The automatic answer

Nov. 1, 2007
Constant-torque automatics like those from Allison offer an advantage in many truck applications, according to Steve Spurlin, recently named executive director of 3000/4000 Series & application engineering for the manufacturer. At a recent customer ride-and-drive event at Allison headquarters in Indianapolis, Spurlin told Fleet Owner that a key advantage of an automatic is that it does not have to

Constant-torque automatics like those from Allison offer an advantage in many truck applications, according to Steve Spurlin, recently named executive director of 3000/4000 Series & application engineering for the manufacturer.

At a recent customer ride-and-drive event at Allison headquarters in Indianapolis, Spurlin told Fleet Owner that a key advantage of an automatic is that it “does not have to ‘interrupt’ the power curve to make shift changes, which results in greater productivity for the vehicle.

“Power has to ‘drop out’ when a manual or automated manual shifts. But with an Allison, the power remains smooth throughout.”

He said this benefit is very advantageous, particularly for traction in on/off road applications, as well for the steady operation of all types of trucks in start-and-stop traffic. “This is well recognized in some vocational markets, including refuse and fire trucks, and it applies as well to other applications, such as heavy dump trucks and other construction vehicles, as well as P&D trucks.”

Spurlin noted that automatics also increase driver comfort and result in fewer driveline repairs for all applications.

“We also offer different shift calibrations for each transmission model — some 30 to 40 different possibilities for each governed speed of an engine,” he pointed out. “If the truck's duty cycle and resulting performance requirements allow it, earlier shifts [can be calibrated] to improve fuel economy.

“For all calibrations, there is a performance and a fuel economy mode. A driver can change the mode as required by hitting a button on the shift selector,” Spurlin continued. “That's a standard feature on most of our [model] releases but a fleet can choose to have this feature set up so that it defaults to economy mode. We preached ‘performance, performance, performance’ [of automatics] for years,” he added, “but things have changed and now fuel economy is a bigger factor.”

Sponsored Recommendations

Tackling the Tech Shortage: Lessons in Recruiting Talent and Reducing Turnover

Discover innovative strategies for recruiting and retaining tech talent in the trucking industry at our April 16th webinar, where experts will share insights on competitive pay...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

Stop Sweating Temperature Excursions

Advanced chemical indicators give you the peace of mind that comes from reliable insights into your supply chains. Compromised shipments can be identified the moment they arrive...

How Electric Vehicles Help You Prolong the Life of Your Fleet

Before adopting electric vehicles for commercial/government fleets, prioritize cost inquiries. Maintenance is essential; understand the upkeep of EV fleets. Here’s what you need...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of FleetOwner, create an account today!