Swift Driving Academy Boot Camp

Discussion in 'Trucking Schools and CDL Training Forum' started by Swift2012, Oct 3, 2011.

  1. Swift2012

    Swift2012 Bobtail Member

    3
    9
    Oct 3, 2011
    0
    :violent3:

    SWIFT ACADEMY MILLINGTON, TENNESSEE BOOT CAMP

    PLEASE NOTE: I attended the Swift Academy - Millington, Tennessee - These are my observations and it is up to you to make an informed decision before you step on Greyhound bus to Swift Academy - Millington, TN or any Swift School - This school is more geared to those that know about inner workings of a truck ALREADY - so fast paced as you will sink or swim and end up with a bill for $3,900 tuition and $500 room from Swift plus $40 for a physical and no free breakfast - WARNING - Have an extra $200 to get home for Greyhound Bus in case you decide to leave early as Swift will not pay for your ride back home - Use Code - EP152010 Promotion Code for Greyhound Website Discount - Mondays class was 62 students and down to 22 students by end of week. - I will post BOOT CAMP SCHEDULE - Up at 4AM TO 5:30PM everyday for next 13 DAYS STRAIGHT - Pray that Swift assigns you room mates that are quiet and helpful as you must go to bed at 8pm everynight to get up at 4am or YOU WILL SINK.

    Admirality Inn & Suites- Millington, Tennessee (Downgrade from Motel 6)

    You arrive at the Greyhound Bus Station in Memphis (pickup is 11am - 2pm - 5pm - 8pm - 11 pm) on a Sunday (taxi is $50 from station to hotel) - can't stand outside Greyhound Station - Memphis Law

    You are assigned a "suite" with FOUR separate beds (beds are not comfortable), kitchen, coffee pot (no coffee provided), small tv, wi-fi does not work well in room, ***Get UP AT 4AM EVERY MORNING - SHARE BATH WITH 4 OTHER STUDENTS AND TO EAT BREAKFAST - Bus leaves at 5AM every morning so NO FREE BREAKFAST INCLUDED to be a class at 6AM - You will be tardy if you are late to class by one minute - Hotel Staff has FREE BREAKFAST AREA locked down like FORT KNOX to Swift Students - FRONT DESK IS NOT VERY FRIENDLY - must sign in and pay for breakfast - STUDY LOUNGE IS IN LAUNDRY ROOM AND CLOSES AT 11PM Everynight - Cost $2.00 to WASH / LOAD - $2.50 to DRY / LOAD - CLASS ENDS AT 5PM ALMOST EVERYDAY *NOTE CLASS WITH Horace Campbell has been noted to have class stay till 8pm and as late as 1am on Sunday) Bus gets back from class at approximately 5:30PM everynight - YOU DO NOT CHOOSE YOUR ROOM MATES - They will be assign you a bed and can be moved at ANY GIVEN NOTICE - No Elevators 1st & 2nd motel room

    STAY ONE NIGHT OR 20 NIGHTS - OWE SWIFT $500 FOR ROOM

    I will be posting ***FEE SCHEDULE ***BOOT CAMP SCHEDULE ***FAMOUS SEVEN PAGE PRE-TRIP INSPECTION MEMORIZATION (WORD FOR WORD PLUS POINT AT EACH PART) HANDOUT - NOTE RANGE HAS MANY DIFFERENT MAKES OF ENGINES

    Range with Gary, Doug, and Dee - You must log your classtime, driving time everyday ON LOGS - ***Class size is LARGE so you will fight for Drive Time to log on your paper - Must have X number of driving hours to pass course - Doug and Gary DO NOT assign partners - my advice is to team up with someone in your state as you can practice your pre-trip inspection with them EARLY ON - DO NOT TEAM UP WITH room mate another state as it might confuse you

    DATE OF TERMINATION - AMOUNT REFUNDABLE - AMOUNT OWED

    0- 3RD DAY $3,900 $0.00 *** Drug Screening, Physical, Paperwork, Logging, Straight Line Backing
    4TH DAY $2,700 $1,200 *** Drop & Hook, Handout of Pre-Trip Inspection, Intro to Off Set, Blind Side
    5TH DAY $2,400 $1,500 *** Range - Evaluation on YOUR STATE Pre-Trip Inspection
    6TH DAY $2,100 $1,800 *** Range
    7TH DAY $1,800 $2,100 *** 30 Questions of Trucker Handbook Due - homework plus read 6 chapters
    8TH DAY $1,500 $2,400 *** 800 POINT TEST GIVEN ON THIS DAY IN CLASSROOM - Pass or Fail
    9TH DAY $0.00 $3,900 *** Must pass test to continue to range

    BOOT CAMP SCHEDULE

    DAY 1 - MONDAY - DRUG SCREENINGS, QUALIFICATIONS PAPERWORK, LUNCH OFF LUNCH WAGON (UP TO $4.00)* ONLY DAY PROVIDED, ACADEMY PAPER WORK - TOPICS COVERED INCLUDE CONTRACTS, POLICIES, AND PROCEDURES

    DAY 2 - TUESDAY - CLASS (LOGS, MAPPING, AND TRIP PLANNING)

    DAY 3 - WEDNESDAY - RANGE

    DAY 4 - THURSDAY - RANGE - HANDOUT OF YOUR STATE CDL PRE-TRIP INSPECTION *** SWIFT STARTS CHARGING $1,200 FOR THIS DAY

    DAY 5 - FRIDAY - RANGE

    DAY 6 - SATURDAY - RANGE

    DAY 7 - SUNDAY - CLASS (HOURS OF SERVICE, TRIP PLANNING, LIFE ON THE ROAD)

    DAY 8 - MONDAY - CLASS (REVIEW OF HOURS OF SERVICE, DEFENSIVE DRIVER TRAINING)

    DAY 9 - TUESDAY - RANGE

    DAY 10 - WEDNESDAY - RANGE

    DAY 11 - THURSDAY - RANGE

    DAY 12 - FRIDAY - RANGE

    DAY 13 - SATURDAY - RANGE

    SUNDAY - OFF *** Some students will stay for another week in Memphis while some will travel back to home state via Greyhound to take driving test / pre-trip - Cost is anywhere from $130 to $300 depending on your state

    DAY 14 - MONDAY - ROAD

    DAY 15 - TUESDAY - ROAD

    DAY 16 - WEDNESDAY - ROAD

    DAY 17 - THURSDAY - ROAD

    DAY 18 - FRIDAY - ROAD (Comprehensive Review, Road Exam, and State of Domicile CDL testing)

    DAY 19 - MONDAY - Orientation

    DAY 20 - TUESDAY - Orientation


    CDL PRE-TRIP INSPECTION HANDOUT MEMORIZATION (WORD FOR WORD PLUS POINT AT PART) *Every State Is Different (Just A Sample)

    SECTION 1

    Engine Compartment Group

    Get Key
    No one can move the vehicle except you

    Approach the Vehicle

    Upon beginning the approach, chck the overall appearance of the vehicle
    Check to see if the tractor cab is leaning to one side. This could indicate broken springs or broken cab mounts.
    Check for anything hanging over, around, or under the vehicle (Tree limbs, wires, or building overhangs)
    Check for body damage to the front of the cab
    Check all lights (identification, clearance, headlights, and turn signals for broken or cracked lenses, and correct color.
    Check the windshield for cracks, illegal stickers, and dirt
    Check the windshield wiper blades for dry-rot and the wiper blade arms for spring tension
    Front Bumper check the license tag for security and expiration date
    Check underneath the tractor the tractor cap for leaks such as coolant, oil, and hydraulic fluid from the front of the vehicle

    Open Hood Right Side Engine Compartment

    Make sure the alternator is secure and has no damage
    Make sure the belt is not cut, frayed, or has no more than 3/4" play
    Make sure oil level is between add / full and dipstick and filler cap are secure
    Water pump gear driven
    Make sure the water pump is properly secured and has no damage or leaks
    Check coolant level. Must show in slight glass

    Exhaust System

    Make sure the exhaust system is properly secured and has no evidence of soot which may indicate a leak

    Fuel Leaks

    Check for leaks, dents, or damages
    Make sure straps are secured and rubber strapping is intact
    Open cap, check the fuel and the seal
    Open cap, check the fuel level, and check the seal

    SECTION 2

    Open Hood - Left Side of the Compartment

    Check and make sure windshield reservoir is full of fluid

    Air Compressor Unit - Gear Driven

    Ensure the air compressor is properly secured with no signs of leaks
    Ensure the airlines are secure and free from cuts, cracks, or frays

    Power Steering Pump - Gear Driven

    Make sure the power steering pump is properly secured with no signs of leaks
    Check power steering hoses for cuts or leaks
    Make sure power steering fluid is between Add / Full
    Make sure the A/C compressor is secured and has no more then 3/4" play in the belt

    SECTION 3

    Ensure truck frame is not cracked or damaged
    Ensure spring mounts are properly secured and have no damage to the front or rear
    Make sure leaf springs are properly aligned; none are missing, and free from rust which could indicate a crack
    Check U-Bolts for damage. Make sure they are properly secured with 4 washers and nuts
    Check steering wheel shaft for damage. Make sure it is properly secured
    Ensure steering box is not cracked or leaking
    Check power steering hose for leaks
    Check the Pittman arm for cracks. Make sure it is properly secured with a castle nut and a cotter pin
    Check the Draglink for cracks, dents, or damage. Make sure it is properly secured with a castle nut and cotter pin
    Make sure the steering arm is properly secured and has no cracks or damage
    Make sure the tie rod is not cracked, bent, or damaged. Make sure it is secured with a castle nut and cotter pin

    Brake System

    Check brake line for cuts, frays, or leaks. Make sure it is properly secured
    Make sure the brake chamber is properly secured and has no dents or leaks
    Make sure the slack adjuster is properly secured and is at a 90 degree angle with the brakes applied and no more than 1 inch when released
    Make sure the brake pads have at least 1/4" of pad with no signs of oil or grease
    Make sure brake drum is not cracked or damaged
    Check inner rims for dents, cracks, or damage
    Check inner sidewall of tire for cuts, frays, or bulges
    Check outer rim for dents, cracks, or damage
    Check outer sidewall of tire for cuts, frays, and bulges
    Check tops of the tire for tread separation and at least 4/32" of tread
    Check lug nuts for tightness and signs of rust which may indicate they are loose
    Check hub oil seal for leaks. Make sure it has proper oil level
    Check valve stem for damage. Must have a metal dust cover
    Check inflation with an air gauge. Check for manufacturers suggested pressure on the side of tire. Should be 90 - 110 PSI
    Close hood

    SECTION 4

    Driver Side Door

    Make sure mirror is secured on driver's door and hinges are lined up and secured
    Make sure the door is secured and operating properly and the windows are operating properly
    Check to make sure the fire extinguisher is properly secured and in the green operating range which indicates it is full
    Make sure the safety belts are secured at the floor and back of the seat
    Fuses will not be needed as this truck has circuit breakers
    Should have a total of three reflective triangles
    Make sure fuel tanks have no leaks, dents, or damages. Ensure the straps are secured and the rubber strapping is intact. Open the cap to check the fuel level and compare to gauge. Use a yardstick or a light to do this. Make sure ground wire and gauge are mounted, and overflow valve is pointed to ground
    All decals, IFTA, and inspections are current
    Grab handles and steps. Check for debris and make sure they are not bent or broken. Make sure they are mounted, and secure
    Make sure all decals, IFTA, and inspections are current
    Grab handles and steps - Are they free of debris, bent, broken, improperly mounted or secured?
    Make sure the battery has no leaks or corrosion and the box is secured
    Check catwalk for damage and ensure that is is properly secured
    Make sure exhaust system is properly secured. Check for soot which could indicate a leak
    Make sure tractor frame and cross members are not cracked, damaged, or bent
    Make sure drive shaft is properly secured without cracks or damage

    Trailer

    Check front of trailer for signs of damage
    Must have two (2) amber lights that are not damaged
    Must have two (2) amber reflectors on the bottom corners that are damage free and secured
    Six-point connection for the tractor to the trailer has not cuts or frays in the lines
    Ensure trailer registration and inspection decal is secured
    Make sure apron is bent up and not down
    Make sure splash guards are properly secured and not damaged

    SECTION 5

    First Drive Axle

    Make sure control arm mounts are properly secured and not damaged
    Make sure control arms do not have any rust. This could indicate a crack
    Make sure U-Bolts are secure with 4 washers and nuts
    Make sure shock is secured and not leaking
    Make sure airbags are properly inflated and not leaking
    Make sure airlines have no cracks or frays
    Make sure brake chamber is secure with no dents or other damage
    Ensure slack adjusters is at 90 degrees when brakes are applied and has no more than 1 inch of play when released
    Make sure brake pads have at least 1/4" of pad and no signs of oil or grease on them
    Make sure brake drums are not cracked or damaged
    Check both inner rims for dents, cracks, or damage
    Check both inner sidewalls of tire for cuts, frays, or bulges
    Check both outer rims for dents, cracks, or damage
    Check both inner sidewalls of tire for cuts, frays, or bulges
    Check tops of tires for tread separation and at least 2/32" of tread
    Check between the tires for foreign objects. Our trucks have budd rims instead of spacers
    Check axle oil seal for leaks and make sure it is securely mounted
    Check lug nuts for tightness and any signs of streaking rust which may indicate they are loose
    Check valve stems for damage and make sure they have metal dust covers
    Check inflation with air gauge. Check for the manufacturers suggested pressure on the side of the tire. Should be 90 - 110 PSI
    REPEAT STEPS IF ANOTHER DRIVE AXLE IS EQUIPPED

    Fifth Wheel


    Make sure mounting plate is secured to the frame and is not missing any bolts
    Make sure platform is secure and not damaged
    Make sure the release arm is in the proper position and the safety is down
    Make sure upper and lower fifth wheel does not have a space between them
    Check the kingpin and shank from behind the tractor to ensure the locking jaws are around the shank of the kingpin

    SECTION 6

    Rear of the Tractor

    Make sure tractor frame and cross members are not bent or damaged
    Check to make sure (2) red reflectors are working, clean, and not broken
    Check to make sure (2) red lights are working, clean, and not broken
    Mud flaps are to be secure, both pads up, and the handle stowed
    Check trailer frame (Cross Members for damage)

    SECTION 7

    Side of Trailer

    Check for damages or holes along the side of the trailer
    Make sure amber lights and reflectors on the front and middle of the trailer are not damaged or broken
    Side indicator should be at a 45 degree angle and clean
    Make sure the placard is properly secured and the correct one is displayed
    Make sure door tie is secure
    Make sure red light and reflector at the end of the trailer are not broken or damaged
    Make sure sliding tandem is out and the release arm is in

    SECTION 8

    Trailer Tandem

    Check the spring mounts to make sure they are properly secured and free from damage
    Leaf springs should be properly aligned, none missing, and rust free. Rust could indicate a crack
    Torque rod is securely mounted and not bent, broken or damaged
    U-Bolts should be secured with 4 washers and nuts
    If the trailer is air ride, check the airbags for inflation, cracks, or leaks, and check the control arm for damage
    Check airlines for cracks and fray
    Make sure brake chamber is secure with no dents or other damage
    Slack adjuster should be at a 90 degree angle when the brakes are applied and have no more than 1 inch of play when released
    Brake pads should have at least 1/4" of pad and no signs of oil or grease on them
    Make sure brake drums are not cracked or damaged
    Check both inner rims for dents, cracks, or damage
    Check both inner sidewall for cuts, frays, or bulges
    Check both outer rims for dents, cracks, or damage
    Check both outer sidewall for cuts, fray, or bulges
    Check both tops of tires for tread separation and at least 2/32" of tread
    Check between tires for foreign objects. Our trucks do not have spacers but use budd rims
    Check lug nuts for tightness and signs of rust, which may indicate they are loose
    Check hub oil seals for signs of leaks. Make sure it has proper oil level
    Check valve stems for damage and have metal dust covers
    Check inflation with an air gauge. Check for the manufacturers suggested pressure on the side of the tire. Should be 90 - 110 PSI
    REPEAT THIS STEP FOR THE REAR TRAILER AXLE

    SECTION 9

    Back of Trailer

    All hinges should have pins and cotter pins
    Check for damage to doors
    Make sure door latches are secure at top and bottom and the handles are secure
    Seven (7) red lights, (2) two reflectors, and (1) one white tag light
    Make sure placard is properly secured and the correct one is displayed
    Make sure door tie is secure
    Make sure mud flaps are secure
    DOT Bumper is securely mounted and not bent or damaged

    SECTION 10

    Inside the Cab

    Put on seat belt, checking for proper operation
    Windshield is clean and not cracked, and rubber gasket is intact
    Mirrors are aligned and not damaged
    Test city horn, and test air horn (simulate)
    Clutch has no more than 1.5 inches of play
    Gearshift is working and in neutral
    Press clutch in to start engine. Make sure it is NOT in gear. Let clutch out slowly.
    Steering wheel has no more than 2" of free play on a 20" wheel
    Oil gauge is working between 40 - 60 PSI
    Water temperature gauge is working. Normal temperature is 170 to 195 degrees
    Voltmeter is between 12 and 14 volts
    Air supply gauges are between 100 and 125 PSI
    Fuel gauge matches leavel observed in tanks
    Windshield wipers / washers are working properly (simulate washer fluid)
    Indicator lights on dash are working - left and right turn signals, four way flashers, headlights, and high beams
    Heater, defroster, and air conditioners are working properly
    Perform a tug test by using the following steps
    Put transmission into 2nd gear and leave in gear
    Release parking brake (push in yellow knob), pull forward checking trailer brakes.\
    Pull yellow knob out
    Release trailer brakes (push in red knob), pull forward checking parking brake
    Push both red and yellow knobs in
    Pull forward and apply service brakes

    Brake Test

    Governor cut out - watch air pressure to build to between 120 and 125 PSI. Listen for air pressure release and stabilize
    Put transmission in 2nd gear and leave in gear
    With service brakes applied, turn off engine. Leave transmission in 2nd gear. Roll down window, release brake
    Applied brake test - (engine off) Watch your air gauges to make sure there is no more than a 3 PSI drop in air pressure in one minute for a single vehicle and no more than a 4 PSI drop in air pressure in one minute for a combination vehicle
    Turn key to ON postion. Make sure both valves are pushed in
    "Fan the brakes or pump down" the air pressure to verify that the low air warning buzzer and / or light is activated at approximately 60 PSI
    "Fan" the brakes again until the air pressure drops far enough for the brake valves to pop out
    Verify that both brake valves pop out between 40 and 20
    Take transmission out of gear, restart engine

    Required Documentation

    Driver's Vehicle Inspection Report (D.V.I.R) is up to date
    Driver's Trip Report is current
    A copy of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulation Handbook (FMCSR)
    I.C.C. Operating Authority Card is current
    Proof of Insurance is current
    Accident report is present
    Emergency Response Guidebook (within arms reach)
    Hazardous Materials Registration is current
    International Fuel Tax Agreement is current and sticker displayed on tractor
    Log Book is current to last change of duty status

    Show examiner your current CDL Class A Permit and USDOT medical exam card

    PRE-TRIP INSPECTION STUDY KEY

    If the items you are looking at are made of _____________ you must check for the following damage

    METAL - Cracks, dents, or bends

    RUBBER - Cuts, frays, or bulges

    LIQUID OR AIR - Leaks, cuts, or holes

    Each time you check a part, use the key points above along with the study guide to explain specific types of damage you are checking each item for.
     
    Last edited: Oct 3, 2011
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  3. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

    13,081
    45,332
    Nov 18, 2008
    CA...gold discovery foothills
    0
    Someone is not having any fun at Band Camp!:biggrin_2557:

    I guess you think everything should be handed to you or your hand should be held at each topic!:biggrin_25513:

    This isn't an industry to be taken lightly....thousands of lives are at stake every minute you are behind the wheel of a big rig! Grow up and pay attention.....you just might learn something!:biggrin_2558:
     
    Gizmo_Man, Menehune and Tazz Thank this.
  4. dloving8915

    dloving8915 Light Load Member

    213
    68
    Sep 18, 2010
    Dallas, Texas
    0
    and what is more funny is he says the bed at the hotel is not comfortable... wait til he get to sleep in his truck
     
    Gizmo_Man and otherhalftw Thank this.
  5. otherhalftw

    otherhalftw R.I.P.

    13,081
    45,332
    Nov 18, 2008
    CA...gold discovery foothills
    0
    Not positive....but I think getting in the Mentor truck is not in the options.....he begins his rant in "past tense"....methinks he is no longer at Band Camp!:biggrin_25521:
     
  6. tinytank

    tinytank Bobtail Member

    19
    5
    Apr 4, 2011
    the sticks
    0
    I mean not to sound negative or pick on this guy, but this guy seems a bit down (Needs a hug, eh?). :mhissyfit:

    this sounds a lot like Job Corps to me, which really isn't all that hard to survive and learn in to start with as long as you stay about your business.

    Here's the thing, pal. The company cannot hold your hand, they cannot afford to do so. If they enroll you in the program after you get your PERMIT, they believe that you can hack it with no hand holding and are willing to give you a chance to prove them right.

    It's tough, YES. BUT, as these guys have said, Trucking is Serious business. A lot can go wrong, and people can and will get hurt or worse if something goes far enough south. CDL training is NOT a vacation.

    'Nuff said. (without going too long-winded and getting to the point of hurting feelings)
     
    Gizmo_Man Thanks this.
  7. Okieron

    Okieron Crusty Okie

    1,641
    1,024
    Dec 23, 2009
    muskogee, ok
    0
    WOW ! needs to chill and learn a bit about the lifestyle first.
     
    Gizmo_Man Thanks this.
  8. The Challenger

    The Challenger Kinghunter

    7,127
    3,367
    Dec 22, 2007
    East Central FL
    0
    I will add some information that the OP failed to post: Swift will pay for your bus ticket home if the following occurs: You fail the DOT physical or you get booted out. Drivers are supposed to switch out every 15min per John (if hes still there) and Dee and David Mays, the head range master. Even Kenny said that. Swift will transport you to Memphis Intl or Greyhound station if you decide to go home.

    KH
     
    Rollr4872, dloving8915 and tinytank Thank this.
  9. Swift2012

    Swift2012 Bobtail Member

    3
    9
    Oct 3, 2011
    0
    Anyone else attend Swift Academy?
     
  10. The Challenger

    The Challenger Kinghunter

    7,127
    3,367
    Dec 22, 2007
    East Central FL
    0
    I did attend but was sent home.

    KH
     
  11. kb3bzy

    kb3bzy Light Load Member

    170
    54
    Oct 5, 2010
    Oreland PA
    0
    October 8 2011





    Hello Group:


    I have to see what this SWIFT Driving Academy program is really all about. I have heard so many Good things about It from at least 10 people that I have met personally, at the SWIFT Orientation and then here in Millington. They have all raved on about It. One student said that It was one of the best experiences of his life. A few of the older people at the Orientation were trying to get in to SWIFT because their familys were broken up and they just needed a steady job and a steady income so they just decided to compromise for whatever OTR has to offer them.

    I myself have taken a Truck School class without the classroom, (because I got my permit and all of my endorsements beforehand), on the weekends for about 11 Months and then I had a Good quality 2 Months with the FFE codriving and then another Month to 3 Months with Werner doing codriving and paperwork. I kind of know all about the Pretrip inspection check points and all of that so It should'nt be hard for me, but I am praying for the other people in the class who have never heard about or had the opportunity to do any driving yet.

    It is a rather steep learning curve, but If You are Safe to begin with You can do It if You keep trying. It's all a matter of time and experience. I think that having some Motorcycle experience would help anybody in the CDL field. Keep Your recent DMVR clean, Your accidents to zero and Your DAC clean at the same time and there will be employment opportunities in doing any kind of CDL positions. The main reason for going into a CDL career should be Your employment security.

    One last observation about the SWIFT2012's posting: When You are operating a Class A vehicle and are planning to change lanes: CHECK ALL OF THE HOOD MOUNTED CONVEX MIRRORS first and then CHECK THE CONVEX MIRRORS mounted on the flat mirrors 2ND and then check the flat mirrors last. I had an excellent trainer at FFE, Curtis Qualls who brought me up to speed on this point. Another point would be about how to close the back doors, if they won't close and are O.K. basically, You have to close THE DOORS ON A LEVEL PLACE.

    You gentlemen can check out my postings on WikiAnswers about 45 degree parking and Blindside Parallel parking if You would like to. Be Safe!
     
    Myyshorty and beermooch67 Thank this.
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