Shifting in Volvos vs Kenworths
I'm currently in training with a bulk-hauling company, and have driven a T800 with a 475hp CAT & 18-speed Eaton Fuller with one trainer, and a Volvo ( not sure about the model ) with a 470hp Cummins & the same 18-speed as the other, with another trainer : I find it much easier & smoother to shift on the Volvo than on the KW, and also find the gas pedal on the Volvo to be way more responsive....to the extent that when I first drove it, it caught me completely by surprise as I was used to the leisurely acceleration of the KW. Also, I find the stick throws on the Volvo much shorter than the KW, even though both the trucks have the same tranny. FYI, the KW is 2004, and the Volvo is 2005 or 2006.
Can anyone please explain to me why this is so ? I'm keen to know particularly 'cos 3-4 years from now I might buy my own truck : but before I do so, I'm trying to acquire as much information and knowledge about trucks and trucking as possible, in view of the fact that not only am I new to the industry ( a little more than a year ), but I'm also seriously mechanically challenged.
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