Relearning how to drive stick

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by Mr. EastCoast, Mar 6, 2021.

  1. Mr. EastCoast

    Mr. EastCoast Light Load Member

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    I got my CDL license with a standard truck but I only drove a standard truck for the test. The job I have been in for 6 months only has automatic trucks. I got a job offer today but all there trucks are standard. I feel like I kinda forgot how to drive a standard truck. Should I give it a go still? I told the manager I might need to refresh a little and he was okay with it. I hope I learn how to power shift cuz I heard that’s a game changer. What do you guys think I should do.
     
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  3. lester

    lester Midwest's #1 Feed Hauler

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    First thing, never say power shift anywhere near a semi again. I assume you mean float or shift without the clutch?
     
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  4. homeskillet

    homeskillet Road Train Member

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    Use the clutch. It's there for a reason.

    A lot of drivers that "float gears" are just shaving metal.

    JMO.
     
  5. homeskillet

    homeskillet Road Train Member

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    Also, go ahead and take the job.

    If you learned and tested with a stick, and passed, you'll be fine.
     
  6. meechyaboy

    meechyaboy Heavy Load Member

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    It’s like riding a bike. Within 2-3 days it’ll be second nature m..
    remember your downshifts speeds (6,10,15,25,35,45) giver a rev and figure it out.. jamming and grinding gets old and you’ll figure it out fast
     
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  7. DoubleO7

    DoubleO7 Road Train Member

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    I was away from driving for over 11 years. That was 5 1/2 years ago. I got right back into it with no problems.
     
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  8. skallagrime

    skallagrime Road Train Member

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    And a lot of us are still using the same transmission that was old 4 years ago no problem...
    (mine falls outta gear in 12th if my foot isnt in her and theres a broken tooth on reverse, but again thats how i got it with 400k on it already...)

    But generally yes at least learn to use the clutch as intended, then you can see if floating makes sense for you.
     
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  9. homeskillet

    homeskillet Road Train Member

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    That's all I'm saying.

    "If you're gonna float gears, then do it right".

    And using the clutch doesn't make a trucker's willie any shorter.....
     
  10. SmallPackage

    SmallPackage Road Train Member

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    Find out what the trans is a play stupid. If its a 10 just say you’ve only shifted a 13 and are not familiar with it. There have been 8 to 10 different model 10 speeds and shift patterns for them over the years so you or I not knowing wouldn’t be to far fetched. Heck there are 6 different 13 speed patterns over its 50 year history as well.
     
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