Enjoyed part 2 just as much as part 1, Ron, and again, Thanks for showing this. It's one thing to watch the manufacture's own videos on the tech, but to hear and see a true opinion and reaction from a trustworthy guy really puts it in perspective.
Hi Ron, great to see you and Ethan getting to try that new automated transmission. We have had transmissions like that in Europe since the early 2000’s. Like many I was sceptical about them, but once you get used to using them you’d never go back to a manual. Thanks for taking us along. Stay safe out there.😎🇬🇧
Morning Mr Ron glad to see Ethan with you testing out the transmission hope all goes well. Prayers for your family and all the employees have a blessed weekend
@@RonPratt As I'm sure you know, Michigan gets plenty of winter weather. However, you seem to get more ice down there in Missouri. Maybe you should invite them down there for testing with a bunch of ice covering the roads...and the trucks top to bottom.
I completely recognise the "I'm looking for a clutch pedal" that Ethan said first time in the seat. I feel like that every time I drive an automatic - typically when I get a rental car. All cars I've ever owned are manual.
first time I drove an automatic I stopped at a red light and took my foot off the brake to sit on the clutch like I was used to from driving manual. That doesn't work so well in an automatic and I rolled into the car in front. It was just a gentle tap and no damage done, but man was I embarrassed.
Learns to shift after moving without using the clutch! Just the sound of the engine will tell you when to shift! That part I would miss with an automatic! But listening to the Stack and the whining of a Turbo is comforting to a guy after driving several hours! Especially in mountainous roads! I literally love your show Ron and this was a real treat. I would love to take a ride in one! I’m almost 79 and my driving days are over though!
This is the logical next step in power train development. I'm slightly surprised that it didn't happen earlier. Take a good, versatile hardware configuration and overlay it with some additional sensors and an expert system implemented in software and you have the next, possibly last road vehicles to require a human driver. Besides transmission and engine controls, it sounds like they've integrated rear end, differential and braking control to perform various "mission" activities as directed and prioritized by the driver/mission planner. I'm glad you guys got to participate in testing this new technology. I used to run an R & D lab so I know the satisfaction of having a part in developing new products and seeing them provide value for customers and advance the state of the art in your chosen field. I'll be interested to see how this works out in use after a year or two.
Volvo and scania have some of the best automated transmissions. They incorporate axle level sensors and air ride pressure to calculate weight, gyroscopic sensors to determine slope angle, GPS assisted cruise control based also on Data from other trucks to continuosly improve the shifting and driver comfort. And all of this is on top of engine/transmission integration.
Impressive to say the least! Ron in your discussion with Eaton, did they give you some idea on fuel economy advantages of the automatic vs a manual? I can see already a saving on the wear and tear on driveline comments,not to mention on the driver! Thanks for all you do! May the Good Lord Bless and Protect you and your crew!
One more thing I forgot to mention, seeing that glow in you driving these test vehicles absolutely puts me in a good mood as well! You are definately an absolute wonderful person ron. Seeing people like you is an absolute pleasure. If there was some kind of "TH-cam good conduct medal of the year", would so nominate you for the reward without question
Extremely impressive and interesting!!! The technology in the computer design driving this transmission is EXTREMELY IMPRESSIVE almost frightening in a sort of way !! WOW is all I can truly say!! having been a heavy truck driver and working in the HIGH TECH industry too for 30 years (IBM)!!! When I see this level of circuitry (Chip design and such) working with mechanical devices is really breath taking and thought provoking for me!!!! THANKS FOR THE RIDE Ron and This video as always Wishing you and Ethan the very best and see you next video! May God bless you all!!
Wonderful video Ron. Glad they researched and found a professional to help test and show what appears to be a superior transmission and computer aided control. Stay well. God Bless you and yours.
Thanks Ron and Ethan for the videos. That transmission and its design is engineering at its finest. The engine and shifting sounds are pure music to the ears.
I was at the eaten fuller proving grounds in 1998 when I was learning to drive. It was actually after had gotten hired with the company and they sent me up to the proving grounds with a group of drivers to learn how to drive in adverse conditions like wet roads and things of that such. I had a ball but I learned a lot. This was fun revisiting!
I really think it's great you got to go drive this with one of the engineers who personally worked on it. That's fantastic and you can tell he's personally invested in the performance of this.
Ron, did the Eaton reps mention about torque limiting in the lower gears? That truck with the steel plate is a real world mass for an Aussie truck with two trailers ( B-Double). The one they were talking about at higher weights is similar to a road train quad at 120t. After using various Eaton autos, skip-shift just makes it easier when pulling away from the lights than to have to go through all the gears every time. Mack also have a max braking system setup using the Volvo drivetrain. That 15% grade is also used for working out the GVM/GCM ( Gross Vehicle Mass/Gross Combination Mass) of a combination, where the engineers determine what the truck's maximum mass is for certification.
If they did, I do not remember. This was a whirlwind trip with a lot of information. My main concern was how well it performed and the longevity of the system. The performance surpassed what I could have ever thought possible with an automated transmission. As for the longevity, we will have to see. In video #1, linked in the description of this video, I drive a Roberts Towing unit that had been field-testing this transmission system for 18 months at the time of filming, which was in May. The owner of Roberts Towing was there as well. After he test drove the various trucks and saw the enhanced functions, he decided to upfit three trucks that he already in production.....he made it happen that day, so there must be something to this system. Thanks for watching and God bless.
I'm wondering how these transmissions would hold up in a trash/refuse/garbage truck, especially with all the stop and go they do, I think it would be great for like a city route with very little grade but I would like to see what it can do on a rural route with multiple grades and road angles and road surfaces (dirt/paved/concrete) and different weather and extreme weather surfaces, it looks like a great transmission
@@arbiter1 I know for a fact that a lot of garbage trucks have been using automatic transmission for many years, I'm just wondering how these new ones will work out for the trash industry
@@jamesalinio5277 These transmissions are certainly overkill for a typical garbage truck. Im sure it would handle it fine, but probably not an economical spec to build($$$$$). Performance cars have had automated manual systems of various types for many years, in my experience they have much longer clutch lives then even the best manual drivers.
garbage trucks would honestly be better off with hydrostatic or diesel-electric drive. This way you make the engine speed completely disconnected from the vehicle speed, so it doesn't matter if the truck is moving or not, the engine can always run at the most efficient speed and you'll always have max pressure on the hydraulics and pneumatics no matter what. It's also far more economic because an engine running at constant speed uses less fuel than one that has to rev up every few seconds. The fact most of them are still made with traditional engines and transmissions is just mind-blowingly stupid for something that has to stop every few feet. It's why we in Europe have had hybrid and electric garbage trucks in some cities for years now
Test it with ambient temperature over 90f for 10 hours and see how long it lasts. I hope Eaton has improved since I last drove a big rig with a Eaton transmission.
One thing Scania has developed into their newest trucks is an automatic transmission with clutch pedal on demand. Basically there is a clutch pedal in place, but it is not needed for getting going by default. The truck functions just like a full automatic truck. But you can change the settings so that the clutch pedal is used. Best feature ever here in Finland, with really harsh and long winters.
It's good to see Cummins and Eaton joining to develop this transmission. A long time ago, when I worked at a bus company, the engines and transmissions were mechanical. Electronic transmissions (automatic, with torque converter) came first. When electronic engines were used in medium duty applications, we only added the electronic transmissions. Someone had to explain to me the advantages of having the electronic engine communicate with the transmission. I can only imagine that it's even more important for these heavy duty applications. I'm not as ignorant as I was 30 years ago, but I appreciate the info in this video and thank you (Ron) for sharing with us.
The engineering that went into designing this platform is astounding. I've always been a Cummins fan and an Eaton fan, but not too big on the automatic transmission or "automated" as they are calling them now. After this trip my mind has been changed. This Endurant XD platform is on a whole new level, light years beyond anything I've ever encountered. It shifts smoother than I can and makes driving so much easier. And, at my age, the easier part is important. Stay safe my friend. God bless.
I'll watch the rest of this video later. Two things stand out. One back when I started driving in the mid 70s everybody kept saying less gears and less power are better for fuel mileage. Uh right! Second when mu trucks go into a shop for repair the number one problem that I seem to have isn't a bad component it's a bad sensor. How many sensors does this thing have? A properly geared and powered 13 or 18 speed is still my preference.
Well of a 13 speed auto, the only issues I run into is the split gears are in the low range and if thoughtful for a bit or have an empty trailer then hook up to a heavy load it takes longer to start because it hasn't understands that you got a load on and well try to start you out in 5th till it learns the new weight about half mile or so. So if you stop before it learns you might want to downshift it to 2nd or 3rd for easier starts. On the high side when I get to the bottom of a hill I downshift it so it climbs easier and don't lose so much speed, going thru Omaha on 80 I can keep around 62 mph fully loaded being govern at 65, if i don't ill be down to 55 or so. Also ill switch to manual when I get around 9th gear on the on ramp to run it into higher rpm 16 17 hundred to pick up speed quicker, usually adds about 10 mph by end of on ramp compared to the economy setting.
I do not drive anymore but (I’m 78) more power more gears and good rear ends! That where I was when I quit driving! I watch you drive and it’s natural to yo to shift! A good driver will automatically know where to go! Love to watch your show and love the way you go through the necessary procedure’s to Get the thing either to the shop or baa a close on the road! Raymond is a good man but seems like he would like your Compliments! He has a a hard worker and knows what he is doing! Loved watching your dad and you work together! I was so saddened that he passed but I believe he is inn a better place! Thanks Ron for the good language and encouragement to your crew! You are a very respectful man to all you work for! Love your show! Post more I’m almost through all of the 👍
Dang Ron it seems like yesterday that Ethan and his friend were fishing at a lake and he’s all grown up now it’s making me feel a little old but great to see how he’s grown and driving the big trucks now!!!! Amazing video as usual and I’ll see you in the next video!!!!
I wonder if a CVT style transmission would work for heavy duty trucks. It could work in a way to keep the rpm within the best torque output at all speeds.
CVT has an issue with belt slip when you push it too hard, as in throw too much torque or acceleration at it for the weight/resistance it has to overcome - it's why they in (agricultural) tractors usually combine CVT with a 3-4 speed or hydrostatic transmission. And this is why you generally only see CVT in vehicles that are light-weight or slow.
@@JoeHupp I shift and opti cruise is DSG box not a CVT also duel and triple clutches with upto 8 packs with pre select high or low this box is way late for euro trucks but probably good for the US Market I think DAF if anyone will use it in the EU this is basically a gen 2 I shift or opti cruise auto box
Looks like an unbelievable opportunity to be able to get to try such an amazing new product as that Eaton transmission. Hope you are able to get one in one of your company trucks soon
Ron I was going to say no way on this but watching the rig with 145k on it backing up the grade without applying fuel or throwing drive lines or tail shaft out of transmission or anything mechanical for that matter and you and I both know it has and will happen was absolutely amazing thank you for sharing such footage with us and for you allowing Ethan to get hands on experience God Bless you Ron
Yep, that's what sold me on it too. My 18 speed manual would be bucking and jumping before (if) I got it to go backwards up the 15% grade with that kind of weight. It was extremely impressive. Thanks for watching and God bless.
In my experience its not good in dump trucks that have to drive on site. When its muddy they can get stuck easier because you can't rock the truck a little or start in a higher gear to get moving. After watching the video more it sounds like they worked that part out.
I drive a truck (in England) and have had something very similar for FIFTEEN years and would not want to go back to 3 pedals and a big stick. It is EVERY bit as good, for the work I do. To avoid confusion, I prefer to call it a Semi-Automated Manual Transmission, rather than automatic. To me, automatics go in cars and are a very different thing.
I don't know how many ponies those engines have but that is part of the equation of how fast the loaded truck accelerates... Also you might consider installing the auto chain system to your fleet seeings how you have such severe weather in the winter. It would allow much quicker response times along with the safety factor of not having your people exposed to the dangers associated with installing the chains alongside the road in slippery ice conditions. I know it is a bit of an expense but so is getting people hurt. It would make deploying chains as easy as a flick of a switch. Just something to think about. These new 18 speed Eaton transmissions appear to be the new wave coming in the trucking industry.
In the video he says it's not recommended to swap it into a manual truck. Lots of stuff needs to be changed (possibly even the engine). So looks like new builds only.
It was pretty cool to see you guys geeking out about the stuff because I even was geeking out about it. Plus big shout out to FireKeepers I miss going down there and have a little fun.
The sheer mass of wheels/tires/axles and their placement boggles my mind to pieces. A crazy thing right there. I suppose it's keeping more weight off the tractor and on the trailer. Pretty cool seeing Ethan have a go.
I still prefer the Allisson HD4000 series transmission over the automated manuals. Yes this transmission has 18 speeds, However we have had no issues pulling 100k combined weight of truck and loaded trailer with the Allison MD4000 with only 6 gears.
Talk about torque, at 19:00, just after you talked about feeling the torque, looking at the right side of the hood, I watched as the whole body twisted upwards on the shift.
ron . i been driving for 40 plus years yes that would be nice trans to run but one thing you tested this that is set up the way it should be but as you may know either the dealer will screw this up and not run this way or a company own truck the owner screws it so it never work the way it should
I am just curious how difficult it is to make all these changes in the settings... Like would it need to be taken to a shop each time or can it be done in the truck?
WOW! Good thing you have the video to learn from should you decide to purchase one. Man there was a lot of information to remember. Perhaps an instructor comes with each purchase that can help the first week or two! All the best and God bless.
Loved the first part, but this??? Wow, Eaton has gone beyond what the future drivers will drive. Ron, I'm old school like you but love the new tech. How awesome for the Pratt faimly to be apart of this new tech going foward!!! Dad is smilling down! I can feel it!!! 👍🏻👍🏻😎😎😎
GREAT video, learned a lot about this automatic transmission, it's going to be a performance transmission, no clutching!! Hope this is what the 12 speed automated system is like.... great questions you asked....
So....maybe I should change the thumbnail? Was wondering why the view count was so low on this video compared to my other videos. Perhaps that's part of the issue??
Ok first; I meant the drone shot was crazy good, because it framed the truck perfectly. Then the view count issue: that's a whole other rabbit hole. TH-cam's algorithm is weird in that way. I've heard other TH-camrs discuss this exact topic at length. They are making their thumbnails as clickbaity as possible with their faces in extremely shocked/surprised positions. I'm not saying that you should. But I'm guessing you mostly rely on your subscribers for the views? In that case the thumbnail was alright I think. Nobody knows exactly what gets the most clicks or watch time. I'm no TH-camr myself, I just try to answer your question as broad as possible. I do know I got this information from Linus from Linus tech tips, from listening to his WAN shows mostly. But they are a chore to dig through as they give these bits of information mostly from answering viewer questions thought-out the shows. In conclusion: I wish I had a more clear cut answer for you, but if this keeps happening it might be time to do some research into the TH-cam algorithm. Keep it up! :)
And yes other TH-camrs change thumbnails and even titles regularly to catch different audiences. The most clickbaity thumbnail and title for the people that get notifications, after 12 to 24 hours the title gets more to the point, etc. Again: not saying change your strategy immediately and scare away existing audience, but it's a thing to look out for if this keeps happening. I hope this helps! EDIT: I removed some links to video's as they weren't as useful in your situation.
@@SrApathy33 Ok. Yes the drone shots are cool. I used their drone shot and reframed it in one of my photo editors to center it up. As far as the algorithm goes....I can't and won't try to understand it. My channel is honest and family-friendly. I do try to chose thumbnail shots that I believe people will find interesting. However, I try not to get into the click-bait issue anymore. I have in the past and I don't really like doing that. I want people to watch my videos for their content, not their "shock" value. That's not what I'm about. I've tried figuring out all the tips and tricks. What I think is an amazing video will sometimes "tank", while a video I produce that I believe is mediocre will hit 100K views withing the 1st 24 hours. I just never know what a video is going to do, so I create my own style and put it out there. Either it goes over well or it doesn't. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Fascinating! I'm a bit of a gearhead and I'm somewhat familiar with the trucking industry but you could put all I know in a coffee mug and have room left over... But still... Hot Dang! That thing is amazing! Change modes on the fly? Automatic neutral? The Rock Free function - and in reverse? It senses what surface and type of driving you're doing? What the heck???
looks like have to learn all over, Takes all the fun out of shifting. But makes your job easier don't have to watch when to shit or what gear it is all done for you. Thanks Ron that was interesting. How long before you order one LOL.
Well.....I didn't see one, but.....who knows....it seemed to be able to do almost anything else. And this system is light years ahead of anything I've ever experienced, so, perhaps it is technology that's "back to the future". Thanks for watching and God bless.
Not sure what is in this International LT OTR truck I am in but I do like the auto. Don’t think I ever would have done this with the whole manual thing as I hate shifting and using the clutch. But the auto restriction is the stupidest restriction ever. I had a B for years without a restriction and was driving straight trucks on occasion with manual. But because I went to an A but tested in an auto they stamped it on me.
Impressive, Ron. The challenge in getting the best use out of this transmission will be ultimately down to the driver. Just jumping in the cab and driving off won’t be enough. It is essential that the truck dealer gives the buyer a really comprehensive handover on purchase. I have never driven a big truck, but my last 5 cars have all had VW DSG transmissions and I have no intention of ever reverting to a manual box. !! Best Wishes from the UK.
Changing from a manual to an "old school" automatic is already an 'ease of use' improvement for most typical situations. With the descriptions given to you as you were putting those trucks through their paces as well as your feedback while utilizing the various functions, this transmission seems to be an amazing advancement for heavy haul. I could sense your disappointment when you found out it wouldn't be a simple swap-out for the transmission in the Rotator or other trucks. The amount of required integration into other systems like the brakes is mind boggling, but at the same time it's what makes this new transmission technology so amazing. The skeptic in me says the technology may be like a dream come true, but now there's exponentially more and/or more costly things that can go wrong.
I commented on Ron's post last night about whether or not it would be possible to retrofit these new transmissions into older, existing trucks like Tator & Lil' Pete, but they answered that question in this video. Now I'm thinking whether it would be feasibly cost effective to do a body swap onto a new build chassis with this system instead. Like putting Tator's Century 1150R body onto a new Peterbilt 389 chassis, or Lil' Pete's Century 4024 body onto a new Peterbilt chassis (Peterbilt doesn't make the model 337 anymore so another chassis would need to be used). Take care & GOD BLESS Y'ALL!!
@@whatsmynameagain691 over time it may pay for itself in terms of fuel savings, but also health wise. But doing emergency calls with an automatic is also much safer. Negotiating traffic at high speed while shifting gears is terrible. You want to be able to focus on driving, not having to keep half a mind on shifting and splitting gears correctly
I was hoping they could fit this Endurant XD into my existing rotator which has an 18 speed manual. While technically possible, I was told it was not advisable due to the complexity of the system and all the work, cost, etc., that would be required to fit it...not to mention the downtime. Hopefully, someday I'll get to order a new one already set up. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Enjoyed part 2 just as much as part 1, Ron, and again, Thanks for showing this. It's one thing to watch the manufacture's own videos on the tech, but to hear and see a true opinion and reaction from a trustworthy guy really puts it in perspective.
You can bank on Ron's opinions, as he is on of the best!
Thanks
Thank you for watching and God bless.
Hi Ron, great to see you and Ethan getting to try that new automated transmission. We have had transmissions like that in Europe since the early 2000’s. Like many I was sceptical about them, but once you get used to using them you’d never go back to a manual. Thanks for taking us along. Stay safe out there.😎🇬🇧
Even if this was not something you would use yourself, days like this realy give you info about the trucks you are towing!
"This is easier to drive than my car!" Ethan. Love it!
Ron thank you for the two video's with Eaton Fuller. They put a lot of thought into how it shifts up and down hills. It has been educational.
Morning Mr Ron glad to see Ethan with you testing out the transmission hope all goes well. Prayers for your family and all the employees have a blessed weekend
Excellent video. Love the information. Again I’m glad you and Ethan got to be there.
Good morning all, Ron, what you and Ethan are doing would be so much fun and a great bonding experience for the 2 of you !!!!! Have fun!!!!!!
I would love to see these in a snow and ice setting, how they react to chains on the tires, or just low traction situations.
Along with that, I'd like to see how it does on steep grades in winter, both going up and down the grade.
Great point!
Perhaps they will be kind enough to invite me back for some Winter weather testing???
@@RonPratt As I'm sure you know, Michigan gets plenty of winter weather. However, you seem to get more ice down there in Missouri. Maybe you should invite them down there for testing with a bunch of ice covering the roads...and the trucks top to bottom.
If its like Volvo I-shift, its perfect.
A police owned Rotator could be called a Popotator.
I completely recognise the "I'm looking for a clutch pedal" that Ethan said first time in the seat. I feel like that every time I drive an automatic - typically when I get a rental car. All cars I've ever owned are manual.
My Silverado at home is a 5-speed and my Cascadia is a 12-speed automated manual so I know the feeling.
first time I drove an automatic I stopped at a red light and took my foot off the brake to sit on the clutch like I was used to from driving manual. That doesn't work so well in an automatic and I rolled into the car in front. It was just a gentle tap and no damage done, but man was I embarrassed.
Ron, anyone who has driven a standard
Learns to shift after moving without using the clutch!
Just the sound of the engine will tell you when to shift!
That part I would miss with an automatic! But listening to the
Stack and the whining of a Turbo is comforting to a guy after driving several hours! Especially in mountainous roads!
I literally love your show Ron and this was a real treat. I would love to take a ride in one!
I’m almost 79 and my driving days are over though!
This is the logical next step in power train development. I'm slightly surprised that it didn't happen earlier.
Take a good, versatile hardware configuration and overlay it with some additional sensors and an expert system implemented in software and you have the next, possibly last road vehicles to require a human driver. Besides transmission and engine controls, it sounds like they've integrated rear end, differential and braking control to perform various "mission" activities as directed and prioritized by the driver/mission planner.
I'm glad you guys got to participate in testing this new technology. I used to run an R & D lab so I know the satisfaction of having a part in developing new products and seeing them provide value for customers and advance the state of the art in your chosen field. I'll be interested to see how this works out in use after a year or two.
it did happen earlier, in Europe they've used automatic 12 speeds for decades
Volvo and scania have some of the best automated transmissions. They incorporate axle level sensors and air ride pressure to calculate weight, gyroscopic sensors to determine slope angle, GPS assisted cruise control based also on Data from other trucks to continuosly improve the shifting and driver comfort. And all of this is on top of engine/transmission integration.
I love watching all your vlog it was cool I wood love to see you have one so thank you for your show and my god bless you and your family
Impressive to say the least! Ron in your discussion with Eaton, did they give you some idea on fuel economy advantages of the automatic vs a manual? I can see already a saving on the wear and tear on driveline comments,not to mention on the driver! Thanks for all you do! May the Good Lord Bless and Protect you and your crew!
i know right and by the way do you have face book?
We have the 12 speed version they say about 0.7 miles per gallon.
One more thing I forgot to mention, seeing that glow in you driving these test vehicles absolutely puts me in a good mood as well! You are definately an absolute wonderful person ron. Seeing people like you is an absolute pleasure. If there was some kind of "TH-cam good conduct medal of the year", would so nominate you for the reward without question
Ron, thank you for sharing this !
Extremely impressive and interesting!!! The technology in the computer design driving this transmission is EXTREMELY IMPRESSIVE almost frightening in a sort of way !! WOW is all I can truly say!! having been a heavy truck driver and working in the HIGH TECH industry too for 30 years (IBM)!!! When I see this level of circuitry (Chip design and such) working with mechanical devices is really breath taking and thought provoking for me!!!! THANKS FOR THE RIDE Ron and This video as always Wishing you and Ethan the very best and see you next video! May God bless you all!!
....great info, keep safe...
Wow that’s amazing.
Very fascinating how smooth that is.
Wonderful video Ron. Glad they researched and found a professional to help test and show what appears to be a superior transmission and computer aided control. Stay well. God Bless you and yours.
It was an honored to have been invited. They had developed a true marvel. Thanks for watching and God bless.
That looks like a much improved system over what I was used to with there products. I would be willing to give that one a shot when there available.
I can't believe I just watched this whole video. Didn't even feel that long. Good info, good video. Thanks Ron and Ethan.
Thanks Ron and Ethan for the videos. That transmission and its design is engineering at its finest. The engine and shifting sounds are pure music to the ears.
That transmission is a real beast!
Nice👍the company truck I drive has the same shifter stalk, so this is teaching me about the functions I haven’t used yet 👍🤠
All i can say WOW!
That is some impressive tech! Very cool to see Ethan behind the wheel.
I was at the eaten fuller proving grounds in 1998 when I was learning to drive. It was actually after had gotten hired with the company and they sent me up to the proving grounds with a group of drivers to learn how to drive in adverse conditions like wet roads and things of that such. I had a ball but I learned a lot. This was fun revisiting!
Very intresting in a lot of ways. I can see this improving trucking & heavy tow and recovery industry a lot
it is really neat to see all the torque at work
I really think it's great you got to go drive this with one of the engineers who personally worked on it. That's fantastic and you can tell he's personally invested in the performance of this.
It was very interesting Ron. Thank you for sharing this video with us. Have a safe trip back home. And may God bless you and your family.
It's nice stuff, it costs a few bucks, but then you also have something good. Good luck. Seen on 15-7-22 at 17:28 in Amsterdam (NL).
Very impressive! Thanks for the great videos, Ron, and sharing your experience!
It was an honor to have been invited and I'm glad to share the experience with my viewers. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Cummins power!
Now you have to explain to MOM Prat that you need a new truck, don't forget the flowers and chocolates (good luck lol)
Awesome video keep up with a great work and be safe out there.
Ron, did the Eaton reps mention about torque limiting in the lower gears?
That truck with the steel plate is a real world mass for an Aussie truck with two trailers ( B-Double). The one they were talking about at higher weights is similar to a road train quad at 120t.
After using various Eaton autos, skip-shift just makes it easier when pulling away from the lights than to have to go through all the gears every time.
Mack also have a max braking system setup using the Volvo drivetrain.
That 15% grade is also used for working out the GVM/GCM ( Gross Vehicle Mass/Gross Combination Mass) of a combination, where the engineers determine what the truck's maximum mass is for certification.
If they did, I do not remember. This was a whirlwind trip with a lot of information. My main concern was how well it performed and the longevity of the system. The performance surpassed what I could have ever thought possible with an automated transmission. As for the longevity, we will have to see. In video #1, linked in the description of this video, I drive a Roberts Towing unit that had been field-testing this transmission system for 18 months at the time of filming, which was in May. The owner of Roberts Towing was there as well. After he test drove the various trucks and saw the enhanced functions, he decided to upfit three trucks that he already in production.....he made it happen that day, so there must be something to this system. Thanks for watching and God bless.
I'm wondering how these transmissions would hold up in a trash/refuse/garbage truck, especially with all the stop and go they do, I think it would be great for like a city route with very little grade but I would like to see what it can do on a rural route with multiple grades and road angles and road surfaces (dirt/paved/concrete) and different weather and extreme weather surfaces, it looks like a great transmission
pretty sure most garbage trucks been using autos for a long time
@@arbiter1 I know for a fact that a lot of garbage trucks have been using automatic transmission for many years, I'm just wondering how these new ones will work out for the trash industry
@@jamesalinio5277 These transmissions are certainly overkill for a typical garbage truck. Im sure it would handle it fine, but probably not an economical spec to build($$$$$).
Performance cars have had automated manual systems of various types for many years, in my experience they have much longer clutch lives then even the best manual drivers.
garbage trucks would honestly be better off with hydrostatic or diesel-electric drive. This way you make the engine speed completely disconnected from the vehicle speed, so it doesn't matter if the truck is moving or not, the engine can always run at the most efficient speed and you'll always have max pressure on the hydraulics and pneumatics no matter what. It's also far more economic because an engine running at constant speed uses less fuel than one that has to rev up every few seconds. The fact most of them are still made with traditional engines and transmissions is just mind-blowingly stupid for something that has to stop every few feet. It's why we in Europe have had hybrid and electric garbage trucks in some cities for years now
Good morning Ron & crew! Hope everyone has a safe day & stay hydrated!
That was so awesome and incredible!!!!
As always, love your videos. It was great to see Ethan participating to include test driving.
Keep up the good work Ron god bless love watching you on TH-cam
This is an awesome transmission so when will we see it in the Rotator 😁
Test it with ambient temperature over 90f for 10 hours and see how long it lasts. I hope Eaton has improved since I last drove a big rig with a Eaton transmission.
Hilarious. The Fuller Roadranger was an industry-standard in transmissions - but, you had trouble with them...
I love the tech! on these trucks!
One thing Scania has developed into their newest trucks is an automatic transmission with clutch pedal on demand. Basically there is a clutch pedal in place, but it is not needed for getting going by default. The truck functions just like a full automatic truck. But you can change the settings so that the clutch pedal is used. Best feature ever here in Finland, with really harsh and long winters.
I guess we now know what drivetrains rons new trucks will have... Lol. Great performance on those auto transmissions
It's good to see Cummins and Eaton joining to develop this transmission. A long time ago, when I worked at a bus company, the engines and transmissions were mechanical. Electronic transmissions (automatic, with torque converter) came first. When electronic engines were used in medium duty applications, we only added the electronic transmissions. Someone had to explain to me the advantages of having the electronic engine communicate with the transmission. I can only imagine that it's even more important for these heavy duty applications. I'm not as ignorant as I was 30 years ago, but I appreciate the info in this video and thank you (Ron) for sharing with us.
The engineering that went into designing this platform is astounding. I've always been a Cummins fan and an Eaton fan, but not too big on the automatic transmission or "automated" as they are calling them now. After this trip my mind has been changed. This Endurant XD platform is on a whole new level, light years beyond anything I've ever encountered. It shifts smoother than I can and makes driving so much easier. And, at my age, the easier part is important. Stay safe my friend. God bless.
Oh I see mid-west getting a truck with this transmission in it for the shop in the future
I have the 12 speed endurant for last 3 years been good transmissions no problems at all.
I'll watch the rest of this video later. Two things stand out. One back when I started driving in the mid 70s everybody kept saying less gears and less power are better for fuel mileage. Uh right! Second when mu trucks go into a shop for repair the number one problem that I seem to have isn't a bad component it's a bad sensor. How many sensors does this thing have? A properly geared and powered 13 or 18 speed is still my preference.
Well of a 13 speed auto, the only issues I run into is the split gears are in the low range and if thoughtful for a bit or have an empty trailer then hook up to a heavy load it takes longer to start because it hasn't understands that you got a load on and well try to start you out in 5th till it learns the new weight about half mile or so. So if you stop before it learns you might want to downshift it to 2nd or 3rd for easier starts. On the high side when I get to the bottom of a hill I downshift it so it climbs easier and don't lose so much speed, going thru Omaha on 80 I can keep around 62 mph fully loaded being govern at 65, if i don't ill be down to 55 or so. Also ill switch to manual when I get around 9th gear on the on ramp to run it into higher rpm 16 17 hundred to pick up speed quicker, usually adds about 10 mph by end of on ramp compared to the economy setting.
I do not drive anymore but (I’m 78) more power more gears and good rear ends! That where I was when I quit driving!
I watch you drive and it’s natural to yo to shift! A good driver will automatically know where to go!
Love to watch your show and love the way you go through the necessary procedure’s to
Get the thing either to the shop or baa a close on the road!
Raymond is a good man but seems like he would like your
Compliments! He has a a hard worker and knows what he is doing!
Loved watching your dad and you work together! I was so saddened that he passed but I believe he is inn a better place!
Thanks Ron for the good language and encouragement to your crew! You are a very respectful man to all you work for!
Love your show!
Post more I’m almost through all of the 👍
Dang Ron it seems like yesterday that Ethan and his friend were fishing at a lake and he’s all grown up now it’s making me feel a little old but great to see how he’s grown and driving the big trucks now!!!! Amazing video as usual and I’ll see you in the next video!!!!
Awesome!
I wonder if a CVT style transmission would work for heavy duty trucks. It could work in a way to keep the rpm within the best torque output at all speeds.
Volvo do have them - they have a dual clutch version of the i-Shift
CVT has an issue with belt slip when you push it too hard, as in throw too much torque or acceleration at it for the weight/resistance it has to overcome - it's why they in (agricultural) tractors usually combine CVT with a 3-4 speed or hydrostatic transmission. And this is why you generally only see CVT in vehicles that are light-weight or slow.
@@JoeHupp you're thinking of a DSG - it's got nothing to do with CVT
@@JoeHupp I shift and opti cruise is DSG box not a CVT also duel and triple clutches with upto 8 packs with pre select high or low this box is way late for euro trucks but probably good for the US Market I think DAF if anyone will use it in the EU this is basically a gen 2 I shift or opti cruise auto box
Looks like an unbelievable opportunity to be able to get to try such an amazing new product as that Eaton transmission.
Hope you are able to get one in one of your company trucks soon
Cool transmission
I really enjoyed this interesting video, even though I do not drive.
Ron I was going to say no way on this but watching the rig with 145k on it backing up the grade without applying fuel or throwing drive lines or tail shaft out of transmission or anything mechanical for that matter and you and I both know it has and will happen was absolutely amazing thank you for sharing such footage with us and for you allowing Ethan to get hands on experience God Bless you Ron
Yep, that's what sold me on it too. My 18 speed manual would be bucking and jumping before (if) I got it to go backwards up the 15% grade with that kind of weight. It was extremely impressive. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Thanks for sharing! This transmission setup seems like a beast!!!!
Big question: Can you think of a situation where you WOULD NOT want to have that transmission?
In my experience its not good in dump trucks that have to drive on site. When its muddy they can get stuck easier because you can't rock the truck a little or start in a higher gear to get moving. After watching the video more it sounds like they worked that part out.
I drive a truck (in England) and have had something very similar for FIFTEEN years and would not want to go back to 3 pedals and a big stick. It is EVERY bit as good, for the work I do.
To avoid confusion, I prefer to call it a Semi-Automated Manual Transmission, rather than automatic. To me, automatics go in cars and are a very different thing.
nice system as long as all the electronics keep working. When you buying one?
Good morning from Southeast South Dakota
Sorry but I will stick with my manual transmission
I don't know how many ponies those engines have but that is part of the equation of how fast the loaded truck accelerates... Also you might consider installing the auto chain system to your fleet seeings how you have such severe weather in the winter. It would allow much quicker response times along with the safety factor of not having your people exposed to the dangers associated with installing the chains alongside the road in slippery ice conditions. I know it is a bit of an expense but so is getting people hurt. It would make deploying chains as easy as a flick of a switch. Just something to think about.
These new 18 speed Eaton transmissions appear to be the new wave coming in the trucking industry.
I see Eaton finally built an automatic transmission that competes with the Allison automatic transmission.
This is not an automatic, but an automated manual, there is a difference.
So can you put one of those in TATER-- or is that for NEWLY built trucks only?
In the video he says it's not recommended to swap it into a manual truck. Lots of stuff needs to be changed (possibly even the engine). So looks like new builds only.
See at around 23:00 - New only, no retrofit (at least they don't think it'll be a good idea)
It was pretty cool to see you guys geeking out about the stuff because I even was geeking out about it. Plus big shout out to FireKeepers I miss going down there and have a little fun.
That Transmission in those different trucks is amazing!
Yes it was. Looking forward to having one in our fleet....someday. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Definitely very informative video!!!! Loved it 🇺🇲👍
The sheer mass of wheels/tires/axles and their placement boggles my mind to pieces. A crazy thing right there. I suppose it's keeping more weight off the tractor and on the trailer. Pretty cool seeing Ethan have a go.
Did Ethan get a CDL already?
I still prefer the Allisson HD4000 series transmission over the automated manuals. Yes this transmission has 18 speeds, However we have had no issues pulling 100k combined weight of truck and loaded trailer with the Allison MD4000 with only 6 gears.
Talk about torque, at 19:00, just after you talked about feeling the torque, looking at the right side of the hood, I watched as the whole body twisted upwards on the shift.
So if Midwest expands the fleet the new rig will have one of these in it.
Is that the new 2023 peterbilt
ron . i been driving for 40 plus years yes that would be nice trans to run but one thing you tested this that is set up the way it should be but as you may know either the dealer will screw this up and not run this way or a company own truck the owner screws it so it never work the way it should
I am just curious how difficult it is to make all these changes in the settings... Like would it need to be taken to a shop each time or can it be done in the truck?
So when will we see a new rotator with this set up?
WOW!
Good thing you have the video to learn from should you decide to purchase one. Man there was a lot of information to remember. Perhaps an instructor comes with each purchase that can help the first week or two! All the best and God bless.
Loved the first part, but this??? Wow, Eaton has gone beyond what the future drivers will drive. Ron, I'm old school like you but love the new tech. How awesome for the Pratt faimly to be apart of this new tech going foward!!! Dad is smilling down! I can feel it!!! 👍🏻👍🏻😎😎😎
It was an honor and a humbling experience. This new platform is AMAZING!!! Thanks for watching and God bless.
Ron Thanks for bringing us along. Very impressive 👍
It was an honor to have been invited and I'm glad to share the experience with my viewers. Thanks for watching and God bless.
GREAT video, learned a lot about this automatic transmission, it's going to be a performance transmission, no clutching!! Hope this is what the 12 speed automated system is like.... great questions you asked....
The 12 speed works a lot like this one.
Splendid, thank you guys!
Man drone shots are crazy. The thumbnail made me think this was from American Truck Simulator!
So....maybe I should change the thumbnail? Was wondering why the view count was so low on this video compared to my other videos. Perhaps that's part of the issue??
Ok first; I meant the drone shot was crazy good, because it framed the truck perfectly.
Then the view count issue: that's a whole other rabbit hole. TH-cam's algorithm is weird in that way. I've heard other TH-camrs discuss this exact topic at length. They are making their thumbnails as clickbaity as possible with their faces in extremely shocked/surprised positions. I'm not saying that you should. But I'm guessing you mostly rely on your subscribers for the views? In that case the thumbnail was alright I think. Nobody knows exactly what gets the most clicks or watch time. I'm no TH-camr myself, I just try to answer your question as broad as possible. I do know I got this information from Linus from Linus tech tips, from listening to his WAN shows mostly. But they are a chore to dig through as they give these bits of information mostly from answering viewer questions thought-out the shows. In conclusion: I wish I had a more clear cut answer for you, but if this keeps happening it might be time to do some research into the TH-cam algorithm. Keep it up! :)
And yes other TH-camrs change thumbnails and even titles regularly to catch different audiences. The most clickbaity thumbnail and title for the people that get notifications, after 12 to 24 hours the title gets more to the point, etc. Again: not saying change your strategy immediately and scare away existing audience, but it's a thing to look out for if this keeps happening. I hope this helps! EDIT: I removed some links to video's as they weren't as useful in your situation.
@@SrApathy33 Ok. Yes the drone shots are cool. I used their drone shot and reframed it in one of my photo editors to center it up. As far as the algorithm goes....I can't and won't try to understand it. My channel is honest and family-friendly. I do try to chose thumbnail shots that I believe people will find interesting. However, I try not to get into the click-bait issue anymore. I have in the past and I don't really like doing that. I want people to watch my videos for their content, not their "shock" value. That's not what I'm about. I've tried figuring out all the tips and tricks. What I think is an amazing video will sometimes "tank", while a video I produce that I believe is mediocre will hit 100K views withing the 1st 24 hours. I just never know what a video is going to do, so I create my own style and put it out there. Either it goes over well or it doesn't. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Awesome video I am really impressed with how all the trucks ran so smooth.
And for anyone interested, that's nearly 2000 views in the first hour.
Ron I just found your channel and I just started making my own trucking content, yours is so awesome!
I like this Endurant HD Pro,it seems to be an efficient,dependable,12 speed transmission.
Sorry Endurant XD Pro
I drive a new 579 daycab and the interior and controls are set up almost identical to the heavy haul truck. It's really neat.
I enjoyed the video and found it impressing. Thank you both for extending it to your channel.
Any thoughts about upgrading ?
Fascinating! I'm a bit of a gearhead and I'm somewhat familiar with the trucking industry but you could put all I know in a coffee mug and have room left over... But still...
Hot Dang! That thing is amazing! Change modes on the fly? Automatic neutral? The Rock Free function - and in reverse? It senses what surface and type of driving you're doing? What the heck???
looks like have to learn all over, Takes all the fun out of shifting. But makes your job easier don't have to watch when to shit or what gear it is all done for you. Thanks Ron that was interesting. How long before you order one LOL.
Fantastic, Wow....
ok that awsome and cool does it have flux capacitor too lol
Well.....I didn't see one, but.....who knows....it seemed to be able to do almost anything else. And this system is light years ahead of anything I've ever experienced, so, perhaps it is technology that's "back to the future". Thanks for watching and God bless.
Not sure what is in this International LT OTR truck I am in but I do like the auto. Don’t think I ever would have done this with the whole manual thing as I hate shifting and using the clutch. But the auto restriction is the stupidest restriction ever. I had a B for years without a restriction and was driving straight trucks on occasion with manual. But because I went to an A but tested in an auto they stamped it on me.
Impressive, Ron. The challenge in getting the best use out of this transmission will be ultimately down to the driver. Just jumping in the cab and driving off won’t be enough. It is essential that the truck dealer gives the buyer a really comprehensive handover on purchase.
I have never driven a big truck, but my last 5 cars have all had VW DSG transmissions and I have no intention of ever reverting to a manual box. !! Best Wishes from the UK.
Changing from a manual to an "old school" automatic is already an 'ease of use' improvement for most typical situations.
With the descriptions given to you as you were putting those trucks through their paces as well as your feedback while utilizing the various functions, this transmission seems to be an amazing advancement for heavy haul.
I could sense your disappointment when you found out it wouldn't be a simple swap-out for the transmission in the Rotator or other trucks.
The amount of required integration into other systems like the brakes is mind boggling, but at the same time it's what makes this new transmission technology so amazing.
The skeptic in me says the technology may be like a dream come true, but now there's exponentially more and/or more costly things that can go wrong.
I commented on Ron's post last night about whether or not it would be possible to retrofit these new transmissions into older, existing trucks like Tator & Lil' Pete, but they answered that question in this video. Now I'm thinking whether it would be feasibly cost effective to do a body swap onto a new build chassis with this system instead. Like putting Tator's Century 1150R body onto a new Peterbilt 389 chassis, or Lil' Pete's Century 4024 body onto a new Peterbilt chassis (Peterbilt doesn't make the model 337 anymore so another chassis would need to be used). Take care & GOD BLESS Y'ALL!!
@@whatsmynameagain691 over time it may pay for itself in terms of fuel savings, but also health wise. But doing emergency calls with an automatic is also much safer. Negotiating traffic at high speed while shifting gears is terrible. You want to be able to focus on driving, not having to keep half a mind on shifting and splitting gears correctly
So how long before you order a new Rotator with an automatic? lol
Absolutely outstanding videos as always Ron. Hope one day they will come out with a 6-speed retrofit for my bus. 60107 says hello.
I was hoping they could fit this Endurant XD into my existing rotator which has an 18 speed manual. While technically possible, I was told it was not advisable due to the complexity of the system and all the work, cost, etc., that would be required to fit it...not to mention the downtime. Hopefully, someday I'll get to order a new one already set up. Thanks for watching and God bless.
Ron in drivers Ed.