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Yes, this is what I am hoping to focus on, specific guidance for a person new to the M35a2 wanting to drive their truck in the best possible way, specifically minimizing damage done and improving longevity.
This is what I am finding works best for my skill level and truck - I feel much better...
Thank you for opting to join in, its good to have the perspective of someone that is familiar with the guts of these machines. I most certainly am not.
I initially learned to drive a manual by being stuck doing it. I arrived at a new duty station, was invited to the local bars the people in my new unit, and not wanting to get liquored up in a new place, opted to pass on drinking. Everyone else did get liquored up and when it came time to go...
Drove it quite alot yesterday on backroads and I think I have it figured out. Mainly just matching speed to what gear I am in. When downshifting previously it would bounce around and this apparently was simply because my speed was too fast for whatever gear I was trying to downshift to...
I think my transmission is in good shape, its the operator (me) that is the problem.
"blip the throttle" - going to practice this today on backroads - timing and appropriate throttle is what I need to get down. Ill also try floating if I can manage this without mangling my gears.
Thank you very much for the reply, and yes it would be desirable to keep positive control of this heavy vehicle. The problem I am having is I keep missing downshift (wont pop in) or I feel like I am forcing it. I have a long stretch of backroad I can use to cycle this and get familiar with it...
***Summary of Responses to original question***
The vehicle should be in gear while moving to maintain control of the vehicle. Avoid coasting (in neutral) even when deaccelerating.
Basic technique:
To accelerate:
Use first to get moving and quickly get to second from there. Shift second...