6 speed vs 12 speed transmissions


CAC RV

New Member
I am in the market for a high end 45ft coach, the models I have been interested in come with very powerful diesel engines, approx 600 hp and 1900 ft-# of torque. I will be towing a stacker trailer with a payload of approx 6 tons (two vehicles plus gear). These coaches have an option of a 12 speed ZF transmission or the standard 6 speed tranny.

My question is to the experts out there - is it worth purchasing the 12 speed tranny when there is that much torque and hp in the coach and would I notice the better performance? Also would the 12 speed reduce ride comfort with all that shifting?
 

dbarton291

Senior Member
RE: 6 speed vs 12 speed transmissions

CAC RV - 5/17/2009 12:27 PM

I am in the market for a high end 45ft coach, the models I have been interested in come with very powerful diesel engines, approx 600 hp and 1900 ft-# of torque. I will be towing a stacker trailer with a payload of approx 6 tons (two vehicles plus gear). These coaches have an option of a 12 speed ZF transmission or the standard 6 speed tranny.

My question is to the experts out there - is it worth purchasing the 12 speed tranny when there is that much torque and hp in the coach and would I notice the better performance? Also would the 12 speed reduce ride comfort with all that shifting?

I can tell you what I know. The 12-speed is a manual transmission with automated controls adapted to it. It still has to pull the engine out of fuel to change gears. The six speed is a fully automatic transmission with a torque converter and no power interrupts to the wheels when changing gears.
 
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