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Driver Techniques
The manner in which a vehicle is driven can have a dramatic effect on fuel consumption. Operators can maximize fuel economy and engine life by practicing the techniques of using minimum power and low engine rpm. The following tips can optimize fuel economy by making maximum use of the potential efficiency of the engine and vehicle.The 3176 can be programmed to ensure that the engine and vehicle are operated within specific limits for maximum fuel economy. (Refer to topic, Customer Specified Parameters, in this publication for information.)Caterpillar engines are designed to operate at lower engine rpm (speed) and have demonstrated excellent fuel savings and longer service life when operated in this manner.Starting Out
This truck engine does not require long warm-up times that waste fuel. Below 63°F (17°C), the 3176 system automatically idles at 1000 rpm. It takes just a few minutes in the summer and a bit longer in the winter to warm up the mechanical engine, and for the 3176 engine to reduce engine rpm to the programmed low idle rpm.A load can be applied to the engine after normal oil pressure is reached and the water temperature gauge begins to rise. To get the vehicle in motion, use a gear that will result in a smooth, easy start without increasing engine speed above low idle or slipping the clutch. Engage the clutch smoothly. Interrupted and jerky clutch engagement put stress on the drive train and wastes fuel.Keep engine rpm (speed) at a minimum. Use just enough rpm to pick up the next gear. This technique is called progressive shifting. It can improve fuel consumption and will not harm the engine.Progressive Shifting
Drive line efficiency is best in the low to mid rpm range (1100 to 1600 rpm) of the engine due to reduced frictional losses of the engine, transmission and rear axles. When accelerating under normal level road conditions, the engine should be operated in this most efficient rpm range by using only enough power to pick up the next higher gear. This technique of upshifting at the lowest possible rpm is called progressive shifting.Progressive shifting also reduces the time to accelerate to the desired vehicle speed. Top gear is reached sooner because engine rpm does not have to fall off as far to synchronize the gears of the transmission. The key to progressive shifting is to use minimum rpm, minimum power and upshift early while accelerating the truck.The 3176 can be programmed to limit engine acceleration above pre-programmed engine rpm settings. This feature encourages the operator to practice progressive shifting techniques.Refer to Driving Techniques for Maximum Fuel Economy, form LEDT5092 for more information.Cruising Speed
It's a simple fact that the faster a vehicle is driven, the more fuel it will consume. A few miles per hour (kilometers per hour) can make a significant difference in fuel economy.Increasing cruising speed from 55 to 65 mph (88 to 104 km/h) will increase fuel consumption of a typical class 8 truck approximately 1.0 mpg (0.4 km/L). A practice of