Panic situations/Downshifting

You are going to have to get used to the feel of your truck and the amount of weight that you are carrying to figure this one out! Its JUST experience. On freeways, etc., you are NOT suppose to start hitting your brakes til you hit the exit ramp. However, let it float and slow slightly, so as not to impact traffic, then brake at onset of ramp, and downshift. All else depends on the exit ramp 'speed sign' as to how fast you 'get down' to safely arrive at the upcoming intersection.
Good luck!

 

I've olny been driving for a year and remember those (out of gear) times very well! But really it's not a tell me kinda thing. I fell timber for 20 yrs same deal you can be shown the basics, then it's all about feel. Just don't panic

Good luck

 

Best advice that I can give you..!! You will freeze up and become unsafe in your actions.

 

You should be at the speed you want to go through the turn BEFORE you enter the turn. WHat gear that is depends on your truck, the speed, the weight etc you just have to learn the vehicle.
The cdl inspectors will tell you to always be in gear, downshifting as you slow but in reality most just pop it out of gear and slow down if you don't need engine braking to assist.
As for double clutching, good luck it's just a matter of knowing your vehicle, how fast the motor accelerates/decellerates in relation to road speed etc. Once again it's more a a feeling and sense of rhythm than anything else. Personally I'v never been very good at double clutching, just try shifting without the clutch I feel it's easyer ayways

 

Often I will double-clutch down to leave the engine brakes On. Almost never UP, unless heavy-load uphill from standstill to get the xmission to release!!

 

I hope you hit your brakes so you can stop in time.....LOL
If you us the Smith System you should never be in that situation

 

Keep your rpm's up to match your wheel speed.
Goose it in other words.

When they all match it will fall right in.

If you can't find them grind them....they will make them out of rubber next year!:smt025