ch4 fuel-efficient driving Flashcards
Approximately how much better fuel economy can you achieve by
using good driving techniques?
Fuel-efficient driving techniques can improve fuel economy by up to 30 per
cent.
What should you consider when planning a fuel-efficient route?
The most fuel-efficient route is often one that avoids
heavy commuter traffic, busy city driving, and hills.
Flat routes are more fuel efficient than mountainous routes. Highway driving is
more fuel efficient than driving on congested city streets.
How long should you let a diesel engine idle when you first start it?
- Let the engine warm up for three to five minutes only or seven to 10
minutes if the temperature is below 0° C. Any longer wastes fuel and can
cause engine damage. Don’t use the throttle — let the engine warm up
gradually.
Is it a good idea to leave the engine running when you’re not driving
(such as when stopped at a truck stop)?
Contrary to popular belief, turning the engine off when you’re not driving (for
example, at a truck stop or depot) is more economical than leaving it running.
Many trucks have auxiliary power units that can run the truck’s air conditioning
or refrigeration system.Engine idling is simply a waste of fuel and money. Turn off the engine when
you stop for any length of time. You’ll save fuel, reduce maintenance, prolong
engine life and prevent unnecessary emissions.
What are some smart driving techniques that can also save fuel?
start out easy, choose the right gear, ease off the throttle, use see-think-do
Name some of the items that you should check as part of a pre-trip,
enroute, or post-trip inspection that affect fuel efficiency.
- Ensure your tires are inflated according to the manufacturer’s
recommendations. For every 10 p.s.i. (69 kPa) underinflated, one per cent
of fuel is wasted. - Before you begin driving, it’s the law to do a pre-trip inspection, and it can
help you avoid breakdowns during your trip. - Ensure all fluid levels such as motor oil and coolant are correct —
underfilling or overfilling can damage your vehicle. - Continually monitor your vehicle’s condition during the trip:
- Check the gauges on your instrument panel frequently. Conduct enroute
inspections, including tires and cargo, at least every three hours. - Monitor the air filter restriction indicator for signs that the filter is
becoming plugged or contaminated. - Check for air leaks. They affect the use and effectiveness of the vehicle’s
air brakes. They also make the air compressor keep running longer, and
this reduces fuel efficiency. - Do a post-trip inspection to spot problems that could delay you next time.
What are some of the aerodynamic features of new trucks and trailers
that improve fuel efficiency?
Some of the aerodynamic design features available on new trucks include:
* sloped hood with underhood air cleaners
* rounded bumpers
* rounded fenders with aero headlights and rounded body corners
* slanted and/or rounded windshield
* recessed door hinges and handles and low-profile side mirrors
* integrated roof fairings and deflectors, fuel tank side fairings
* hidden exhaust stacks
* trailer gap reducers.