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3.5 Fuel economy
Driving
Fuel Economy
a.
Drive smoothly, accelerate
gradually, avoid harsh
acceleration.
b.
Best fuel consumption is
obtained at low engine speeds
in the highest possible gear
without labouring the engine.
c.
Driving with accelerator pedal
fully depressed means using
excessive fuel.
d.
Do not allow the engine to
labour by too early high gear
changes. Change to lower gear
when engine no longer runs
smoothly.
e.
Switch ‘OFF’ engine when
stopping for long duration of
time.
f.
Do not ride clutch. Do not
use clutch pedal as foot rest.
g.
Do not allow leakage or spillage
of diesel.
h.
Always drive in correct gears.
i.
Do not over load the vehicle.
j.
Maintain correct tyre pressure.
k.
Always keep vehicle and engine
in good condition.
Operation in hilly terrains
In hilly terrain and where the
atmosphere is very humid, following
precautions should be taken.
Ensure that steering linkages and
brakes are in order and proper gears
are used during climbing and
descending. Make maximum use of
exhaust brake while descending.
With a little pressing of brake pedal,
exhaust brake first comes into action.
This will relieve driver of fatigue and
will increase the life of tyres, brake
linings and brake drums.
Note :
Diesel and clutch fluid, both being
hygroscopic, absorb moisture from
atmosphere.
●
Drain air tanks every day to
remove water.
●
Drain water from fuel water
separator.
●
Vehicle should be greased every
day to prevent formation of rust
on the exposed moving
surfaces. Servicing and
maintenance should be done as
specified.
●
Use same gear selection while
ascending and descending the
same slope.
Caution : Operating engine beyond
high idle speed can cause severe
engine damage. When descending a
steep gradient, use a combination of
transmission gears and exhaust
brake or service brake to control
vehicle and engine speed.
●
Use lower gears and brake
cautiously on wet and slippery
roads.
