Taking the plunge. My journey as an O/O.

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by Farmerbob1, Jan 7, 2019.

  1. Farmerbob1

    Farmerbob1 Road Train Member

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    I ran with the intermittent alarm codes for a couple weeks before hometime.

    My goal is to have all major service performed while on hometime. That doesn't always work, but it's the plan.

    I was out 70-ish days this past trip. Had to get my steers replaced, and decided to have torque bars redone and three axle alignment on the road since the steers needed doing anyway.

    Everything else that could wait, did wait, though I will admit I tried to get DPF filters replaced during a 34, and THAT was a learning experience.

    Oil, filters, lube, new shocks all around, new ABS sensor/cable assembly, DPF filters, and electronics/wiring troubleshooting waited until hometime.

    My plan is to return to the road on the 22nd. The way this shop is dragging on and on and being very inefficient makes me think it might be a little later than that, and will be my last time at this shop.
     
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  3. Farmerbob1

    Farmerbob1 Road Train Member

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    Update on the truck.

    The shop has replaced the suspension shocks. The cab shocks still have not arrived. The DPF filters have been replaced. A forced regen has been run.

    The mechanic says the two bulging spots on the right steer ABS wiring was paint overspray from when the truck was originally painted.

    After the DPF system was cleaned up, the truck is still throwing ABS system errors...

    Tomorrow the techs are going to do some digging into the ABS system to see if they find a fault.

    Needless to say, I am not getting back on the road tomorrow as I hoped.

    Next post... Where I have decided to try to go next.
     
  4. Farmerbob1

    Farmerbob1 Road Train Member

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    I picked up a DMV study guide for SC hazmat, and was planning to take the test before going on the road, so I could apply to Landstar.

    Discovered the joys of the Patriot Act in regards to Hazmat certification.

    It will be two weeks before I can even get an appointment to start the security clearance crap I have to get to qualify to even be considered for hazmat certification.

    Screw that crap. Decided to simply apply to Schneider's o/o loadboard program instead.

    So, this morning, I verified my truck meets their requirements, verified they are hiring from my area, and filled in an application on their website. They claim they will get back to me in 24 hours. We shall see.

    If Schneider says yes, I will give Crete two weeks notice.

    I will keep you all posted.
     
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  5. F4T6UY

    F4T6UY Medium Load Member

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    Good luck.
     
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  6. Scooter Jones

    Scooter Jones Road Train Member

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    You're normally so patient. Surprised you're bailing on getting your hazmat cert so fast. Might be worth your while to get it.
     
  7. Cat sdp

    Cat sdp . .

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    Seems like landstar is a little less micromanaging than Schneider………

    But whatever……. You can do orientation at Charlotte I believe…….
     
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  8. DUNE-T

    DUNE-T Road Train Member

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    You will make more money with any small company that lets you book loads from the general load board vs what you will get from Schneider or Landstar.
     
  9. Farmerbob1

    Farmerbob1 Road Train Member

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    I will still get hazmat, I think. I will definitely be getting a TWIC card, and if I get a TWIC, I have to do the same thing I need to do before getting Hazmat certifications...

    In short, I've been putting off leaving Crete for almost half a year now, waiting to pay off the truck and get my tax refund. Time to get off the fence. Even my patience is not infinite :)
     
  10. kemosabi49

    kemosabi49 Trucker Forum STAFF Staff Member

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    Many states will give you a discount if you do the background check/fingerprinting for the hazmat and Twic at the same time.
     
  11. Farmerbob1

    Farmerbob1 Road Train Member

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    Good to remember.
     
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