Is Automatic Transmission Better For Dump Trucks?

Some people enjoy the full control they get by driving a manual transmission vehicle. Others, on the other hand, prefer the ease of use with an automatic. In the trucking industry, manual transmissions have always been the standard. But, in the previous years, there has been an increase in the number of automatic transmissions hitting the road. 

In this article, we’re here to analyze the benefits and drawbacks of each option and understand why there’s a growing demand for used dump trucks automatic transmission worldwide.

Manual vs Automatic Transmission: What’s the Difference? 

Manual transmission trucks are ones where the driver has to manually shift the gears. You use the clutch and gas pedals to indicate when to shift, whether upward or downward. With as many as 18 gears to shift, manual dump trucks can be quite tricky to learn, particularly for beginners. But, many appreciate them for being easier to control and maintain as they are less complex than automatics. They are generally cheaper, too. 

Meanwhile, their automatic counterparts do the same process for you by using a computer that detects when to shift. They are more convenient to use and are inherently more powerful than their equivalent manual transmission trucks. 

Each has its own pros and cons and it goes to show that the preferences between manual and automatic boil down to whichever style makes the operator feel most comfortable. 

Control:

We give it to manual transmissions for giving drivers better control over the truck. A primary challenge with automatic transmissions is that they accelerate at a steady rate that they are programmed to do so, whereas, in manual transmissions, the operator can manually shift faster to gain a faster momentum. 

Ease:

Automatic transmissions are just easier to drive. It gives drivers one less thing to worry about while they focus on driving down the road. When they don’t have to concentrate on shifting, they can take a greater focus on their surroundings and the traffic ahead. This is particularly helpful when there’s heavy traffic as shifting through the gears can become tiring as well. 

Fuel Economy:

Trucks with automatic transmissions usually have better fuel economy than the standard. However, this is on a case-by-case basis as there are skilled truck operators who are good about saving fuel. When they’re experienced at shifting, they can spend about the same amount of fuel as an automatic transmission.

Availability:

The trucking industry considers manual transmissions as outdated technology. It’s why truck manufacturing companies and businesses are moving towards automatic fleets. In the end, they are able to bring in more drivers, even those who find driving a manual transmission truck intimidating. 

This shift in demand and availability has benefits, though. As the number of manual transmission trucks diminishes, so does the number of young professionals who know how to drive them. Automatic transmission vehicles are easier to drive and this ease in training shortens the training period for trucking businesses. 

They are also regarded as the most efficient and safest on the road, ensuring the protection of the operators. It goes to show that while automatic transmissions run thousands of dollars more than their manual counterparts, they offer long-term advantages that may outweigh the upfront costs down the road. 

One area where manual transmissions clearly take the cake is the cost of the vehicle. In fact, automatic transmissions run several thousand dollars more than their manual counterparts do. On the other hand, when you consider some of the possible long-term advantages of an automatic transmission, these benefits may outweigh the up-front costs.

Overall Impression 

For drivers that have hauled loads driving both manual and automatic transmissions, many would agree that the main advantage of automatic transmission comes into play when driving in high-traffic areas—in cities, for instance, where there’s traffic and stop lights in every corner. 

While staunch loyalists of manual transmissions may not like it, these types of vehicles already seem to be on the downtrend and automatic transmissions are the direction the trucking industry is headed. It’s all thanks to the great fuel economy and safety they offer. 

For used dump trucks with automatic transmission, contact a reliable dealer near you! 

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Joie Mojica

Joie is the passionate writer and blogger of UsedVending.com. She enjoys writing and works at an amazing pace. Blessed with two adorable boys, she dreams of creating a successful career online. She also loves to write about parenting, home and family life, technology and gaming, as well as beauty and health.