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Day 4

Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by Adelmo, Mar 4, 2020.

  1. Mar 4, 2020 #1
    Adelmo

    Adelmo Light Load Member

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    Apr 16, 2019
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    So I'm still in my first week and just have been working on straight backing. I don't know if I've mentioned before that I'm backing up a 35 foot trailer (you know the beer delivery trailers). Is it true that they are more difficult than a larger trailer? Anyway, I still have not mastered it but I believe I'm getting the gist of it. It helps me to be able to simply continue backing up, maybe 3-5mph while steering, turning no more than 180 followed by a 180 contrary before straightening up. There is an instructor who tends to do a lot of speaking so I stop which throws me off. I dunno if I'm making any sense but I remain encouraged and up for the challenge. The DOT guy is there Tuesdays & Fridays so I have been able to see others pass their exam which is encouraging. Not to brag but memorizing the Pre-Trip is a bit easier for me than the actual driving.
    I am still grateful I chose this route and school, no regrets I just wanna back that puppy up already....
     
    Adelmo, Mar 4, 2020
    Adelmo, Mar 4, 2020
    #1
    blairandgretchen and stillwurkin Thank this.
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  3. Mar 4, 2020 #2
    Kyle G.

    Kyle G. Road Train Member

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    Jan 23, 2016
    Eastern Iowa
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    I always found the shorter trailers to be more difficult, but I’m sure the guys who pull them every day would say the opposite.

    Just keep practicing and it will get easier and easier. Good luck!
     
    Kyle G., Mar 4, 2020
    Kyle G., Mar 4, 2020
    #2
    stillwurkin Thanks this.
  4. Mar 4, 2020 #3
    jammer910Z

    jammer910Z Road Train Member

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    Try backing a 28 with a sleeper unit.
    If you're not careful you can reach out the window and open your trailer doors.
     
    jammer910Z, Mar 4, 2020
    jammer910Z, Mar 4, 2020
    #3
    Hazmat Cat, Cattleman84, 650cat425 and 1 other person Thank this.
  5. Mar 4, 2020 #4
    Odin's Rabid Dog

    Odin's Rabid Dog Heavy Load Member

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    May 6, 2018
    NW MT
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    The short trailers respond more quickly. That makes it harder for some people, where others find it easier.

    Luck to you!
     
    Odin's Rabid Dog, Mar 4, 2020
    Odin's Rabid Dog, Mar 4, 2020
    #4
    Bean Jr. Thanks this.
  7. Mar 4, 2020 #5
    blairandgretchen

    blairandgretchen Road Train Member

    13,377
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    Dec 9, 2011
    South west Missouri
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    Shorter the trailer, the harder it is.

    53’ backs a lot easier than 28’ pup.

    Good job on the pre-trip memorization. Remember to put it to use when you’re out there.
     
    blairandgretchen, Mar 4, 2020
    blairandgretchen, Mar 4, 2020
    #5
  8. Mar 4, 2020 #6
    Hulld

    Hulld Road Train Member

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    Oct 19, 2015
    Upstate NY
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    after pulling a shorter trailer for a time I would take a 53 ft trailer in a tight spot in a truckstop any day.
    It’s just a whole lot easier.
    But that’s just me I guess...
     
    Hulld, Mar 4, 2020
    Hulld, Mar 4, 2020
    #6
  9. Mar 4, 2020 #7
    Bean Jr.

    Bean Jr. Road Train Member

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    Mar 30, 2014
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    I learned the basics of driving on my uncle's orchard. He had a model A tractor with a second trans in it and a 10 foot dump trailer. I learned how to shift, how to get unstuck from the mud and how to back short trailers. When backing a short trailer, you have to follow it hard, full lock even. That came in handy the year I did doubles. You have to drop the converter somewhere.
     
    Bean Jr., Mar 4, 2020
    Bean Jr., Mar 4, 2020
    #7
    Kyle G. Thanks this.
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