Kind of new driver, need advice.

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by ukeacreator, May 19, 2023.

  1. ukeacreator

    ukeacreator Bobtail Member

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    Looking to getting back into driving a dump truck. I drove a 18 speed kenworth for a summer in 2015 and i feel like i forgot most of what i learned.

    Im currently looking for work and dont want to look like an idiot when i go for driving test with employers.
    Are most dump trucks eaton 18 speeds?

    Should i start in 1st or 2nd gear all the time or just while empty and low gear loaded? Should i float gears or use the clutch. Whats an easy gear to get into while cruising if i miss one?

    Any tips will be appreciated, delete if not allowed
     
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  3. loudtom

    loudtom Road Train Member

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    Ask the person who is giving the test how they would prefer you drive their equipment.
     
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  4. ukeacreator

    ukeacreator Bobtail Member

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    As for

    My last job the guy freaked out when he saw me double clutch so just thought I’d ask. Any other tips for this inexperienced driver ?
     
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  5. MACK E-6

    MACK E-6 Moderator Staff Member

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    18 speed dump truck is a pretty rare bird, IMHO. Every one I ever drove was a 8LL.

    But if you’re sure the one you’ll be getting into is an 18, 2nd gear should be alright to take off empty, 1st with a load on however.

    I’d say just drive it like a 13. You shouldn’t ever really have much need to split the low side.
     
  6. ukeacreator

    ukeacreator Bobtail Member

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    Thats also my concern, i think mine was an only a 18 becuase it used to be a highway tractor but they put a dump on it. So most will be a 13 speeds?
    Whats a good cruising gear that i can easily get into on a 13speed?
     
  7. MACK E-6

    MACK E-6 Moderator Staff Member

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    Well, it depends. Conditions do vary after all.

    Generally, whatever has you running somewhere in the general realm of the posted at around 1300 rpm is ideal. That way you won’t have to downshift immediately at the mere sight of a hill like with a new truck.
     
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  8. ukeacreator

    ukeacreator Bobtail Member

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    thanks appreciate any information that might help. Once I get into a truck and get used to it I will have no problem . Im just nervous about jumping in a truck with a trans i never drove before
     
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  9. MACK E-6

    MACK E-6 Moderator Staff Member

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    I know that feeling. I had it once myself, especially before the first time I drove a two stick.

    If you were able to run an 18 with some degree of competence, you should be able to adapt to whatever you’re given without much trouble.
     
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  10. Frank Speak

    Frank Speak Road Train Member

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    Of course, asking the owner of the equipment is a good idea, but I’d be a bit surprised if anyone actually wanted you to double clutch.
     
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  11. tscottme

    tscottme Road Train Member

    Nobody expects you to be perfect or not have some "rust". Ask them to say something if they don't like what you are doing.
     
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