How to drive split shift?

[BPXR6T]

I need to test drive a Mazda T3500 motorhome/bus tomorrow. I'm told it has a 10spd split shift. Any tips on how to drive it? Is it simply shift 1L 1H 2L 2H 3L 3H 4L 4H 5L 5H? Or is it 1L through 5L then 1H through 5H?

[mad cow]

you wont have to use every gear, I would generally start in 1st low and go through the box normally, switching to the high range in 4th or 5th gears. it will depend on the weight of the bus of course. the gearbox is a conventional 5 speed layout and the splitter is a simple lever on the dash, (push toward dash for low range, and toward the seat for high). I had the splitter shift in t3500 and 4100 tippers and they were magnificent and reliable trucks. you can use the splitter as an anti theft as well , when you get out simply put the splitter in neutral.. it saved one of mine from being stolen as none of the gearbox will work.

[GasoLane]

Cheesh, do they still make those things

Splitter on the dash? what genius thought of that, why not on the gearshift as is the norm.

[BPXR6T]

Originally Posted by GasOLane

Cheesh, do they still make those things

Splitter on the dash? what genius thought of that, why not on the gearshift as is the norm.

she's an old bus. 1986 I think...

[GasoLane]

Originally Posted by BPXR6T

she's an old bus. 1986 I think...

Ah, that explains it, thanks.