
MANUAL TRANSMISSION OPERATION (IF EQUIPPED)
Manual transmission shift patterns are displayed on either the shift lever
knob or the sun visor. Study this information carefully before you drive
the vehicle even though you may be familiar with similar units. Do not
attempt to drive the vehicle without knowing the exact shift pattern of
the transmission. Consult your authorized dealer if any questions exist as
to the shifting instructions posted in your vehicle.
Driving Hints
WARNING:Do not coast the vehicle with the clutch pedal
pressed or with the transmission in neutral. This practice could
result in loss of vehicle control.
The following driving hints are provided as a brief, general guide in
operating the different manual transmissions used in your vehicle.
•When shifting into first gear or reverse with your vehicle standing
still, quickly release and press the clutch pedal (if necessary to
complete gear engagement).
•Always use the lowest (or most appropriate) gear to start the vehicle.
•Always use a gear ratio low enough to allow the engine to operate
above the minimum engine operation speed range.
•Do not lug the engine.
•Do not slam or jerk the gearshift lever into gear.
•When more power is required, shift to a lower gear and accelerate
the engine near the governed speed.
To go forward, press the clutch pedal in and shift into first gear while
the engine is idling. Engage the clutch while pressing the accelerator to
start forward. Operate the clutch and upshift as required by driving
conditions.
To go backward, put the gearshift lever in reverse and engaging the
clutch while pressing lightly on the accelerator.
Shifting with a Synchronized Transmission
With the clutch pedal pressed in, use the second gear synchronizer to
stop the clutch disc rotation; this allows smooth engagement of first gear
or reverse. To complete the gear engagement, it may be necessary to
apply light pressure to the gearshift lever during initial engagement of
the clutch. It takes a second or two to match gear speeds; steady
pressure on the gearshift lever helps the synchronizer perform its job
more quickly. If the gearshift lever is forced into position, this action
defeats the purpose of the synchronizer by causing gear clash.
132Transmission
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

If the transmission is equipped with a ceramic clutch, you must start the
vehicle moving in first gear and engage the clutch before pressing the
accelerator at idle. Also, do not try to slip the clutch by raising engine
RPM and riding or feathering the clutch pedal since this causes erratic
engagement which can cause engine stalling and potential serious
damage to driveline components.
Clutch Brake (Non-Synchronized Transmissions) - Vehicle
Stationary
A clutch brake is used to stop transmission input shaft rotation so that
the initial first gear or reverse gear selection can be accomplished when
the vehicle is stationary and the engine is at idle speed. Clutch brake
application occurs in the last inch (25 millimeters) of clutch pedal travel.
When using the clutch brake, fully press the clutch pedal and shift the
transmission into first gear or reverse. If the transmission won’t go into
one of these gears, slowly release the clutch pedal while applying light
pressure on the transmission shift lever until it shifts into gear.
Note:After engagement of first gear,do notuse the clutch brake for
upshifting or downshifting. If you do, clutch brake life shortens and gear
selection shift efforts may increase.
Double-Clutch Procedures - Non-Synchronized Transmissions
In order to properly upshift or downshift:
1. Press the clutch pedal to disengage the clutch.
2. Shift the transmission into neutral.
3. Release the clutch pedal.
If upshifting,wait until the engine speed matches the transmission
speed of the gear you are selecting.
If downshifting,accelerate the engine until the engine speed matches
the input speed of the gear you are selecting. Press the clutch pedal
immediately and shift into the desired gear, then release the clutch
pedal.
134Transmission
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

The differential can be locked or unlocked when the vehicle is moving at
a constant speed of under 25 mph (40 km/h) and while the wheels are
not slipping. The differential must not be locked when the vehicle is
traveling down steep grades and traction is minimal.
The differential lock and differential lock light automatically disengage at
speeds above 25 mph (40 km/h). The differential lock remains off until
either the vehicle is restarted or the differential lock switch is turned off
then back on.
Turn the engine off and raise all drive wheels of the locker differential
axle in order to prevent the vehicle from moving when servicing the
wheels, tires or brakes. Axles equipped with a NoSPIN Detroit Locker
differential deliver power to both wheels even when only one wheel is on
the ground.
WARNING:Failure to raise all drive wheels with this type of
differential could cause the vehicle to move unexpectedly,
resulting in property damage, personal injury or death.
Care should be taken to avoid sudden accelerations when both drive
wheels are on a slippery surface.
WARNING:Sudden accelerations on slippery surfaces could
cause the wheels to spin, the vehicle to turn sideways on a
crowned road surface or in a turn, possibly resulting in loss of vehicle
control and personal injury.
Fluid Temperature
Axle operating temperatures normally do not exceed 100°F (38°C).
If the operating temperature exceeds 230°F (110°C), the rate of axle
lubrication oxidation increases and shortens the life of the lubricant and
seals, requiring axle lubrication changes to become more frequent to
preserve the axle. Extreme Pressure (EP) lubricants should not be run
consistently above 230°F (110°C).
Axle Conversions
WARNING:When operating a loaded vehicle, the driver must
keep all adjustable axles on the ground at all times, supporting
their share of the vehicle’s load. Failure to do so can overload other
axles, tires, wheels, springs, steering components, brakes and frames,
resulting in early component failure, loss of vehicle control, possible
property damage and personal injury.
144Transmission
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

GENERAL INFORMATION
All standard equipment brakes are designed to be self-adjusting.
Automatic adjustment, when required, occurs whenever the brakes are
applied and released during forward or reverse operation.
Note:Occasional brake noise is normal. If a metal-to-metal, continuous
grinding or continuous squeal sound is present, the brake linings may be
worn out and should be inspected by an authorized dealer. If the vehicle
has continuous vibration or shudder in the steering wheel while braking,
the vehicle should be inspected by an authorized dealer.
Know the required stopping distances for all driving conditions that may
be encountered. For longer brake lining life, take full advantage of engine
braking power when coming to a stop.
WARNING:Do not drive with your foot resting on the brake
pedal. This results in abnormally high brake temperatures,
excessive lining wear and increased stopping distances.
Before descending a long or steep hill, shift to a lower gear and avoid
continuous application of the brakes. Normally, choose the same gear to
descend the hill that you use to ascend the hill.
WARNING:Continuous application of the brakes causes the
brakes to overheat, resulting in a temporary loss of braking.
See theInstrument Clusterchapter for information on the
brake system warning light.
Wet brakes result in reduced braking efficiency. Gently press the brake
pedal a few times when driving from a car wash or standing water to dry
the brakes.
If Brakes Do Not Grip Well
•If you have been driving through deep water, gently apply the brakes
several times while the vehicle is moving slowly.
•Let the brakes cool if you have been using them excessively, as in
mountain driving or after several fast, high-speed stops.
•Check brake adjustment.
•Check brake linings for excessive wear.
•Check system air pressure on vehicles equipped with air brakes.
Brakes147
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

AIR BRAKES
After starting the engine, give the air compressor time to build up the air
pressure to 60 psi (414 kPa) before moving the vehicle.
WARNING:Do not drive or continue to drive if the low air
pressure buzzer is sounding or the brake warning light is lit.
These warnings indicate that air pressure is not to normal operating
level. Continued use of the vehicle could result in loss of braking ability.
WARNING:Avoid repeated light application of the brake pedal.
This depletes air pressure faster and could result in loss of
braking capability.
Periodically check the air pressure
gauge while driving. Pressure should
range between approximately
100–125 psi (690–862 kPa). The air
compressor governor cut-in and
cut-out pressure settings are set at
the factory and are not adjustable.
When air pressure is insufficient (below 60 psi [414 kPa]), a
warning light illuminates and a buzzer sounds when the ignition
is in the on position.
This condition may be caused by excessive brake applications depleting
the system air pressure. If this condition occurs, stop driving the vehicle
until the compressor has fully recharged the air system.
WARNING:Do not move the vehicle when the air pressure is
insufficient because the brake system may be inoperative.
Select a gear ratio to help slow your vehicle before descending grades.
Supplement with brakes as required to safely slow the vehicle and avoid
overspeeding the engine.
Brakes149
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

HINTS ON DRIVING WITH ANTI-LOCK BRAKES
When the system is operating, the brake pedal pulses and may travel
further. Maintain pressure on the brake pedal. You may also hear a noise
from the system. This is normal.
The ABS does not eliminate the dangers inherent when:
•You drive too closely to the vehicle in front of you.
•Your vehicle is hydroplaning.
•You take corners too fast.
•The road surface is poor.
EXHAUST BRAKE (IF EQUIPPED)
WARNING:The exhaust brake is not recommended for use on
slippery or low traction road surfaces. Under these conditions a
loss of vehicle control could occur.
Note:Installing an exhaust or auxiliary brake does not necessarily
protect the engine from exceeding maximum governed speed. The
primary brakes should be used to make sure the engine never exceeds
maximum governed speed under any conditions.
Note:Before starting the engine, make sure that the exhaust brake
switch is pushed down to the off position. Do not turn the exhaust brake
on until the engine has reached normal operating temperature.
Note:Maximum exhaust brake performance is related to the type of
transmission your vehicle is equipped with.
Note:Engine speed has a major influence of retarding performance.
When engine speed is maintained at the maximum allowable level, the
exhaust brake operates at peak performance.
Note:Manual transmissions should be downshifted to the lowest gear
possible, without exceeding the maximum RPM limit of the engine.
This maximizes the exhaust brake’s retarding effect.
Note:Exhaust brakes operate effectively with automatic transmissions,
but performance varies with engine speed and the gear selected by the
transmission.
Brakes151
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

Exhaust Brake Operating Characteristics
When you remove your feet from both the accelerator and clutch pedals
and the exhaust brake switch is in the on position, the exhaust brake is
activated. The following conditions exist if the brake is operating properly:
•A slight change in engine sound when the exhaust brake is activated.
•A smooth braking effect. Do not expect a retarding effect similar to
sudden, hard application of the service brakes.
•The retarding force possibly felt acting against your body when the
brake is applied (depending on the grade and vehicle load). This force
is actually preventing the vehicle from going much faster.
•Engine temperature remaining in the normal operating range.
•The tachometer showing a drop in engine RPM (depending on grade
and vehicle load) during a descent.
•A decrease in road speed when the exhaust brake is applied during a
descent, except when the vehicle is carrying a heavy load or the grade
is extremely steep. In these instances, you may need to apply the
service brakes occasionally.
TRAILER BRAKES
Trailer Brake Hand Control (If Equipped)
WARNING:The hand control should never be used to apply
the brakes when the tractor and trailer are parked unattended.
Air may leak from the system and the vehicle could possibly move,
resulting in possible property damage, personal injury or death.
The hand control is located on the
right-hand side of the instrument
panel. It is used to apply the
trailer service brakes which are
independent of the truck or tractor
service brakes.
It operates a valve that provides gradual control of air pressure applied.
When the valve is only partially applied, the trailer brakes can be
overridden by pressing fully on the brake pedal.
To apply the trailer brakes using the hand control, move the lever
downward. The further the lever is pushed down, the greater the air
pressure is applied to the brakes. The lever remains in place until
manually moved.
To release the trailer brakes, move the lever up completely.
Brakes153
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)

Trailer Air Supply and Parking Brake Modular Controls
(If Equipped)
The trailer air supply valve delivers
air to the trailer supply and
automatically pops out, shutting off
the trailer supply, if pressure
decreases to approximately 35 psi
(249 kPa).
The parking brake controls the
spring brakes on the tractor. When
the knob is pulled out, it causes the
trailer supply valve to pop out,
applying both the tractor and trailer
parking brakes. The trailer brakes
may be independently released by
pushing only the trailer air supply
valve in.
Initial Charge
With the air system completely discharged, both knobs (A and B) are
out. When the air pressure reaches 70 psi (483 kPa), the trailer air
supply (A – red knob) may be pushed in and should stay in, charging the
trailer air system and releasing the trailer brakes.
B
AB
A
154Brakes
2013 F-650/750(f67)
Owners Guide gf, 2nd Printing, March 2013
USA(fus)