newbie backing up-

Discussion in 'USF Glen Moore' started by dobman, Jan 18, 2007.

  1. dobman

    dobman Bobtail Member

    23
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    Nov 15, 2006
    0
    I started with USF Glen Moore and am in my third of four weeks training. While I am getting the practice running the miles, I have some questions as to the training regarding the backing up of the truck which might be once or twice a day (not enough training for me). My concern is that after the four weeks, I might be in the same shape that I am in now (in my third week) and be told to go out longer for something that I now feel is missing the mark.
    I am fine on the road until the backing (which I understand is the most difficult procedure in trucking to learn).
    Can someone explain to me if my concerns are well founded?
    What do other trucking companies that train newbies do?
    Am I wasting time going out with a trainer when the real problem is not being addressed?
     
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  3. Cerberus101

    Cerberus101 Heavy Load Member

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    Oct 25, 2006
    Georgia
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    that trainer sucks. you need to get another trainer. he needs to do his job and teach you how to back. if you have been out there 3 weeks and still can't back up with 1 or 2 pullups he is not doing his job. he needs to let you you practice all you need to do. he makes an extra $40 a day to show you the ropes if he is not doing that get another trainer. just call the head of dm's and he will take care of that.
     
  4. jamwadmag

    jamwadmag Road Train Member

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    Feb 28, 2006
    Desert Southwest
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    A lot of trainer just take YOU our for the $$$, and wont let you back most of the time----you should be backing ALL times that don't hold somebody up or is a little too tight for you!

    p.s. Every so often a 17 yr Vet is right-LOL
     
  5. geargrinder

    geargrinder Medium Load Member

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    60
    Nov 23, 2006
    More than likely waiting.
    0
    Trainers aren't going to have you backing at the shipper/consignee's docks. You will get your backing in uncrowded TSs, MT lots, etc.

    With my trainer we spent a few hours together on our own time doing nothing but backing. We went over the backing scenario's that were on the final road test before getting first seated.

    Backing is a survival skill that you learn on the road. Also the pay rate for backing kind of stinks;-)
     
  6. panhandlepat

    panhandlepat Road Train Member

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    2,243
    Jan 12, 2007
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    when i was training i backed into EVERY SINGLE DOCK even if trainer was on duty i had to wake up and back'er in there
     
  7. finfan

    finfan Light Load Member

    76
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    Jan 24, 2007
    middle ga
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    it just depends on the trainer... i think a good trainer will basically let you you be the truck driver during training and he is the supervisor. a bad trainer will do most of the backing himself so he can just get it over with and go cash his check..(and let you learn to back on your own when your by yourself).:biggrin_25513:
     
  8. crazymama

    crazymama <strong>The Gardener</strong>

    142
    9
    Jul 14, 2007
    Kansas City Missouri
    0
    This one fear may be the only thing I can't get past.

    I do have to say that when I'm sitting at a light and some truck driver is coming around a corner to my left...me in my left lane and him coming off a highway ramp and turning to his right..... It scares the behebejeebies out of me to see how fast he makes that turn. I can never understand how those rigs can turn so sharp.

    Hey, that makes me remember something I've been meaning to ask.

    What causes a truck to jackknife?

    Suzi
     
  9. Scuby

    Scuby Heavy Load Member

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    Mar 10, 2007
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    Actually a quite a few things can cause a jackknife, but most of the time its the driver overdriving the situation,ie too fast for road conditions and such.
     
  10. Peeping_Tom

    Peeping_Tom Light Load Member

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    Jul 22, 2007
    Sharpsburg, Ga
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    backing up takes practice and time. be patient, it will come to you in time. just do it as slow as possible and you will get the hang of it.
     
  11. haze1

    haze1 Light Load Member

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    Oct 31, 2006
    Midwest City, Oklahoma
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    hello dobman,

    ck out my post, " backing help for a newby" there is alot of responses that may be useful to your situation. i was basically in your shoes not long ago as i am sure everyone has been at one time during their driving career. i will say this that in a short time you will gain much experience and confidence and before you know it backing will become much easier for you. hang in there and good luck. if you scroll down to the bottom of the page on your original postyou will find my post among others also, or go to questions for new drivers and in the search box type in backing for a newby.

    be safe out there

    haze1
     
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