Chevrolet kodiak 2004 Owner's Manual page 99

ZF Six-Speed Transmission
This six-speed pattern is unique to GM manual
transmissions. The transmission always repositions the
shift lever to neutral, which is located between
FOURTH (4) and FIFTH (5) gear.
To prevent unintentional gear selections, additional
force is required to move the shift lever into
REVERSE (R) or FIRST (1). Use FIRST (1) when trailer
towing, driving with a heavier payload or launching
on a grade. Otherwise, start in SECOND (2) gear. Only
shift into FIRST (1) when the vehicle has stopped
moving.
During the first 500 miles (805 km) of vehicle use, start
the vehicle moving in FIRST (1) gear. This allows
the clutch components to wear-in properly.
Here's how to operate your
transmission.
FIRST (1): With the vehicle at a stop, release the
brake, press the clutch pedal and shift into FIRST (1).
Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press the
accelerator pedal. Only downshift into FIRST (1)
when the vehicle has come to a complete stop. If the
shift lever will not go into FIRST (1), put the lever
in neutral and let up on the clutch pedal to fully engage
the clutch. Press the clutch pedal again. Then, shift
into FIRST (1).
SECOND (2): With the vehicle at a stop, release the
brake, press the clutch pedal and shift into SECOND (2).
Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you press
the accelerator pedal. With the vehicle moving, press the
clutch pedal and upshift into SECOND (2) from
FIRST (1) while applying light pressure to the right on
the shifter. Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal
as you press the accelerator pedal. If you come to a
complete stop and the shift lever will not go into
SECOND (2), put the lever in neutral and let up on the
clutch pedal to fully engage the clutch. Press the
clutch pedal again. Then, shift into SECOND (2).
THIRD (3): Press the clutch pedal and upshift into
THIRD (3). Then, slowly let up on the clutch pedal as
you press the accelerator pedal.
FOURTH (4), FIFTH (5) and SIXTH (6): Upshift into the
higher forward gears the same way as you do
THIRD (3). Slowly let up on the clutch pedal as you
press the accelerator pedal.
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