switch clockwise to the red area for warm air. Turn the switch counterclockwise to the blue area for cool air.
Press the button in the center of the temperature control switch to activate the A/C.
Cancel bunk-override mode, if activated, by changing the sleeper fan speed or temperature setting. The system will then operate from the sleeper controls.
Seat Controls
NOTE: See Chapter 7 for detailed information about seat controls and adjustments.
- 1. Backrest Tilt
- 2. Lumbar Support
- 3. Isolator Feature
- 4. Height Adjustment
- 5. Bottom Cushion Angle (fore-and-aft cushion height)
- 6. Fore-and-Aft Seat Slide (seat track adjustment)
- 7. Seat Tilt
- 8. Upper Backrest Adjustment
Fig. 5.39, General Seat Adjustments
WARNING
The following is a description of adjustments that can be made to various seats. Not all seats have all of the adjustments listed below. See Fig. 5.39 .
Backrest tilt
Lumbar support
Isolator
Height adjustment
Bottom cushion angle (fore-and-aft bottom cushion height)
Fore-and-aft seat slide (seat track adjustment)
Seat tilt
Headrest adjustment
Adjustable Steering Column Controls
To adjust the steering column, depress the foot pedal located below the steering column. See Fig. 5.40 . Tilt the steering column to the desired angle. Telescope the steering column closer or further away by pushing or pulling it. Release the foot pedal to lock the steering column in place.
- 1. Multifunction Turn Signal Switch
- 2. Headlight Switch
- 3. Ignition Switch
- 4. Tilt Steering Column Lever
- 5. Steering Wheel
Fig. 5.40, Steering Column and Left Panel Controls





