Trying to get a job driving doubles for a LTL company. I've been driving for almost 14 years but never doubles. I got the endorsement on my license. My question is, for my road test will I have to hook up the set? I was hoping to get some training since I have never come close to a doubles.
Doubles and Triples
Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by rtn33, Jul 4, 2012.
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I think that would depend on company policy. When I drove for overnight they did my road test with a single pup. I told them I had never hooked a set so they had me watch the other drivers hook up their sets to learn how it was done.
rtn33 Thanks this. -
I worked for an LTL company and most of the people who came and tested out had never pulled doubles either (I guess it's because local LTL companies tend to keep their drivers). So, I wouldn't worry about it; they'll show you.......it's really not that hard and therefore, not that big of a deal. Good luck.
rtn33 Thanks this. -
Most companies road test you with a single trailer and leave it to you to figure out how to hook up/break down a set. It's not that hard to get the hang of it, just remember that it's a whole different ball game going down the road with that second trailer.
rtn33 Thanks this. -
I highly doubt you will have to hook up your own set but if you do it is not that hard. Remember this, pulling doubles does and a couple of things, the first is it is like a 53 footer that bends in the middle and secondly, that back box will blow over as well as slide on the ice much easier than a long van.......Good Luck
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Thanks guys for the help. All i've done is dry bulk tankers and containers so this is new to me. I'm anxious and nervous at the same time. I know I can do the job but something this strange to me could be challenging.
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It's not hard rtn. Set your dolly in front of the second trailer as close as possible. Go get your second trailer, back and hook to the dolly and then push under the second. Try to work on flat ground.
When turning, the second trailer will track the first. The rest you should be able to figure out.
I was lucky, I trained with a company that hauled doubles.
The LTL company I was a road driver with required everyone to have doubles/triples. Yet I was the only driver that had the endorsement at our terminal. Guess who got stuck pulling the doubles all the time? I'd say that happens at other companies too.rtn33 Thanks this. -
I worked for an LTL company a few years ago. I tested with a set of doubles. I had never hooked a set, so the guy that gave me my road test walked me through everything step by step. It served as as training as well.
rtn33 Thanks this. -
And don't look out the mirror too much when running........ the back pup swings by nature and you'll start chasing your tail. Looks like a snake going down the road if he's a rookie.
That's what the senior man told me.......oh! and never pull into a spot you have to back out of......
JMOrtn33 Thanks this. -
One more thing make sure to always put the heavier trailer in front.
rtn33 and CondoCruiser Thank this.
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