Beginners List

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Nukem, May 16, 2014.

  1. Nukem

    Nukem Road Train Member

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    So I thought I'd put together my list of stuff that I have been putting together for my first truck. Most of the stuff listed is my "emergency list" or needed item. (In my opinion) The following is what I have so far, but not limited to:

    - Basic foul weather clothing (not to include winter yet)
    - Work gloves (x3)
    - Reflective vest
    - Headband work light / Belt clip flashing red light
    - Safety Glasses
    - Decent compliment of tools (Basics)
    - Allen set
    - Socket set
    - Vice grips
    - 2lb. Short handle sledge
    - Screwdriver set
    - etc... (actually a lot more, but you get the idea)
    - Tie down straps / Bungies (x6 ea. diff. sizes)
    - 60' air hose w/glad hand and chuck
    - Tire pressure gauge
    - Glad hand seals (found a bag of 100 for 20.00)
    - 2 Gauge jumper cables
    - x3 heavy duty tie down straps
    - Cleaning Supplies
    - Rain-X
    - WD-40
    - Goo gone
    - Orange goop hand cleaner
    - Paper towels / rags / sponges
    EDIT:
    - Duck Tape
    - In cab air hose

    - other small items, but most are common sense stuff. I'm going to wait to get the coolant, oil, chocks, degreaser, extra light bulbs, etc.. once I get my truck.

    I am thinking about:
    - Snow chains
    - Extra air lines / Pig tail
    - good size tarp
    but I figured those can wait to see if I would even need them.

    Is there anything you as a driver, would want to keep on hand, that would be useful in unforeseen situations. Please help add to the list, not only for me but maybe some other junior driver in the future.
     
    Last edited: May 17, 2014
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  3. jbourque

    jbourque Heavy Load Member

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    a good sized hammer with a long handle,so you can beat on both brake drums if they become frozen. with a short handle you have to crawl farther under the trailer. your list is pretty complete but it seems to me you will be carrying a lot of equipment. remember to leave some room for yourself. lots of luck
     
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  4. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    Chains, air lines, pigtails, tarps, and modern LED OEM tractor lights are all very costly items and unless you're running you're own truck, I wouldn't recommend a driver carry these. Let the carrier pay for these when/if they are needed. Many carrier shops will "issue" spare headlamp bulbs and fuses and relays/breakers for your particular tractor

    I don't see duct tape
    spare fuses assortment and fuse puller (or needle nose pliers will work)
     
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  5. Nukem

    Nukem Road Train Member

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    CRAP! How the heck could I have missed DUCK TAPE!!!

    GREAT call, thanks
     
  6. STexan

    STexan Road Train Member

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    You can drive for years and never need duct tape but when you need it you need it. It is truly a universal "tool" and if you're a "MacGuyver" type, you'll find unconventional ways to use it. If you flatbed, it's almost mandatory. Also can be used to "bandage" torn chutes in a reefer in a pinch to get it to cool half way decent until you can get it to a shop.
     
  7. Knucklehead619

    Knucklehead619 Medium Load Member

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    Clear Packing tape. Good not just for boxes but also for if and when you tear a log sheet or BOL or scale ticket or anything else paper. And covering those paper placards on the side of the trailer (DOT can technically write you a ticket for obscuring any portion of a placard and the clear tape doesn't obscure). I keep a roll of the clear tape AND a roll of duct tape on the bottom of the shifter because I'll wind up using both frequently.

    Also, find a roll or two of tie wire. You'd be amazed what kind of stuff you can (at least temporarily) fix with tie wire and duct tape.
     
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  8. Prolaznik

    Prolaznik Light Load Member

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    Brake fluid :biggrin_25525: lets see if anyone knows why.?.
     
  9. damutt

    damutt Road Train Member

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    power steering
     
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  10. NavigatorWife

    NavigatorWife Road Train Member

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    Extra mudflap, which can be used as a floor mat until needed, and plastic ties to put it on with, just in case one is damaged somewhere in the middle of nowhere.

    I have heard it is a good idea to have a can of spray paint in black, and white or other assorted colors.
     
  11. Nukem

    Nukem Road Train Member

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    I have scotch tape for my "office" stuff, but the wire wouldn't be a bad idea. Something pliable, but strong. But... packing tape is pretty strong stuff. Thanks.

    As for the power steering, and brake fluids... That was in the etc... of when I get my truck :biggrin_25525:

    Mudflap and spray paint might not be bad, depending on how old my truck is. If it's for the trailer, then I'll find those flaws in my pre-inspection. But your right... mud flaps = floor mats. Nice idea.
     
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