PB1317 Peterbilt 379 CHASSIS Supplemental Manuals Conventional Trucks Operator's Manual Prior To 12 06

User Manual: Peterbilt 379 CHASSIS

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OPERATOR’S
MANUAL

Quick Table of Contents
•Introduction ............................................ 1
•Cab And Frame Access ............................ 5
•Getting To Your Engine................................. 9
•Controls And Displays ................................... 16
•Seat And Restraint Systems............................. 63
•Driver’s Checklists................................................ 76
•Starting And Operating The Vehicle ........................ 80
•Maintenance and Service......................................... 112
•Vehicle Identification .................................................... 184
•Consumer Information .................................................... 185
•Subject Index

............................................................ 187

California
Proposition 65 Warning
• Diesel engine exhaust and some of its constituents are
known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth
defects, and other reproductive harm.

• Other chemicals in this vehicle are also known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm.

• Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the
State of California to cause cancer and reproductive
harm. Wash hands after handling.

PART 1: INTRODUCTION
This manual contains useful information for the safe and efficient
operation of your Peterbilt vehicle. It also provides information on
maintaining your vehicle in the best condition, with an outline for performing safety checks and basic preventive maintenance inspections.
We have tried to present the information you’ll need to learn about
your vehicle’s functions, controls, and operation - and to present it as
clearly as possible. We hope you’ll find this manual easy to use.
Please remember, though -- this manual is not a training manual. It
can’t tell you everything you need to know about driving your Peterbilt
vehicle. For that you need a good training program or truck driving
school. If you have not been trained, get the proper training before
you drive. Only qualified drivers should drive this vehicle.
There will be times when you need to take this manual out of your
Peterbilt. When you do, please be sure to return it to the cab when
you are finished using it. That way it will be there when you need it
the next time or when you pass the vehicle on to the next user.

How to Find What You Want
There are several tools built into this manual to help you find what you
need quickly and easily.
First is the Quick Table of Contents. Located at the front of the
manual, this lists the main subjects covered and gives page numbers
where you can find these subjects. Use the Quick Table of Contents
to find information on a large subject like “Maintenance.”
Cross-referenced citations also help you get the information you
need. If some other part of the manual contains further information
on the subject you are reading about, we’ll indicate that in a cross-reference like this: (See PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST). You won’t
have to go searching for more information.
Finally you’ll find a helpful Subject Index. It’s in the back of the manual and alphabetically lists the subjects covered. So if you want information on brakes, for example, just look under Brake in the Subject
Index. You’ll find all the pages listed where brakes or braking are discussed.

A Special Word about Repairs
Your Peterbilt dealer’s service center is the best place to have your
vehicle repaired. You can find Peterbilt dealers all over the country
with the equipment and trained personnel to get you back on the road
quickly - and keep you there.
Your vehicle is a complex machine. Anyone attempting repairs on it
needs good mechanical training and the proper tools. If you are sure
you have these requirements, then you can probably perform some
repairs yourself. However, all warranty repairs must be performed by
an authorized Peterbilt service facility. If you aren’t an experienced
mechanic, or don’t have the right equipment, please leave all repairs
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PART 1: INTRODUCTION
to an authorized service facility. They are the ones equipped to do
the job safely and correctly.

WARNING! Attempting repair work without sufficient
training, service manuals, and the proper tools can be
dangerous. You could be injured or you could make
your truck unsafe. Do only those tasks you are fully
qualified to do.
Maintenance Manuals. If you do decide to do any complex repair
work, you’ll need the Peterbilt Maintenance manuals. Order them
from your authorized dealer. Please provide your Chassis Serial
Number when you order, to be sure you get the correct manuals for
your vehicle. Allow about four weeks for delivery. There will be a
charge for these manuals.
Final Chassis Bill of Material. A complete, nonillustrated computer
printout listing of the parts used to custom-build your Peterbilt vehicle
is available through the Peterbilt dealer from whom your purchased
your vehicle.

WARNING! Modifying your vehicle can make it unsafe.
Some modifications can affect your truck’s electrical
system, stability, or other important functions. Before
modifying your vehicle, check with your dealer to make
sure it can be done safely.

Additional Sources of Information
Operator’s manuals are also supplied by the manufacturers of components such as the engine, seats, transmission, and radio in your
Peterbilt. If you are missing any of these manuals, ask your Peterbilt
dealer to supply them.
Your new Peterbilt’s glove box also contains a copy of the Truck
Driver’s Handbook, published by the American Trucking Association.
Refer to it for important information on driving your vehicle. Another
place to learn more about trucking is a local truck driving school.
Contact one near you to find out what kinds of instruction it offers.
Federal and state agencies also have information you can ask for.
The Interstate Commerce Commission can give you information
about regulations governing transportation across state lines. And
various agencies in state governments are sources for regulations
that differ from state to state.

Warnings
We’ve put a number of warning messages in this manual. They are
there for your protection and information. Please read them and follow them. They can help you to avoid injury to yourself and your passengers as well as to prevent costly damage to your vehicle. We’ve
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PART 1: INTRODUCTION
used certain symbols and “signal words” to indicate what kind of message is going to follow. When you see these symbols & words, you
know that you need to pay special attention. Please don’t ignore any
of these signals.

WARNING!

When you see this symbol & word, the message that follows is especially vital. This signals something that can cause serious injury or
death. This message will tell you what the hazard is, what can happen if you don’t heed the warning, and how to avoid it. For example:

WARNING! Attempting repair work without sufficient
training, service manuals, and the proper tools can be
dangerous. You could be injured or you could make
your vehicle unsafe. Do only those tasks you are fully
qualified to do.
CAUTION:

This symbol & word signals something that could damage your vehicle. And you might receive an injury, too. For example:

CAUTION: Continuing to operate a vehicle with insufficient oil pressure will cause serious engine damage.

NOTE:

Gives you information we feel you’d like to have. It could have to do
with care of your vehicle or with driving more efficiently:

NOTE: A cold compressor can cause refrigerant to liquefy
and warp the valve plates or cause a hydraulic lock. Warm
the engine before starting the air conditioner.
Please take the time to read these messages when you see them.
And remember:
WARNING! Something that could injure you seriously.
CAUTION: Something that could cause injury to you or your
vehicle.
NOTE: Useful information.

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PART 1: INTRODUCTION
Vehicle Safety
Make sure your Peterbilt is in top working condition before heading
out on the road—it is the responsible driver's duty to do so. Inspect
the vehicle according to PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST.
WARNING! Do not drink and drive. Your reflexes, perceptions, and judgment can be affected by even a small
amount of alcohol. You could have a serious—or even fatal
accident—if you drive after drinking. Please do not drink
and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking.
WARNING! The use of alcohol, drugs, and certain medications will seriously impair perception, reactions, and driving ability. These circumstances can substantially increase
the risk of an accident and personal injury.

Please remember, this manual is not a training manual. It cannot tell
you everything you need to know about driving your Peterbilt vehicle.
For that you need a good training program or truck driving school. If
you have not been trained, get the proper training before you drive.
Only qualified drivers should drive this vehicle.
Every new Peterbilt vehicle is designed to conform to all Federal
Motor Vehicle Safety Standards applicable at the time of manufacture.
However, even with these safety features, continued safe and reliable
operation depends greatly upon regular vehicle maintenance. The
vehicle must be operated within the range of its mechanical capabilities and the limits of its load ratings. (See the Tire and Rim Weight
Ratings label on the driver's door edge.)

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PART 2: GETTING INTO AND OUT OF THE
CAB AND FRAME ACCESS
Be careful whenever you get into or out of your vehicle’s cab.
Whether you have a COE or conventional cab, always maintain at
least three points of contact with your hands on the grab handles and
your feet on the steps.

WARNING! Jumping out of the cab or getting into the
cab without proper caution is dangerous. You could slip
and fall, possibly suffering a serious injury. Keep steps
clean. Clean any fuel, oil, or grease off of the steps
before entering the cab. Use the steps and grab handles provided, and always keep at least three points of
contact between your hands and feet and the truck.
Look where you are going.
COE: The pictures below show the best way to enter and exit a COE
cab.

02957

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PART 2: GETTING INTO AND OUT OF THE
CAB AND FRAME ACCESS
CONVENTIONAL: The picture below shows the best way to enter
and exit a Conventional Cab.

02958

Door Lock and Keys
Doors can be locked from the inside by using the lock button. Close the
door then push the button down to lock. Doors automatically unlock
when you open them from inside, and can be locked from the outside
with the key only.

WARNING! To lessen the chance and/or severity of personal injury in case of an accident, always lock the
doors while driving. Along with using the lap/shoulder
belts properly, locking the doors helps prevent occupants from being thrown from the vehicle.
To lock or unlock the doors from outside the cab, insert the key in the
lock.Turn the key toward the rear to lock; forward to unlock.
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PART 2: GETTING INTO AND OUT OF THE
CAB AND FRAME ACCESS
Climbing Onto the Deck Plate
When you are climbing onto and off the deck plate, maintain at least
three points of contact with your hands on the grab handles and your
feet on the steps.

WARNING!
• You can be hurt if you aren’t careful climbing onto
and off the deck plate. You can slip and fall, especially if the surfaces are wet or icy, or if you step in
oil, fuel, or grease. Keep steps clean. Always maintain at least three points of contact between your
hands and feet and the steps and deck plate.
• Do not climb onto and off the deckplate–use steps
and grabhandle provided. If there is no deck plate,
or if proper steps and grab handles aren’t provided,
don’t climb onto the area behind the cab. Peterbilt
did not intend for the area to be a step if handrails or
proper steps are not provided.
The pictures below show you the right way to get on and off the area
behind your cab.

02959

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PART 2: GETTING INTO AND OUT OF THE
CAB AND FRAME ACCESS

02960

WARNING! Do not step on vehicle components without
antiskid surfaces or use components not designed for
entry-and-exit use. You could fall and injure yourself if
you step on a slippery surface. For example:
• You could fall and injure yourself if you step onto a
fuel tank surface. A fuel tank is not a step. The tank
surface can get very slippery, and you might not be
able to prevent a fall. Don’t step onto the surface of a
fuel tank. Use only the steps and handholds provided,
not chain hooks, quarter fenders, etc.
• Always reinstall steps before entering the cab or
accessing the deck plate. Without steps, you could
slip and fall, resulting in possible injury to yourself.
NOTE: Any alteration (adding bulkheads, headache racks,
tool boxes, etc.) behind the cab or sleeper that affects the
utilization of grab handles, deck plates, or frame access
steps installed by Peterbilt must comply with FMCSR 399.

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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
Hood Hold Downs (Conventional Cabs)
Your hood hold downs keep your hood from opening unexpectedly

02961

CAUTION: If you do not latch your hood securely, it
could open during operation and cause vehicle damage.
Be sure to latch the hood securely.

Hood Tilt (Conventional Cabs)

02962

To open your hood, unlock the hood hold downs by unlatching them.
Put one hand on the top of the hood front, one foot on the bumper,
and one foot on the ground. Tilt the hood forward.

WARNING! Before opening or closing the hood, be sure
there are no people or objects in the way. A hood could
hurt someone in the way of its descent.
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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
Safety Cable

02963

WARNING! If the hood falls, anyone under it could be
injured. Always attach the safety cable to keep a hood
open any time anyone gets under a hood for any reason.
To attach the safety cable: The cable is on the driver’s side of the
radiator. Attach it to the hook on the hood.

COE Cab Tilt System
If you have a COE type of vehicle, your cab tilts forward for maintenance on the engine and other components. An independent hydraulic system raises and lowers the cab. And a positive dual locking
device increases safety and reduces the danger of mishaps while you
are driving.

WARNING! Getting any part of your body under an
unsecured cab could cause a serious or fatal accident.
The cab could fall and crush you. Always make sure the
mechanical lock is fully engaged before getting under
the cab, or before letting anyone else get under it. See
below for instructions on using the mechanical lock.

02964

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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
CAUTION: Raising the cab with heavy objects in the
cab, sleeper, or luggage compartment can cause serious damage to the cab tilting mechanism and cab.
Before tilting the cab, remove heavy items such as tire
chains and tools. Remove or stow securely any loose
items. And shut the doors tightly.
Cab tilting instructions are labeled and installed on the base of the
passenger seat in your cab.

WARNING! You can be seriously injured by the cab if
you do not follow safety precautions. Whenever you
raise or lower the cab, or when you work under the cab,
please remember the following safety rules:
• Be sure no one is under the front of the cab. Whether
you are raising or lowering the cab, KEEP CLEAR.
• Never work under a raised cab unless it is properly
supported. This means use an overhead hoist of sufficient capacity to support the cab safely. Never prop
the cab up instead of using a hoist. The prop could fail
and let the cab fall on you or anyone else working
under the cab.
• Always be sure the safety latch is engaged when you
or anyone else works under the cab.
• Perform work only when the cab is in the mechanically
locked position or in the full tilt position.
• When your cab’s hydraulic system needs service or
repair:
- Have maintenance and repair done only by someone
qualified in hydraulic systems.
- Be sure no one tries to bleed the system with the cab
raised. This will defeat the safety system. The cab
can fall and crush anyone under it.
- Do not tamper with any part of the cab tilt cylinders,
including removing the velocity fuses. To do so will
defeat their purpose. The cab could fall and crush
anyone under it. If you have any need for repair
involving the velocity fuses, have a qualified truck
mechanic do the work.
NOTE: In case of oil loss in the system or a lock-up in the tilt
cylinders, refer to the maintenance manual for repair instructions.

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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
To Raise the Cab:
1. Park the vehicle on a level surface to ensure proper hook and latch
alignment.
2. Apply the parking brake.
3. Make sure the shift lever is in Neutral. This will prevent the shift
lever from getting caught on the cab during tilt operation.
4. Secure or remove all loose items in the cab and luggage compartments. Close all doors.
5. Check the clearance above and ahead of the cab. Be sure there
will be enough room to clear roof antennae, roof fairings, and side
extenders when you tilt the cab. Check for obstructions overhead,
such as branches, power lines, lights, etc. Check also for obstructions in front, such as walls, work benches, other vehicles, etc.
6. Place the control valve handle in the Tilt (Raise) position.

02965

7. Pump the cab up until the mechanical lock engages. Now put the
control valve handle in the center position.

02966

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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
When the cab is raised to the point where the weight of the cab is
greater in front of its hinges than to the rear, gravity will make it fall forward. It will fall at a controlled rate.
8. If you want the cab in the full forward position, pull the cable to disengage the mechanical lock. You may have to free the lock by
raising or lowering the cab to relieve pressure on the locking
mechanism.

02967

WARNING! When the cab is tilted fully (90°), the roofmounted antenna mast could injure someone. Remove
or flag the mast before tilting the cab all the way forward.
CAUTION: When tilting the cab to the full tilt, or vice
versa, hold the safety lock bar up to prevent it from
engaging at the locked position. If it does lock, your cab
could be severely damaged.

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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
To Lower the Cab
1. Place the control valve handle in the Return (Down) position.

02968

2. Release the mechanical lock. Hold the safety lock bar up.
3. Pump until the cab starts to descend. The valve system will control the speed in either direction automatically.

CAUTION: Do not try to pump the cab down or hold it
down with hydraulic force. If you do, cab damage will
occur.
4. Leave the handle in the down position for at least 20 seconds after
the cab touches down. This allows time for the full spring force to
develop in the cab latch. Inspect the hooks to be sure they are
closed. If they are not properly engaged, raise the cab slightly and
guide the latch, if necessary, while lowering the cab.

02969

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PART 3: GETTING TO YOUR ENGINE
WARNING! Placing any part of your body between the
cab and the frame could result in serious injury. Keep
hands and feet out from under the cab if it must be
raised to re-engage the cab latches. Guide the cab from
the outer surfaces only.
5. Return the control valve handle to the Lock (Center) position for
normal operation.

CAUTION:
• Do not continue to operate the pump after the cab is in
the full Down position. Additional pumping could
cause structural damage to the cab.
• Driving with the cab tilt lock unsecured can damage
your vehicle. Check daily to be sure the lock is closed
securely.
NOTE: In case of oil loss in the system or a lock-up in the tilt
cylinders, refer to the maintenance manual for repair instructions.

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Your Instrument Panel
This part explains the location of the various features on your vehicle
and describes their function. For information on using these features
in driving, see the paragraphs below. Please remember that each
Peterbilt is custom-made. Your instrument panel may not look exactly
like the one in the pictures below. We have tried to describe all the
most common features and controls available. You can pick out the
parts that apply to you and read them to be fully informed on how your
particular vehicle operates.

Typical Conventional Cab Instruments and Controls
4
5
3
6

2
11

Panel A

Panel C

LEFT SIDE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.

Tachometer
Oil Pressure
Clock
Oil Temperature
Warning Lamp Cluster
Water Temperature
Dual Air Pressure

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8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.

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Speedometer
Clearance Lamps
Headlamps
Ignition Key Switch
Windshield Wiper/Washer
Panel Light Dimmer

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Conventional

11
7

12
13

23 22

Panel B

20 19

Panel D

RIGHT SIDE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.

Fuel
Air Cleaner Restriction
Transmission Oil Temperature
Voltmeter
Manifold Pressure
Front Driver Oil Temperature
Air Application
Pyrometer
Rear Driver Oil temperature
Air Suspension
Fifth Wheel
Interaxle Differential Lock

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13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.

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Engine Brake
Engine Fan
Fuel Tank Selector
LH Air Window
RH Air Window
Sleeper Door Lock
Cab Door Lock
RH Mirror
Mirror Heat
LH Mirror
Day/Night Signal
Cruise Control

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Typical COE Instruments and Controls

02973

LEFT SIDE
1. Hazard Flasher
2. Turn Signal
3. Ignition Switch
4. Start Button
5. Manifold Pressure
6. Air Cleaner Restriction Gauge
7. Ammeter
8. Voltmeter
9. Engine Oil Temperature
10. Tachometer
11. Oil Pressure
12. ABS Warning Lamp
13. Pyrometer

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14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.

—18—

Water Temperature
Speedometer
Air Pressure
Air Pressure
Transmission Temperature
Fuel Gauge
Clock
Front Driver Temperature
Rear Driver Temperature
Lighter
Trip Odometer
Shift Pattern Decal (if used)

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
COE

02974

RIGHT SIDE
1. Air Suspension Switch
2. 5th Wheel Lock
3. Lockout Differential Switch
4. Reset Circuit Breakers
5. Retarder Switch
6. Loading Lamp
7. Fuel Tank Selector L/R
8. Light Toggle Switch
9. Spot Light
10. Engine Brake
11. Mirror Heat
12. Clearance Lamps

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13.
14.
15.
16.
17.
18.
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.

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Engine Fan
Headlamps
Ether Switch
Trailer Brake Hand Valve
Cab Air Selector
Cab Heat Control
Cab Ventilation
Cab A/C Control
Parking Brake Valve
Trailer Air Supply
Right Hand Air Window
Windshield Washer / Wiper

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Steering Column-Mounted Controls
Turn Signal and Indicator Lights

02882

02882A

Model 379 vehicles built on
or after 5/1/98 with SRS
Your turn signal lever is mounted on the left side of the steering column below the steering wheel. Green directional indicator lights
appear on the instrument panel.
NOTE: The ignition key must be turned to ON for the signal/
switch to operate.

To operate the signal, move the lever in the direction of the turn.

WARNING! After you complete a turn, shut the system off
by returning the lever to the “OFF” (center) position. The
switch's lever action is NOT self-canceling. Failure to shut
off a turn signal could confuse other drivers and result in
an injury accident. An indicator light in the instrument
panel will flash until the turn signal is turned off.

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Hazard Flasher

02883

02883A

Model 379 vehicles built on
or after 5/1/98 with SRS
The four-way Hazard Flasher switch is on the turn signal body, just
below the turn signal lever. It will operate with the key switch in the on
or off position. Use your hazard flasher whenever you are off the
road or on the side of the road, or in a potentially hazardous situation.
Pull it out to activate the system. All turn signals will flash at once. To
turn it off, move the turn signal lever up or down. Of course, in normal
stopping in traffic, such as at a stop light, you do not use your flashers.

WARNING! Use your Hazard Flasher Warning System any
time you have to stop off the road or on the side of the
road, day or night. A hard-to-see vehicle can result in an
injury accident. Another vehicle could run into you if you
do not set your flashers. Always move the vehicle a safe
distance off the road when stalled or stopped for repairs. A
disabled vehicle can be dangerous for you and others.
• The hot exhaust system could ignite dry grass, spilled
fuel, or other substances. Do not park or operate your
vehicle where the exhaust system could contact dry
grass, brush, spilled fuel, or any other material that
could cause a fire.

Air Horn
Your Peterbilt has an air horn in addition to an electric horn. Control
the air horn by pulling on the lanyard extending from the overhead
header panel.
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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
High Beam Headlights

02884

02884A

Model 379 vehicles built on
or after 5/1/98 with SRS
All Peterbilt vehicles come equipped with a combination turn signal and
high beam/low beam switch. To switch your headlights lower or higher
• For Model 379 vehicles built on or after 5/1/98 with SRS: Gently
pull the turn signal lever up, towards the steering wheel, until you
hear the switch “click” and the beam changes.
• For all other vehicles: Push and release the button on the end of
the turn signal lever

Electric Horn
Your Peterbilt has an electric horn. To sound the horn, press on the
button or bar in the center of the steering wheel.

02886

27884

Model 379 vehicles built on
or after 5/1/98 with SRS
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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Trailer Brake Hand Valve

02975

02975A

Model 379 vehicles built on or after 5/1/98 with SRS
This hand valve provides air pressure to apply the trailer brakes only.
It operates independently of the foot treadle valve.
To operate the trailer brake hand valve: Pull down on the lever
under the right side of the steering wheel or on the dash (COE models).

WARNING! Grabbing the trailer hand brake lever instead
of the BrakeSaver lever could lead to an accident. If you
have these levers, they may be close together on your
steering wheel column. Be sure you get the one you
want. The BrakeSaver lever is bent, while the trailer parking brake lever is straight (see page 36).
See “Brake Safety and Emergency” for more complete information on
when and how to use your trailer brake. Or see the Index, under Brake.”
NOTE: The trailer brake is not to be used as the main
means of braking. To use this brake frequently instead of
using the foot brake will wear out the trailer brake sooner.
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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
WARNING! It is dangerous to use air-applied trailer
brakes for parking or holding a vehicle. Air system pressure can bleed down and release the brakes. You could
have a vehicle roll-away resulting in an accident. You or
others could be badly injured. Always apply the parking
brakes for parking or holding your vehicle on grade.

Tilt- Telescoping Steering Column
The tilting feature of the steering wheel allows forward and rearward
movement of the wheel. The telescoping feature allows you to move
the wheel up and down.

02976

02976A

Model 379 vehicles built on
or after 5/1/98 with SRS

WARNING! Adjusting the Tilt-Telescoping Steering
Wheel while the vehicle is in motion could cause loss of
control. You wouldn’t be able to steer properly and
could have an accident. Make all adjustments to the
steering mechanism while the vehicle is stopped.

• Model 379 vehicles
To tilt the wheel: Push the lever away from yourself. Move the
steering wheel to the desired angle, then release the lever to lock.
To raise or lower the wheel: Pull the lever towards yourself. Push
or pull the wheel to the desired height, then release the lever to lock.

• All other models
To tilt the wheel: Pull the lever towards yourself. Move the steering wheel to the desired angle, then release the lever to lock.
To raise or lower the wheel: Push the lever away from yourself.
Push or pull the wheel to the desired height, then release the lever
to lock.
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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Dash-Mounted Features
Keys and Locks
Conventional Models: The same key fits your ignition, doors, and
sleeper luggage compartment.
COE Models: The same key operates the ignition and opens the
doors and the glove box.
Frame-mounted tool box locks and locking fuel tank caps each have
individual keys.

Ignition Switch
Your ignition switch has three (COE) or four (conventional) positions:
OFF
IGN & ACC

ACC ONLY

START

02977A

ACC (Accessory):

OFF:
IGN & ACC:
START:

With your key in this position you can play the
radio or use other accessories, but your engine
won’t start.
In this position all systems are off, and you can
remove your key.
This position allows you to turn on the engine
and all accessory power.
Starter activation to start engine (conventional
models only).

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Starter Button

02887

On COE models: with the key switch in the IGN & ACC position, push
the starter button; this will engage the starter motor and crank the
engine.

Manual Override for Engine Shutdown

02889

On vehicles with an engine shutdown, you will have to hold the manual throw switch in the UP position until normal engine pressures are
reached. If you have one of these systems, a label on the control
panel will say so.
For detailed starting procedures, see the Index, under Starting and
Operating 80.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Hand Throttle Control
WARNING! Do not use the hand throttle control as a
cruise control. It could cause an accident and you
could be seriously injured. In an emergency you might
not be able to unset it in time to save yourself and your
vehicle from an accident. Never try to control road
speed with your hand throttle control. Always push in
the hand throttle before driving the vehicle.
If you have a hand throttle, in conventional cabs it is usually located to
the left of the driver’s seat, mounted on the floor. In COEs it is under
the lefthand dash. It can be especially helpful in cold weather to keep
your engine running at above idle speed when you leave the vehicle
briefly.
For more information on idling your engine safely, see the Index,
under Engine.

Headlights

02890

The headlights are controlled by the control panel switch showing this
symbol. When the headlights are ON, the dash lights, side, and tail
lamps are also on.

WARNING! Do not use daytime running lights (DRL)
during periods of darkness or reduced visibility. Do not
use DRL as a substitute for headlights or other lights
during operations that require lighting of your vehicle.
Doing so could lead to an injury accident
NOTE: On vehicles equipped with daytime running lights
(DRL), the high-beam headlamps go on automatically at
reduced brightness if the engine is running and the headlamp switch is turned off. The daytime running lights are
turned off automatically while the parking brake is engaged.
If the headlamp switch is turned on, the DRL system is overridden & headlamps operate normally.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Panel Light Knob

02891

The Panel Light Knob lets you vary the brightness of your instrument
panel lights.
To Operate Your Panel Light Knob:
1. Turn on either the headlights, clearance lights, or fog / driving
lights.
2. To brighten the instrument panel lights, turn the knob clockwise (to
the right).
3. To dim the instrument lights or to turn them off, turn the knob counterclockwise (to the left).

ID and Clearance Lights Switch

02892

These are the amber lights on top of your cab, the lights on the front
and sides of the trailer, and the red lights on the rear of a truck or
trailer. They are controlled by the control panel switch labelled CL
LPS.

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Fog Lights Switch

02893

If your vehicle has fog lights, turn them ON or OFF with the control
panel switch labelled FOG LIGHT.

NOTE: State requirements vary as to when high beams and
fog lights can and cannot be used together. Further, some
states allow only four lights to be used together; some allow
more. Whether you have dual or composite lights will affect
how many lights you can have on at one time. Always comply with the state requirements where you are driving.

Dome Light Switch

02894

A three-position switch controls each dome light.
Position 1 (Center): Light is OFF.
Position 2 (Upward): Light will stay ON.
Position 3 (Downward): Light will turn ON when a door is opened
and OFF when the door is closed.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Windshield Wipers and Washers

02896

Wiper
To turn on the wipers rotate the knob to the right. As the knob is
rotated, the speed of the wipers increases. To turn off the wipers,
rotate the knob to the left.
Washer
To use the washer, push the knob showing the symbol above. With
the electric wipers, the wipers will come on for a short time when the
washer starts.
WARNING! Do not drive with worn or dirty wiper blades.
They can reduce visibility, making driving hazardous.
Clean blades regularly to remove road film and wax buildup. Use an alcohol-based cleaning solution and a lint-free
cloth, and wipe along the blades.
CAUTION: Do not use antifreeze or engine coolant in the
windshield washer reservoir—damage to seals and other
components will result.

Intermittent Windshield Wiper Control
Two-speed intermittent windshield wipers are controlled by the control panel knob with the symbol shown above. To turn on the wipers,
rotate the knob to the right.
As you turn the knob further to the right, intermittent delay decreases
until the knob encounters the first position for continuous operation.
Turn the knob further right to the next position for higher speed continuous operation. Turn off the wipers by rotating the knob to the left.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Air Suspension Deflate Switch (Dump Valve)

AIR SUSPENSION

03035

02897

Your Peterbilt vehicle may have an air suspension deflation switch
which allows the air in the suspension to be exhausted from a switch
on the dash. The purpose of this feature is to allow you to lower your
tractor to get under a trailer.
You may notice a guard over the switch. This prevents you from accidentally deflating the suspension.

WARNING! Operating the Air Suspension Deflate
Switch (Dump Valve) while driving can lead to an accident. Sudden deflation while your vehicle is moving
can affect handling and control. Use this switch only
when your vehicle is not moving.
CAUTION: Operating a vehicle with air suspension
bags either overinflated or underinflated may cause
damage to driveline components. If a vehicle must be
operated under such conditions, do not exceed 5 mph.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Engine Fan Switch

02898

The engine fan switch allows you to control the engine fan manually
or automatically. With the ignition key switch ON and the fan switch in
the ON position, the engine fan will be on regardless of engine temperature. With the engine fan switch in the AUTOMATIC position, the
engine fan will automatically turn on when the engine coolant reaches
a temperature of about 200°F.

WARNING! Do not work on the fan with the engine running. Anyone near the engine fan when it turns on
could be badly injured. If it is set at ON, it will turn on
any time the ignition key switch is turned to the ON
position. In AUTOMATIC, it could engage suddenly
without warning. Before turning on the ignition or
switching from AUTOMATIC to ON, be sure no one is
near the fan.
CAUTION: The fan or equipment near it could be damaged if the fan turns on suddenly when you don’t expect
it. Keep all tools and equipment such as rags away
from the fan, and take care no one turns on the ignition
when someone is working near the fan.
CAUTION: Do not operate the engine fan in the manual
(ON) position for extended periods of time. The fan hub
was designed for intermittent operation. Sustained
operation will shorten the fan hub’s service life as well
as reduce fuel economy.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Cruise Control Switch

02901

WARNING! Do not operate the cruise control when operating on road surfaces with poor traction (wet, icy, or snow
covered roads) or in heavy traffic. Accelerations caused by
the normal operation of the cruise control could cause you
to lose control of the vehicle resulting in an injury accident.

NOTE: Cruise control functions and features may vary
depending upon which engine you have. For specific explanation of your cruise control, see the cruise control or engine
manual included with your vehicle.
The master switch turns the cruise control ON or OFF. The second
switch allows you to SET the desired speed or RESUME the desired
speed after the cruise control function has been interrupted.
In conventional models with Eaton transmissions, the cruise control
switches may be located on the shift control knob (see illustration):

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Power Mirror Switch

02900

WARNING! Convex mirrors can distort images and make
objects appear smaller and farther away than they really are.
You could have an accident if you are too close to another
vehicle or other object. Keep plenty of space between your
vehicle and others when you turn or change lanes. Remember that other objects are closer than they may appear.

The power mirror control controls the adjustment of the right and left
outside mirrors. To adjust: Push to R or L to select which mirror you
want to adjust. Next push the arrow that points toward the direction
you want to move the mirror.

Mirror Heat Switch

02899

NOTE: The Power Mirror Switch does not control the adjustment of the convex mirrors.
Mirror heat is controlled by the control panel switch labelled MIR HT.
If the vehicle is equipped with this switch, mirror heat can be switched
on to help remove frost and ice from the mirror glass.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Digital Message Center

∨

ENTER

CANCEL

∨

MSG

∨

RESET

DIAG

TRIP

CLOCK

FUEL

MAINT

SENSOR

INFO

03038

The optional digital message center (DMC) is an onboard computer
used to provide the following:
• trip information

•
•
•
•
•
•

clock/calendar
fuel economy
sensor data
fault codes
maintenance information
warning messages

The DMC is available on conventional models. The DMC vacuumfluorescent display is capable of displaying 40 characters. Navigation
through the information is done by means of an integral keypad.
Refer to the DMC operator’s manual that came with the vehicle for
more information on using this component.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Brakesaver
The Caterpillar BrakeSaver provides auxiliary braking to slow the
vehicle and to control speed on long grades. Refer to the BrakeSaver
Operation section of the Caterpillar manual for complete operating
instructions.
Manual Control Lever

02902

This hand-operated control lever provides modulated application of
the BrakeSaver in the manual or ON mode. How much braking you
get depends on how much you move the lever.
Manual and Automatic Control Switch

02903

With the switch in the AUTOMATIC position, the BrakeSaver will be
fully applied automatically when the operator has the vehicle in gear
and takes his or her foot off the accelerator pedal.
With the switch in the ON position, the BrakeSaver will be applied
constantly, regardless of whether the operator has the vehicle in gear
or his or her foot off the accelerator.
A Control Air Pressure gauge and an Engine Oil Temperature gauge
are provided with the BrakeSaver.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Jacobs Engine Brake or Cummins “C” Brake Switch

02904

2-Mode and 3-Mode Systems

WARNING! Using the engine brake when operating on
surfaces with poor traction (such as wet or icy, slippery
roads or gravel) could cause loss of control.
The ON/OFF switch turns the system ON or OFF. The second switch
performs the progressive braking function that controls the amount of
retarding:
• If you have the three-mode system, you can select low (A),
medium (B), or high (A + B) retarding.

• If you have the two-mode system, you can select HIGH or LOW.
In conventional models with Eaton transmissions, the engine brake
switch may be located on the shift control knob (see illustration):

For more information on when and how to use the engine brake in
your vehicle, see the engine brake manufacturer’s owner’s manual
that is included with your vehicle.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Interaxle Differential Lock Switch
WARNING! Placing the differential lock in the “LOCK”
position while your wheels are spinning could cause
loss of control or axle damage. You could be hurt.
Switch to “LOCK” only when your wheels are not spinning.

02905

The interaxle differential allows differential action between the forward rear and the rear rear driving axles. The interaxle differential
lock switch allows the operator to LOCK or UNLOCK the differential.
The guard over this switch prevents you from accidentally activating
the lock.
See “Interaxle Differential” on page 87 for more information on using
your interaxle differential.

Two-Speed Rear Axle (Range) Switch

02906

If your vehicle is equipped with a two-speed rear axle, you can select
the axle range by the dash mounted switch shown above. The low
range provides maximum torque for operating off-highway. The high
range is a faster ratio for highway speeds.
For information on how to operate your two-speed rear axle properly
and safely, see PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
or check the Index, under Two-Speed Rear Axle (Range) Switch 38.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Fifth Wheel Lock (Slider Adjustment) Switch

CAB CONTROL

03031

02907

WARNING! Do not move of the fifth wheel while the tractor-trailer is in motion. Movement of the fifth wheel while
a tractor-trailer is moving can cause a serious accident.
Your load could shift suddenly, causing you to lose control of the vehicle. Never operate the vehicle with the
switch in the unlock position. Always inspect the fifth
wheel after you lock the switch to be sure the fifth wheel
is engaged
Vehicles having an air slide fifth wheel have a fifth wheel slider lock
controlled by a switch on the instrument panel. By placing the switch
in the unlock position, you can slide the fifth wheel to various positions to adjust weight distribution. There is a guard over this switch to
protect you against accidentally activating or releasing the lock.

VARASHIELD® Wind Deflector Switch

02978

The VARASHIELD Wind Deflector is a roof-mounted, adjustable
shield for improving vehicle aerodynamics.
You may have a manual or an electric VARASHIELD. The electric
model is controlled by a dash-mounted toggle switch. If you have one
of these, you may vary the VARASHIELD angle from 0 degrees to 50
degrees while the vehicle is stationary or in motion. The gauge on
the dash indicates the position.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
WARNING! Operating the electric VARASHIELD with
someone near it can be dangerous. Moving parts could
cause an injury to hands, feet, or anything else in the
way. Do not operate the VARASHIELD when anyone is
near it.
CAUTION: The electric motor of a VARASHIELD is
designed for use during moderate, slow speed operation only. Do not operate it while driving at speeds
greater than 35 mph. Do not operate the VARASHIELD if
it is obstructed by ice or packed snow. Additionally,
excessive continuous operation could cause the motor
to overheat. Do not change the angle continually.
Manual Adjust

WARNING! You could fall and be badly injured by trying
to climb to the top of the cab without the right equipment. Always use a ladder or scaffolding to get up to
adjust your manual VARA-SHIELD.
If you have the manual VARASHIELD, you will adjust it from the roof
of the cab. Move it to the desired angle with the telescoping strut that
is secured by a bolt and locknut. Proper VARASHIELD angle is
affected by wind, trailer height, and the gap between the tractor and
trailer. Usually the VARASHIELD should be down, at 0 degrees,
when the tractor is operating without a trailer or pulling a flatbed. With
all other trailers, you adjust the VARA-SHIELD to its best angle by
noticing the lower manifold boost pressure at cruise (as indicated by
the manifold pressure gauge), or the reduction in road dirt deposited
on the front of the trailer.

Parking Brake Valve and Trailer Air Supply Valve

02908

Single Valve
Your parking brake valve is a yellow diamond-shaped knob located
on the right-hand control panel of conventional cab models and on

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
the console panel of COE models. It controls the parking brakes for
straight truck or tractor-trailer combinations.

02909

WARNING! Stopping with the parking brake controls
can cause a sudden wheel lock-up, loss of control, or
can cause you to be overtaken by following vehicles.
You could be severely injured. Never pull out the parking brake valve while the vehicle is moving.
To apply all parking brakes, pull the yellow, or parking brake, knob
out. The truck or tractor parking brakes will set, and the Trailer Air
Supply Valve (red octagon knob) will automatically trip (“pop out”) and
set the trailer parking brakes. To release both truck/tractor and trailer
parking brakes, push in BOTH yellow and red knobs. For full information on using parking brakes, see the Index, under Brakes.

Heater-Air Conditioning Controls
Your heat and air conditioning controls are mounted on the dog house
instrument panel in COE models and below the right hand instrument
panel in conventional models. Additionally, the sleeper compartment
may also contain a separate heating and cooling system with separate controls.
WARNING! Exhaust fumes from the engine contain carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas. Do not breathe the
engine exhaust gas. A poorly maintained, damaged or corroded exhaust system can allow carbon monoxide to enter
the cab or sleeper. Entry of carbon monoxide into the cab is
also possible from other vehicles nearby. Failure to properly
maintain your vehicle could cause carbon monoxide to enter
the cab/sleeper and causes serious illness.
CAUTION: Never idle your vehicle for prolonged periods of
time if you sense that exhaust fumes are entering the cab
or sleeper. Investigate the cause of the fumes and correct it
as soon as possible. If the vehicle must be driven under
these conditions, drive only with the windows slightly
open. Failure to repair the source of the exhaust fumes may
lead to personal harm.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
NOTE: Keep the engine exhaust system and the vehicle’s cab/
sleeper ventilation system properly maintained. It is recommended
that the vehicle’s exhaust system and cab/sleeper be inspected

• By a competent technician every 15,000 miles
• Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system

• Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, cab or
sleeper is damaged
NOTE: To allow for proper operation of the vehicle ventilation
system, keep the inlet grille at the base of the windshield clear
of snow, ice, leaves and other obstructions at all times.

NOTE: Do not stay in the vehicle with the engine running or
idling for more than 10 minutes with the vehicle’s Heater and
A/C ventilation system in RECIRC or at LOW FAN SPEED.
Even with the ventilation system On, running the engine
while parked or stopped for prolonged periods of time is not
recommended.
NOTE: If you are required to idle your vehicle for long periods of
time, install an auxiliary heater or automatic idle control. These auxiliary devices can reduce fuel consumption and save you money.

NOTE: When idling for short periods of time
• Set the heating or cooling system to Heat or A/C

•

Set the fan to Medium or High speed

•

Set the controls to FRESH AIR

NOTE: If other vehicles are parked next to you idling, move
your vehicle or do not stay in your vehicle for prolonged periods
of time.

To Set the Heater-Air Conditioning Controls
COE:
The COE panel contains two toggle switches and three sliding levers for
providing cab temperature control in all weather conditions (see illustration below). A secondary panel is located on the upper left wall of the
bunk or sleeper and contains two toggle switches and a rotary thermostat switch to control the temperature. The thermostat controls the operation of the blower to maintain temperature within the selected range.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS

02979

Conventional Cab:
The Conventional cab’s control panel may have up to six controls
(four for vehicles without a sleeper unit); see illustration below:

• A rotary knob (A) in the upper left portion controlling the blower
speed with four settings.

• A rotary knob (B) in the upper center portion controlling the movement of air within the cab. This control is continuously variable
through five modes (clockwise from left):
- Panel
- Panel/Floor
- Floor
- Defrost/Floor
- Defrost

• A rotary knob (C) in the upper right portion controlling the air temperature.

• A rocker switch (D) in the lower left portion to engage the air conditioner compressor (only vehicles with air conditioning).
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
• A rocker switch (E) in the lower center portion to select either fresh
or recirculated air mode.

• A rocker switch (F) on the lower right portion to send power to the
“bunk” or sleeper control panel (only vehicles with a sleeper unit).

02980

The conventional sleeper control panel will have three controls (two
for vehicles without air conditioning); see next illustration
• A rotary knob (A) in the left portion controlling the blower speed
with four settings.
• A rotary knob (B) in the right portion controlling the air temperature.
• A rocker switch (C) in the center portion to engage the air conditioner compressor (only vehicles with air conditioning).

02981

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
The cab “bunk” control rocker switch must be ON for the sleeper controls to function.
• To heat the cab, select the desired air mode and set the temperature knob to hot (the red position on the control) and the blower to
whatever speed makes you most comfortable.
WARNING! Do not drive with visibility reduced by fog, condensation, or frost on the windshield. Your view may be
obscured, which could result in an injury accident. For
clear visibility and safe driving it is extremely important for
you to follow the instructions pertaining to the function and
use of the ventilation/heating and defogging/defrosting
system. If in doubt, consult your dealer. Maximum heating
output and fast defrosting can be obtained only after the
engine has reached operating temperature.
CAUTION: During extreme cold weather, do not blow hot
defroster air onto cold windshields. This could crack the
glass. Turn the air flow control lever to Defrost and adjust
the fan speed accordingly while the engine warms. If the
engine is already warm, move the temperature selector to
Cool, then gradually increase the temperature when you
see that the windshield is starting to warm up.

• To defog the windshield, select the Defrost mode and turn the
blower speed to high. Set the temperature knob to hot (the red
position on the control). The air conditioner is automatically activated to remove moisture from the cab. After the windshield is
clear, adjust the mode, blower speed, and temperature to your
comfort.

• To cool the cab, turn on the A/C switch, set the temperature knob
to cool (the blue position on the control), and the blower to high
until the cab becomes cool. Then you can turn down the blower if
you wish.
For Efficient Cooling:
1. Be sure all heater - air conditioner controls are off.
2. Start the engine. Allow time for warm-up.

CAUTION:
• A cold compressor can cause refrigerant to liquefy
and warp the valve plates or cause a hydraulic lock.
Warm the engine before starting the air conditioner.
• To avoid damage to the compressor& blower motors,
turn off all controls when a system is not in use.
3. Set the air control in the RECIRC mode.
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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
4. Close all windows.
5. Idle the engine between 1000 and 1500 RPM and turn the blower
speed control to high.
6. After the cab temperature cools to a comfortable level, adjust the
blower speed and controls to keep the desired condition.

NOTE: When the air conditioner isn’t in regular use, operate
it for at least 15 minutes at least once a month or every
5,000 miles(8,000 Km), whichever comes first. This will
lubricate the seals in the air conditioning system. The air
conditioning system is active when the Defrost mode is
selected.

Cigarette Lighter

02912

Lighter
To operate your lighter, push the knob in. After a few moments the
lighter will automatically pop out, ready to use. After use, insert the
knob, but don’t push it in. The lighter circuit is protected by a 20ampere fuse to prevent damage should the lighter get stuck in the IN
position. If this fuse needs replacement, check to ensure that the
lighter is not stuck before replacing the fuse.
WARNING! Do not exceed the voltage/amperage capacity
of the cigarette lighter. It could result in a fire. Follow all
warnings and instructions in the operator’s manual for the
appliance you are using.

The lighter receptacle may be used to power auxiliary equipment that
does not draw more than 20 amperes maximum.

Ashtray
WARNING! Paper or other combustible substances in
an ashtray could cause a fire. Keep all burnable materials besides smoking materials out of the ashtray.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Glove Compartment

02982

To open your glove compartment, push or turn the latch. To close it,
push the cover up and press to latch it.
The glove compartment can be locked. Turn your ignition key clockwise (right) to lock and counterclockwise (left) to unlock.

WARNING! An open glove compartment can be dangerous. In an accident or sudden stop, you or a passenger
could be thrown against the cover and injured. Keep
the cover closed when the vehicle is in motion.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Gauges
On the pages that follow you will find descriptions of some of the
gauges on your instrument panel. For more information about using
them in driving, see PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE. Also check the Index under the name of the gauge or function
you want to know more about.
WARNING! Do not ignore a warning light or buzzer. These
signals tell you something is wrong with your vehicle. It
could be a failure in an important system, such as the
brakes, which could lead to an accident. Have the appropriate system checked immediately.

Speedometer / Odometer

02983

The speedometer indicates your vehicle’s speed in miles per hour
and in kilometers per hour. The odometer, in the center of the speedometer, records the miles your vehicle has traveled.

Trip Odometer

02984

Some vehicles are also equipped with a trip odometer which tells how
many miles the vehicle has gone on a particular trip. To use it, press
the button next to the trip odometer. The numbers will record 0, and
will then begin to count the miles traveled. To start over, just push the
button again.

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Tachometer

02985

Your tachometer measures the engine speed in revolutions-perminute (RPM). Watching your tachometer is important to driving efficiently. It will let you match driving speed and gear selection to the
operating range of your engine. If your engine speed gets too high,
you can select a higher gear to lower the RPM. If your engine speed
drops too low, you can select a lower gear to raise the RPM.

Air Application Gauge

02986

This gauge will show you how much air pressure is being applied
from your foot brake valve or trailer brake hand valve.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Dual Air Pressure Gauge (Air Reservoir)

02987

The dual air pressure gauge indicates the amount of air pressure in
the brake system in pounds per square inch (psi). The white pointer
shows the front reservoir air pressure, and the red pointer indicates
pressure in the rear reservoir. Ensure the air pressure registers more
than 100 psi in both service systems before you move the vehicle.
If the pressure in either or both circuits is too low for normal brake
operation (the pointer of one gauge is in the red sector), a warning
light in the panel will glow and the audible alarm will sound.

WARNING! The air pressure warning light and the audible alarm indicate a dangerous situation. There is not
enough air pressure in the reservoirs for repeated braking and the brake system has failed. If air pressure falls
below 60 psi (414 kPa) the spring brakes could suddenly
apply, causing a wheel lockup, loss of control, or your vehicle to be overtaken by following vehicles. You could be in
an accident and severely injured. If these alarms come on
while you are driving, bring your vehicle to a safe stop
right away. If the light and alarm do not turn off at startup, do not try to drive the vehicle until the problem is
found and fixed

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge

02988

It is important to maintain oil pressure within acceptable limits. Your
engine manual will give normal operating pressures for your engine.

CAUTION: Continuing to operate your vehicle with insufficient oil pressure will cause serious engine damage
If your oil pressure fails to rise within 10 seconds after your engine
starts, stop the engine and determine the cause.
If your oil pressure suddenly drops while you are driving, bring the
vehicle to a stop as soon as possible in a safe location off the road
and turn off the engine. Wait a few minutes to allow oil to drain into
the oil pan, and then check the oil level. Add oil if necessary. If the
problem persists, contact an authorized service center.
Check the engine manufacturer’s manual for the correct oil pressure
ranges for your engine.

Water Temperature Gauge

02989

The water temperature gauge shows the temperature of the engine
coolant. Under normal operating conditions the water temperature
gauge should register between 165° and 205° F (74° and 90° C).
Under certain conditions, somewhat higher temperatures may be
acceptable. But the maximum allowable temperature is 210° F (99°
C) with the cooling system pressurized, except for certain special
engines. Check your engine manual to be sure.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Engine Overheating
WARNING! Do not remove the radiator fill cap while the
engine is hot. Scalding steam and fluid under pressure may
escape and cause serious personal injuries. You could be
badly burned.

• Wait until the coolant temperature is below 122°F
(50°C).

• Protect face, hands, and arms by covering the cap
with a large, thick rag to protect against escaping fluid
and steam.
• Carefully and slowly turn the cap one-quarter of a turn
or until it reaches the first stop—allowing excess pressure to escape—push down and turn for final removal.
Wait until the coolant temperature is below 122° F (50° C). Protect
your face, hands, and arms by covering the cap with a large, thick rag
to protect you against escaping fluid and steam. Before you completely remove the cap, carefully and slowly turn the cap part way to
allow excess pressure to escape. Then push down and turn for final
removal.
The cooling system may overheat if the coolant level is below normal
or if there is a sudden loss of coolant (such as a worn hose splitting).
It may also temporarily overheat during severe operating conditions
such as climbing a long hill on a hot day or stopping after high-speed
driving.
If the “Engine Coolant Temperature” warning light comes on, or you
have any other reason to suspect the engine may be overheating:
• Stop the vehicle, but DON’T TURN OFF THE ENGINE unless a
low water warning device indicates a loss of coolant.

• With the transmission in neutral, check to be certain the oil pressure gauge reads normal. Increase the engine speed to about
1100 - 1200 RPM, maximum. Return the idle speed to normal
after 2 or 3 minutes. If the warning light doesn’t go off or the temperature gauge doesn’t begin to drop, then turn the engine off.

• If the overheating came from severe operating conditions, the temperature should have cooled by this time. If it has not, stop the
engine and let it cool before checking to see if the coolant is low.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Fuel Gauge

02990

WARNING! Do not remove a fuel tank cap near an open
flame. Hot fuel vapors are combustible and can cause an
explosion or fire resulting in injury or death.

The fuel gauge shows the approximate amount of fuel in the fuel
tanks. Besides empty and full, the gauge also indicates 1/4, 1/2, and
3/4 of total capacity. You will want to keep your fuel tanks at least half
full to reduce condensation of moisture in the tanks. This moisture
can damage your engine.

WARNING! Carrying additional fuel containers in your
vehicle is dangerous. Full or empty, they may leak,
explode, and cause or feed a fire. Don’t carry extra fuel
containers - even empty ones.

Warning Lights and Buzzers
WARNING! Ignoring a warning light or buzzer could
lead to an accident. These signals tell you something is
wrong with your vehicle. It could be a failure in an
important system, such as your brakes. Never ignore a
warning signal. Have the appropriate system checked
right away.

ABS

Conventional Lamp Cluster
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS

CHECK
STATUS

LOW
WATER

LOW
AIR

DIFF
LOCK

ABS

COE Lamp Cluster
When you turn on your ignition, the following will turn on for 3 - 5 seconds, as a test to let you know they are working.
LAMPS:
•Diff Lock
•Low Water
•Water Temp
•Left Turn
•Mirror Heat
•Load Light
•Brake Air
•High Beam
•Fifth Wheel
•Right Turn
•Oil Pressure
•Engine Fan
•ABS
•Airbag System Warning Light
•Trailer ABS
BUZZER: The warning buzzer sounds to let you know some of the
systems are working.
OPTIONAL LAMPS: Additional lamps may be operational depending
on how the truck is equipped. These will also turn on for three seconds as a test to let you know they are working (see ABS lamp information on page 93). After this self-test period, the module operates
normally.
The warning lights and buzzer may indicate something is wrong with
one of the vital systems on your vehicle. Check the lights frequently,
and respond properly as soon as you see one go on. These lights
could save you from a serious accident.

WARNING! Ignoring a warning light could lead to an
accident. These signals tell you something is wrong
with your vehicle. It could be a failure in an important
system, such as the brakes. Never ignore a warning
signal. Have the appropriate system checked right
away.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Transmission Temperature Gauge

02993

Your Transmission Temperature Gauge indicates the temperature of
the oil in your transmission. Watch this gauge to know when your
transmission is overheating. If it is, have it checked by an authorized
service representative.
Maximum transmission temperature may vary, depending upon the
transmission and type of lubricant. Check your transmission’s
owner’s manual.

Forward Drive Axle Temperature Gauge
Rear Drive Axle Temperature Gauge

02994

These gauges indicate the temperature of the lubricant in your vehicle’s axle(s). These temperatures will vary with the kind of load you
are carrying and the driving conditions you encounter. Maximum axle
temperature may vary, depending upon the axle and type of lubricant.
Very high temperatures signal a need to have your axle(s)’ lubrication
checked.

CAUTION: Driving with very hot temperatures in your
rear drive axles can cause serious damage to axle bearings and seals. Have your axle lubrication checked if
you notice a sign of overheating.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—55—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Manifold Pressure Gauge

02995

Your manifold pressure gauge indicates the power your engine is putting out by showing the amount of turbo boost. If the pressure indicated by your manifold pressure gauge goes down, there may be
something wrong with your engine. Have it checked by a qualified
service person.

Pyrometer

02996

The pyrometer gauge indicates engine exhaust gas temperature.
Since it responds almost immediately to changes in exhaust gas temperature, the pyrometer is an excellent indicator of engine output.
Monitor it in conjunction with the tachometer and manifold pressure
gauge. The pyrometer can be a useful aid to operating your truck
more efficiently and avoiding sudden changes in engine operating
temperature. See your engine owner’s manual for maximum temperature recommendations.

Ammeter
Your ammeter tells you whether your electrical system is “in balance”
and operating normally. If not, it may be drawing power from the
alternator (positive reading) or from the batteries (negative reading).
NOTE: Under normal conditions the ammeter will read nearly
“zero.” If it begins to read noticeably above or below the “zero”
balance point, have the system checked out immediately. If you
do not, you could have a roadside breakdown.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Air Filter Restriction Indicator or Gauge

02997

This gauge indicates the condition of the engine air cleaner and is
measured by inches of water (H2O). A clean filter should register 7”
H2O (may vary with system design) and a filter whose life is over will
register approximately 25” H2O.

CAUTION: Continued operation with the Air Filter
Restriction Gauge reading 25” H2O may cause damage
to the engine. Inspect the filter and replace if necessary. Holes in the paper element render an air cleaner
useless and may cause the Air Filter Restriction Gauge
to give a false reading, even if the element is clogged.
Replace the element if it is damaged.

Shift Pattern Display
The correct shift pattern for your vehicle appears on your control
panel or windshield or on a medallion in the shift knob. It is important
that you know more about your transmission than just the shift pattern. Please read the manufacturer’s manual that is included with
your vehicle.

Mirrors
Your vehicle is equipped with outside mirrors to enable you to see to
the sides and behind your vehicle. Be sure they are adjusted properly before you drive off. You will have the best field of view to the
side if you adjust each mirror so you can just see the side of your
vehicle in the inboard part of the mirror.

WARNING! Optional convex outside rear view mirrors
make objects appear smaller and farther away than they
really are. You could have an accident if you were too
close to another vehicle or other object. Keep plenty of
space between your vehicle and others when you turn
or change lanes. Remember that other objects are
closer than they seem.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Luggage Compartment(s)
An interior luggage compartment is under the bunk in the Conventional sleeper. The exterior compartment is beneath the bunk, opening from the driver’s side, on the outside of the cab.

WARNING! Carrying objects loose in your cab or
sleeper can be dangerous. In a sudden stop, or even
going over a bad bump, they could fly forward and
strike you or a passenger, possibly causing serious
injury. Secure loose objects. Carry any heavy objects in
the exterior luggage compartment and close it securely.

Appliances in the Cab
You may decide to equip your vehicle with a radio, a refrigerator, or
other appliances and conveniences. Be sure they are compatible
with your truck’s electrical system. Secure them in the cab so they
can’t fly loose in a sudden stop.

WARNING! In a sudden stop or collision a heavy object
in your cab could strike you or anyone with you. You
could be injured or even killed. Secure any appliance
(such as a refrigerator or radio) you add to your cab.

UltraSleeper Table
Follow the procedure below to deploy the table in an UltraSleeper.
1. Pull on the leg loop (see Illustration) until the leg snaps open.

BUNK-UP BELT
RIGHT SIDEWALL
CABINET
BUNK TABLE LATCH

BUNK TABLE
RIGHT HAND
SOFA CUSHION

BUNK
(STOWED)

CUPHOLDER
TRAY

LOWER REAR WALL
UPHOLSTERY PANEL

LEG
LEFT HAND
BUNK GAS SPRING

LEG LOOP
LEG SUPPORT

LEFT HAND
BUNK PIVOT
BRACKET
SOFA
SEATBELTS

LEFT HAND SOFA
BACKREST

LEFT HAND
SOFA CUSHION

BUNK END TRAY
BUNK DOWN STOP HOOP

SLEEPER WALKTHROUGH
OPENING

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
2. Raise the bunk table latch and pull the table away from the bunk.
3. Lower the table and guide the leg into the leg support, which is
bolted to the door jamb of the through-compartment access door
(see previous illustration).
Follow the procedure below to stow the table.

CAUTION: To avoid possible damage or injury from an
unrestrained table, ensure that the table is latched when
in the stowed position.
1. Lift the table.
2. Raise the bunk table latch and stow the table completely in the
recess in the bunk.
3. Lower the bunk table latch and snap the table leg in place.

UltraSleeper Refrigerator
Follow the procedure below to operate the refrigerator.

NOTE:
• For additional information about the refrigerator, refer to
the refrigerator owner’s manual that came with this appliance.

• During periods of extended refrigerator use, it may be
necessary to run the engine to avoid excess drain on the
vehicle’s batteries.

• Refrigerator cooling ability decreases as sleeper temperature increases.
The main power supply to the refrigerator and cooling fan (located
behind the refrigerator) is controlled by a switch labeled "REFRIG/
FAN" located on the sleeper control panel.
• To turn the refrigerator and cooling fan on, move the REFRIG/FAN
switch to ON, then turn the thermostat dial (located inside the
refrigerator) clockwise from the OFF setting.

• To turn the refrigerator and cooling fan off, turn the thermostat dial
inside the refrigerator counterclockwise to the OFF setting, then
move the REFRIG/FAN switch to OFF.

• To turn only the refrigerator off, turn the thermostat dial counterclockwise to OFF.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—59—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
UltraSleeper Bunk
Follow the procedure below to deploy the bunk in an UltraSleeper.

CAUTION: To avoid possible damage, do the following
before deploying the bunk:
• Ensure that the table is latched in the stowed position
and that the right sidewall cabinet door is latched
closed (see previous illustration).
• Remove all items from the center cupholder tray, bunk
down stop tray, and sofa cushions (see previous illustration).
• Place sofa seatbelts flat on the cushions or stow them
under the cushions.
• Remove and stow the left-hand sofa backrest (see previous illustration).
NOTE: Bunk upswing and downswing will be assisted and
dampened, respectively, by the bunk gas springs. The
amount of assistance and dampening will vary with sleeper
temperature: these amounts are reduced in colder temperatures and increased in warmer temperatures.
1. Unlatch the bunk-up belt (see previous illustration) and pull the
bunk forward. The bunk will swing down and come to rest in a horizontal position.
2. Latch the bunk in the down position. Ensure the bunk latch
engages. If the bunk latch doesn’t properly engage the down stop
bracket hoop as shown below, or if there is too much play between
latch & hoop, have the latch adjusted by a Peterbilt dealer.
BUNK RESTRAINT
TONGUE

HOOP

THUMB LEVER
LATCH

3. Attach the bunk restraint end buckles to the bunk restraint tongues.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
The UltraSleeper bunk restraint is attached to the sleeper in three
locations (see illustration below):
• The bunk front: Access to the bunk is easiest when one or both of
the bunk restraint (buckle) ends are detatched from the bunk
restraint tongues.

• The roofbow: The roofbow-mounted tether straps are adjustable
so that the restraint may be tightened up when fully deployed.

• The upper rear wall: The restraint is attached to the upper rear
wall by two removeable mounting bolts.
Roofbow

Upper Rear Wall

Bunk Front

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 4: CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS
Follow the procedure below to stow the bunk in an UltraSleeper.

CAUTION: To avoid damage, do the following before
stowing the bunk:
• Ensure that the right sidewall cabinet door is latched
closed.
• Remove all items from the top of the bunk mattress,
and arrange bedding so that items will not slide down
the mattress and fall behind the bunk.
NOTE: If the restraint is left unattached from the roofbow
and bunk restraint tongues, then it may get pinched behind
the pivoting bunk and the rear wall of the sleeper when the
bunk is stowed. If this happens, unbuckle the bunk-up belt
and rotate the bunk open just enough to reach behind the
bunk. Free the restraint net, then rotate the bunk fully down.
1. (Optional) Detach the bunk restraint end buckles from the bunk
restraint tongues.
2. Push in on the thumb lever of the bunk down latch to release the
bunk.
3. Lift up the bunk and swing it up to a vertical stowed position.

WARNING! To avoid possible damage or injury from an
unrestrained bunk, always latch the bunk-up belt when
the bunk is stowed.
4. Latch the bunk-up belt. If the bunk leans forward when stowed,
have the belt adjusted or the gas springs serviced by a Peterbilt
dealer.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—62—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Seat
For information on the features and adjustment of the seat, see the
seat manufacturer’s literature included with the vehicle.
WARNING! Do not drive or ride with your seat back in the
reclined position. You could be injured by sliding under the
seat belts in a collision.

WARNING! Do not adjust the driver’s seat while the
vehicle is moving. The seat could move suddenly and
unexpectedly and can cause you to lose control of the
vehicle. Make all adjustments to the seat while the vehicle is stopped. After adjusting the seat and before driving off, ensure that the seat is firmly latched in position.

Seat Belts And Their Proper Use
Seat (or safety) belts have proven to be the single most effective
means available for reducing the risk of serious injury and death in
motor vehicle accidents. It’s not just an opinion -- it’s a fact: Seat
belts save lives.

WARNING! Do not drive vehicle without your seat belt
and your riders’ belt fastened. Riding without a safety
belt properly fastened can lead to increased injury or
death in an emergency. Unbelted riders could be thrown
into the windshield or other parts of the cab or could be
thrown out of the cab. They could strike another person.
Injuries can be much worse when riders are unbelted.
Always fasten your seat belt

02998

Person In Crash, Unbelted

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Shoulder Belt
Your combination shoulder-lap belt needs proper adjustment:
• The lap portion should be worn as low on the hips as possible.

02928

Properly worn belt

Improperly worn belt

WARNING! You can be seriously injured if your belt is
buckled too high. In a crash, it would apply force to
your abdomen, not your pelvic bones. This could cause
serious internal injuries. Always wear your seat belt low
over your pelvic bones.

• The shoulder portion should fit snugly across your body. It should
always be worn over the shoulder next to the door. It you put the
belt under your arm, it can’t protect you properly.

02929

Correct (over arm)
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

Incorrect (under arm)
—64—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
WARNING! Wearing the shoulder belt under your arm
could lead to serious injury. In a crash your body would
move too far forward, increasing the chance of head and
neck injury. And the belt would apply too much force to
the ribs, which aren’t as strong as your shoulder bones.
You could also suffer internal injuries. Wear the shoulder belt over your shoulder.

• Be sure, also, that your belt is not too loose. A loose belt could
allow you to slide under it in an accident, and that could bring the
belt up around your abdomen.

WARNING! A too-loose seat belt can lead to injury in a
crash. It can allow you to fall too far forward, possibly
causing head and neck injuries. You could strike the
wheel or the windshield. Adjust your belt so that there
is no more than one inch (25 mm) of slack.

• Watch that you don’t twist the belt in the process of putting it on. A
twisted belt won’t work as well to protect you.

02930

Twisted Belt

WARNING! You could be seriously injured by a twisted
belt. In a crash, the full width of the belt wouldn’t be
protecting you. And the twisted belt could cut into your
body. Straighten the belt before buckling it. If you can’t,
have your dealer or service person fix it.
To connect your shoulder-lap belt: Grasp the belt tongue and pull
in a smooth, slow motion across your chest and lap. Insert the
tongue into the buckle on the inboard side of the seat. Push down
until you hear a click. Pull on the belt to make sure it is buckled.
Check that it is positioned correctly on your body.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Komfort-Lok® Feature
Your Peterbilt contains a feature designed to eliminate cinching and
provide improved safety and comfort. Cinching is the condition where
a belt becomes continually tighter around you during a rough, bouncy
ride. The need for this feature increases with rough road conditions,
particularly over long distances.
To eliminate cinching simply activate the Komfort-Lok feature at the
appropriate time:
1. Fasten your seat belt according to the directions above.
2. You are now ready to activate the Komfort-Lok. Lean forward to
pull a little slack (about 1 inch) in the belt. Be sure to allow only a
small amount of slack. See the Warning on a loose belt, on the
previous page.

02931

Komfort-Lok®
3. When the slack is right, flip the latch cover up, cinching it into
place. This locks the Komfort-Lok.
4. To release the Komfort-Lok latch, reach up and pull the latch cover
open (down), or simply pull down on the shoulder belt.
5. When you want to get out of the cab, release the latch, then just
push the button on the buckle.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Pregnant Women: Sometimes pregnant women worry that in a crash
the seat belt could hurt the baby. But if a woman wears her belt properly - low over her pelvis, below her abdomen - the belt won’t harm
the baby, even in a crash. And remember - the best way to keep an
unborn baby safe is to keep the mother safe.

02932A

Pregnant Woman With Belt Properly Worn

Sleeper Bunk Restraints
If your cab is equipped with a sleeper, be sure to use the restraint
device. You may have belts which either are over the bunk or cover
the opening. Of course, you do not need to use a restraint if you
sleep in a parked vehicle. But anyone using the sleeper while the
truck is in motion should be restrained in a safety device.
You will notice that if your Peterbilt has an upper bunk, it has no
restraint device. This is because no one should ever be in an upper
bunk when the vehicle is moving.

WARNING!
• In an accident an unrestrained person lying in a sleeper
bunk could be seriously injured. He or she could be
thrown from the bunk. Be sure anyone occupying the
sleeper is restrained while a vehicle is moving.
• Be sure that no one ever rides in the upper bunk. That
person would be thrown out in an accident and could
be very seriously injured.

Passengers
Anyone riding in your vehicle should wear a seat belt. The responsible operator sees to it that everyone in the vehicle rides safely - and
that means with a seat belt.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Some Other Safety Restraint Tips:
• Don’t wear belts over rigid or breakable objects in or on your clothing. Such things might be eyeglasses, pens, keys, etc. These
could cause injury in an accident.

• Damaged belts in the cab or sleeper must be replaced. Belts that
have been stretched, cut, or worn out may not protect you in an
accident.

• Avoid catching belts in the doors or seat hardware. They could be
damaged.

• Don’t modify or disassemble the seat belts in your vehicle. They
won’t be available to keep you and your passengers safe.

• Never bleach or dye seat belts; chemicals can weaken them. Do,
however, keep them clean by following the care label on the belts.
Let them dry completely before allowing them to retract.

• If any seat belt is not working properly, see an authorized Peterbilt
dealer for repair or replacement.

Tether Belts
Tether belts are installed on suspension seats. They help secure the
seat to the floor to restrain it in case of a sudden stop or an accident.
WARNING! Do not remove, modify, or replace the tether
belt system with a different tether system. A failed or missing tether belt could allow a seat base to fully extend in the
event of an accident leading to greater injuries or death.

Tether Adjustment

• Make sure the tether belt is attached to the cab deck and seat
frame. It should be routed through the buckle on each side.

• To lengthen the tether, turn the buckle to a right angle to the webbing. Then pull the buckle. To shorten the tether, pull on the strap.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Inspection of the Restraint System
WARNING! Failure to properly inspect and maintain
restraint systems can lead to serious injury or loss of
life. Without periodic inspection and maintenance to
detect unsafe conditions, seat restraint components
can wear out or not protect you in an accident.
The typical three-point seat systems in passenger cars may seem
very similar to the three-point seat belt system in heavy duty vehicles,
but there are some key differences that all users of this system should
be aware of:
• In typical passenger vehicle automotive seat belt applications, the
normal life of the vehicles is usually 8 to 10 years and the total
mileage frequently does not exceed 125,000 miles (200,000 km).
Heavy duty vehicles often see this type of mileage in a very short
period of time, and accumulation of mileage in excess of 500,000
miles (800,000 km) during the vehicle lifetime is not unusual.
• A significant difference in the two systems is the amount of movement of webbing in the system. In an automotive application,
there is little movement of the seat belt system, except when the
user puts on or takes off the belt. In trucks, however, there is
almost constant movement of the belt through hardware due to
ride characteristics and seats which are designed to move, in
order to enhance driver comfort. There can even be movement of
the webbing in the seat belt system when the belt in not being
used. Relative movement between the seat and the cab, which
normally occurs whenever the truck is in operation, can cause
wear of the seat belt webbing.
• Environmental conditions represent another major difference in
the systems in automobiles and heavy duty and specialty vehicles.
Unlike the automotive environment, heavy duty and specialty vehicles may be very dirty, and have more exposure to the Sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays, thus resulting in a reduction of the life of the
seat belt system.
The high mileage associated with heavy duty vehicles and possible
wear of the 3-point seat belt system, the continual relative movement
of the system, the possible contact with the vehicle seat or other parts
of the cab structure, and the potential exposure of this system to
severe environmental conditions make it crucial to inspect the threepoint seat belt systems regularly. It is recommended that the seat belt
system in a vehicle be inspected every 20,000 miles (32,000 km) or
more often if the vehicle is exposed to severe environmental conditions. Any seat belt system that shows cuts, fraying, extreme or
unusual wear, significant discoloration due to UV exposure, abrasion
to the seat belt webbing, or damage to the buckle, latch plate, retractor hardware or any other obvious problem should be replaced immediately, regardless of mileage.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
WARNING! It is important to remember that any time a
vehicle is involved in an accident, the entire seat belt
system must be replaced. Unexposed damage caused
by the stress of an accident could prevent the system
from functioning properly the next time it is needed,
which could result in severe injury or even death.
One of the most critical areas to be inspected is the seat belt webbing. Constant movement of the belt actually means the webbing is
experiencing wear as it travels in and out of the retractor, through the
pillar loop web guide and through the various pieces of hardware
associated with the belt. The following guidelines detail how to
inspect for cuts, fraying, extreme or unusual wear of the webbing, etc.
and damage to the buckle, retractor, hardware, or other factors which
indicate that belt replacement is necessary.

03004

1. Check the web wear in the system. The webbing must be closely
examined to determine if it is coming into contact with any sharp or
rough surfaces on the seat or other parts of the cab interior.
These areas are typical places where the web will experience cutting or abrasion. Cuts, fraying, or excessive wear would indicate
the need for replacement of the seat belt system.
2. The D-loop web guide is the area where almost constant movement of the seat belt webbing occurs because of relative movement between the seat and the cab.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
3. Check the Komfort Latch™ for cracks or possible damage and that
it works properly.
4. Check the buckle and latch for proper operation and to determine
if the latch plate is worn, deformed, or damaged.
5. Inspect the retractor web storage device, that is mounted on the
floor or B-pillar of the vehicle for damage. The retractor is the
heart of the occupant restraint system and can often be damaged
if abused, even unintentionally. Check retractor web storage
device operation to ensure that it is not locked up and that it spools
out and retracts webbing properly.

WARNING! Failure to adjust tether belts properly can
cause excessive movement of the seat in an accident.
This could lead to greater injuries for you. Tether belts
should be adjusted so that they are taut when the seat is
in its most upward and forward position.
6. If adjustable tethers are being used, be sure they are adjusted in
accordance with installation instructions. Tethers must also be
inspected for web wear, just as with the seat belt systems.
7. Mounting hardware should be evaluated for corrosion, and for
tightness of bolts and nuts.
8. Check web in areas exposed to ultraviolet rays from the sun. If the
color of the web in these areas is gray to light brown, the physical
strength of this web may have deteriorated due to exposure to the
sun’s ultraviolet rays; replace the system.
WARNING! Replace the entire belt system (retractor and
buckle side) if replacement of any one part is necessary.
Unexposed damage to one or more components could prevent the system from functioning properly the next time it is
needed, which could result in severe injury or even death.

If the inspection indicates that any part of the seat belt system
requires replacement, the entire system must be replaced, both
retractor and buckle side. An installation guide is attached to every
replacement belt. This set of instructions is entitled “THREE-POINT
SEAT BELT INSTALLATION GUIDE.” There are separate seat belt
instruction guides for suspension and fixed bench seats. Use the
proper guide for your type of seat, and follow the instructions very
closely. It is vitally important that all components must be remounted
back in the same position as the original components that were
removed. This will maintain the design integrity of the mounting
points for the seat belt assembly.
Once the need for replacement of the seat belt has been determined,
be certain that it is only replaced with the recommended replacement
seat belt. The occupant restraint system has been developed and
tested specifically for this vehicle. If the vehicle was originally
equipped with a lap belt, it cannot be replaced with a three-point
shoulder harness system, because the cab mounting points are not
structurally designed for a three-point seat belt.
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PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Airbag System
General Information
WARNING!
• Always wear your seat belt. Relying on the driver airbag alone could lead to more severe injuries in a collision. The airbag supplements your seat belt to
provide proper occupant restraint.
• Do not place objects, accessory equipment or stickers
on or near the airbag module on the steering wheel.
Any such objects could increase the risk of personal
injury if the vehicle is in a collision severe enough for
the airbag to inflate or could prevent the module from
deploying properly.
• Being too close to the steering wheel during airbag
deployment could cause possible injury. Airbags need
room to inflate. For the best protection
-fasten your seat belt
-sit in a normal upright position
-comfortably extend your arms to reach the steering
wheel
Your vehicle may be equipped with a driver-side airbag system, otherwise known as a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS). The driver’s
airbag provides supplemental protection to the standard 3-point seat
belt assembly in a severe frontal collision. For maximum safety, ALL
occupants should always wear their seat belts whether or not an airbag is provided at their seating position to minimize the risk of severe
injury or death in the event of a crash. A properly worn seat belt is
your best protection in any collision .
The airbag system is designed to deploy during severe frontal or
head-on collisions, where the vehicle collides with an object severe
enough to warrant airbag protection. Less severe frontal collisions,
collisions from the rear, side, or rollover accidents may not activate
the system. This is normal and does not mean the airbag is faulty.

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PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Airbag System/SRS Description
The airbag system is made up of several components within the cab
including

•
•
•
•
•

Airbag module - mounted to center of steering wheel
Sensor/Control system - on the floor aft of the driver seat
Airbag (SRS) system warning light in the light bar
Various electrical wiring harnesses and connectors
Seat belts

Airbag Module

CAUTION: The airbag module must be replaced by an
authorized Peterbilt dealer every 10 years from the airbag’s date of installation. Failure to replace the airbag
module could result in nondeployment or insufficient
deployment.
The driver airbag module is located in the center of the steering wheel
and inflates in the event of a serious frontal collision. The module has
the letters “SRS” embossed into it.

27884

The angle of impact of the collision, crash severity, and type of object
impacted play a part in whether the airbag system deploys or not.
The driver airbag module is used as a supplement to the seat belt
restraint system. The function of the airbag is to inflate at a precise
calibrated vehicle deceleration level, typically found in higher speed
frontal impacts, to provide supplemental protection for the driver. In
collisions where the airbag does deploy, the seat belt is needed to
help keep the driver in the correct position for the airbag to provide
proper protection. The ignition must be on for the airbag to deploy.

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PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
Sensor/Control Unit
The sensor/control unit is mounted on the floor of the vehicle behind
the driver seat. It detects the rate of deceleration and monitors system function. The control unit has a single point electronic crash sensor. The sensor monitors the crash direction and severity of the
impact. When the crash sensor detects an impact severe enough to
require the airbag, it activates the inflator. A non-toxic argon gas is
released to inflate the airbag cushion at the proper time. The airbag
module trim cover rotates out of the way from the force of the inflating
bag as the cushion reaches full size. The cushion inflates, then
deflates by venting the argon gas through the airbag fabric. All this
occurs in approximately one second.
Airbag (SRS) System Warning Light

CAUTION: If the airbag system warning light
stays on, doesn’t come on when you start your
vehicle, or comes on while driving the vehicle,
take your vehicle to the nearest Peterbilt dealer for service immediately! The airbag system may have a fault
that will render the system inoperable.
There is an airbag system warning light in the warning light bar in the
dash. The system performs self-diagnostics during vehicle start-up.
The light will flash for approximately 5 seconds when the ignition is
turned to the "RUN” or "START" position. When the system is operating correctly, the light will go out after 5 seconds.

Airbag Electrical Components

WARNING! Do not attempt to repair, probe, or splice
any part of the air bag system. Modifications or repairs
to any part of the airbag system could result in system
failure or sudden, inadvertent deployment of the airbag
module and could result in possible injury. One of the
components for the airbag electrical system is a clock
spring harness located in the hub of the steering column. Repair work should only be performed by an
authorized Peterbilt dealer.

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PART 5: SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS
To connect the airbag module, sensor/control system, and the airbag
warning light, numerous electrical connectors and harnesses are
installed in the vehicle. They can be identified by a yellow covering.
There are no serviceable components in the airbag system. When
working on the vehicle’s electrical system, ensure that no damage is
done to the SRS electrical components as it may prevent the airbag
system from operating properly or may cause it to inadvertently deploy.

CAUTION: Do not remove any steering driveline component. If removal of any steering component occurs, the
clock spring harness can be damaged resulting in
expensive repairs or system failure. Any repair or
replacement of steering gear, steering shaft, steering
column, or steering wheel must be done by an authorized Peterbilt dealer.
If an Airbag Deployment Occurs

WARNING!
• The airbag inflator becomes hot during deployment. To
avoid burns immediately after a deployment, do not
place any part of your body on the steering wheel hub.
• Never attempt to drive your vehicle if the airbag has
deployed. Have your vehicle towed to an authorized
Peterbilt dealer anytime the airbag deploys and have
the dealer replace the airbag module and check the
entire system. The vehicle may not be safe to steer and
the system can no longer provide proper protection.
CAUTION: If a collision causes the airbag to deploy, the
nylon airbag cushion material may cause abrasions
and/or skin reddening to the driver as the airbag
deploys and unfolds itself from the steering wheel. The
abrasions are similar to friction rope, carpet, or floor
burns. They are not caused by contact with chemicals.
They are not permanent and normally heal quickly.
However, if the affected areas blister, or have not healed
within a few days, consult your doctor.
Vehicle Operation or Modification
The SRS sensing unit installed in your vehicle is calibrated for a specific cab and sleeper combination vehicle and designated for on-highway operation/service. Any change from the vehicle’s original cab and
sleeper combination or operation can cause the airbag not to perform
or function properly as originally designed. If your vehicle was built
with a sleeper unit, the sleeper unit must not be removed. If it is necessary to remove the sleeper and operate the vehicle, the SRS system must be deactivated by an authorized Peterbilt dealer.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST
To keep your vehicle in top shape, and to maintain its high level of
safety for you, your passengers, and your load, make a thorough
inspection every day before you drive. You’ll save maintenance time
later -- and the safety checks could help prevent a serious accident.
Please remember, too, that Federal law requires a pre-trip inspection
and so do commercial trucking companies.
For more information, you can refer to Federal Motor Carrier Safety
Regulation 392.7 which tells you that interstate commercial motor
vehicles are not to be driven unless the driver is sure that certain
parts and accessories are in working order.
You aren’t expected to become a professional mechanic. The purpose of your inspections is to find anything that might interfere with
the safe and efficient transportation of yourself and your load. If you
do find something wrong and can’t fix it yourself, please have a qualified mechanic fix it right away.
Safe Vehicle Operation
For your safety, as well as those around you, be a responsible driver:

• If you drink, do not drive.
• Do not drive if you are tired, ill, or under emotional stress.
Much has gone into the manufacturing of your Peterbilt, including
advanced engineering techniques, rigid quality control, and demanding inspections. These manufacturing processes will be enhanced by
you—the safe driver—who observes the following:

• knows & understands how to operate a vehicle and all its controls
• maintains the vehicle properly
• uses driving skills wisely
WARNING! Do not drink and drive. Your reflexes, perceptions, and judgment can be affected by even a small
amount of alcohol. You could have a serious—or even fatal
accident—if you drive after drinking. Please do not drink
and drive or ride with a driver who has been drinking.
The use of alcohol, drugs, and certain medications will seriously impair perception, reactions, and driving ability.
These circumstances can substantially increase the risk of
an accident and personal injury.

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PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST
The daily checks listed below are the foundation of your overall preventive maintenance program. See PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND
SERVICE for the complete preventive maintenance schedule for your
vehicle.

Approaching the Vehicle
1. Check the overall appearance and condition. Are windows, mirrors, and lights clean and unobstructed?
2. Check beneath the vehicle. Are there signs of fuel, oil, or water
leaks?
3. Check for damaged, loose, or missing parts. Are there parts
showing signs of excessive wear or lack of lubrication? Have a
qualified mechanic examine any questionable items and repair
them without delay.

Checking Under the Hood or Cab
With the engine stopped:
1. Check the engine oil level; top up as necessary. Refer to your
engine’s operating manual for the type of oil to use.
2. Check the engine coolant level while the engine is cold. Top up as
necessary with premixed coolant. Refer to the instructions on
page 160 for adding coolant to the proper level.
3. Check the engine belts. Refer to the instructions on page 160 to
check belt condition and adjust tension.
4. Check brake lines and hoses.
5. Check all other accessories, controls, belts, hoses, and wiring for
condition and adjustment.
6. Check the windshield washer fluid level; top up as necessary
(Conventional).
7. Check the power steering fluid reservoir; top up as necessary.
8. Check the steering components (pitman arm; draglink; power
steering hoses, etc.)
9. Drain the fuel/water separator.

Checking the Luggage Compartment
1. Check the fire extinguisher charge.
2. Check the road emergency kit. Is it complete?
3. Check the windshield washer fluid level; Top up as necessary
(COE).

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PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST
Checking Outside the Vehicle
WARNING!
• Diesel fuel in the presence of an ignition source (such as
a cigarette) could cause an explosion. You could be seriously injured. A mixture of gasoline or alcohol with diesel
fuel increases this risk of explosion. Use only the fuel
recommended for your engine.
• Hot fuel vapors are combustible and can cause an
explosion or fire resulting in injury or death. Do not
remove a fuel tank cap near an open flame.
1. Be sure all wheel studs and cap nuts are secure. Check wheel
cap nut torque weekly; refer to the instructions on page 152.
2. Check tires for condition and proper inflation.
3. Check the front wheel bearing lube level.
4. Check parking (spring) brakes as to the condition and tightness of
air lines, breathers, clamp rings & bolts, mounting studs, and
release bolts.
5. Check turn signal operation.
6. Check emergency flashers and exterior lamps.
7. Check the fuel tanks. Is there enough fuel? Are the tank caps
secure?
8. Visually inspect the fuel tank mounting hardware. Are the tank
straps tight? Is the webbing in place?
9. If equipped with fuel tank steps: are they damaged or broken? Is
the grommet/windlace in place between the tank and side plate?
Are bolts missing or loose?
10.Check the air cleaner and muffler(s). Are they tight and secure?
11.Check the trailer connections. Are they secure and the lines
clear? If they are not being used, are they stored properly?
12. Is the trailer spare wheel secure? Inflated?
13.Is the landing gear up and the handle secured?
14.Check the 5th wheel. Is the kingpin locked?
15. Is the sliding 5th wheel locked?
16.Check for loose or missing suspension fasteners.
17. Check springs or other suspension parts for damage such as
cracks, gouges, distortions, bulges, or chafing.
18.Check the air system. Are there leaks?

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PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST
19.Drain excess moisture from all air supply tanks. Make sure the
drain cocks are closed. This procedure is also required for air supply tanks equipped with automatic drain valves.
20.Check that cab latch or hood hold-downs are hooked.

In - Cab Checklist
CAUTION: To avoid injury while entering or leaving the
cab, keep your feet in contact with the steps and your
hands on the handhold. Always have three points of
contact as you enter or exit a cab. See PART 2: GETTING INTO AND OUT OF THE CAB AND FRAME
ACCESS of this manual for more information.
1. Adjust the seats.
2. Fasten and adjust safety restraint belts. (See PART 5: SEAT AND
RESTRAINT SYSTEMS or the Index, under Restraint
Systems 63.)
3. Sleeper Restraints: Check and inspect condition. (See PART 5:
SEAT AND RESTRAINT SYSTEMS or the Index, under Restraint
Systems 63.)
4. Adjust the steering column.
5. Check mirror adjustment.
6. Operate air-powered devices to circulate lubricants.

After Engine Warmup
Check automatic transmission oil (if equipped).

NOTE: The above items should be checked daily, as a minimum. They are in addition to, not in place of Federal
Motor Carrier Safety Regulations. These may be purchased
by writing to:
Superintendent of Documents
U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, DC 20402

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Since each vehicle is custom-equipped, all engine operation instructions in this manual are general. You will want to consult the manual
for your engine to find out details about your specific engine’s needs.
You may need to use a slightly different procedure from the one outlined here.
Also check the ATA Truck Driver’s Handbook in your glove box. It will
give you tips on starting, shifting, and driving a truck.
Below are instructions for both normal-temperature starting and coldweather starting.

Normal Temperature Starting Procedure
When the outside temperature is above 50° F (10° C), you can use
the following procedure.
1. Set the parking brake.
2. Put your main transmission in Neutral.
3. Disengage (depress) the clutch (with manual transmission).
4. Turn the key switch to ON.

• If your vehicle is equipped with a digital message center (DMC),
the DMC display will come on in the “Clock” mode.

CAUTION: Never operate the starter motor while the
engine is running. The starter and flywheel gears could
clash or jam, severely damaging them.
NOTE: Some starters are equipped with overcrank protection.
Check the “Engine Operation and Maintenance Manual” for
details.

5. Press the starter button.
If the engine does not start within 30 seconds, release the starter button. To avoid overtaxing the starter motor or the batteries, don’t use
the starter for more than 30 seconds. Let the starter motor cool and
the batteries recover for two minutes before trying again.
If the engine still won’t start after a couple of tries, check the manual
override shutdown valve and fuel lines for possible fuel starvation or
air leaks. Starting failure may mean fuel isn’t reaching the injectors.
6. As soon as the engine starts, begin to watch the oil pressure
gauge. Check your engine manufacturer’s manual for the right
pressure for your engine. If the oil pressure doesn’t rise within a
few seconds, stop the engine. Find out what is wrong before
restarting the engine.
7. Slowly engage (release) the clutch after the engine has started.

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
8. Wait until normal engine oil pressure registers on the gauge before
idling or accelerating the engine beyond 1000 RPM.

NOTE: If your vehicle has a DDC engine, and if it has not
been started for more than 30 days, squirt about half a cup
(120 ml) of clean, specified engine oil into the turbocharger
oil inlet port. Use an oil can. This will keep the turbocharger
bearings lubricated until the engine oil pressure gets up to
normal.

Cold Temperature Starting Procedure
In cold weather, fast engine starting helps relieve the loads on the
electrical system and cranking motor. Using the special cold starting
equipment will help starting. If you follow a few simple guidelines, you
will extend the service life of your engine.
•Keep the electrical system in top condition.
•Use the best quality fuel of the recommended grade.
•Use recommended engine lubricating oil.
Ether Metering Equipment

WARNING! The fluid in ether starting systems is
extremely flammable and poisonous. If ignited, it could
burn you badly. If you swallow it, it can be harmful or
fatal.
• Do not smoke when testing, installing, or servicing an
ether starting unit. Service it in a well-ventilated area
away from heat, open flames, or sparks.
• If swallowed, do not induce vomiting. Call a physician
immediately.
• Wear goggles to avoid getting fluid in your eyes.
Avoid getting it on your skin and avoid breathing the
fumes. If fluid does get in your eyes or fumes irritate
your eyes, flush for 15 minutes with large amounts of
clean water. Contact an eye specialist.
• Do not move or relocate the ether cylinder or tubing
from its original installation. It must be mounted to
protect it from engine exhaust heat and from moving
parts which could damage it.
• Do not store the spare cylinder in the cab.
• In warm weather, when you will not need the ether
starting system, remove the ether bottle from your
truck and store it safely. Return the protective cap to
the bottle mounting connector.

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
In cold weather the engine will start faster and the starter motor will
work more easily if ether is injected into the engine cylinder while the
engine is being cranked.
Automatic System
When you press your ignition starter button, the cranking motor and
the ether system are engaged. When needed, starting fluid is
released from a pressurized cylinder, flows through a valve and tubing, and sprays from a nozzle in you engine’s air intake system.
Preheater With Glow Plug
If you have a Caterpillar 3306 PCTA or an earlier model engine, you
may have a glow plug. The glow plug preheater aids cold starting by
burning fuel in the intake manifold and heating the intake air. This
feature can be very helpful if you operate your truck in cold weather.
For more helpful starting information, refer to the engine manual that
came with your vehicle.

Engine Warmup
The purpose of engine warmup is to allow oil film to be established
between pistons and liners, shafts and bearings while your engine
gradually reaches operating temperature.
Warmup Procedure
1. After you’ve started your engine, idle it at approximately 600 RPM
while you check
•oil pressure
•air pressure
•alternator output
2. After a few minutes of idling at 600 RPM, increase your idle speed
to 900 or 1000 RPM. Continue your warmup. This procedure
allows oil to warm and flow freely while pistons, liners, shafts, and
bearings expand slowly and evenly. In extremely cold temperatures, you may have to increase idle speed.

NOTE: In colder climates where the temperature is often
below freezing, the warmup for turbocharged engines is
especially important. Chilled external oil lines leading to the
turbocharger will slow the oil flow until the oil warms, reducing oil available for the bearings. Watch the engine oil temperature or pressure gauge for a warming trend before
increasing engine idle speed (RPM).
3. Continue the engine warmup until the coolant temperature
reaches at least 130° F (54° C). At this temperature, you can use
partial throttle. Wait until the coolant temperature is at least 160° F
(71° C) before operating at full throttle.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
WARNING! Exhaust fumes from the engine contain carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas. Do not breathe the
engine exhaust gas. A poorly maintained, damaged or corroded exhaust system can allow carbon monoxide to enter
the cab or sleeper. Entry of carbon monoxide into the cab is
also possible from other vehicles nearby. Failure to properly
maintain your vehicle could cause carbon monoxide to enter
the cab/sleeper and causes serious illness.
CAUTION: Never idle your vehicle for prolonged periods of
time if you sense that exhaust fumes are entering the cab
or sleeper. Investigate the cause of the fumes and correct it
as soon as possible. If the vehicle must be driven under
these conditions, drive only with the windows slightly
open. Failure to repair the source of the exhaust fumes may
lead to personal harm.
NOTE: Keep the engine exhaust system and the vehicle’s cab/
sleeper ventilation system properly maintained. It is recommended
that the vehicle’s exhaust system and cab/sleeper be inspected

• By a competent technician every 15,000 miles
• Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system

• Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, cab or
sleeper is damaged
NOTE: Do not stay in the vehicle with the engine running or
idling for more than 10 minutes with the vehicle’s Heater and
A/C ventilation system in RECIRC or at LOW FAN SPEED.
Even with the ventilation system On, running the engine
while parked or stopped for prolonged periods of time is not
recommended.
NOTE: If other vehicles are parked next to you idling, move
your vehicle or do not stay in your vehicle for prolonged periods
of time.
CAUTION: The use of a winterfront can result in excessive
engine coolant, oil, and charge air (intake) temperatures,
which can lead to overheating and possible engine damage. If you must use a winterfront, refer to the “Engine
Operation and Maintenance Manual” for operating restrictions and recommendations.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Transmission Warmup
COE Only

WARNING! Do not operate this vehicle if you notice a
gradual or sudden increase in cable shift effort or a
decrease in the usable travel. Take the vehicle to the
nearest authorized Peterbilt dealer for repair. Failure to
correct either of these conditions could result in serious
injury or death.
CAUTION: Cables are designed to be contaminant resistant, not contaminant proof. Protect cable from contaminants, chemicals, and physical damage which may damage
the control cable.
NOTE: Shift control cables are lubricated for life and are nonrepairable. The cables cannot be lubricated and/or repaired. If
you detect a broken seal, moisture, or if the cable has frozen,
the shift cable must be replaced. Do not apply heat to thaw or
improve performance of the cables.

In cold weather you may find shifting sluggish when you first start the
engine. Transmission warmup is especially important at this time, but
it is always a good idea to warm up your transmission before starting
out on the road. To warm up the transmission lubricating oil during
engine warmup, with a single transmission:
• Check that the transmission is in Neutral.

• Release the clutch pedal.
If you have a two-transmission combination:
• Put the main transmission in gear.

• Put the auxiliary transmission in Neutral. This will allow the transmission countershaft to turn, agitating the oil and warming it.

Idling the Engine
Under most circumstances, idling your engine for long periods merely
wastes fuel. In severe arctic weather conditions, however, you may
need longer idling to be sure all parts of your engine are fully lubricated.
WARNING! To reduce the chance of personal injury and/or
vehicle damage from overheated engines, which can result
in a fire, never leave the engine idling without an alert
driver present. If the engine should overheat, as indicated
by the engine coolant temperature light, immediate action
is required to correct the condition. Continued unattended
operation of the engine, even for a short time, may result in
serious engine damage or a fire.

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
CAUTION: Do not allow your engine to idle, at low rpm’s
(400–600 rpm), longer than five minutes. Long periods of
idling after the engine has reached operating temperatures
can decrease engine temperature and cause gummed piston rings, clogged injectors, and possible engine damage
from lack of lubrication. The normal torsional vibrations
generated can also cause transmission wear.

During the time it takes you to drink a cup of coffee, your engine can
cool as much as 60° F (33° C) below normal operating temperature.
To keep the engine warm during a short break, turn it off. And don’t
allow your engine to idle longer than five minutes.

Putting The Vehicle In Motion
This section discusses the clutch and transmission operation to get
your Peterbilt underway.
WARNING! Do not carry loose objects in your cab, it can be
dangerous. In a sudden stop, or even going over a bump in
the road, they could fly through the air and strike you or a
passenger. You could be injured or even killed. Secure all
loose objects in the cab before moving the vehicle.

Shifting The Transmission
You will find a shift pattern either on a decal in your cab or on a
medallion in the shift knob. Check to be sure you know the correct
sequence for your particular transmission. Refer to the transmission
manual included with your vehicle for complete instructions in the
operation of your transmission.

Shifting Gears in a New Vehicle
Shift carefully in a new vehicle. The transmission may be a little stiff
at first. So be careful to avoid gear clashing.
When you are operating a new vehicle or one that has been exposed
to cold weather, you want the transmission lubricant to circulate and
coat the contacting surfaces of the gears. Metal contacting metal in
moving parts may seriously damage your transmission. So don’t
drive in one gear for long until the transmission lubricant has had a
chance to coat those contacting surfaces.

Operating the Clutch
“Riding” the Clutch
The clutch pedal is not a footrest. Driving with your foot on the clutch
pedal will allow your clutch to slip, causing excessive heat and wear.
You can damage your vehicle this way.

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Clutch Travel
CAUTION: Always use first gear or a low speed range to
start the vehicle in motion. The use of a higher gear or
speed range forces undue strain on the engine, clutch,
other transmission components, and may cause damage.

To put your vehicle into motion, push down on the clutch pedal until
the clutch brake makes contact. This contact will occur at about 1/2
inch to 1 inch from the end of pedal stroke. Select a gear low enough
to let your vehicle start forward with the throttle at idle until the clutch
is fully engaged.
The total stroke of the clutch pedal is about 10 inches. The first 1 3/4
to 2 inches is free travel. After that is the release stroke, the part that
fully releases the clutch. The last 1/2 to 1 inch engages the clutch
brake. If your vehicle is new, watch the free travel in your clutch carefully for the first few hundred miles. As your clutch lining wears and
high spots get worn smooth, you will get less free travel.
Always start out in a low gear with a ceramic-faced clutch. Starting in
higher gears, even with a light load, will cause a very jumpy start and
excessive wear.
And don’t allow your vehicle to roll in the opposite direction at all during
clutch engagement. If you need to start up on an incline, apply your
service brakes before you release the parking brake. Then release
your service brakes as you engage the clutch and apply throttle.
Release Bearing Wear
When you must idle your engine for any period of time, shift your
transmission to neutral and engage the clutch (take your foot off the
pedal). This helps prevent unnecessary wear of your clutch release
bearing. And it is less tiring for you, too.
Clutch Adjustment
Inspect manual and self-adjusting clutches regularly to maintain correct clutch adjustment. Have your dealer’s service department perform any adjustments necessary. Do not adjust your clutch by
adjusting the external linkage without first checking (and correcting if
necessary) the internal clutch adjustment. Using only the external
linkage adjustment could damage the clutch.
Clutch Brake
Your clutch brake is used for stopping gear rotation to let you shift into
1st gear or reverse when your vehicle is at a standstill.
About the last 1/2 to 1 inch of clutch pedal travel activates your clutch
brake. So if you are stopped and want to shift directly into 1st or
reverse, depress the clutch pedal until contact with the clutch brake is
made to stop transmission gear rotation.
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If you have a butt-tooth condition and can’t shift the transmission,
gradually release the clutch. Then the drive gear can roll enough to
allow the teeth to line up properly and complete the shift.

CAUTION: Be careful not to apply the clutch brake while
the vehicle is moving. The purpose of the clutch brake
is to stop the transmission so that you can shift into a
starting gear without grinding. Applying the clutch
brake when the vehicle is moving causes a braking
effect on the entire vehicle. This wear naturally shortens the service life of your clutch brake.
Double Clutching
Whether you are upshifting or down shifting, it is best to double
clutch. Double clutching is easier on your transmission and on your
engine, helping your vehicle match engine speed with driveline speed
and achieving clash-free shifts. To double clutch:
1. Push down the clutch pedal to disengage the clutch.
2. Move the gear shift lever to neutral.
3. Release the pedal to engage the clutch. This lets you control the
RPM of the mainshaft gears. Thus you can match the RPM of the
mainshaft gears to those of the output shaft.
Upshifts - Let the engine and gears slowdown to the RPM
required for the next gear. Use the tachometer to determine optimum RPM for gear engagement.
Downshifts - Press accelerator to increase engine and gear
speed to the RPM required in the lower gear. Use the tachometer
to determine optimum RPM for gear engagement.
4. Now quickly press the pedal to disengage the clutch. Move the
gear shift lever to the next gear speed position.
5. Release the pedal to engage the clutch.

Interaxle Differential
On vehicles with tandem rear axles, the interaxle differential allows
each axle to turn independently. Differential action between the tandems relieves stress on the rear axles and tires and provides better
performance.

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When operating normally on paved, dry surfaces, keep your truck’s
interaxle differential in the UNLOCK position.

02905

Switch In Unlock Position
In the LOCK position, continuous operation on a paved, dry surface
stresses the tandem axles, possibly causing internal damage to them.
Shift into the LOCK position to operate on slippery surfaces like

• Ice or snow - with or without tire chains.
• Dirt roads.
• Loose sand, mud, or other off-road conditions.
Switch into LOCK when checking performance on a chassis dynamometer.
WARNING! Do not put the differential lock in the LOCK
position while the wheels are spinning freely (slipping),
you could lose control of the vehicle or cause axle damage—you could be injured. Switch to LOCK only when the
wheels are not spinning.
WARNING! Do not operate the vehicle on dry pavement
with the differential locked; it could lead to an injury accident. On dry pavement, you will not be able to steer well
with the differential locked. Lock the differential only when
operating on surfaces with poor traction, such as wet, slippery roads or loose gravel.
WARNING! Do not use the differential lock during downhill
operation or at speeds above 25 mph (40 km/h). When it is
engaged under these conditions, your vehicle will exhibit
“understeer” handling characteristics. This “understeer”
condition will cause your vehicle to not turn as quickly and
more steering effort will be required, which can cause an
injury accident.

To reduce load on the drive train, ease up on the throttle pedal whenever you shift into LOCK or UNLOCK.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Dual Range (Two Speed) Axles
If you have this option, dual range axles provide two rear axle ratios for
operating under heavy loads or off-highway as well as for over the road
trucking. The Low range provides maximum torque for off-road work.
The High range is a faster ratio for highway speeds and conditions. A
switch on your instrument panel controls this function. You will notice
that it has a guard to protect you from activating it accidentally.

02906

Range Selector
Here’s how to use your dual range axle:

WARNING! Never shift the axle when moving down hill.
Engine driveline disengagement may occur, eliminating
engine retardation and allowing the wheels to spin
faster than the current speed of the engine. This may
require severe braking to slow the vehicle down and can
result in an injury accident.
1. Unlock the interaxle differential before starting.
2. Put the Range Selector in the LOW range. Shift the transmission
to start the truck moving.
3. Off-Highway: When you are driving on rough terrain and secondary roads, or under a very heavy load, keep the axle in the LOW
range. Shift your transmission to maintain the road speed you
want.
4. When you go from off-highway to highway driving, shift the axle to
the HIGH range this way:

• Be sure the differential is UNLOCKED.
• Keep the accelerator down and move the Range Selector lever to
HIGH.

• Keep driving with the accelerator down until you want the axle to
shift.

• Then release the accelerator until the axle has shifted.
• You are now in the HIGH axle range on the highway. Shift the
transmission normally to reach your desired cruising speed.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
5. If you need to downshift the axle for more power:

• Keep the accelerator down & move the Range Selector lever to LOW.
• Keep driving with the accelerator down until you want to downshift
the axle.

• Then release and depress the accelerator pedal quickly to
increase the engine RPM.

• The axle will shift to the LOW range.
Important Tips on Operating Your Dual Range Axle
NOTE: If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, it may be
necessary to shift it to the Neutral position momentarily to allow
the main differential lock splines to fully engage or disengage.

• To avoid damaging your vehicle, shift the axle at a slower speed
until you are used to driving with the dual range axle.
When driving on a surface with good traction, keep the interaxle differential unlocked. You can drive with the axle in LOW or HIGH range.

02905

Interaxle In Unlock
• When you are driving with poor traction, lock the differential.
When you have the differential locked, drive with the axle in LOW
range only.

02933

Interaxle In Lock

• Always UNLOCK the interaxle differential before shifting the axle
speed range.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
CAUTION: If you shift the axle range with the interaxle differential in LOCK, you could do serious damage to your
axles. Never shift the axle range with the differential
locked.

• Park the truck with the Range Selector in LOW.
Automatic and Automated Transmissions
An automatic or automated transmission makes shifting much easier,
of course. But because your truck pulls a heavy load, if you have
such a transmission, it is important to use it efficiently. For correct
operation, see the manual for your automatic or automated transmission included with your vehicle.
WARNING! If your vehicle has a Freedomline™ transmission, be aware that it can roll backwards when stopped on
a hill or grade, or when starting from a stop on a hill or
grade. This could cause serious damage or personal
injury. Observe the following guidelines:
•When stopped on a hill or grade, press the brake pedal.
•When starting from a stop on a hill or grade, quickly
remove your foot from the brake pedal and firmly press on
the accelerator pedal.

There is no “park” position. So you will need to apply the parking
brake before leaving the cab.
WARNING! Do not leave the cab without applying the parking brake. The truck could roll and cause an injury accident.
Always apply the parking brake before you leave the cab.

Transmission Retarder

02934

Retarder Switch
If you have this option, it will act like a brake to slow your vehicle without using the brakes. Take your foot off the throttle and operate the
retarder switch. When you do not need full retarder effect, you can
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
apply it intermittently (off and on) to cause gradual or partial slowing.
Continuous application of your retarder will cause your hydraulic fluid
to get hotter. Intermittent application will help prevent overheating.
WARNING! Relying completely on your automatic transmission hydraulic retarder is dangerous. If your engine shuts
down, your retarder will not operate. If you are going fast, or
going downhill at any speed, you could lose control and have
a serious accident. When you are using your retarder, be
ready in an emergency to apply your service brakes suddenly.

Auxiliary Transmission
If you have an auxiliary transmission, see your transmission manufacturer’s manual for its proper operation.

If Your Vehicle Must Be Towed
CAUTION: Remove the driveline and axle shafts or lift the
driving wheels off the ground before towing the vehicle.
You could seriously damage your vehicle by towing it with
the driveline connected and the drive wheels on the
ground. Worse, when vehicles are towed either by wrecker
or piggy-back, the lubricant in the top front of the drive axle
will drain to the rear. This will leave the top components
dry. The resulting friction will seriously damage them.
Always remove the main driveshaft and axle shafts before
towing your vehicle.

Returning a Towed Vehicle to Service
You will have to add lubricant to prevent damage after your vehicle
has been towed.
1. Into the pinion cage, add 1 pint (.47 liter) of lubricant, OR
Into the inter-axle differential, add 2 pints (.94 liter) of lubricant.
See the Index, under Lubricant Specifications, for the lubricant
required by each axle.
2. After adding the specified type and amount of lubricant, drive the
vehicle. It should be unloaded. Drive 1 to 2 miles (1.5 to 3 km) at
a speed lower than 25 mph (40 km/h).
This will thoroughly circulate the lubricant through the assembly.

Anti-Lock Braking System Operating Information
This vehicle may be equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS).
This ABS reduces the possibility of wheel lock-up. If a wheel is about
to lock during braking, the ABS will automatically adjust air pressure
to the brake chambers on the appropriate wheel(s) to prevent wheel
lock-up. The ABS is automatically turned on when the ignition switch
is turned on.
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WARNING! The brake system is a critical vehicle safety
system. For the safety of you and others around you, have
the vehicle submitted for periodic preventive maintenance
checks as well as having any suspected problems immediately checked by an Authorized Service Center. Failure to
properly maintain your brake system can lead to serious
injury accidents.
WARNING! Do not drive through water deep enough to wet
brake components, as it may cause the brakes to work less
efficiently than normal. The vehicle’s stopping distance
may be longer than expected, and the vehicle may pull to
the left or right when brakes are applied, which could contribute to an accident.
WARNING! Do not rely on an anti-lock brake system that is
functioning improperly. You could lose control of the vehicle resulting in a severe accident and personal injury. If any
ABS lamp goes on while you are driving or stays on after
the self-check, that anti-lock system might not be working.
That ABS may not function in an emergency. You will still
have conventional brakes, but not anti-lock brakes. If any
warning lamp indicates a problem, have that ABS checked.

ABS Warning Lamps
Truck/Tractor ABS Warning Lamp
A truck/tractor ABS warning lamp illuminates when the ignition switch
is first turned on and will remain on until the system self-test has been
completed successfully. Normally, this ABS lamp will remain on until
a speed of no more than 9 mph has been reached and the speed
sensors have been checked for correct output. The lamp should
remain off after this point unless a failure in the system is detected.
The truck/tractor ABS lamp is located in the warning lamp cluster
(see page 53 and page 54).

02999A

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
CAUTION: If the truck/tractor ABS warning lamp does
not illuminate when the ignition is first turned on, there
is a problem with the bulb or wiring. The driver should
have this checked as soon as possible.
Trailer ABS Warning Lamp
Trucks, tractors, and trailers built on and after March 1, 2001 are
equipped with power line communication (PLC) per U.S. FMVSS 121,
including a trailer ABS warning lamp in the cab (see page 53 and
page 54):

ABS

CAUTION: If the trailer ABS warning lamp does not illuminate when the ignition is first turned on, there is a
problem with the bulb or wiring. The driver should have
this checked as soon as possible.
NOTE: A successsful warning lamp illumination and bulb
check at ignition on does not indicate that the trailer you may
be connected to has trailer ABS. You should personally
inspect every trailer to determine its braking system.
A trailer ABS warning lamp will illuminate for a bulb check when the
ignition switch is first turned on - whether or not a trailer is connected
to the vehicle. If the bulb check is satisfactory, the lamp will next do
either of the following:
1. If no trailer is connected, or if a non-ABS-equipped trailer is connected, the trailer ABS lamp will go off after a few seconds.

NOTES:

• A “properly connected” ABS-equipped trailer is
-a trailer with PLC hooked up to the J560 connector
-a trailer without PLC that is hooked up to an optional
ISO 3731 connector

• For doubles or triples: PLC does not distinguish between
trailers. An ABS problem in any trailer will activate the
trailer ABS warning lamp.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
2. If an ABS-equipped trailer is properly connected, the trailer ABS
warning lamp will remain illuminated for a few more seconds while
the trailer ABS is tested.

• If no trailer ABS problems are detected, the lamp will go off.
• If a trailer ABS problem is detected, the lamp will remain on. The
driver should have the trailer’s ABS problem corrected before the
vehicle is driven with that trailer attached.

Wheel Spin Control Warning Lamp
Your truck/tractor ABS may have an acceleration slip regulation (ASR)
or automatic traction control (ATC) feature. Either of these features is
monitored by a wheel spin control warning lamp. In conventional models this lamp is located in the warning lamp cluster (see page 53). In
COE models, this lamp is located on the main dash:

02935

The Wheel Spin Control warning lamp will briefly illuminate and then
go out when the ignition switch is first turned on. The Wheel Spin
Control warning lamp will illuminate whenever the ASR or ATC system detects drive wheel spin. The lamp will remain illuminated as
long as wheel spin is detected and the ASR or ATC system is applying the drive wheel brakes or reducing engine torque. Do not allow
the Wheel Spin Control lamp to remain on continuously for an
extended length of time. Extended continuous use of the ASR / ATC
can cause overheating of the drive wheel brakes. Engine torque or
vehicle speed should be reduced to eliminate wheel spin and prevent
excessive application of the ASR/ATC system. Except for checking for
proper illumination of the ABS and Wheel Spin Control warning lamps
when first starting the vehicle, and for monitoring these lamps while
driving, no special operating procedures are required. For detailed
system description, see service literature for your specific ABS that
was provided with your vehicle.

Digital Message Center
If so equipped, the digital message center (DMC) in a vehicle will
detect faults during operations. When a new fault is detected, a LED
next to the DIAG key on the DMC’s keypad will illuminate. All faults
are either active or inactive (active faults are conditions that still exist).
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
• Active faults cannot be erased until they become inactive. They
should be investigated as soon as possible.

• Inactive faults can be erased by using the CANCEL key on the DMC.
Refer to your DMC operator’s manual for more information.

Bobtail Brake Proportioning System
NOTE: The following information is applicable only to tractor
configurations built on or after March 1, 1997 and not registered in the United States.
Peterbilt tractors without anti-lock brake systems (ABS) are typically
equipped with a bobtail brake proportioning system. When a trailer is
not connected, the drive axle brake application pressure will automatically be limited by the proportioning system. When driven in a bobtail
mode, these tractors will require greater brake pedal application to
provide the equivalent braking to a bobtail tractor not equipped with a
proportioning system.

WARNING! Because of the increased use of the steer
axle brakes when driving bobtail, always ensure the
steer axle brakes are functioning and properly adjusted.
Failure to do so can lead to decreased braking ability,
longer stopping distances, loss of vehicle control, and
can cause an accident.

Brake Safety and Emergency
WARNING! Do not operate the vehicle in the event of a
malfunction in any air circuit. The vehicle should not be
operated until the system is repaired and both braking
circuits, including all pneumatic and mechanical components, are working properly. Loss of system air can
cause the service brakes not to function resulting in the
sudden application of the spring brakes causing wheel
lock-up, loss of control, or overtake by following vehicles. You could be in an accident and severely injured.
WARNING! Unless you have an anti-lock braking system, always avoid completely depressing the service
brake pedal, if possible, even during emergency braking. Depressing the brake pedal too aggressively can
cause the wheels to lock, which can lead to an uncontrolled skid and could cause an accident.
To stop your vehicle in an emergency, vary the service brake application pressure to provide maximum braking force without locking the
wheels. Use engine compression to assist the service brakes; i.e.,
don’t depress the clutch pedal until the engine reaches idle speed.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Overheated Brakes
Under normal braking conditions, the energy generated will bring the
internal brake drum temperature to about 500° F (260° C). This is
well within the safe zone: The maximum safe temperature of linings
for drum type brakes is usually about 800° F (427° C).
But if service brakes are used improperly or for prolonged periods,
internal brake drum temperatures may commonly exceed 800° F
(427° C). Such brake overheating may be detected by a burning
smell or smoke coming from a drum. If this occurs, you should immediately stop and check for cracked brake drums or lining fires. If neither exists, get back behind the wheel and resume a slow speed as
soon as possible to cool the brakes.

Parking Brakes and Their Use
The yellow diamond-shaped knob on your instrument panel controls
your parking brakes. These are spring brakes which you activate by
releasing air pressure from their chambers. When they are not in
use, air pressure compresses the springs and releases the brakes.
But putting the valve in the Park position exhausts air from the chambers and allows the springs to extend and apply the brakes. Also, if
your system air drops below the safe operating level, the spring
brakes will apply automatically, bringing your vehicle to a stop.

WARNING! On trailers built before March 1975 you may
not have parking brakes if the trailer reservoir pressure
leaks down. If you depend on them to hold your vehicle,
they could release, causing a serious accident. These
older trailers have emergency brakes not designed for
parking. They will apply only if there is enough trailer
reservoir pressure. Don’t use your trailer emergency
brakes for parking. Apply your tractor parking valve
too.

0290
Red / Yellow Controls

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
WARNING! Do not leave the cab without applying the parking brake. The truck could roll and cause an injury accident. Always apply the parking brake before you leave the
cab.

WARNING! Stopping with the parking brake controls
can cause a sudden wheel lock-up, loss of control, or
can cause you to be overtaken by following vehicles.
You could be severely injured. Never pull out the parking brake valve while the vehicle is moving.
WARNING! Do not use the trailer hand brake or service
brakes to park and hold an unattended vehicle—use the
parking brakes. Because service brakes work with air pressure, these brakes could slowly release. Your vehicle could
roll, causing a serious accident. Someone could be hurt or
killed. Never rely on the service brakes to hold a parked
vehicle.
WARNING! Never drive your vehicle with the parking brake
applied. Always release the parking brakes prior to moving
the vehicle. Failure to disengage the parking brakes prior
to moving your vehicle could result in excessive heat buildup in the brake system, resulting in a fire.
NOTE: Today’s diesel electronic engines have significant
torque and startability power at low RPM. Combinations of
engine speed and available torque may over-power the vehicle’s parking brakes.

To apply all your parking brakes, pull the yellow knob Out. The
parking brakes will set. And the trailer air supply valve (red octagon
knob) will automatically pop out, releasing air pressure and setting
the trailer brakes.
CAUTION: Do not try to put the vehicle in motion before
pressure in the system reaches 100 psi (689 kPa) because
the wheels are locked by the spring brake action. Unnecessary stress and possible brake malfunction could occur if
the vehicle is forced to move before the air system reaches
100 psi (689 kPa).

To release your truck or tractor brakes ONLY, push in the yellow
knob. Your trailer will remain parked.
• To release the trailer brakes ONLY, push in the red knob. The truck
or tractor will remain parked.
• To release the full combination of brakes, push in BOTH yellow
and red knobs.
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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Trailer Air Supply Valve
The red octagon knob controls the air supply to the trailer.
To supply air to the trailer system and release the trailer parking
brakes:
• Allow the tractor air system pressure to build up to operating level.
• Push the red knob in.
• Hold the red knob in by hand until the trailer air pressure builds to
a pre-set level, about 45 psi. At this point it will remain in.
The yellow knob will remain out; the tractor will remain parked. If you
ever have a failure or disconnect of the air supply hose to the trailer,
the trailer parking brakes will set. The red knob will automatically pop
out and seal off the tractor air reservoirs to protect the tractor air system pressure.
When operating the tractor “bobtail”: The red knob must remain out
to protect the tractor air system pressure

Manually Releasing Spring Brakes
You may sometime have to release your vehicle’s spring brakes by
hand to allow the vehicle to be towed. This could happen if the system air pressure doesn’t reach operating pressure because your
engine or compressor is not working properly. You will have to
release the spring brakes at the spring brake chambers.

WARNING! Do not operate a vehicle when the spring
brakes have been released manually. Driving a vehicle
that has had its spring brakes manually released is
extremely dangerous. You would probably have no
brakes at all. You could have a serious or fatal accident.
WARNING! Releasing the spring brakes on an unsecured vehicle could lead to an accident. The truck could
roll, causing severe injury. Always secure the truck with
wheel chocks, chains, or other safe means to prevent
rolling before manually releasing the spring brakes.
NOTE: The primary purpose of the manual release feature
is to permit the vehicle to be towed to a repair facility.

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To release spring brakes manually:
1. Remove the cap from the
spring chamber.

2. Remove the release stud
assembly from the side
pocket; remove the release
nut and washer from the
release stud.

3. Slide out the release stud.

02936

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
4. Insert the release stud
through the opening in the
spring chamber where the
cap was removed. Insert it
into the pressure plate. Turn
the release stud 1/4-turn
clockwise in the pressure
plate. This secures the cross
pin into the cross pin area of
the pressure plate and locks
it into the manual release
position.
5. Assemble the release stud
washer and nut on the
release stud.

6. With a wrench, turn the
release stud assembly nut
until the compression spring
is 90% - 95% caged. While
doing this, check to make
sure the push rod (adapter
push rod or service push rod)
is retracting. Do not overtorque the release stud
assembly. (S-Cam type maximum 50 ft.-lb, Wedge type
maximum 30 ft.-lb.)
The
spring brake is now mechanically released.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

02937

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
WARNING! Disassembling the spring brake chamber is
dangerous and could cause serious injury. These
chambers contain a powerful spring that is compressed.
Sudden release of this spring could cause you to be
badly injured. Do not disassemble a spring brake chamber.

Retarders
Various retarders are available which function against the engine,
driveline, or transmission. These are devices that use your engine’s
power to slow down your vehicle. They save wear and tear on your
service brakes and can be a safety feature, too, because they can
keep your brakes from overheating.
Ideally, you should always slow your vehicle with your retarder (where
permitted by law) and use your service brakes only for stopping completely. Operating this way will greatly prolong the life of your brakes.

WARNING! In an emergency, the retarder might not stop
you fast enough to prevent an accident. You could be
badly hurt if you relied only on your retarder. Use the
service brakes for quick stops. The retarder is not an
emergency brake.
WARNING! The retarder is NOT intended as the primary
brake for the vehicle, nor is it an emergency brake. The
retarder only helps the service brakes by using pressure to
slow the drivetrain. Use the service brakes for quick stops.
WARNING! The service brakes must be used in an emergency. The retarder alone might not stop you fast enough
to prevent an accident. You could be badly hurt if you relied
only on the retarder.
WARNING! Do not use the retarder when operating on road
surfaces with poor traction (such as wet, icy, or snow covered roads or gravel). Retarders can cause the wheels to
skid on a slippery surface. You could lose control of the
vehicle if the wheels begin to skid, resulting in an accident.

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Driving Bobtail or with an Unloaded Trailer
We recommend that you do not use your engine retarder to slow
down when you are bobtailing or pulling an empty trailer.

WARNING! Using an engine retarder can cause a wheel
lockup. The trailer is not loading the tires enough to
give the traction you may need. When you are bobtail or
unloaded, you can have a serious accident if your
wheels lock suddenly during braking. You could be
injured. Don’t use your retarder when you are driving
bobtail or with an unloaded trailer.

Pyrometer
Maintaining Correct Operating Temperature
The optional pyrometer indicates engine exhaust gas temperature.
Because it responds almost immediately to changes in exhaust temperature, the pyrometer is an excellent indicator of engine output.
If you watch engine speed and exhaust temperature ranges, the
pyrometer can help you operate your truck more efficiently and avoid
sudden changes in engine operating temperature.

CAUTION: Do not allow the pyrometer reading to
exceed the specified maximum operating temperature.
If the pyrometer has no label specifying the maximum
operating temperature for the pyrometer, contact your
engine distributor for a recommendation.
NOTE: Different size injectors or changes in altitude may
affect engine operating and exhaust temperatures.
Procedure For Reducing High Pyrometer Temperature Readings
1. If the pyrometer indicates excessive temperature, ease up slightly
on the throttle.
2. If RPM and speed drop, downshift one gear to help lower the
exhaust temperature.
3. Observe the pyrometer reading. If the temperature continues to
be high, continue downshifting until acceptable operating temperatures can be maintained.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Stopping The Engine
Before Stopping The Engine
A hot engine stores a great amount of heat. And it doesn’t cool down
immediately after you shut it off. Always cool your engine down
before shutting it off. You will greatly increase its service life.
Idle the engine at 1000 RPM for five minutes. Then low idle for thirty
seconds before shutdown. This will allow circulating coolant and
lubricating oil to carry away heat from the cylinder head, valves, pistons, cylinder liners, turbocharger, and bearings. This way you can
prevent serious engine damage that may result from uneven cooling.
Turbochargers
This cooling-down practice is especially important on a turbocharged
engine. The turbocharger contains bearings and seals that are subjected to hot exhaust gases. While the engine is operating, heat is
carried away by circulating oil. If you stop the engine suddenly after a
hard run, the temperature of the turbocharger could rise as much as
100°F (55°C) above the temperature reached during operation. A
sudden rise in temperature like this could cause the bearings to seize
or the oil seals to loosen.

Refuel Before the Final Stop
Air space in your fuel tanks allows water to condense there. To prevent this condensation while you are stopped, fill your tanks to 95% of
capacity.

Final Stop
To make sure your vehicle is ready to go after a long stop (such as
over night), please follow the suggestions below. Your vehicle will be
easier to get going when you are ready, and it will be safer for anyone
who might be around it.
Please remember, too, that in some states it is illegal to leave the
engine running and the vehicle unattended.
Final Stopping Procedures
1. Set the parking brake before leaving the driver’s seat.
To hold your vehicle while it is parked, don’t rely on
•Air Brakes
•Hand Control Valve for Trailer Brakes
•Engine Compression

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
WARNING! Using the trailer hand brake or air brakes to
hold a parked vehicle is dangerous. Because they work
with air pressure, these brakes could come loose. Your
vehicle could roll, causing a serious accident. Someone
could be hurt or killed. Always set the parking brakes.
Never rely on the trailer hand brake or truck air brakes
to hold a parked vehicle.
2. If you are parked on a steep grade, block the wheels.

02938

Blocked Wheels
3. Drain water from the air reservoirs.
While the engine and air supply system are still warm, drain moisture from the air reservoirs. Open the reservoir drains just enough
to drain the moisture. Don’t deplete the entire air supply. Be sure
to close the drains before leaving the vehicle.

02939

Opening Drains
4. Secure the vehicle. Close all the windows and lock all the doors.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—105—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Setting Ride Height
Vehicles equipped with rear air suspensions have their ride height
and axle (pinion) angle(s) preset at the factory. These are precision
settings and should not be altered. Incorrectly adjusted ride height
may result in improper interaxle U-joint working angles. This can
result in premature driveline wear and driveline vibration. If your vehicle is equipped with a Peterbilt rear air suspension, and if it becomes
necessary to reset the ride height, you may temporarily set it by following the next procedure. Proper ride height measurement and values are shown in the illustration and table below.

Ride Height Measurement (Location for Tandem Axles Shown)
Proprietary Rear Air Suspension
Air Leaf
Air Trac
Low Air Leaf
Low Low Air Leaf
FLEX Air

Ride Height [inches (mm)]*
Single Drive

Tandem Drive

N/A
11.00 (279)
8.50 (216)
N/A
N/A

11.70 (297)
11.00 (279)
8.50 (216)
6.50 (165)
8.50 (216)

*These values are for a fully laden vehicle

Follow this procedure to temporarily set ride height.
WARNING! To prevent possible injury and damage to
property, ensure that a vehicle is parked and the wheels
chocked before beginning this procedure.

CAUTION: Completing this procedure will enable you to
safely reach the nearest authorized Peterbilt repair facility to have ride height and pinion angle reset using the
proper equipment and technique. Do this as soon as
possible to avoid potential driveline damage.
NOTE: Suitable wheel chocks are at a minimum an 18-inch
(46 cm) long 4x4.
1. Ensure that the air supply and delivery plumbing of the height control valve is consistent with the illustration on the next page.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—106—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE

ALIGNMENT PIN OR DOWEL

CONTROL ARM

LINK BOLT

FROM DUMP VALVE SWITCH

FORWARD
DELIVERY TO RH AIR BAG(S)

SUPPLY FROM FORWARD
AIR TANK

MOUNTING NUTS

EXHAUST

DELIVERY TO LH AIR BAG(S)

AIR BAG

LINK ROD

02941

Typical Height Control Valve (Top & Rear Views Looking Forward)
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—107—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
CAUTION:
• The rear of a vehicle will drop about 3 1/2 inches (88
mm) when the air springs are deflated. Ensure that no
persons or objects that could be injured or damaged
are under the vehicle before deflating the air springs.
• To minimize risk of damage or injury, do not use a
dump valve to deflate the air springs. Rotate the
height control valve(s) manually to ensure positive
control of air spring deflation.
• To minimize risk of injury, keep away from air springs
as they are being inflated.
NOTE: On dual-valve systems, begin with the LH valve on
the next step.
2. Loosen the fasteners mounting a height control valve to its bracket.

NOTE: At least one of the mounting holes in the height control valve bracket will be slotted to permit rotating the valve.
3. Rotate the valve either clockwise or counterclockwise until air pressure in the air springs provides the ride height specified for that
suspension. Measure the ride height from the bottom of the frame
rail to the approximate centerline of the rearmost drive axle hub:
• For tandem axles, make the vertical measurement at the centerline of the suspension (see illustration on page 106).
• For a single axle, make the measurement in front of the axle, in the
area forward of the tires but not past the suspension bracket.
4. When at the correct ride height, ensure that the height control
valve lever is in the neutral position, then install either the built-in
alignment pin or a 1/8-inch (3 mm) dowel (see page 107).
5. Torque the mounting fasteners to 55 — 75 Lb. in. (6.2 — 8.5 N.m.).
6. Remove the alignment pin or dowel.
7. Repeat Steps 2 through 6 above for the RH valve on vehicles with
a dual-valve system.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—108—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Driving With Deflated Air Springs
If an air spring is ruptured, there will be enough air pressure to drive
the vehicle to a safe stop off the highway to investigate the problem.

WARNING! Your brakes could fail if you continue driving with deflated air springs. Air escaping from the system will lower the air pressure, which could cause a
spring brake to engage. The spring brake may cause
your brakes to drag and burn up the linings. Don’t continue to operate in this condition.
You can get to a repair facility if you do the following:
• Remove the height control link connected to the axle and to the
suspension air valve control arm. This will cause the air valve control arm to center in the closed position.
• The air system can then be pumped up to normal pressure for
continued operation.
WARNING! Low air pressure could make the brakes
unsafe for driving. Before driving the vehicle, make
sure the pressure does pump up to over 100 psi for normal brake operation. If the air pressure does not pump
up to at least 100 psi, don’t try to move the vehicle.

CAUTION: Operating a vehicle with air suspension bags
either overinflated or underinflated may cause damage
to driveline components. If a vehicle must be operated
under such conditions, do not exceed 5 mph.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—109—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Driving Tips And Techniques
This section covers additional driving tips and techniques on how to
drive your Peterbilt more efficiently. For further information, read the
American Trucking Association’s (ATA) Truck Driver’s Handbook. It
will give you more tips on starting, shifting, and driving your vehicle.
Coasting

WARNING! Do not coast with the transmission in neutral or with the clutch pedal depressed—it is a dangerous practice. Without the use of the retarding power of
the drivetrain, your vehicle can reach dangerous
speeds. At very high speeds you may not be able to put
the transmission in any gear. At high speeds you could
seriously damage your vehicle or cause an accident
when you put the transmission in gear. The engine
speed could exceed the maximum governed speed and
cause a serious accident due to mechanical failures.
Do not coast with the transmission in neutral or with the clutch pedal
depressed. Besides being illegal and dangerous, coasting is also
expensive. It causes premature failure or damage to the clutch and
transmission and overloads the brake system.
Coasting with the transmission in neutral also prevents proper transmission component lubrication. During coasting the transmission is driven by
the rear wheels, and the countershaft gear (which lubricates the transmission components by oil splash) will only be turning at idle speed.

Descending a Grade
WARNING! Do not hold the brake pedal down too long or
too often while going down a steep or long grade. This
could cause the brakes to overheat and reduce their effectiveness. As a result, the vehicle will not slow down at the
usual rate. To reduce the risk of personal injury and/or an
accident, before going down a steep or long grade, reduce
speed and shift the transmission into a lower gear to help
control your vehicle speed. Failure to follow procedures for
proper downhill operation could result in loss of vehicle
control.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—110—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 7: STARTING & OPERATING THE VEHICLE
Engine Overspeed
CAUTION: To avoid engine damage, do not let the engine
rpm go beyond the maximum governed rpm—valve damage could result if overspeed conditions occur.
NOTE: Often these recommendations are secondary to maintaining an adequate and safe speed relative to the surrounding
traffic and road conditions.

• Operate the engine within the optimum engine rpm range and do
not allow the rpm’s to exceed the maximum governed speed. See
your Engine Operation and Maintenance manual for information
regarding engine rpm. When the engine is used as a brake to
control vehicle speed (e.g., while driving down a grade), do not
allow the engine rpm to exceed maximum governed speed.
• Under normal load and road conditions operate the engine in the
lower end of the range.
Use of Tachometer
The tachometer is an instrument that aids in obtaining the best performance of the engine and manual transmission, serving as a guide for
shifting gears. Refer to the Engine Operation and Maintenance manual for optimum engine rpm.
If the engine rpm moves beyond the maximum governed speed, indicating an overspeed condition, apply the service brake or shift to a
higher gear to bring engine rpm within the optimum speed range.
• When driving downhill: shift to a lower gear, use the engine brake
(if so equipped), and use the service brake, keeping the engine
speed below 2,100 rpm.
When the engine speed reaches its maximum governed speed, the
injection pump governor cuts off fuel to the engine. However, the governor has no control over the engine rpm when it is being driven by
the vehicle’s transmission, for example, on steep downgrades. Apply
service brakes or shift to a higher gear.
Fuel economy and engine performance is also directly related to driving habits:
• The best results in trip time and fuel economy are obtained while
driving the vehicle at a steady speed.
• Shift into higher or lower gears (or apply the service brake) to keep
engine rpm near the lower end of the optimum operating range.
• Avoid rapid acceleration and braking.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—111—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Preventive Maintenance Schedule
Your preventive maintenance program begins with the daily checks
you perform. See PART 6: DRIVER’S CHECKLIST for these. If you
check your Peterbilt vehicle regularly, you can avoid many large,
expensive, and time-consuming repairs. Your vehicle will operate better, be safer, and last longer. Neglect of recommended maintenance
may in some cases void your vehicle’s warranty. So for your safety
and the life of your vehicle, please follow the Maintenance Schedule.
Remember - there may be maintenance operations that demand skills
and equipment you don’t have. If so, please take your vehicle to an
expert mechanic, for your safety and your vehicle’s safety.

WARNING! It can be dangerous to attempt maintenance
work without sufficient training and the proper tools.
You could be injured, or you could make your vehicle
unsafe. Do only those maintenance items you are fully
trained and equipped to do.
• Before attempting any procedures in the engine compartment, stop the engine and let it cool down. Hot
components can burn skin on contact.
• Be alert and cautious around the engine at all times
while the engine is running.
• If work has to be done with the engine running, always
(1) set the parking brake, (2) chock the wheels, and (3)
ensure that the shift lever or selector is in Neutral.
• Exercise extreme caution to prevent neckties, jewelry,
long hair, or loose clothing from getting caught in the
fan blades or any other moving engine parts.
• Disconnect the battery ground strap whenever you
work on the fuel system or the electrical system. When
you work around fuel, do not smoke or work near heaters or other fire hazard. Keep an approved fire extinguisher handy.
• Always support the vehicle with appropriate safety
stands if it is necessary to work underneath the vehicle. A jack is not adequate for this purpose.
• When working underneath the vehicle without appropriate safety stands but with the wheels on the ground
(not supported), make sure that (1) the vehicle is on
hard level ground, (2) the parking brake is applied, (3)
all wheels are chocked (front and rear) and (4) the
engine cannot be started. Remove the ignition key.
• Never start or let the engine run in an enclosed, unventilated area. Exhaust fumes from the engine contain
carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas. Carbon monoxide can be fatal if inhaled.
NOTE: Suitable wheel chocks are at a minimum an 18-inch
(46 cm) long 4x4.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—112—

22-01510 (R12/01)

part8.fm Page 113 Friday, December 7, 2001 7:02 AM

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE (PM) INTERVALS
A

I
At the first
15,000 mi./

15,000 mi./

30,000 mi./

60,000 mi./

24,000 km/

48,000 km

96,000 km/

24,000 km or Monthly
at the first PM

6 months

120,000 mi./ 240,000 mi./
192,000 km/ 384,000 km
Annually

NOTE:
• Where questions or discrepancies develop between these
recommendations and component supplier recommendations, consult the supplier for specific recommendations.
• Maintenance requirements of specific vocational configurations will dictate whether the intervals used are determined
based on mileage, time in service, hours operating, etc.
• These maintenance practices and intervals are intended as
additional requirements and are not to replace, in whole or
in part, the pretrip inspection requirements of the Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) as established in the Federal
Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986.
If you operate your vehicle off-highway or in very heavy-duty applications such as mining, logging, or earth moving, you will need to perform maintenance checks and services more frequently. The charts
on the following pages show the maintenance intervals for recommended maintenance practices.
NOTES:

• Engine lubricating oil change intervals aren’t listed here. Refer to
your engine’s operating manual for recommendations. For specific
information on maintenance procedures consult your vehicle maintenance manual.

• The initial fill of drive axle lubricant must be changed before the
end of the first scheduled maintenance interval. Refer to the information on page 137 before you put a new vehicle into service.
• The initial fill of lubricant in manual transmissions must be
changed before the end of the first maintenance interval. See
page 134 for specific information.
• If your vehicle is equipped with an automatic transmission, consult
the owner’s manual for it that came with your vehicle to obtain
lubricant check and change intervals.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—113—

22-01510 (R12/01)

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Frame

—114—

Front Axle

22-01510 (R12/01)

Front
Suspension

Fifth Wheel

Check the kingpin lock and plate for wear and function; lubricate
(NLGI #2 grease).

Frame Fasteners

Check for tightness; tighten to the specified torque value as
required (see page 170).

Crossmembers and
Mounting Brackets

Inspect for cracks and loose fasteners. Replace or tighten to the
specified torque value as required (see page 170).

Steering knuckles, thrust
bearings, kingpins,
drawkeys, tie rod ends,
steering stops, & bushings

Inspect for wear and damage and for endplay. Shim or replace as
required (see page 168).

Kingpin bushings & tie rod
ball ends

Lubricate with approved grease.

Total Vehicle Alignment

Check and adjust as required.

Front Spring

Inspect for cracked leaves, worn bushings, & excessive corrosion.

Spring Pins & Shackles

Inspect for worn parts and excessive joint clearance. Shim or
replace as required.

X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Front
Suspension

—115—
Drive Axle

Spring Pins

Lubricate.

Shock Absorbers

Inspect for leaking, body damage, and damaged or worn bushings. Replace as required.

Shock Absorbers

Check for proper function.

U-bolts (ON HIGHWAY)

Check the general condition and the tightness of the nuts. Tighten
the nuts to the specified torque value as required (see page 169 ).

U-bolts (OFF HIGHWAY)

Check the general condition and the tightness of the nuts. Tighten
the nuts to the specified torque value as required (see page 169 ).

Axle Housing

Visually inspect for damage or leaks.

X
X
X
X

X
X

(Dana)

22-01510 (R12/01)

Axle Housing

Check oil level. Check “cold.” Torque the drain plug.

Axle Housing

Drain the lubricant while warm. Flush each unit with clean flushing
oil. Change the lubricant.

Air Shift Unit

Check the lubricant level.

Air Shift Unit

Remove the housing cover and drain the lubricant. Wash the parts
thoroughly and dry in air.

X
See information on
page 140
X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Drive Axle

Clean or replace.

Lube Pump (ON HIGHWAY)

Remove the magnetic strainer and inspect for wear particles.
Wash in solvent and dry in air.

Lube Pump (OFF HIGHWAY)

Remove the magnetic strainer and inspect for wear particles.
Wash in solvent and dry in air.

Lube Filter (ON HIGHWAY)

Change.

Lube Filter (OFF HIGHWAY)

Change.

Magnetic drain plug and
breather (ON HIGHWAY)

Clean or replace.

Magnetic drain plug and
breather (OFF HIGHWAY)

Clean or replace.

Axle Housing

Check the “cold” fill level at the differential carrier plug for a pinion
angle of less than 7 degrees, or at the axle bowl plug for a pinion
angle of greater than 7 degrees. Tighten the plug to 35 - 50 Lb. ft.
(47 - 68 N.m.)

Axle Housing

Visually inspect for damage or leaks.

(Dana)

—116—
22-01510 (R12/01)

Breather

Drive Axle
(Meritor)

X
X
X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Drive Axle
(Meritor)

—117—

Rear
Suspension

22-01510 (R12/01)

Brakes

Axle Housing

Drain and replace the lubricant.

Lubricant filter

Change the filter.

Breather

Check the operation. If the cap doesn’t rotate freely, replace.

See information on
page 139
X
X

Input shaft & pinion shaft

Check and adjust the endplay.

Axle shaft

Tighten the rear axle flange nuts to the specified torque value.

Interaxle differential

Check the operation.

U-bolts

Check the torque. Tighten to specified torque value as required
(see page 169).

Frame & crossmember
bolts

Check the torque. Tighten to specified torque value as required
(see page 170).

Mounting brackets and
fasteners

Check the condition and the fastener torque. Tighten to the specified torque value as required (see page 170).

Brake lining

Inspect; replace as required.

Slack adjusters

Check the push rod travel and check the control arm for cracks.
Adjust at reline (see page 143).

Slack adjusters

Lubricate (NLGI #2 grease).

X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Brakes

—118—
Hub,
Drum, &
Hubcap

Brake camshaft bearing

Lubricate (NLGI #2 grease).

Brake treadle valve

Clean the area around the treadle, boot, and mounting plate.
Check the pivot and mounting plate for integrity. Check the
plunger boot for cracks. Lubricate roller pin, pivot pin, and plunger
(NLGI #2 grease).

22-01510 (R12/01)

Brake treadle valve

Rebuild through an authorized Peterbilt service facility.

Brake air system

Check air lines and fittings for leaks (see page 143). Adjust routing
as required to reduce chafing. Check tank mounting and condition.

Brake air system

Clean or replace the inline filters.

Hubs (non-LMS)

Check the bearing endplay and adjust as required (see page 152).

Hubs (non-LMS) with outrunner seals

Clean the components and check for excessive wear or damage.
Change the oil and seal (see page 141).

Hubs (non-LMS) with
standard seals

Clean the components and check for excessive wear or damage.
Change the oil and seal (see page 141).

Hub seals (all)

Check for leaks; replace as required.

X
X
X
X

X
X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Hub,
Drum, &
Hubcap

Check the bearing endplay and adjust as required (see page 152).

LMS Hubs (Dana) with

Clean the components and check for excessive wear or damage.
Change the oil and seal (see page 141).

500,000 miles/

Clean the components and check for excessive wear or damage.
Change the oil and seal (see page 141).

360,000 miles/

Synthetic Lubricant
LMS Hubs (Dana) with

—119—

Mineral Lubricant

22-01510 (R12/01)

Main &
auxiliary
transmission

LMS Hubs (Dana)

Brake drums

Inspect for visible cracks, heat checking, galling or scoring of the
braking surface, and for severe corrosion on the outside surface.
Check for out-of-round or oversize condition [0.080 in. (2 mm)
more than the original diameter]. Replace as required.

Hubcaps

Clean the sight window. Check the center plug, mounting flange,
and fill plug for leaks and for proper installation. Replace broken or
damaged parts. Check the lubricant level and add as required.

Main & auxiliary transmission and transfer case

Inspect for visible damage, signs of overheating, and leaks.

Main & auxiliary transmission and transfer case

Check the drain plugs for tightness.

D
X

800,000 km
576,000 km
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

—120—
22-01510 (R12/01)

Main &
auxiliary
transmission

Oil cooler

Clean the fins (air-to-oil type) and body. Check the hose condition
and for leaks; replace as required.

Main &
auxiliary
transmission (Dana)

Main & auxiliary transmission

Check the oil level; refill as required (see page 134 and page 136).

Main &
auxiliary
transmission
(Dana)

Main & auxiliary transmission (ON HIGHWAY)

Drain the lubricant while warm. Flush each unit with clean flushing
oil.

500,000 miles/

Main &
auxiliary
transmission
(Dana)

Main & auxiliary transmission (OFF HIGHWAY)

Drain the lubricant while warm. Flush each unit with clean flushing
oil.

Main &
auxiliary
transmission
(Meritor)

Transfer Case

Check the oil level; refill as required (see page 138).

800,000 km

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

—121—

Main &
auxiliary
transmission
(Meritor)

Transfer Case

Drain lubricant while warm. Flush each unit with clean flushing oil.

Main &
auxiliary
transmission
(ZFMeritor)

Freedomline Transmission

Change the oil (see page 138).

Air Intake

Air intake piping, mounting, and charge air cooler

Check the system for broken pipes, leaks, joint integrity, cleanliness, and proper support (see page 173).

Engine air intake tubing

Disassemble, clean, check for cracks, leaks, and joint integrity.

Cold starting aids

Check for leaks and proper operation (see page 81).

Air cleaner

Replace the element as indicated (see page 173).

22-01510 (R12/01)

Clutch

500,000 miles/
800,000 km

When required by the
air restriction indicator

Clutch pedal shaft

Check for excessive looseness and lubricate (NLGI #2 grease).

Clutch pedal

Check for proper free pedal (see page 158).

Clutch release linkage

Check for excessive looseness and lubricate (NLGI #2 grease).

Clutch release bearing

Lubricate.

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Clutch release shaft

Lubricate.

Cooling

Hoses

Check the radiator and heater hoses for leaks.

System

Flush, drain, and refill with new coolant mix (see page 159).

System

Check concentration of antifreeze solution and condition of coolant.
(see page 159).

System

Change coolant filter; add conditioner and supplemental cooling
additives (SCAs) (see page 159).

Fan clutch housing

Check for leaks (see page 172).

Tires

Check inflation pressure (see page 146).

Weekly “cold” using
calibrated gauge

Tires

Inspect for cuts, irregular wear, missing lugs, sidewall damage, etc.

Disc wheels

Inspect the wheel disc for any cracks or surface irregularities.
Inspect the rim edge and bead seat area for damage. Replace any
damaged wheels - DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPAIR.

Demountable rims

Inspect the mounting ring, rim gutter, side ring, and lock ring for
damage; replace as required.

—122—

Clutch

Tires &
Wheels

X
X

X
X
X
X
X

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Tires &
Wheels

Power
Steering

—123—

Wheel nuts and studs

Check the tightness of the fasteners and tighten the fasteners to
the specified torque as required (see page 152).

Wheel nuts and studs

Inspect for damaged hex corners, stripped or damaged threads,
and excessive corrosion; clean or replace as required.

Reservoir

Check the fluid level (see page 142).

Reservoir (ON HIGHWAY)

Drain, replace the filter, and refill (see page 142).

Reservoir (OFF HIGHWAY)

Drain, replace the filter, and refill (see page 142).

X
X

22-01510 (R12/01)

Steering gear

Check the lash of the sector shaft; adjust as required.

Steering gear

Grease the trunnion bearing (EP NLGI #2 lithium-based, molyfilled, HD grease).

Steering gear

Grease the input shaft seal (EP NLGI #2 lithium-based, molyfilled, HD grease).

Power assist cylinder

Lubricate the ball joints. Inspect for leaking rod seals, damaged
ball joint boots, and damage to cylinder rod or barrel.

Hoses and tubes

Check for leaks and chafing.

Steering linkage

Check all joints for excessive lash; replace as required (see page
168).

X
X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Power
Steering

—124—
22-01510 (R12/01)

Fuel &
Tanks

Draglink tube clamp and
ball socket

Check the torque; tighten to specified torque value as required.

Pitman arm clamp bolt
and nut

Check the torque; tighten to specified torque value as required.

Steering intermediate shaft

Check the torque on the pinch bolt and nut.

Steering intermediate shaft
U-joints (ON HIGHWAY)

Lubricate [EP NLGI #2 HD grease, +325° F to -10° F (+163° C to
-23° C) range].

Steering intermediate shaft
U-joints (OFF HIGHWAY
or CITY DELIVERY)

Lubricate [EP NLGI #2 HD grease, +325° F to -10° F (+163° C to
-23° C) range].

Draglink and tie rod arm ball
sockets (ON HIGHWAY)

Lubricate (EP NLGI #2 lithium-based, moly-filled, HD grease).

Steering intermediate shaft
U-joints (OFF HIGHWAY
or CITY DELIVERY)

Lubricate (EP NLGI #2 lithium-based, moly-filled, HD grease).

Fuel tanks

Inspect tanks, brackets, hoses, and fittings for correct location, tightness, abrasion damage, and leaks; repair or replace as required.

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Fuel &
Tanks

—125—

Driveshafts

22-01510 (R12/01)

Fuel tank breathers

Check for proper function; clean the drain hoses.

Fuel tank straps

Check the strap tightness; tighten to proper torque value as required:
-Aluminum tank: 30 Lb. ft. (41 N.m.)
-Cylindrical Steel tank: 8 Lb. ft. (11 N.m.)

Fuel tank steps

Check for snug fit of side plates against tank and tank straps.
Check for damaged or broken steps, missing bolts, and missing
grommet between tank and side plate. Replace missing or damaged parts and adjust for fit as required.

Models 1610-1810 & SPL90 slip member & U-joints

Lubricate.

Model SPL-100 slip member & U-joints

Lubricate.

Models SPL-140/140HD/
170/170HD/250/250HD
slip members & U-joints

Lubricate.

Models SPL-140XL/
170XL/250XL slip members and U-joints (ON
HIGHWAY & LINE HAUL)

Lubricate.

D
X

360,000 miles/
576,000 km/
every 3 years

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

—126—
22-01510 (R12/01)

Driveshafts

Models SPL-140XL/
170XL/250XL slip members and U-joints (OFF
HIGHWAY & CITY)

Lubricate.

Battery
Boxes, Tool
Boxes, and
Steps

Battery cables

Check the condition of the cables, cushion clamps, and routing.
Replace a cushion clamp if the rubber has deteriorated. Repair or
tighten terminals, and secure cables to prevent chafing. Replace
damaged cables (cuts, cracks, or excessive wear) (see page 162).

Batteries

Check for cracks and damage, electrolyte level, condition of terminals, and tightness of holddowns (see page 162).

Battery box and tray

Check the box integrity. Clean the drain tube and check for acid
leaks. Check condition of all equipment mounted under the box.

Headlamps

Check the aim and adjust as required.

Warning lights in light bar

Check at the ignition start position to verify bulbs function (see
page 53).

Turn signal

Visual check.

Stop lights

Visual check.

Electrical &
lights

D
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Electrical &
lights

—127—
22-01510 (R12/01)

Cab structure, doors,
& hoods

Reverse lights

Visual check.

Alternator

Check operation and output.

Alternator

Check tightness of the pulley nut.

Alternator

Check the tension of the drive belt (see page 171).

Alternator

Check tightness of the terminal hex nuts.

Starter

Check torque on hex nuts.

ECM connector

Check the tightness of the ECM connector.

Wheel sensors

Check for damaged sensors and connectors, and worn or frayed wires.

Fuel tank sending unit

Check the mounting screws and electrical connections for worn or
damaged wires and connectors.

Power supply harnesses
(engine, transmission, etc.)

Check for worn or damaged insulation, corroded terminals, frayed
wires, and oil or fluid leaks on the connectors or wiring.

Power supply harnesses
(engine, transmission, etc.)

Wash to remove excess grease.

Hood

Lubricate the lower hood pivot (only if lube fittings are present).

X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Cab, doors,
& hoods

—128—
22-01510 (R12/01)

Hinges and latch

Lubricate with silicone spray.

Body & cab holddown bolts

Check the condition and tightness.

Tilt pump

Check the oil level; refill as required.

Cab tilt system

Check for hydraulic leaks.

Air conditioner

Operate the system. (NOTE: The air conditioning system is active
when the Defrost/Defog mode is selected.)

Heater & air conditioner

Perform the checks listed on page 175.

Cab air filter

Clean; replace after a maximum of three cleanings.

Heater & air conditioner

Full operational and diagnostic check.

Exhaust

System

Check for leaks and proper support (see page 174).t

Air

Air compressor governor

Replace air strainer.

Air lines

Check condition and routing to prevent chafing.

System

Lubricate (see page 156).

Inline filters

Replace elements or clean with solvent.

Heating &
Air Conditioning

X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

COMPONENT

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Air

Air dryer

Perform the checks listed on page 157.

Air dryer (ON HIGHWAY)

Overhaul.

X
360,000 miles/
576,000 km

Engine

Overhaul.

Basic Engine

The maintenance and service interval recommendations for the
specific engine are the maintenance requirements specified in the
engine manufacturer’s Operations and Maintenance Manual
included with the vehicle. Strict adherence to these recommendations is required to maintain warranty coverage. The maintenance
and service interval recommendations for the engines vary significantly, depending on the manufacturer and the model of the engine.
As a minimum, perform the operations listed below:

Fuel filter

Drain, clean, and refill or replace as required (see page 167).

Bypass oil filter

Clean filter and change element.

Block

Clean with steam or solvent.

Crankcase breather

Clean.

Manifold nuts

Tighten to specified torque.

Oil pan Capscrew

Tighten to specified torque.

—129—

Air dryer (OFF HIGHWAY)

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

Recommended
PM Interval

COMPONENT

Recommended
PM Interval

MAINTENANCE TASK
I

Engine

—130—

Drive pulleys

Check for tightness.

Turbocharger

Check manifold and mounting.

Radiator shutters

Check controls.

All lines and seals

Check for leaks.

Mounts

Check for tightness.

Fan hub

Lubricate; check for air leaks. If vehicle is not equipped with an air
filter/dryer, check the inline filter to the fan hub (see page 172).

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

SYSTEM

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Lubricant Specifications
WARNING! Handle lubricants carefully. Vehicle lubricants
(oil and grease) are poisonous and can cause sickness.
They can also damage the paint on the vehicle.

In this section you will find the basic information you need to do the
routine lubrication your vehicle requires. Of course you will want to
schedule service more frequently if you are operating under severe
conditions such as extreme heat or cold, with very heavy loads, offroad, etc. For any special service requirements, consult your service
manuals and your lubricant supplier. And please remember: one key
to keeping your truck running at top economy and in prolonging its life
is proper lubrication servicing. Neglecting this essential aspect of
vehicle care can cost time and money in the long run.

CAUTION: Do not mix different types of lubricants. Mixing
lubricants (oil and grease) of different brands or types
could damage vehicle components; therefore, drain (or
remove) old lubricants from the unit before refilling it.

Engine
Proper engine lubrication depends on the outside temperatures
where you will be driving. Use the oil recommended for the conditions
you are most likely to be facing. You will find a complete engine lubrication service guide in the Engine Operation Manual that came with
your vehicle. There, the engine manufacturer explains more fully all
the maintenance operations that you — and a qualified service
mechanic — need to perform on your engine.
WARNING! Exhaust fumes from the engine contain carbon
monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas. Do not breathe
the engine exhaust gas. A poorly maintained, damaged or
corroded exhaust system can allow carbon monoxide to
enter the cab or sleeper. Entry of carbon monoxide into the
cab is also possible from other vehicles nearby. Failure to
properly maintain your vehicle could cause carbon monoxide to enter the cab/sleeper and causes serious illness.
CAUTION: Never idle your vehicle for prolonged periods of
time if you sense that exhaust fumes are entering the cab
or sleeper. Investigate the cause of the fumes and correct it
as soon as possible. If the vehicle must be driven under
these conditions, drive only with the windows slightly
open. Failure to repair the source of the exhaust fumes may
lead to personal harm.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—131—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
NOTE: Keep the engine exhaust system and the vehicle’s
cab/sleeper ventilation system properly maintained. It is recommended that the vehicle’s exhaust system and cab/
sleeper be inspected
• By a competent technician every 15,000 miles/24,000 km
• Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system
• Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, cab or
sleeper is damaged

Master Lubrication Index
Lubricant Symbol Key
BB:
Ball Bearing grease
CB:
Engine oil for mild to moderate requirements
CC/CD: Engine oil for severe requirements (MIL-L-2104B /
MIL-L-45199B w/ 1.85% max. sulfated ash content)
CD:
Engine oil meeting API “Five engine test sequence”
CD50: SAE 50W synthetic transmission fluid
CE:
Engine oil meeting severe duty service requirements for
direct-injection turbocharged engines.
CL:
Multipurpose chassis grease
C4:
Type C4 transmission fluid (torque fluid)
EP:
Extreme Pressure Lubricant
GL:
Straight mineral gear lubricant
HD:
Hypoid Gear Oil, A.P.I. - GL-5, SAE 80W-90
HT:
High Temperature grease (Timken Spec. 0-616)
MP:
Multipurpose gear lubricant (MIL-L-2105B)
WB:
Wheel Bearing grease (Timken Spec. 0-610)

NOTE: The responsibility for meeting these specifications,
the quality of the product, and its performance in service
rests with the lubricant supplier.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—132—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Component Lubrication Index
Component

Lubricant

Universal Joints

Drive Shaft Splines

Wheel Bearings (driven hubs)

Wheel Bearings (nondriven hubs)

CD50

Wheel Bearings (all grease-lubricated hubs)

Steering Column

Alternator Bearing

BB*

Fan Hub

BB*

Power Steering Reservoir

Steering Drag Link

Steering Knuckles

Spring Pins

Clutch Release Bearings

Brake Shoe Anchor Pins

Brake Cam Bearings

Slack Adjusters

Starter Bearings

Turbocharger Aneroid

Water Pump

BB*

Cab Tilt Hydraulic Reservoir

Hydraulic Jack Oil, MIL-L-5056B

Speedometer Cables

Lubriplate Aero or equivalent

*Consult manufacturer or lubricant supplier for special details.

02942

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—133—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Fuller Transmission Lubrication
Fuller transmissions are designed so that the internal parts operate in
a bath of oil circulated by the motion of gears and shafts. Grey iron
parts have built-in channels where needed to help lubricate bearings
and shafts. All parts will be amply lubricated if these procedures are
closely followed:
1. Maintain oil level; check it regularly.
2. Change oil regularly.
3. Use the correct grade and type of oil.
4. Buy oil from a reputable dealer.

Lubrication Change and Inspection
Highway Use

• Refer to the Eaton Fuller transmission manual for servicing information.
• Refer to the oil change vs. temperature chart below for special oil
change information. The “intermittent peak temperature” is the
maximum temperature observed for a short time in a fully loaded
vehicle performing normally.

02944

Off-Highway Use

• Refer to the Eaton Fuller transmission manual for servicing information.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—134—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
CAUTION: Exceeding the recommended oil change
intervals may be harmful to the life of the transmission
and the transmission oil cooler.

Recommended Lubricants
Type

Grade
(SAE)

Ambient
Temperature

Heavy Duty Engine
Oil MIL-L-2104B, C,
or D;

Above 10° F (-12° C)

API - SF, or API-CD
(Previous API designations acceptable)

Above 10° F (-12° C

Below 10° F (-12° C)

Mineral gear oil with
rust and oxidation
inhibitor API-GL-1

Above 10° F (-12° C)

80W

Below 10° F (-12° C)

Synthetic Lubricant*

All

* See your Peterbilt dealer for approved brands.

Allison Transmission Lubrication
Refer to your transmission manual (furnished separately) for lubrication information.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—135—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Spicer Transmission Lubrication
It is extremely important to use the proper lubricants and maintain the
correct oil levels in Spicer units. This will ensure proper lubrication
and operating temperatures in these units.

Recommended Lubricants
The lubricants listed below are recommended, in order of preference,
for use in all Spicer mechanical transmissions, auxiliaries, and transfer cases. Do not use extreme pressure additives such as those found
in multipurpose or rear axle-type lubricants. These additives are not
required in Spicer transmissions, and may in some cases create
transmission problems. Multipurpose oils, as a group, have relatively
poor oxidation stability, a high rate of sludge formation, and a greater
tendency to react with or corrode the steel and bronze parts.
Type

Grade
(SAE)

Ambient
Temperature

Heavy Duty Engine Oil MIL-L-2104D
or MIL-L-46152B, API-SF or API-CD
(MIL-L-2104B or C or MIL-L-46152
designations are acceptable)

30, 40, or 50

Above 0° F
(-18° C)

Below 0° F
(-18° C)

Above 0° F
(-18° C)

Below 0° F
(-18° C)

CD50
CD30

All

EP75W90
EP75W140

All

Mineral gear oil
(R & O type) API-GL-1
Synthetic Engine Oil meeting
MIL-L-2104D or MIL-L-46152B,
API-SF or API-CD
*Synthetic Gear Oil Meeting
MIL-2105C or API-GL5

*EP Gear Oils are not recommended when lubricant operating temperatures
are above 230° F (110° C).

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—136—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Oil Changes
CAUTION: When adding oil, types and brands of oil should
not be intermixed because of possible incompatibility,
which could decrease the effectiveness of the lubrication
or cause component failure.

An initial oil change and flush should be performed after the transmission has been placed in actual service. This change should be made
any time after 3000 miles (4800 km) but never longer than 5000 miles
(8000 km) of over-the-road service. In off-highway use, the change
should be made after 24 hours but before 100 hours of service have
elapsed.

Refilling
Remove all dirt around filler plug. Refill with new oil of the grade recommended for the existing season and prevailing service. Fill to the
bottom of the level testing plug positioned on the side of the transmission. Do not overfill the transmission. Overfilling usually results in oil
breakdown due to excessive heat and aeration from the churning
action of the gears. Early breakdown of the oil will result in heavy varnish and sludge deposits that plug up oil ports and build up on the
splines and bearings. Overflow of oil can also escape onto clutch or
parking brakes. When adding oil, do not mix different types of oil.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—137—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Meritor Transmission Lubrication
Lubrication Change and Inspection
• An initial oil change and flush should be performed after the transmission has been in service for 5000 miles (8000 km).

• Refer to the Meritor Transmission manual for servicing information.
Recommended Lubricants
Grade (SAE)

Ambient
Temperature

Heavy-Duty Engine Oil
A.P.I.-CD, -CE, -SF or
-SG (Previous A.P.I. designations acceptable)*
MIL-L-2104B, C, or D*

Above 10° F (-12° C)

Below 10° F (-12° C)

Mineral Gear Oil with Rust
and Oxidation Inhibitor,
A.P.I.-GL-1*

Above 10° F (-12° C))

Below 10° F (-12° C)

Synthetic Oil, Meritor Specification 0-81 *@

All

Mobil Trans SHC50 Syn-

All

Type Of Lubricant

thetic#
* Multi-weight and EP gear oils are not recommended.
DO NOT MIX OILS IN THE TRANSMISSION.
@ See your Peterbilt dealer for Meritor-approved lubricant brands.
#

Freedomline transmission

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—138—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Meritor Axle Lubrication
NOTE: Axles utilized in 100% off-highway use are not eligible for Meritor’s Advanced Lube Rear Drive Axle program.
Under Meritor’s Advanced Lube Rear Drive Axle program, the axles
listed below are exempt from an initial lubricant change:
AVAILABLE ADVANCED LUBE AXLES
RS-17-145

RS-23-180

RT-40-145

RT-44-145P

RS-19-145

RS-26-180

RT-40-145P

RT-46-160

RS-21-145

RS-30-180

SQ-100A

RT-46-160P

RS-23-160

RT-34-145

SQ-100AP

RT-52-160

RS-23-161

RT-34-145P

RT-44-145

RT-52-160P

Meritor rear axles that do not appear on the list above will continue to
require an initial drain at 3000-5000 miles (4800-8000 km).
• Refer to the Meritor Field Maintenance Manual for a particular axle
for lubricant specifications.

• See your Peterbilt dealer for Meritor-approved lubricant brands.
• Refer to the following chart for lubricant change intervals:
Application
Linehaul

City Delivery

Vocational

Type Of Lubricant

Mileage Interval

Synthetic

240,000 Miles (384,000 km)

Synthetic with Pump
and Filter

500,000 Miles (800,000 km)

Mineral Base

120,000 miles (192,000 km)

Synthetic

120,000 miles (192,000 km)

Synthetic with Pump
and Filter

240,000 Miles (384,000 km)

Mineral Base

120,000 miles (192,000 km)

Synthetic

120,000 miles (192,000 km)

Synthetic with Pump
and Filter

120,000 miles (192,000 km)

Mineral Base

120,000 miles (192,000 km)

• Change the lubricant filter every 120,000 miles (192,000 km). Top
off the lubricant level with a similar lubricant.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—139—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Eaton/Dana Axle Lubrication
• The original mineral-based lubricant must be drained within 30005000 miles (4800-8000 km) on all Eaton axles. This initial change
is very important because it flushes out break-in contaminants that
might otherwise cause premature wear.

• No initial drain is required on Eaton axles that are factory filled with
an Eaton-approved synthetic lubricant.

• Mineral-based lubes must be drained within the first 5000 miles
(8000 km) if converting to an Eaton-approved synthetic lube.

• Change the lubricant within the first 5000 miles (8000 km) of operation after a carrier head replacement, regardless of the lubricant
type.

• Refer to the Eaton Field Maintenance Manual for a particular axle
for lubricant specifications.

• See your Peterbilt dealer for Eaton-approved lubricant brands.
• Refer to the chart below for lubricant change interval.
Type of
Lubricant

OnHighway
Miles(km)

Maximum On/Off Highway
Change
Severe Service
Interval
Miles (km)

Maximum
Change
Interval

Mineral-Based

120,000
(192,000)

Yearly

60,000
(96,000)

Yearly

Eaton-Approved 240,000
Synthetic
(384,000)

2 Years

120,000
(192,000)

Yearly

Eaton-Approved 360,000
Synthetic in axle (576,000)
with extended
drain interval
option

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—140—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Wheel Bearing Lubrication
Oil-lubricated Driven Hubs
Use hypoid oil, A.P.I.-GL-5 SAE 80W-90 or equivalent. A minimum of
1 quart (921 ml) of oil is required for proper lubrication of each drive
hub. Add oil through the filler hole in the hub; if none, add oil through
the differential filler hole. (Note: Remember to replace vent plug or
threaded filler plug when done.) Allow time for the oil to seep through
the bearings when initially filling a hub. Maintain the differential oil
level by adding oil until its surface is even with the bottom of the filler
hole (see page 133).

Oil-lubricated Nondriven Hubs
Use CD50 synthetic transmission fluid SAE 50W or equivalent. A minimum of 9 oz. (270 ml) of lubricant is required for proper lubrication of
an LMS™ hub; 10 - 13 oz. (295 - 400 ml) is required for a non-LMS
hub, depending on wheel design. Allow time for the fluid to seep
through the bearings when initially filling a hub. When properly filled,
the fluid level will lie between the fluid level line and 1/4” above the
line. (Note: Remember to replace vent plug when done.)

Grease-Lubricated Hubs
Repack the hub bearing with clean wheel bearing grease after disassembling, cleaning, and inspecting.

Universal Joint Lubrication
Refer to the Spicer Universal Joints and Driveshafts service manual
and lubrication specifications.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—141—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Steering Gear Lubrication
CAUTION: When adding fluid, be sure to use fluid of the
same type. Do not mix different fluids. While many fluids have the same description and intended purpose,
they should not be mixed due to incompatible additives.
If incompatible (insoluble) fluids are mixed in a power
steering system, air bubbles can be produced at the
interface of the two fluids. This can cause cavitation,
which reduces the lubrication between moving parts in
the gear. This could result in worn components.

Inspection
NOTE: Before removing reservoir cover, wipe outside of cover
so that no dirt can fall into the reservoir.

1. Check the fluid level; add fluid if required.
2. Check fluid for contamination, discoloration, or burnt smell; correct
source of such problems before replacing fluid & filter.

Replacement
1. Replace both the fluid and filter as per the chart below.
2. Bleed the system if necessary
.

Steering
Gear

Fluid *

Inspect
[miles(km)]

Replace
(miles/months)

TRW

Type C-4 Fluid

Every 15,000
(24,000)

Every 240,000
(384,000)/24

Sheppard

Type C-4 Fluid

Every 15,000
(24,000)

Every 240,000
(384,000)/24

*Extremely low temperatures may require lower viscosity fluids; consult your Peterbilt dealer for recommendations
@See TRW or Sheppard Service Manuals for additional fluid listings

Servicing Specific Systems And Units
This section will help you keep your Peterbilt vehicle in good running
condition. There are a number of checks you can do, and you may be
able to do some of the service work yourself. But please: let your
dealer’s service department do any work you don’t have the tools or
skill to perform. Authorized service mechanics are trained in the proper
technical and safety procedures to fix your Peterbilt vehicle right.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—142—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! It is dangerous to work on a vehicle without
the right know-how and proper tools. You could be
badly injured, and you could damage the vehicle. Do
only work you know you are fully capable of doing, and
for which you have the right tools.

Brake Adjustment
WARNING! To prevent uncontrolled vehicle movement and
reduce risk of personal injury, park the vehicle on a hard
level surface, apply the parking brake, and chock all
wheels securely.

To operate your vehicle safely and profitably, you need some understanding of its brake systems. For more on brakes, see the Index,
under Brakes.
Brake adjustment and brake balance must be set carefully to (1)
make the most efficient use of the forces available for braking and (2)
allow equal stopping forces at all wheels.

CAUTION: The air brake system of this vehicle was configured for ONE of the following operations: tractor or
truck, and complies with the respective portions of
FMVSS 121. A tractor shall not be operated or configured as a truck, nor shall a truck be operated or configured as a tractor, without significant modifications to
the air brake system in order to retain compliance with
FMVSS 121. Contact your Peterbilt dealer for instructions.
Once a brake system is set to specifications, changing any one of its
components or any combination of components may cause the system to not work as well. All parts have to work together to perform as
they should. Any replacement components in your brake system
should be exactly equal to the original components. Any changes
from the original specifications can affect the whole system.
All of the following areas are interrelated and must conform to original
specifications:
•Tire Size
•Brake Linings
•Cam Radius
•Brake Chambers
•Wedge Angle
•Slack Adjusters
•Drum Radius

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—143—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! A nonconforming part in your brake system
could cause an accident. Sizes and types are so related
to one another that a seemingly unimportant change in
one may result in a change in how well your brakes work
for you on the road. If parts don’t work together properly, you could lose control of your vehicle. Be sure any
replacement parts in your brake system conform exactly
to original specifications.
All vehicle operators should check their brakes regularly. Always
adjust your brakes when they are cool.
Perform these checks & adjustments every 15,000 miles (24,000 km):
WARNING! Brake linings with a thickness below the specified minimum will have lining rivets exposed. Use of such
linings can damage the brake drum and also reduce brake
efficiency, which could cause an accident or system failure.

• Have brake linings inspected by a qualified mechanic for wear at
least every 15,000 miles. In severe service or off-highway applications inspect the linings more frequently.

• Check the air system for leaks:
1. Build up air pressure in the system to the governor cut-out point.
2. Stop the engine.
3. Release the parking brakes (push in the yellow knob).
4. Watch the rate of air pressure drop. The rate of drop should not be
more than 2 psi (14 kPa) per minute.
5. Now start the engine and build up the air pressure again.
6. Stop the engine. Ensure that the parking brakes are still released
(i.e., the yellow knob is pushed in).
7. Fully apply the service brakes.
8. Watch the rate of air pressure drop registered by the air gauge. The
rate of drop should not be more than 3 psi (21 kPa) per minute.
9. If you find excessive leakage, a leakage test should be made at the
air line connections and at all air brake control units. To perform a
leakage test, refer to the detailed instructions in the Peterbilt Maintenance Manual, or take your vehicle to an authorized Peterbilt dealer.
Readjust the brakes if pushrod travel reaches 1 3/4 inches (44.4 mm)
for steer axle brakes or 2 inches (51 mm) for rear axle brakes [2 1/4
inches (57 mm) for Type 36 chambers] at 80 - 90 psi (550 - 620 kPa)
application pressure.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

—144—

22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
CAUTION: The brake adjuster alone does not ensure
proper brake operation. Inspect all brake components. All
brake components work together and must be checked
periodically to ensure the brake system works properly.
See the Peterbilt Master Maintenance Manual for more
information on brake maintenance.

If you have manual slack adjusters:
• Adjust the slack adjuster until the brake is tight.

• Then back off two or three clicks until the shoes are just free. You
can determine this by spinning the wheel or tapping on the drum
and listening for a clear ringing sound.
Normal pushrod travel is about 1 to 1 3/8 inch front and rear after
brakes have been properly adjusted.

02945

Correct Pushrod Travel
If you have automatic slack adjusters:
Constant manual adjustment of automatic slack adjusters can
shorten the life of your internal clutch. If proper stroke cannot be
maintained, replace the slack adjuster.
Operational Checks of Automatic Slack Adjusters

• Measure brake chamber stroke with the spring brake released and
the air pressure at 100 psi (690 kPa) minimum. Correctly installed
and functioning auto slack will produce the following strokes:

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
-Type 36 chamber (rear brakes) should have a 1 1/2 inch to 2 1/4
inch (38 mm to 57 mm) stroke.
-Type 30 chamber (rear brakes) should have a 1 1/2 inch to 2 inch
(38 mm to 51 mm) stroke.
-Type 16, 20, & 24 chambers (front brakes) should have a 1 inch
to 1 3/4 inch (25.4 mm to 44.4 mm) stroke.

• If the stroke exceeds the above specifications, check to verify that
the slack adjuster is working. With the air system at 100 psi
(690 kPa) or more, apply the brake. If adjustment is necessary and
the slack adjuster is working, the adjusting hex nut will rotate during the chamber return stroke. Installing a wrench on the hex nut
will make this easier to see. On each stroke after the first, the
amount of adjustment and chamber travel will be less.

Tires, Wheels, And Rims
Tires
Your tires are a very important part of your vehicle’s whole braking
system. How fast you can stop depends in large measure on how
much friction you get between the road and your tires.
In addition, keeping your tires in good condition is essential to the
safe, efficient operation of your vehicle. Regular, frequent inspection
and the right care will give you the assurance of safe and reliable tire
operation. Here are some tips on maintaining your tires.

WARNING! Underinflated tires could cause a serious
accident. The extra heat caused by underinflation can
cause sudden tire failure. Low pressure may affect control at the front wheels. You could be seriously hurt in
an accident that could result. Keep your tires inflated to
the manufacturer’s recommended limit.
1. Underinflated Tires. Low pressure is a tire’s worst enemy. Underinflation allows tires to flex improperly, causing high temperatures
to build up. Heat causes early tire damage such as flex break,
radial cracks, and ply separation. Low pressure may affect control
of your vehicle, especially at the front wheels. Most tire wear
problems are caused by underinflation as the result of slow leaks,
so you’ll want to check tire pressure regularly.
Checking Inflation Pressure
Give your tires a visual test every day, and check inflation with a
gauge every week.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! You can be badly injured trying to fix tires.
Don’t mount or dismount a tire yourself; have any wheel
service performed by an expert. And stand away from
the tire assembly while the expert is working.

• When checking tire pressure, inspect each tire for damage to sidewalls, cuts, cracks, uneven wear, rocks between duals, etc. If a tire
appears underinflated, check for damage to the wheel assembly.
Don’t forget to check between dual wheels. If you find wheel damage, have an expert tire service repair it.
• Maximum tire pressure will be indicated on the sidewall of a tire.

• Check pressure only when the tires are cool. Warm or hot tires
cause pressure buildup and will give you an inaccurate reading.
So never deflate a warm tire to the specified pressure.
• Lower tire pressure does not give you more traction on ice or
snow. This is an old myth that refuses to die. Underinflation actually reduces traction, steering control and tire load capacity.
2. Overloaded tires. Overloading your truck is as damaging to your
tires as underinflation. The following chart shows how neglect or
deliberate abuse can affect the life of your tires.
EFFECT OF LOAD PRESSURE ON TIRE LIFE
Vehicle
Load

Normal

Tire
Pressure

Normal

Expected
Total Tire
Mileage

Normal

20%
Over

40%
Over

60%
Over

80%
Over

100%
Over

20% Low 30% Low 35% Low 45% Low 55% Low
70%

50%

40%

30%

25%

3. Overinflated tires. Too much air pressure reduces the tire tread
contact area and results in rapid wear in the center of the tread.

WARNING! Overinflated tires can cause accidents.
They wear more quickly than properly inflated tires.
And they are more subject to punctures, cracks, & other
damage. They could fail and cause you to lose control
of your vehicle. Be sure all tires are inflated correctly
according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
The chart on page 150 gives you the right load and inflation rates for
different tire sizes. Please follow it for the safest and most economical
use of your tires.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
4. Matching tires. Be sure to buy matched tires for your vehicle,
especially on the rear axles. Mismatched tires can cause stress
between axles and cause the temperature of your axle lubricant to
get too hot. Matched tires will help your driveline last longer and
will give you better tire mileage.

WARNING! Mismatched tires are dangerous. Mixing
tire types may lessen the road-holding ability of both
types of tires. You can lose control and be injured.
Never mix tires of different design, such as steel belted
radials and bias ply tires. Make sure, too, that you use
the right size tires on each wheel. Some vehicles
require different sizes on front and rear wheels. For
safety, always use the recommended size and type of
tires.
5. Replacing Tires.
Front: Replace front tires when less than 4/32 in. of tread remains.
Check at three places equally spaced around the tire.
Drive Axles or Trailers: Replace tires on drive axles or trailers when
less than 2/32 in. of tread depth remains in any major groove. Check
at three places equally spaced around the tire.
See next illustration for recommended measuring points for tread
depth:
02946

Steer Tire

Drive Tire

WARNING! Regrooved tires or tires with reinforcement
repairs can be dangerous on steering axles. They could
cause you to lose control of your vehicle. Do not install
regrooved or reinforcement-repaired tires on your steering axles.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
NOTE: To prolong your tires’ life and make them safer, have
their radial and lateral run-out checked at your dealer. And
of course you should have your tires balanced any time you
change a tire.
6. Tire chains. If you need tire chains, install them on both sides of
each driving axle.

CAUTION: Chains on the tires of only one tandem axle
can damage the driveline U-joints and the interaxle differential. Your repairs could be costly & time-consuming.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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—150—

11R22.5
11R22.5
11R24.5
11R24.5
275 / 70R22.5
275 / 70R22.5
275 / 70R22.5
275 / 70R22.5
295 / 75R22.5
285 / 75R24.5

Load
Range
G
H
G
H
E
F
G
H
G
G

Tire Load Limits At Various Cold Inflation Pressures (psi)
70
75
80
85
90
95
100
105
4530 4770 4990 5220 5420 5640 5840 6040
4530 4770 4990 5220 5430 5640 5840 6040
4820 5070 5310 5550 5780 6000 6210 6430
4820 5070 5310 5550 5780 6000 6210 6430
4385 4580 4765
4385 4580 4765 5010 5220 5425
4385 4580 4765 5010 5220 5425 5630 5830
4385 4580 4765 5010 5220 5425 5630 5830
4500 4725 4945 5155 5370 5575 5780 5980
4545 4770 4990 5210 5420 5675 5835 6040

110

115

6240

6430

6610

6630

6240

7030

6220

6410

6025
6025
6175
6175

DUAL RADIAL TIRES FOR VEHICLES IN HIGHWAY SERVICE

22-01510 (R12/01)

11R22.5
11R22.5
11R24.5
11R24.5
275 / 70R22.5
275 / 70R22.5
275 / 70R22.5
275 / 70R22.5
295 / 75R22.5
285 / 75R24.5

G
H
G
H
E
F
G
H
G
G

4380
4380
4660
4660
4335
4335
4335
4335
4500
4540

4580
4580
4870
4870

4760
4760
5070
5070

4950
4950
5260
5260

5120
5120
5450
5450

5300
5300
5640
5640

4560
4560
4560
4690
4740

4750
4750
4750
4885
4930

4935
4935
4935
5075
5205

4095
4095
5260
5310

4280
4280
5440
5495

NOTE:

1. Pressure listed is the minimum for the load.
2. All tire load figures are in pounds.
3. Figures in Bold face indicate maximum recommended load.
Source: Bridgestone Tire

120

5470

5630

5800

5820

6000

6170

4420
4420
5675
5675

4540
4540

4850

5070

125

6600

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

Tire
Size

Tire Load and Inflation Tables

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

Load Range Letters and Corresponding Ply Rating
(E = 10 ply; F - 12 ply; G - 14 ply; H - 16 ply)
SINGLE RADIAL TIRES FOR VEHICLES IN HIGHWAY SERVICE

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
02949

Hub Pilot Mount
Ball Seat Mount
Hub, Drum, and Stud Assembly
The hub pilot mounting system uses
M22x1.5 metric threads (about 7/8
in. dia.). The stud stands out at least
1.9 in. beyond the brake drum. All
studs are right hand threads. Pilot
bosses machined on the hub fit
tightly to the wheel center bore.

The ball seat mounting uses 3/4 x 16
or 1-1/8 x 16 threads. The dual
mounting studs provide 1.3 - 1.44 in.
standout. Right hand and left hand
threads are required. Inner and
outer cap nuts center the wheels by
seating against wheel ball seats.

Wheels
Pilot mount wheels have stud holes
that are reamed straight through (no
ball seats). Center bore diameter is
8-21/32 in. Budd Uni-Mount - 10
wheels have UNIMOUNT stamped
on the disc.

Ball seat wheels have spherical
chamfers machined on each stud
hole. Center bore diameter is 8-23/
32 in.

Wheel Nuts
Nut has a hex body and a flange for Inner and outer cap nuts mate with
spherical chamfers on wheels. Inner
clamping against wheel face. Hex
size is 33 mm (same as 1-5/16 in.). nut has 13/16 in. square end. Outer
nut has 1-1/2 in. hex.

WARNING! Mismatched wheel components are dangerous. Equipment that does not exactly match original
specifications or that is mismatched could cause your
wheels to break and separate from the vehicle. The
resulting accident could be very serious. Each mounting system is engineered for use only with its correct
mating part. Be sure properly matched components are
used for each type of mounting.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Wheel Cap Nut Torque
At the first 100 miles, have all wheel cap nuts torqued to their specified value. After that, check wheel cap nuts at least once a week.
Contact the Service Department at your dealership for information on
the proper installation procedure for the wheels on your truck. This is
a job you may not be able to do yourself. You need the right torquing
equipment to do it.
Wheel Bearing Adjustment
For safe, reliable operation and adequate service life, your wheel
bearings must be checked and adjusted properly. The person best
equipped to do this is your authorized dealer’s service mechanic.
Disc Wheels
To check the torque on disc wheels, follow the crisscross sequence
below. See the Specifications chart for proper torque specification.

WARNING!
• Grooves in the wheel disc or other damage to the disc
can lead to a serious accident. The disc will be weakened and can eventually come off, maybe causing you
to lose control of your vehicle. Be sure to use the right
components and the right tools.
• The end of the wheel wrench must be smooth. Burrs
on the end of the wrench can tear grooves in the disc,
especially on aluminum wheels. These grooves may
lead to cracks in the disc, and can cause it to fail.

02950

Crisscross Sequence For Disc Wheels
Demountable Rims
To check the torque on demountable rims, follow the crisscross
sequence shown on the next page. See the Specifications chart for
proper torque specification.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! Use only components marketed by
PACCAR Parts. Use of non–original equipment could
cause wheel breakage and wheel separation from vehicle. Each mounting system is engineered only for use
with its correct mating part. Be sure that properly
matched components are used for each type of mounting. The comparison chart on page 142 illustrates the
differences between parts used in hub–piloted mount
and ball seat mount applications. Only PACCAR Parts
supplied hub–piloted or ball–seat mounted wheels may
be used on this vehicle.
• If you are not fully qualified and not equipped with the
proper tools and equipment, do not attempt to raise
the vehicle or remove or install the damaged tire and
wheel assembly. Obtain expert help. A person can be
seriously injured and/or damage can result from using
the wrong service methods. Truck tires and wheels
should be serviced only by trained personnel using
proper equipment. Do not reinflate a tire that has been
run flat or is seriously low on air without first removing
the tire from the rim and inspecting for damage.
• Follow OSHA regulations per section 1910.177.
• Do not exceed the speed rating of tires. Exceeding the
speed rating may result in sudden tire failure and loss
of vehicle control.
• Follow all warnings and cautions contained within the
tire and wheel manufacturers literature.
• Only properly trained personnel should service tire
and rim assemblies

02951

Crisscross Sequence For Demountable Rims
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
CAP NUT TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS (R12/01)
WHEEL AND NUT
CONFIGURATION

STUD SIZE

Stud-Piloted Disc
Wheels

TORQUES FOR INNER &
OUTER CAP NUTS
Lb. Ft.

N.m

3/4”-16 Inner
1 1/8”-16 Outer

450-500

610-680

Heavy Duty StudPiloted Disc Wheels

15/16”-12 Inner
1 5/16”-12
Outer

750-900

1025-1225

PHP-10; Budd UniMount-10; WHD-8

M22 x 1.5-6H

450-500

610-680

Rim Clamp
Nut Torque
Cast Spoke Wheel
Assembly

1/2” Dia.

80-90

110-120

5/8” Dia.

160-185

220-250

3/4” Dia.

225-245

305-335

Vehicle Loading

WARNING! The components of your vehicle are
designed to provide satisfactory service if the vehicle is
not loaded in excess of either the gross vehicle weight
rating (GVWR) or the maximum front and rear gross axle
weight ratings (GAWRs). Axle weight ratings are listed
on the driver’s door edge. Supervise all loading to
ensure that (1) the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR)
is not exceeded and (2) the load is distributed correctly
so that the weight distribution is within the limits of the
front and rear axle load ratings. Severe damage to your
vehicle, difficult handling, or an accident could occur if
your vehicle is not loaded properly.
GVW: GVW is the Gross Vehicle Weight. This is the TOTAL WEIGHT
your vehicle is designed to carry. Never carry so heavy a load that you
exceed the GVW rating of your Peterbilt vehicle.
Axle Weight: Your front and rear axles are rated according to the load
they are designed to carry. You will find this number listed on the
driver’s door frame.
Load Distribution: Be sure any load you carry is distributed so that no
axle has to support more than its load limit.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! An unevenly distributed load or a load too
heavy over one axle can affect the braking and handling
of your vehicle and cause an accident. Even if your load
is under the legal limits, be sure it is distributed evenly.

03002

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Your Vehicle’s Air System
WARNING! Prior to the removal of any air system component, always block and hold the vehicle by a secure
means other than the vehicle’s own brakes. Depleting
air system pressure may cause vehicle to roll. Keep
hands away from chamber push rods and slack adjusters, they may apply as system pressure drops.
• After completing any repairs to the air system, always
test for air leaks, and check the brakes for safe operation before putting the vehicle in service.
• Never connect or disconnect a hose or line containing
air pressure. It may whip as air escapes. Never remove
a component or pipe plug unless you are certain all
system pressure has been depleted.
• Never exceed recommended air pressure and always
wear safety glasses when working with air pressure.
Never look into air jets or direct them at anyone.
• Never attempt to disassemble a component until you
have read and understood recommended procedures.
Some components contain powerful springs and
injury can result if not properly disassembled. Use
only proper tools and observe all precautions pertaining to use of those tools.
The operation of the vehicle’s braking system and many vehicle
accessories depends upon the storage and application of a highpressure air supply.
Your vehicle’s compressor takes outside air and compresses it, usually to 100-120 psi. The compressed air then goes to the reservoirs to
be stored until needed. When you operate your air brakes, the stored
compressed air flows into the chambers where it is used to apply your
truck and trailer brakes. That is why, when you push down on your
brake pedal, you don’t feel the same amount of pressure on the pedal
that you do when you apply the brakes on your car. All you are doing
on your truck is opening an air valve to allow air to flow into the brake
chambers.
Air Supply System
Contamination of the air supply system is the major cause of problems in air-operated components such as brake valves, wiper motors,
and suspension height control valves. To keep contaminants to the
lowest possible level, follow these maintenance procedures.

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! If the supply and service tanks are not drained
at the recommended frequency, water could be sent to all
air lines and valves. This could cause corrosion, which
could compromise the brake system safety and potentially
cause an accident.

Daily

• Drain moisture from the supply and service air tanks.
• Operate air devices to circulate lubricants within the unit.
Periodically

• Clean filter screens ahead of the valves by removing the screens
and soaking them in solvent. Blow them dry with pressurized air
before reinstalling them.
Twice a Year

• Add approximately 1/4 oz. (7.5 ml) of light viscosity lubricant to the
air line leading to the wiper motor. Acceptable lubricants are Dow
Corning 200 fluid, 200 CS viscosity, and Sprague Wiper Lube. If
you have alcohol dryers installed in the air system, the alcohol can
wash away lubricants from the wiper motors.

CAUTION: Don’t use penetrating oil, brake fluid, or waxbased oils in the air system. These fluids may cause
severe damage to air system components.

• Maintain the air compressor to prevent excessive oil by-pass. See
your shop manual for maintenance details.

• Replace worn seals in valves and air motors as they are needed.
Air Dryer

NOTE: A small amount of oil in the system may be normal
and should not, by itself, be considered reason to replace a
desiccant cartridge; oil-stained desiccant can function adequately.
Every 900 operating hours or 30,000 miles/48,000 km or 3 months,
check for moisture in the air brake system by opening reservoirs,
drain cocks, or valves and checking for the presence of water. A tablespoon of water in a reservoir would point to the need for a desiccant
cartridge change. However, the following should be considered first:

• Air usage is exceptionally high/abnormal for a highway vehicle.
This may be due to accessory air demands or some other unusual
air requirement that doesn’t allow the compressor to load/unload
in a normal fashion or it may be due to excessive leaks in the air
system.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
• When more than a 30-degree F (17-degree C) range of temperature occurs in one day, small amounts of water can accumulate in
the air brake system due to condensation. Under these conditions,
the presence of small amounts of moisture is normal and should
not be considered as an indication that the dryer is not performing
properly.

• An outside air source may have been used to charge the air system, in which case this air did not pass through the drying bed.

Transmission And Drive Train
Clutch Adjustment
Clutch pedal free travel is usually 1 3/4 in. to 2 in. (34 to 51 mm). This
should be your guide for determining whether your truck needs clutch
adjustment. Some vehicles have automatic clutch adjustment. If yours
doesn’t have this feature, adjustment will have to be done by a trained
certified mechanic. Have the adjustment done before clutch pedal
free travel is reduced to the minimum allowable 1/2 in. (13 mm).

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Engine Cooling System
WARNING! Removing the radiator cap on a hot engine
can cause scalding coolant to spray out and burn you
badly. If the engine has been in operation within the previous 30 minutes, be very careful in removing the radiator cap. Protect face, hands, and arms against escaping
fluid and steam by covering the cap with a large, thick rag.
If you see any steam or coolant escaping, don’t try to
remove it until the radiator cools down. If you see nothing escaping, still remove the cap very slowly and carefully. Be ready to back off if any steam or coolant begins
to escape.
What to Add to Your Cooling System
Water
Water must be clean & free of corrosive and scale-forming chemicals.
Your drinking water may not be good for your vehicle. Approved additives help neutralize water’s harmful effects on your cooling system.
Ask your dealer to recommend the best ones for you.
If the cooling system in your truck has a treated spin-on water filter,
install the service filter on all B checks. See the Preventive Maintenance Schedule in this manual. For more detailed recommendations
check with the service department at your dealership or check the
engine manufacturer’s operation and maintenance manual.
If, in an emergency, the radiator was filled with water known to contain
gypsum, sulfur, or chlorine:
1. Drain the cooling system as soon as possible.
2. Flush the system.
3. Replace the filters.
4. Refill with premixed coolant. Consult your maintenance manual for
the correct filters to install.
Low Silicate Antifreeze
WARNING! Handle coolant and antifreeze carefully. Ethylene glycol antifreeze is poisonous. Store in original fluid
container only, and always keep out of reach of children.

Always install a low silicate antifreeze. Premix your coolant to maintain the correct proportion of antifreeze and coolant conditioner
chemicals. Install only enough low silicate antifreeze to provide the
required protection against freezing.
The chart on the next page shows the temperature protection provided by low silicate ethylene glycol antifreeze in relation to the proportion mixed with water.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Antifreeze
(percent by
volume)

Deg
C

-4

-9

-16 -24 -36 -40 -46 -53 -68 -65 -49 -35 -16

Temp.
Protection

90 100

Deg +32 +24 +16 +4 -12 -34 -40 -50 -63 -92 -85 -57 -31 +4
F

Antifreeze Mixture: A 53% mixture of low silicate antifreeze with 47%
water is sufficient for year-round normal operation. This will normally
protect your engine from freezing and boil-over. Note in the chart that
100% antifreeze is no more effective than a 30% mixture.

NOTE: Never exceed a 64/36 antifreeze/water mix ratio, it
will increase the risk of silicate drop-out. Additionally, it may
not increase antifreeze protection, and it could decrease it.
Some Tips about Additives:
• If you add supplemental coolant additives to your radiator, maintain them at the recommended levels. Read the label carefully.
Too much additive could harm your vehicle.

• Antifreeze solutions containing antileak additives may quickly
restrict your water filter. If this happens, your filter won’t work. So
stay away from antileak additives.

• Don’t add rust inhibitors, radiator sealants, or water pump lubricants containing soluble oil to the coolant. These additives can
cause the anticorrosion chemicals not to work.
Topping Up (For a Standard or Low Flow System)
With the engine cold, top up with premixed coolant. Add the coolant
through the pressure cap neck on the surge tank or recovery bottle.
The surge tank or recovery bottle is on top of the radiator, on the firewall, on the service module, or on the front of the cab. For the proper
level, see illustration on next page.

CAUTION: Never install 100% antifreeze for top-up coolant. It could damage your vehicle.
NOTE: If frequent topping up is necessary and there are no
visible signs of coolant leaks when the engine is cold, check
for leaks with the engine operating at normal operating temperature.
Refilling Your Radiator
1. Be sure the radiator and engine block drains are closed.
2. Move the heater control to maximum heat position.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
3. Remove the surge tank pressure cap.

03003

Surge Tank
4. Through the surge tank, fill the system with premixed coolant.
Pour it in a steady flow until the radiator is full.
5. Start the engine.
6. Idle at low RPM.
7. Complete the filling. Do it as quickly as possible.
8. Idle the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature.
9. Fill the radiator as necessary to raise the coolant level to the
proper Replace the surge tank pressure cap.
Check the coolant level after each trip when the engine has cooled.
Add coolant as necessary. You may find your coolant level is not up
to the correct level soon after you have filled the radiator. This may be
because all the trapped air in the system has not yet been purged. It
takes a little time for all the air to leave the system after you fill your
radiator.

NOTE: Do not overfill a cooling system. Excess coolant may
result in overflow, loss of antifreeze, and reduced corrosion
protection. For a cold engine, the proper coolant level is 1 in.
below the radiator cap seal. For an operating engine at normal temperature, coolant should be even with the radiator
cap seal.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Electrical
CAUTION: Do not modify or improperly repair the vehicle’s
electrical system or power distribution box. All electrical
repairs should be performed by a qualified service technician. Improper repair or modifications will void your warranty and/or cause serious damage to your vehicle.

Battery Care
Regular attention to the charging system will help prolong the service
life of your batteries. Here are some common causes of battery failure:
• Overcharge: This condition may result from improper voltage regulator adjustment. It results in overheating of the battery, warped
plates, and evaporation of electrolyte.
• Undercharge: Your voltage regulator may be malfunctioning or is
improperly adjusted, the drive belt is slipping, or your vehicle has
undergone long periods of standing idle or short distance driving.
These conditions result in battery plates becoming covered with a
hard coating.
• Vibration: Loose battery hold-downs may cause battery plate
failure.
• Short Circuits: These discharge a battery by draining electricity.

• Dirty or Loose Connections: Bad connections may stop the flow of
electrical power to and from the battery.
Recharging Batteries
Except for using small trickle chargers to maintain battery condition,
you should have your vehicle’s batteries charged by a qualified service facility. To help reduce the risk of personal injuries, follow these
guidelines carefully when recharging a battery:

WARNING! A battery contains gas that is explosive and
flammable. It could injure you severely. A spark or
flame near a battery on charge may cause it to explode
with great force. Follow these guidelines carefully when
recharging a battery:

• Before attempting any service in the electrical installation, disconnect the battery negative cable.

• Allow no sparks or open flame anywhere near the charging area.
• Charge a battery only in a well-ventilated area, such as outdoors
or in a fully open garage which contains no pilot lights or other
flames.

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WARNING! Always make sure the battery charger is OFF
before connecting or disconnecting the cable clamps. Do
not connect or disconnect charger cables while the
charger is operating to reduce the danger of explosions.

• Always make sure the battery charger is OFF before connecting or
disconnecting the cable clamps.
WARNING! Always shield your eyes and avoid leaning over
the battery whenever possible.

• Use protective eyewear.
\

CAUTION: Never use a metallic funnel to add distilled
water. It could come in contact with a terminal, creating a
short circuit, resulting in severe injury or damage to your
vehicle.

• Maintain the full level of electrolyte in the batteries. This reduces the
volume of gas in the cells. The electrolyte level should always be
between 0.4–0.6 in. (10–15mm) above plates. Fill with distilled
water only. After distilled water has been added, wait at least a half
hour to measure solution density (specific gravity). The specific gravity
should be between 1.258–1.265 or the electrolyte level within “MIN”
and “MAX” marks.

• Before attempting any work on the batteries or electrical system,
remove all jewelry. If metal jewelry or other metal comes in contact
with electrical circuits, a short circuit may occur causing you to be
injured—plus electrical system failure and damage.

• To avoid short circuits and damage to yourself or the vehicle, never
place metal tools or jumper cables on the battery or nearby. Metal that
accidentally comes in contact with the positive battery terminal or any
other metal on the vehicle (that is in contact with the positive terminal),
could cause a short circuit or an explosion.

• Keep all batteries away from children
.

WARNING! Charger cables must be connected positive to
positive (+ to +) and negative to negative (– to –). Reversing
polarity can damage the electrical system.

• Never reverse battery poles.
• Battery terminals should not be coated with improper grease. Use
petroleum jelly or commercially available, noncorrosive, nonconducting terminal coatings.

• Keep the battery clean and dry.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
• Look for any signs of damage.
• Battery acid that may spill during charging should be washed off
with a solution of warm water and baking soda to neutralize the
acid. If you accidentally get acid in your eyes or on your skin, immediately rinse with cold water for several minutes and call a doctor.

• Do not charge a frozen battery; allow it to thaw out first. And
always allow the battery to thaw gradually—do not apply direct
heat. Gas trapped in the ice may cause an explosion.

• Never attempt to place the vehicle in motion, or run the engine with
batteries disconnected.

• When fast charging, remove the battery caps so pressure doesn’t
accumulate.

• Never use a fast charger as a booster to start the engine. This can
seriously damage sensitive electronic components such as relays,
radio, etc., as well as the battery charger. Fast charging a battery
is dangerous and should only be attempted by a competent
mechanic with the proper equipment.
Slow Battery Charging
NOTE: Follow the instructions that come with your battery
charger. It is not necessary to remove the battery from the
compartment.

1. Make sure the electrolyte level in each cell is between the “MIN”
and “MAX” marks. If the fluid level is below the “MIN” mark, correct
the condition.
2. Disconnect the battery cables.
3. Connect charger cables.
4. Start charging the battery at a rate not over 6 amperes. Normally,
a battery should be charged at no more than 10 percent of its
rated capacity.
5. After charging, turn OFF charger and disconnect charger cables.
Jump Starting Batteries
If your battery is discharged (dead), you may be able to start it by
using energy from a good battery in another vehicle. This is termed
“jump starting.” Because of the various battery installations in optional
electrical systems, Peterbilt does not recommend that you attempt to
jump start your vehicle. If you have a battery problem, contact a
Peterbilt Dealer or a reputable towing service. But if you are unable to
do this, and must jump-start your vehicle, then ensure that you follow
the precautions and instructions below.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! Batteries contain acid that can burn and
gasses that can explode. Ignoring safety procedures
can cause you or others to be badly hurt.
• Never jump start a battery near fire, flames, or electrical
sparks. Batteries generate explosive gases. Keep
sparks, flame, and lighted cigarettes away from batteries
• Do not allow battery fluid to contact eyes, skin, fabrics,
or painted surfaces. Always wear eye protection. Battery acid that may spill during charging should be
washed off with a solution of warm water and baking
soda to neutralize the acid. If you accidentally get acid
in your eyes or on your skin, immediately rinse with
cold water for several minutes and call a doctor.
• Be careful that metal tools or any metal in contact with
the positive terminal do not contact the positive battery terminal and any other metal on the vehicle at the
same time. Remove metal jewelry; avoid leaning over a
battery. If metal jewelry or other metal comes in contact with electrical circuits, a short circuit may occur
causing you to be injured—plus electrical system failure and damage to the vehicle.
• Do not try to jump start or charge a frozen battery.
(Even a battery with ice particles on the electrolyte
surface is dangerous.) Allow it to thaw out first. And
always allow battery to thaw gradually—do not apply
direct heat. Gas trapped in the ice may cause an explosion.
• Do not try to jump start a vehicle if the electrolyte level
in the battery of either vehicle is low. Maintain the full
level of electrolyte in the batteries. This reduces the
volume of gas in the cells.
• The voltage of the booster battery must have a 12–volt
rating. And the capacity of the booster battery should
not be lower than that of the discharged battery. Use of
batteries of different voltage or substantially different
capacity rating may cause an explosion. To avoid serious personal injury and damage to the vehicle, heed
all warnings and instructions of the jumper cable manufacturer. The jumper cables must be long enough so
that the vehicles do not touch.
• Applying a higher voltage booster battery will cause
expensive damage to sensitive electronic components, such as relays, and the radio. Improper hook–
up of jumper cables or not following these procedures
can damage the alternator or cause serious damage to
both vehicles or yourself.
• Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. Wash hands after handling.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
CAUTION: Departures from these procedures could also
cause serious damage to both vehicles. Improper use of a
booster battery to start a vehicle may cause an explosion.

To Jump Start Your Vehicle:
1. Wear eye protection and remove rings, metal watch bands, and
any other metal jewelry.
2. Set the parking brakes. Place the transmissions of both vehicles in
Neutral. Do not let the vehicles touch one another. Turn the ignition
key to Off in the vehicle with the discharged battery. Also turn off
lights, heater, and any other unnecessary electrical load.
3. If either battery has vent caps, remove them and check the fluid
level. If it is OK, replace the caps before going further. If the level is
low, add distilled water, and replace the caps before proceeding. If
no water is available, remove the caps and cover the filler openings with a cloth before proceeding. After jump starting the vehicle,
dispose of the cloth.

WARNING! If you do not cover the filler openings on the
battery, electrolyte could boil out of the openings and
hurt someone or damage the vehicle. Replace caps
securely if there is enough fluid in the battery, or cover
with a cloth if no water is available and your fluid is low.
4. Attach one end of a jumper cable to the dead battery’s positive terminal. This will have a large red “+” or “P” on the battery case,
post, or clamp. Attach the other end of the same cable to the positive terminal of the good battery.
5. Attach the remaining jumper cable FIRST to the negative battery
terminal (black “-” or “N”) of the good battery, and then to the chassis or ground of the vehicle being jump started.
6. Start the engine in the vehicle with the good battery. Let it run a
few minutes. Then start the engine in the vehicle with the dead
battery. If the engine fails to start, do not continue to crank the starter
but contact the nearest Authorized Service Center.
WARNING! When disconnecting jumper cables, make sure
they do not get caught in any moving parts in the engine
compartment.

7. Reverse the above sequence exactly when removing the jumper
cables. Take care that your first step is to remove the cable from
the chassis or ground of the vehicle that was jump-started.

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Removing and Installing Batteries
CAUTION: Always reinstall the battery compartment cover
(step) before entering the cab. Without the battery cover
you could slip and fall, resulting in possible injury to yourself.

Whenever you have to install a battery or remove one, follow these
guidelines for the safety of yourself and the battery.
• Ensure all switches on the vehicle are turned Off.

• Disconnect the ground cable first when removing a battery.
• Connect the ground cable last when installing a battery.
Fuel System
Location of Fuel Shut-off Valves: Fuel shut-off valves for the fuel
crossover line are on the bottom of the secondary fuel tank, at the
crossover line connection. They are optional on the primary fuel tank.
Specification: Use only diesel fuel as recommended by engine manufacturers.

WARNING! A mixture of gasoline or alcohol with diesel
fuel in the presence of an ignition source (such as a cigarette) could cause an explosion. You could be seriously injured. Use only the recommended diesel fuel.
CAUTION: If anyone ever pours gasoline into your fuel
tank, drain the entire system. Otherwise, the pump and
engine will be damaged. Don’t try to dilute the gasoline
by adding diesel fuel (See Warning above).
Fuel Filters
Please follow these recommendations when you are changing your
fuel filters or strainer elements. Your engine will run better and last
longer if you do. See the engine manufacturer’s recommendations for
proper water and micron requirements.
1. When removing filters, cover any electrical equipment and wiring
that might get soaked with fuel. Diesel fuel may permanently damage electrical insulation.
2. When installing spin-on (throwaway) filters, hand tighten them only
to 1/2 to 2/3 turn after gasket contact. Mechanical tightening of
these filters may distort or crack the filter head.

NOTE: To expel air from density-type strainer elements,
soak them in clean fuel before installing them.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
3. When replacing a fuel filter element, don’t use a substitute. Install
only filter elements designed for fuel filtration. First clean and
inspect the shell. Then insert the new element and fill the container at least 2/3 full of clean fuel before installing the shell.
4. Throw away old gaskets. Replace them with new ones to ensure a
positive seal.
5. Position the shell and gasket properly. Then tighten the cover nut
or bolt just enough to prevent fuel leakage.
6. After starting the engine, check for leaks around the filter.

Steering
WARNING! A steering system that is not working properly can cause an accident. You could lose control of
your vehicle if the steering is not in good order. For
driving safety, give your steering gear and components
the following visual checks frequently. Check them
especially after trips over rough roads.
Check:
• Tierod for straightness

• Draglink clamp for looseness or interference
• Ball joints and steering U-joints for looseness
• Steering wheel for excessive freeplay. Check the simplest probable causes first:
-Unequal tire pressures
-Loose cap nuts
-Bent tierod
-Loose wheel bearing
If these checks do not reveal the problem, or if you correct them and
still have a steering problem, take your truck to an authorized dealer
for evaluation.
Front End Alignment
For driving safety and comfort, and to prolong the life of your vehicle,
it is important to have proper front end alignment. Check tire wear
frequently. Uneven tire wear is a sign that your front end or rear axles
may be misaligned.
If you see uneven wear, take your vehicle to a service center familiar
with aligning front ends on Peterbilt vehicles.

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Rear Axle Alignment
Continual road shock and load stresses may force your rear axles out
of alignment. If you detect rapid tire wear on the rear axles, you may
have misaligned axles. If you suspect you do, have your rear axle
alignment checked and adjusted by an authorized dealership.
U-Bolt Tension for Front and Rear Axles
It is important that U-bolts remain tight. Off-highway use of your vehicle will cause them to loosen faster. But all vehicles need to have
their U-bolts checked and tightened regularly. Be sure someone with
the proper training and the right tools checks and tightens the U-bolts
on your Peterbilt. The proper torque requirements are specified in the
Peterbilt Maintenance Manual for your vehicle.

WARNING! U-bolts that are too loose can cause an
injury accident. Loose U-bolts can cause uneven tire
wear, poor alignment, and loss of control of your vehicle. You probably can’t tighten U-bolts correctly yourself. But be sure to have them checked and tightened
regularly by an authorized mechanic.
• For on-highway vehicles, tighten the U-bolts after the
first 15,000 miles (24,000 km). Then tighten them every
60,000 miles (96,000 km) after that.
• For off-highway vehicles, tighten the U-bolts after the
first day or two of operation. Then tighten them every
15,000 miles (24,000 km) after that.
WARNING! Failure to maintain the specified torque values
or to replace worn parts can cause component system failure, possibly resulting in an injury accident. Improperly
tightened (loose) suspension U–bolts can lead to unsafe
vehicle conditions, including: hard steering, axle misalignment, spring breakage or abnormal tire wear.

Frame Fastener Torque Specifications
Fastener
Type

Bolt / Locknut /
Hardened Washer

Torque

Fastener
Size

Lb. ft.

N.m.

1/2 Inch

86 - 108

117 - 147

5/8 Inch

130 - 163

176 - 221

M12

65 - 85

89 -115

M16

155 -195

210 - 264

M20

495 - 605

668 - 818

CAUTION: When installing bolts on the frame, use only
metric grade 10.9 bolts of the proper length.
PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Standard Capscrew Torque Specifications
SAE Grade
Number
Capscrew Body
Size
(inches-thread)

Torque

Lb. ft.

N.m.

Lb. ft.

N.m.

6-9

8 - 12

9 - 12

12 - 16

-28

7 - 10

9.5 - 14

10 - 14

14 - 19

5/16-18

13 - 18

18 - 24

18 - 25

24 - 34

1/4-20

-24

14 - 20

19 - 27

20 - 28

27 - 38

3/8-16

22 - 32

30 - 43

31 - 44

42 - 60

-24

25 - 40

34 - 54

35 - 50

47 - 68

7/16-14

35 - 50

47 - 68

50 - 71

68 - 96

-20

39 - 56

53 - 76

56 - 80

76 - 108

1/2-13

54 - 77

73 - 104

76 - 109

103 - 149

-20

58 - 87

79 - 118

86 - 123

117 - 167

9/16-12

78 - 111

105 - 151

110 - 158

149 - 214

87 - 124

118 - 168

123 - 176

167 - 239

5/8-11

-18

108 - 154

147 - 209

153 - 218

208 - 296

-18

122 - 174

166 - 236

173 - 247

235 - 335

3/4-10

192 - 273

260 - 370

271 - 386

367 - 523

-16

214 - 305

290 - 414

303 - 431

411 - 583

7/8-9

309 - 441

419 - 598

437 - 624

593 - 846

-14

341 - 486

462 - 659

482 - 589

654 - 799

1 -8

464 - 662

629 - 898

656 - 935

889 - 1268

1-12

508 - 724

689 - 982

718 - 1023

973 - 1386

The torque values in the previous tables are based on the use of
clean and dry threads.
For standard capscrews:
1. Always use the torque values listed the capscrew table.
2. Reduce torque by 10% when engine oil is used as a lubricant.
3. Reduce torque by 20% if new plated capscrews are used.
Frame Fasteners
1. Go around your vehicle as per the Preventive Maintenance Schedule and tighten all frame fasteners with a torque wrench.
2. Always use the torque values listed in frame fastener table.
3. Always torque fasteners from the nut end.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Engine Accessories
Accessory Drive Belts
You can extend the reliability and service life of your vehicle’s drive
belts with proper attention to installation, adjustment, and maintenance. Neglect could cause belt failure. The result could be the loss
of the electrical or air system as well as possible engine damage from
overheating. So it’s a very good idea to check your belts frequently
and replace them as soon as you detect trouble.
Follow the procedure below to install an accessory drive belt:
1. Loosen the pulley bracket(s) and shorten the distance between the
pulley centers. Install the new belt without forcing it. Do not roll or
pry the belt over the pulley.

02952

Pulley Brackets
2. Check the pulley alignment and adjustment if necessary. Pulley
misalignment must not be more than 1/16 in. for each 12 inches of
belt free span (1.5 mm for each 300 mm of belt free span). Belt
free span is measured between pulley centers.
3. Check the riding depth. Belt riding depth should not vary more
than 1/16 in. (1.5 mm) on match belt sets.
4. Check that the belt does not ride on the bottom of the pulley
groove, and that the outside edge of the belt does not stick out
more than 1/16 in. (1.5 mm) beyond the outside edge of the pulley.
Belt Tension

NOTE: Engines equipped with poly-vee belts are equipped
with tensioners and therefore require no belt adjustments.
Alternator drive belts (all widths), new or used, should be adjusted to
105-125 pounds (467-566 N.) of tension.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
The best method of testing belt tension is to apply a good quality
commercial gauge. If a tension gauge is not available, use this
method of testing:

• Apply 25 pounds (111 N.) of force midway between the pulleys.
• Deflection should be one belt thickness for each foot of distance
between the pulley centers.

02953

Tension Test
Retensioning New Belts
A belt is considered “used” after 30 minutes of operation.
New belts will loosen after running for an hour or more. Check for
proper tension after the first period of operation. If the belt can be
deflected 1/8 in. (3 mm) more than specified above, tighten according
to the section above on belt tension. Do not tighten belts beyond
specified limits. Damage to bearings and the belts may occur.
Fan Clutch / Fan

WARNING! Thermatic fans engage suddenly without
warning and can hurt you badly. Stay away from the fan
when the engine is running.
To Check Your Fan:
1. Check the fan assembly mounting bolts for tightness. Inspect the
blades for damage.
2. Check the clutch operation by starting the engine when it is cold.
Then idle it at about 800 RPM. Listen for air leaks. Check that the
fan is not working while the engine is warming. When the clutch
engages, note the reading on the vehicle’s panel-mounted coolant
temperature gauge. If the fan clutch engages at low engine temperature or cycles on and off more frequently than it should
(receives “false signals”), have the problem corrected at your dealership.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Air Intake System
Engine heat, vibration, and age combine to loosen air intake connections and cause cracks in the tubing and elbows. Leaks in the intake
system allow abrasive dust to enter the engine and quickly cause
expensive damage. During your daily walk-around inspection, carefully check all tubing, elbows, clamps, supports, and fasteners for
condition and tightness.
Under normal operating conditions, we recommend complete disassembly and cleaning of the air intake system annually.
Under severe operating conditions, such as heavy off-highway use,
the disassembly and cleaning should be more frequent. Replace any
defective parts. With the possible exception of mounting brackets,
don’t repair defective parts.
Air Cleaners
The following service information is basic to all air cleaner makes and
models.
Service the air cleaner filter elements as specified in the Preventive
Maintenance Schedule. If your vehicle is equipped with an optional
air inlet restriction indicator, service the filter elements when the air
inlet restriction indicator locks in the extreme Up position. Paper elements require care and proper handling because they are critical to
engine service life.
Turbocharger
When servicing the air intake and exhaust systems on a turbocharged
engine, check the following. If you detect any deficiencies, take the
vehicle to an authorized dealer for servicing. Delay could lead to
severe and expensive damage to your vehicle.
• Lubricating System. Check the oil lines, housing, and connections. Look for leaks, damage, or deterioration. Leaks could mean
you have damaged oil lines or oil seals.
• Manifold. With the engine operating, check for leaking manifold or
flange gaskets.
• High Frequency Vibration. Vibration may indicate turbo rotor
imbalance. Have your dealer investigate this immediately.

WARNING! Do not operate engine with turbocharger
intake piping disconnected. Working around a turbocharger with the intake piping removed can be dangerous. A suction is created when the engine is running.
This suction could draw your hand or anything else near
it into the impeller fan. You cold be seriously injured.
Always keep the intake piping connected when you will
be running the engine.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Exhaust System
Details of inspection and maintenance of your exhaust system are
covered below, under Noise Control System. Check the Index for
page reference.

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
For details of use and maintenance of your anti-lock system, see the
anti-lock braking system service literature that came with your truck.
Below are some general notes on repairing your anti-lock braking
system:
• The foundation brake system must be in proper working order to
ensure the best ABS performance.
• Before welding anywhere on the vehicle, detach the ABS ECU
connector and all other electronic control units.
• Never detach the ECU connector with the ignition turned on.

• Do not attempt to repair ABS/ASR/ATC electrical cables that are
outside the vehicle. Replace faulty cables as an assembly.
• When servicing brakes, hubs, or axle, recoat the ABS sensors with
anti-seize compound. Make sure the sensor is pushed against the
pulse wheel after the hub is reinstalled. On rear axles, the sensor
should be pushed fully into the mounting block before reinstalling
the hub.
• Check ABS wiring harnesses and piping periodically for chafing or
other problems. No regular maintenance is required on the ABS
components.
• During wheel balancing, dyno testing, or any time the ignition is on
with part of the ABS disconnected, a failure code will be recorded.
After servicing or testing of the vehicle is completed, clear the failure codes.
If, due to operating conditions, a brake application causes either
wheel on the same axle to begin skidding, wheel speed sensors
immediately signal the anti-lock controller in the modulator assembly.
The controller responds instantly by signaling the solenoids in the
modulator which activate the air valves, reducing application pressure
as needed to prevent the wheels from locking up. If this over-riding
correction is effective, application pressure is allowed to build up to
the original input.
Any malfunction of the anti-lock system on one or more axles will
cause the system to fail-safe, and the panel-mounted amber warning
light will come on, indicating both a malfunction, and automatic shutdown of the system. If the air system is intact (indicated by the pressure gauges), the service brakes will continue to function normally,
but without benefit of the anti-lock feature.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
WARNING! Although the brakes will continue to operate
with a malfunction in either circuit, the vehicle should not
be operated until the system is repaired, and both braking
circuits, including all pneumatic and mechanical components, are working properly.
CAUTION: Do not attempt to recycle the anti-lock system
until the vehicle has been brought to a full stop.
NOTE: If one wheel on any driven axle continues to slip or spin
for approximately 4 seconds, this will cause the anti-lock controller for that axle to go into the fail-safe mode, and the warning
light will give a shutdown signal. In this case, the anti-lock system can be turned back on, and the warning light extinguished,
by turning the key switch OFF and ON, after the vehicle has
been brought to a full stop. When the key switch is turned back
on, the warning light will illuminate and remain on for 3 to 5 seconds. This is a built-in function test of the warning light.

Cab Heater-Air Conditioner
The combination heater-air conditioner provides comfort for those in
the cab through accurate control of the cab environment in all weather
conditions. Regular attention will help you keep your unit running well.
NOTE: Keep the engine exhaust system and the vehicle’s cab/
sleeper ventilation system properly maintained. It is recommended that the vehicle’s exhaust system and cab/sleeper be
inspected

• By a competent technician every 15,000 miles
• Whenever a change is noticed in the sound of the
exhaust system
• Whenever the exhaust system, underbody, cab or sleeper
is damaged
NOTE: To allow for proper operation of the vehicle ventilation
system

• keep the inlet grille at the base of the windshield clear of
snow, ice, leaves and other obstructions at all times.
• keep the exhaust pipe area clear to help reduce the
buildup of exhaust gases under the vehicle.
Perform the following checks every 3 months or 30,000 miles / 48,000
km, whichever occurs first:
Heater
• Check all heater controls for full-range operation.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
• Check hoses, connections, and heater core for condition and
leaks.
• Check the drain pan of the fresh air vent for trapped water before
assuming that there is a leak in the heating system.
• If the heater core is leaking, take the vehicle to a Peterbilt dealer
for proper heater service or repair.

• Check the heater core for debris blocking the air flow.

If the
blower is functioning properly, yet the heater is not operating properly, the heater core may be clogged. Clean the heater core if necessary. If the condition persists, take the vehicle to a Peterbilt
dealer for proper heater service or repair.
Air Conditioner

WARNING! The air conditioning system is under pressure. If not handled properly, it could explode, causing
injury to you and your vehicle. Any servicing that
requires depressurizing and recharging the air conditioning system must be conducted by a qualified technician with the right facilities to do the job.
NOTE: Engines equipped with poly-vee belts are equipped
with tensioners. No belt adjustments can be made. Replace
a poly-vee belt when the indicator on the tensioner is no
longer within the recommended (green) range.

• Check the compressor belt for condition and proper tension.
Adjust 105 - 125 pounds.
• Check the compressor and drive clutch for noise and vibration. If
you find problems, have the system checked thoroughly. A malfunctioning clutch usually indicates trouble elsewhere in the system.
• Check the evaporator core and condenser core for debris restricting air flow. Clean if necessary. Small particles may be removed
with compressed air blown through the core in the opposite direction of normal air flow.

CAUTION: Small particles blown by compressed air
could injure your eyes. Wear eye protection any time
you blow compressed air.

• Check all hoses for kinks, deterioration, chafing, and leaks. Adjust
kinked or chafing hoses to eliminate restrictions and prevent further wear.
• On tilt-cab vehicles, verify that hoses are routed around the pivot
point so that lifting the cab does not strain them.

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
• Check all components and connections for refrigerant leaks. If you
discover a leak, don’t try to tighten a connection. Tightening a
connection may cause a worse leak. Have a qualified technician
correct the problem.

NOTE: A leaking evaporator or condenser core cannot be
repaired; it must be replaced.

• Have the air conditioning system fully inspected annually by your
dealer.

Special Precautions
WARNING! Excessive heat may cause your air conditioning system to explode. Never weld, solder, steam
clean, or use a blow torch near any part of the air conditioning system. If a refrigerant leak develops in the presence of excessive heat or an open flame, hazardous
gases may be generated. These gases may cause
unconsciousness or death. If the system is leaking
refrigerant:
• Stay away from the hot engine until the exhaust manifold has cooled.
• Don’t permit any open flame in the area. Even a match
or a cigarette lighter may generate a hazardous quantity of phosgene gas.
• Don’t smoke in the area. Inhaling gaseous refrigerant
through a cigarette may cause violent illness.

Appearance
Painted Surfaces
CAUTION: Do not aim the water jet directly at door locks or
hatch. Tape the key holes to prevent water from seeping
into the lock cylinders. Water in lock cylinders should be
removed with compressed air. To prevent locks from freezing in the winter, squirt glycerin or lock deicer into the lock
cylinders.

• Wash frequently to remove grime and caustic deposits that may
stain the finish. Apply cool or lukewarm water. You may want to
use a mild soap.

• Avoid washing your vehicle in bright sunlight.
WARNING! Handle cleaning agents carefully. Cleaning
agents may be poisonous. Keep them out of the reach of
children.

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
• Road tar may be removed with a special commercial tar remover
or mineral spirits.
• Waxing offers added protection against staining and oxidation.
But to allow enough time for your truck’s finish to cure, wait about
ninety days after the date of manufacture before waxing. Don’t
wax in the hot sun. Don’t friction burn the paint with a buffing
machine.
Aluminum and Chrome Surfaces

•
•
•
•

Clean aluminum wheels and bumpers with warm water.
Tar remover will get rid of heavy deposits of road grime.
To prevent spotting, wipe aluminum surfaces dry after washing.

Under corrosive conditions, such as driving on salted roads, clean
aluminum parts with steam or high pressure water from a hose. A
mild soap solution will help. Rinse thoroughly.
• Chrome surfaces are best cleaned with fresh water. Wipe dry to
preserve their luster. A commercial chrome cleaner will remove
light rust. After cleaning, wax flat surfaces and apply a thin coat of
rust preventive lubricant around bolts or other fasteners.
Stainless Steel
To clean and restore the finish of stainless steel components:
1. In a plastic pail mix 4 tsp of alum (a powder found in grocery stores
or drugstores), with 32 oz. of water (warm water will dissolve alum
faster, but cool will work).
2. Apply the alum/water solution with a pad of steel wool (0000 grade
or finer). GENTLY wipe the component lengthwise; no pressure is
necessary.
3. It is the chemical reaction between the carbon steel of the wool
and the alum solution which cleans the stainless, not the scrubbing of abrasive action of application.
4. You may also use any stainless cleaner recommended for cleaning
boat parts.
Interior

• Wipe vinyl upholstery and lining with a good commercial upholstery cleaner. Do not use acetone or lacquer thinner.

• Clean fabric upholstery with upholstery shampoo specially formulated for this purpose. Follow instructions on the container.
Weatherstripping
Occasionally spray weatherstripping on doors and windows with silicone compound to help preserve resiliency. This is especially useful
in freezing weather to prevent doors and windows from sticking shut
with ice.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Chassis
Hose dirt and grime from the entire chassis. Then if an oil leak develops, you will be able to detect it easier.

Noise Control System
Noise Emission Warranty
Peterbilt Motors Company warrants to the first person who purchases
this vehicle for purposes other than resale and to each subsequent
purchaser that this vehicle, as manufactured by Peterbilt Motors Company, was designed, built and equipped to conform at the time it left
Peterbilt’s control with all applicable U.S. EPA Noise Control Regulations.
This warranty covers this vehicle as designed, built and equipped by
Peterbilt, and is not limited to any particular part, component or system of the vehicle manufactured by Peterbilt. Defects in design,
assembly or in any part, component or system of the vehicle as manufactured by Peterbilt, which at the time it left Peterbilt’s control
caused noise emissions to exceed Federal standards, are covered by
this warranty for the life of the vehicle.

Tampering with Noise Control System Prohibited
Federal law prohibits the following acts or the causing thereof:
(1) The removal or rendering inoperative by any person other than for
maintenance, repair, or replacement, of any device or element of
design incorporated into any new vehicle for the purpose of noise
control prior to its sale or delivery to the ultimate purchaser or while it
is in use, or (2) the operation of the vehicle after such device or element of design has been removed or rendered inoperative by any person.
Among those acts presumed to constitute tampering are
Noise Insulating Blankets

• Removing noise insulators from engine block or from around the
oil pan.

• Cutting holes in, or cutting away part of, noise insulators.
• Removing hood-mounted noise insulation.
Engine Electronic Control Unit (ECU)

• Modifying ECU parameters.
Engine Cooling System

• Removing or rendering inoperative the fan clutch.
• Removing the fan shroud.
Air Intake System

• Removing or rendering inoperative the air cleaner / silencers or
intake piping.

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Exhaust System

• Removing or rendering inoperative the exhaust system components.

• Inner Fender Shields and Cab Skirts
• Removing shields or skirts.
• Cutting away parts of shields, skirts or damaged or loose portions
of shields or skirts.
Fuel System

• Removing or rendering engine speed governor inoperative, allowing engine speed to exceed manufacturer’s specifications.
• Removing air signal attenuator on engines equipped with this
device.

Inspection & Maintenance Instructions for Noise Control
System
The following instructions are based on regular inspection of the
noise control system. If, during regular inspection or maintenance of
other systems or components, you find something wrong with parts of
the noise control system, inspect those parts more frequently to be
sure they are performing up to specification.
At the end of this section you will find the Maintenance Log. This is a
schedule of inspection and maintenance intervals for each component.
Exhaust System

• Manifold
Check for exhaust leaks and condition of gaskets. Replace any
blown gaskets. Use a torque wrench to check all cap-screws,
including those at the flanges. Refer to the engine manufacturer’s
service manual for proper tightening sequence and torque values.
• Joints and Clamps
Check for leaks, and tighten as necessary. Check for deterioration
or dents in pipes and clamps which could allow exhaust to escape.
On tilt-cab units, check exhaust balljoint for condition and proper fit.
• Piping
Check for rust, corrosion, and damage. If piping is perforated at any
point, temporary patching or lagging is acceptable until you can have
permanent repairs made. On turbocharged engines check joints at
the flanges and mounting brackets for tightness.
• Mufflers
Check clamps and mounting brackets for security. Check internal baffling for security. You can do this by listening for rattling sounds while
tapping the muffler with a rubber mallet or revving the engine up and

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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
down through its normal operating range. Check muffler for rust and
corrosion.
• Exhaust Tail Pipe(s)
Check the mounting security. Tighten as necessary. The miter cut at
the tip of the pipe must be facing the rear of the truck. Do not modify
the end of the pipe in any way.
Fan Shroud
WARNING! The engine fan can engage at any time without
warning. Anyone near the fan when it turns on could be
badly injured. Before turning on the ignition, be sure that
no one is near the fan. Do not work on the fan with the
engine running.

Check all fasteners for tightness. Check for stress cracks in the
shroud. Make sure the shroud is adjusted so that it does not touch
the fan blades.
Hood Insulation Blanket
Fasteners: Check all fasteners for condition and security. Repair or
replace any broken or defective fasteners.
Blanket: Check for chafing, tears, etc. Patch it if necessary. Find the
cause of the damage. If any component or accessory is causing wear
or damage and can’t be relocated, put reinforcing pads on the blanket
at the site of wear.
Engine Mounted Noise Insulators
Fasteners: Check for condition and security. How you do this will
depend on the method of attaching the noise insulators on the engine
and around the oil pan (bolts, snap fasteners, or straps). Tighten
loose fasteners; repair or replace any worn or damaged fasteners.
Insulators: Check insulators around fasteners and stress points,
especially where they may be affected by engine vibration. Repair
any cracked or damaged mounting points. Use suitable reinforcing
plates to ensure that the insulators will remain in position.
Inner Fender Shields and Cab Skirts
Fasteners: Check all fasteners for security, especially the self-tapping
hex head screws. Remove and replace any loose rivets.
Shields and Skirts: Check shields and skirts for cracks at mounting
and stress points. Check fender shields for tire marks, worn spots, or
damage from objects thrown from tire treads. You can repair cracked
or damaged fiberglass fender shields with fiberglass and resin.
If you find damage at a fastening point, you can gain additional
strength by installing a suitable reinforcing plate. This plate should be
drilled to accept a rivet and laminated to the shield with fiberglass and
resin.
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PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
Check cab skirts, sills, and brackets for overall condition and repair
them as necessary. Damaged rubber fender shields or cab skirting
cannot be repaired. You will need to replace it.
Your authorized dealership can perform all of these checks and
repairs or replacements.
Air Intake System
Do all checks and maintenance chores listed in this manual under
Engine Air Intake System and Air Cleaner (See Index). Check the
induction tubing, elbow connections, clamps, brackets, and fasteners
for deterioration, cracks, and security. If you find an air leak anywhere between the air cleaner and the engine, repair that leak immediately.

CAUTION: Air leaks cause excessive noise and may
result in serious damage to the engine. If you do not
repair them the engine damage won’t be covered by
your warranty. Repair all air leaks as soon as you find
them.

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22-01510 (R12/01)

NOISE CONTROL SYSTEM MAINTENANCE LOG
RECOMMENDED
DATE &
INTERVAL
R.O. NUMBER
(MILES)

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22-01510 (R12/01)

EXHAUST SYSTEMROUTING
INTEGRITY
MUFFLER
INTERNAL
BAFFLES

250,000

SHUTTERS
SHROUDS

25,000

HOOD
INSULATION
BLANKET

10,000

ENGINE-MOUNTED
HOSE INSULATORS
FASTENERS

10,000

INNER
FENDER SHIELDS

50,000

CAB SKIRT
FASTENERS

50,000

AIR INTAKE
SYSTEM INTEGRITY
ELEMENT

5,000

CLUTCH-TYPE
FAN DRIVE

10,000

REPAIR
FACILITY &
LOCATION

WORK PERFORMED

DATE &
R.O. NUMBER

REPAIR
FACILITY &
LOCATION

WORK PERFORMED

25,000

PART 8: MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

COMPONENT

PART 9: VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS
Each vehicle completed by Peterbilt Motors Company uses a Vehicle
Identification Number (VIN) that contains the model year designation
of your Peterbilt. The practice is in compliance with 49 CFR 565,
Code of Federal Regulations.
The Vehicle Identification Number is on the brass Peterbilt name plate
and also on the foil labels on the left hand door post. The VIN contains 17 digits. The 10th digit is the code for the model year of your
vehicle. The example VIN below from a 1999 model shows how this
code works:

02954

EXAMPLE VIN: 1XP 9D2X9 6 X D 345678
Model Year

Serial Number
Plant Code

X = 1999
Y = 2000
1 = 2001
2 = 2002
3 = 2003
4 = 2004
5 = 2005
6 = 2006
7 = 2007
8 = 2008
9 = 2009
0 (zero) = Glider Kit

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

D = Denton Factory
N = Nashville Factory

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PART 10: CONSUMER INFORMATION
WARNING! Diesel engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm.
Other chemicals in this vehicle are also known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm. This warning requirement is
mandated by California law (Proposition 65) and does
not result from any change in the manner in which
Peterbilt trucks are manufactured.

Federal Safety Standard Certification Label
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration regulations
require a label certifying compliance with Federal Safety Standards,
for United States and U.S. Territories, be affixed to each motor vehicle
and prescribe where such label may be located.
This certification label, which indicates the date of manufacture and
other pertinent information, is located on the left hand cab door post.

02955

How To Order Parts
When you need replacement parts for your Peterbilt vehicles, contact
your nearest authorized Peterbilt dealer, who may be located from the
“Peterbilt Authorized U.S. and Canadian Dealers” listing (Cat. No.
5212).
When you order, it is IMPORTANT than you have the following information ready:
• Your name and address.

• Serial number of the truck.
• The name of the part you need.
• The name and number of the component for which the part is
required.

• The quantity of parts you need.
• How you want your order shipped.

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PART 10: CONSUMER INFORMATION
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration requires that the
following information be included in the owner’s manual of motor vehicles manufactured after September 1, 1990:

NHTSA Consumer Information
If you believe that your vehicle has a defect which could cause a
crash or could cause injury or death, you should immediately inform
the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in addition to notifying Peterbilt Motors Company.
If NHTSA receives similar complaints, it may open an investigation,
and if it finds that a safety defect exists in a group of vehicles, it may
order a recall and remedy campaign. However, NHTSA cannot get
involved in individual problems between you, your dealer, and Peterbilt Motors Company.
To contact NHTSA, you may either call the Auto Safety Hotline tollfree at 1-800-424-9393 (366-0123 in Washington, D.C.) or write to:
Administrator, NHTSA, 400 Seventh Street, S.W., Washington, D.C.
20590. You can also get other information about auto safety from the
Hotline.

Environmental Protection
WARNING! Diesel engine exhaust and some of its constituents are known to the State of California to cause
cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm.
Other chemicals in this vehicle are also known to the
State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or
other reproductive harm. This warning requirement is
mandated by California law (Proposition 65) and does
not result from any change in the manner in which
Peterbilt trucks are manufactured.
Some of the ingredients in engine oil, hydraulic oil, transmission and
axle oil, engine coolant, diesel fuel, air conditioning refrigerant (R12,
R134a, and PAG oil), batteries, etc., may contaminate the environment if spilled or not disposed of properly. Contact your local government agency for information concerning proper disposal.

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 11: SUBJECT INDEX
A
Antifreeze 159
Anti-lock brakes 93
Appearance 177
Appliances in the Cab 58
B
Battery
compartment cover 167
electrolyte 163
recharging 163
slow battery charging 164
Brake
operation 93
Brake system
truck & tractor 93
C
Cab Tilting 10–11
Cap Nut Torque Specifications 154
Cleaning the vehicle 177
Coasting 110
Consumer Information 186
Controls
Air Horn 21
Air Suspension Deflate Switch (Dump Valve) 31
Brakesaver 36
Cigarette Lighter 46
Cruise Control Switch 33
Digital Message Center 35
Dome Light Switch 29
Electric Horn 22 , 24
Engine Fan Switch 32
Fifth Wheel Lock (Slider Adjustment) Switch 39
Fog Lights Switch 29
Hand Throttle Control 27
Hazard Flasher 21
Headlights 27
Heater-Air Conditioning Controls 41
High Beam Headlights 22
ID and Clearance Lights Switch 28
Interaxle Differential Lock Switch 38
Jacobs Engine Brake or Cummins "C" Brake Switch 37
Manual Override 26
Mirror Heat Switch 34
Panel Light Knob 28
Parking Brake Valve and Trailer Air Supply Valve 40
Power Mirror Switch 34
Starter Button 26
Tilt- Telescoping Steering Column 24
Trailer Brake Hand Valve 23
Turn Signal and Indicator Lights 20
Two-Speed Rear Axle (Range) Switch 38
VARASHIELD® Wind Deflector Switch 39
Windshield Wipers and Washers 30

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PART 11: SUBJECT INDEX
Cooling system
coolant change 159
temperature 52
D
Dash
COE 18–19
Conventional 16 –17
Defogging/defrosting system 45
Descending a grade 110
Door lock 177
Driver’s Checklist 76
Driving
vehicle inspection 76
E
Economical driving 110
Electrical system
batteries 162 , 163
battery charging 164
jumper cables 165
Electrolyte 163
Engine
overspeed 111
temperature 52
winterfronts 83
Engine Warmup 82
Environmental Protection 186
Exhaust fumes 112
F
Federal motor vehicle safety standards 4
Federal Safety Standard Certification Label 185
G
Gauges and Displays 48
Air Application Gauge 49
Air Filter Restriction Indicator or Gauge 57
Ammeter 56
Drive Axle Temperature Gauge 55
Dual Air Pressure Gauge (Air Reservoir) 50
Engine Oil Pressure Gauge 51
Fuel Gauge 53
Manifold Pressure Gauge 56
Pyrometer 56
Speedometer / Odometer 48
Tachometer 49
Transmission Temperature Gauge 55
Trip Odometer 48
Warning Lights and Buzzers
COE 54
Conventional 53
Water Temperature Gauge 51
Glove Compartment 47
GVWR - gross vehicle weight rating 154
H
Heater and air conditioner 45
Hood Tilting 9

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PART 11: SUBJECT INDEX
J
Jumper cables 165
K
Keys 6
Keys and Locks
Ignition Switch 25
L
Lubrication
Axle 139–140
coasting 110
Steering Gear 142
Transmission 134–138
types and brands 131
Universal Joint 141
Wheel Bearing 141
Lubrication Index 132
Luggage Compartment(s) 58
M
Maintenance Schedule 112
Mirrors 57
N
Noise Control System 179
P
Parking brake
brake system, operation 91 , 98
use 112
R
Restraint Systems 63
Airbag System 72
Inspection 69
Komfort-Lok® Feature 66
Shoulder Belt 64
Sleeper Bunk Restraints 67
Tether Belts 68
S
Safe vehicle operation 76
Safety precautions, maintenance 112
Safety stands 112
Seat 63
Seat adjustment 63
Servicing Specific Systems 142
Air Intake System 173
Air System 156
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) 174
Brake Adjustment 143
Cab Heater-Air Conditioner 175
Electrical 162
Engine Accessories 171
Engine Cooling System 159
Frame Fastener Torque Specifications 169
Steering 168
Tires, Wheels, And Rims 146
Transmission And Drive Train 158

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 11: SUBJECT INDEX
Shifting gears 110, 111
Standard Capscrew Torque Specifications 170
Starting and Operating 80
Anti-Lock Braking System 92
Automatic And Automated Transmissions 91
Auxiliary Transmission 92
Bobtail Brake Proportioning System 96
Brake Safety and Emergency 96
Digital Message Center 95
Driving Bobtail or with an Unloaded Trailer 103
Driving With Deflated Air Springs 109
Dual Range (Two Speed) Axles 89
Idling the Engine 84
If Your Vehicle Must Be Towed 92
Interaxle Differential 87
Manually Releasing Spring Brakes 99
Operating the Clutch 85
Overheated Brakes 97
Parking Brakes and Their Use 97
Pyrometer 103
Retarders 91, 102
Setting Ride Height 106
Shifting The Transmission 85
Starting Procedure
Cold Temperature 81
Normal Temperature 80
Stopping The Engine 104
Trailer Air Supply Valve 99
T
Tachometer 111
Transmission
lubrication 134
warmup 84
U
UltraSleeper
Bunk 60
Refrigerator 59
Table 58
V
Vehicle
driving 76
Vehicle Identification Number 184
Vehicle inspections 76
Vehicle weight rating 154
W
Wheels and tires
replacement 153
Windshield washer reservoir 30
Numerics
49 CFR 565, Code of Federal Regulations 184

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 11: SUBJECT INDEX
NOTES

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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PART 11: SUBJECT INDEX
NOTES

PB1317 (CAT. NO. 5229 )

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22-01510 (R12/01)

Other Publications
Order either of the two publications shown below through your Peterbilt dealer.
There is a charge for each. Allow four weeks for delivery.

Custom Maintenance Manual
This manual contains both proprietary and supplier service
information specifically compiled for the components on your
vehicle.
The material in this manual is
the same as that used by Peterbilt dealers. It includes inspection, maintenance, overhaul, and
troubleshooting procedures.

Owner’s Custom Parts Book
This book is a complete, unillustrated, computer-generated list
of the parts used to custombuild your Peterbilt vehicle.
Please provide your Chassis
Serial Number when ordering.

02956

Peterbilt Motors Company
P.O. Box 90208
Denton, Texas 76202

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