
Page 244
Trip Preparation Tips
Achieving improved fuel effi ciency begins even before
the engine is started. Trip preparation is fundamental
to ensuring effi cient fuel effi ciency once your
vehicle is on the road. The following are Caterpillar
recommendations for trip preparation that are sure to
bring improved fuel effi ciency.
Check Tire Pressure
Improperly infl ated tires can drastically reduce fuel
effi ciency as well as diminish the life expectancy of the
tires.
Limit “Warm - Up” Time:
Excessive idling wastes fuel, adds contaminates to the
oil, and adds carbons to the combustion chamber of your
engine. Allow the engine to warm up during the normal
walk-around inspection. The engine will approach
operating temperature while driving at low rpm and low
power as you begin your trip.
Avoid Rapid Starts:
Rapid starts burn excessive fuel because the engine is
ramping to a high rpm. Instead, utilize the progressive
shifting technique (see page 245).
Improving Fuel Effi ciency