Engine Lugging Guidelines

[JJacobs]

I have been reading a number of threads cautioning against engine lugging. What constitutes lugging? I have been downshifting to keep the RPMs above 1000 when traveling in stop and go traffic. Should I be shifting earlier to run the engine a higher RPM range in traffic? Any guidelines?

 

[Pit Bull]

Originally posted by JJacobs

I have been reading a number of threads cautioning against engine lugging. What constitutes lugging? I have been downshifting to keep the RPMs above 1000 when traveling in stop and go traffic. Should I be shifting earlier to run the engine a higher RPM range in traffic? Any guidelines?

LSMITH gives the best definition I have read on this site "Lugging is anytime you add fuel (pedal) and the engine cannot increase speed. Regardless of RPM, load, or conditions, that is the ONLY definition of lugging the engine. You can lug the engine at 2500 RPM, just the same as 1000 RPM. "



Hope this helps. If you want to read more you can click on search and type in "engine lugging" and do a search. There are a lot of threads on the subject.

 

[RKohn]

You'll know it when you feel it and hear it.

 

[The patriot]

Re: Re: Engine Lugging Guidelines

Originally posted by Pit Bull

LSMITH gives the best definition I have read on this site "Lugging is anytime you add fuel (pedal) and the engine cannot increase speed. Regardless of RPM, load, or conditions, that is the ONLY definition of lugging the engine. You can lug the engine at 2500 RPM, just the same as 1000 RPM. "

When I was an owner operator, this is the guideline we used.

Eric

 

[JJacobs]

Engine Lugging

Thanks for your comments Pitt Bull. I think your guideline is an excellent one for me (and others) to follow. I did do a search on engine lugging but it brought up nothing. I'll try again. Thanks

 

[HC]

If you check Fritz's Ram site, and your owner's manual shift speed recommendations, then whenever you're under ~1400 rpm with a 24 valve engine, you "might" be causing some problems, either with lugging, or just straining the transmission too much at low rpms. I often go below 1400 rpm, but only with very, very light pedal, or momentarily when shifting. If I'm cruising steadily I like to see 1500 rpm or better, and as my load increases or I find myself running up hills, I believe 1750 rpm and higher is a better place to be. How have I confirmed the scientific accuracy of all these wonderful and exact numbers? Like the other guys said, "you can just feel it. "

 

[JJacobs]

Engine Lugging

Thanks HC,

I'll keep your guidelines in mind as I drive.