Abstract: A method and apparatus for injecting fuel into a diesel engine combustion chamber is provided wherein a pre-pilot injection is injected sufficiently prior to critical mass conditions being achievable to permit vaporization and formation of a substantially homogenous mixture before a critical mass exists. Preferably, a pilot injection is injected after the pre-pilot injection but at or before a point wherein a critical mass based on the pre-pilot quantity. This will result in a reduced heat release rate will result in a slower, smoother and more controlled build up of pressure in a combustion chamber and thereby advantageously reduce combustion noise.

Abstract: A linkage between an engine control (114) and vehicle controls, such as a transmission gear selector (100) and/or axle speed selector when the vehicle has a two-speed axle, providing input to the engine control that is additional to engine variable inputs (110) for tailoring engine performance characteristics to selected drive ratios of a drivetrain through which the engine drives the vehicle. The tailored characteristics include particular engine torque curves (FIGS. 1, 4, and 5) and particular engine speed regulation curves (FIGS. 1, 2, and 3). As the vehicle quickly accelerates through rated engine speed while the transmission in the lower gears, the driver's notices no feeling of abrupt shut-off. As the vehicle accelerates through the highest gears toward highway speed, the driver can feel sustained pulling effort by the engine.