First solo run, not comfortable with transmission..

So I'm off for my first Solo run Monday after a few weeks of driving with a mentor beside me (day runs 12-10pm). Not only will it be my first solo run, it will also be the first run that I will not be home at night.

Temporarily I'm being provided with a 2007 Kenworth with a 13 speed automatic. I used this truck on one of our runs to see how it rides and I have to say it rides nice but backing it is a challenge for me. Sticking my head out the window only provides a view of the stacks, but the most challenging part is the jumpy transmission. it seems like it builds up some torque first then releases it, however this ends up making it a little difficult for a rookie such as myself to ease into a dock gently (I ended up bouncing off a bit and had to try getting closer again). I'm sure they thought someone was trying to bring the wall down... In the Volvo there's no problem not slamming into the dock... The TS is going to be another interesting experience as I haven't yet tried to park between two trailers with it yet.

Luckily the truck will be off lease in Feb then it will be back into a Volvo again

Anyone familiar with this type of tractor/transmission that may be able to offer up some tips? :smt100

 

Automatic or autoshift?

Actually nevermind. It doesnt matter, they both suck.

 

I dove an automated transmission for about 2 months, when you back, just give it some thrust and cover the brake........they are a pain in the butt to back until you get used to that surge. Also Im sure you know to hold that brake firm on an incline

 

You didn't say what kind of a truck it is. If it has old style stacks right outside your doors, try standing in the running board when you're backing.....no wait don't do that until you've mastered backing. You also have to be quick on jumping back in and hitting the clutch. I found your comment about slamming the dock in a volvo not being a problem very interesting. How's that work? Also, did you know there was a time when the internet didn't exist. Try asking a driver that is already in a dock or parking spot where you're at. Or, if all else fails, try figuring it out and doing what you have to do to get the job done. It's worked for me for a long time. Good luck.

 

Not sure of the difference ( I'm such a rookie) It's an Eaton Fuller Ultrashift?

 

Yes, definitely noticed the roll when on an incline. The mentor suggested when backing try holding the brake until the torque kicks in and then back off the brake a bit to counter the lunge.

 

ya he is right, you will start to feel that vibration in the pedal after awhile and then slightly back off.......its a learning curve, especially on snowy icy pavement.

 

there is a differance one has a clutch pedal and one does not




American Trucker

 

Definitely prefer the manual transmission, especially in this case...

 

The shifts feel just like a manual but no, there is no clutch pedal.