TM-9-2320-273-10

EFFICIENT AND ECONOMICAL DRIVING TECHNIQUES (M915 THROUGH M920) -

CONTINUED

Using Engine for Braking

WARNING

Do not use engine retarder on slippery road surfaces. Using

engine retarder on wet, icy, or snow covered roads may

result in loss of vehicle control. Failure to comply may result

in damage to equipment and injury or death to personnel.

Seek medical attention in the event of an injury.

CAUTION

Do not use engine retarder in ﬁrst, second, or third gears

except when descending steep grades. Never allow engine

speed to drop below 1,200 rpm with the engine retarder

applied. Do not engage the engine retarder when shifting or

when the transmission is in neutral. Failure to comply may

result in transmission damage.

1. Vehicle is equipped with retarder system which enables the engine to act as a

brake. The engine retarder should be used for descending grades in city traffic or

any situation where slowing is required but not on slipper road surfaces such as

rain, snow, or ice. Using the engine brake on slippery surfaces can cause the

vehicle to skid. Excessive use of the service brakes is not desirable. The engine

retarder is most effective between 1,750–2,000 rpm. The following procedures

should be applied when appropriate:

a. Place engine retarder switch on the instrument panel in the low position. If

more engine braking is needed, place engine retarder switch to the medium

position. If more engine braking is needed, set the engine retarder switch to

high.

b. Keep vehicle in a gear that allows driver to maintain 1,750–2,000 rpm. This

provides maximum engine braking effect.

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