Backing

That's a really good way of thinking about it.

 

It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I have backed many a small trailer on my pickup and obviously all the same physics are involved. The one thing that was different and perhaps the only thing that gave me a little difficulty, was how blind one side or another becomes, that is something you don't really have with a boat or 10ft enclosed trailer. Once I got used to trusting what I COULD see and being able to judge the cones according to how close I was on the inside cone, it came pretty easy. My instructor said I caught on very quickly, and after performing the straight back, offset, and 90 degree alley dock, about 5 times each with great success, we were already heading out onto the road. We were in a single axle freightliner with a 6 speed and 32ft trailer. On the road drive the only thing that really threw me off were the air brakes, a whole different feel there! since this truck had a synchronized transmission it was like shifting a car. I will get my opportunity on the 10 speed (unsynchronized) after some more time in the little truck. All in all it was a good experience, looking forward to hitting the backing range again first thing on Monday morning!

 

Of course its challenging! You are backing a 53' trailer in which you have no experience in doing so. Its going to take a bit before you are comfortable in doing so. Usually after you upgrade and get you're own truck and are on your own it takes a good three to four months before you are really comfortable out there with all of your skills. I can guarantee though once you finish school and are out that very first day with your trainer, after 11 hours of driving that day you will be a hell of a lot more comfortable being in that truck. If its possible and you have a little extra time here and there during training have your trainer take you to a parking lot in which you can practice your manuevers. Try to get as much backing practice in as possible and this will make you even more comfortable with your skills.

There are also many little tricks and tips that you can pick up during school and training to help you. Use whatever you find the best to help you. Most important, when doing so try to relax and really take your time.

Good luck man... it will come in time.

 

i always found it so interesting how different phrases and explanations *click* for different people. "steer toward your problem" never meant much to me, but it was helpful for others. interestingly my EUREKA moment during my first couple days of backing was when my instructor said "just get yer tractor flat with yer trailer and wiggle 'er on in there" lol. for some reason the mental image of "wiggling" it in there really stuck with me and i can always hear that crusty ole man when i'm backing now.

 

One of the things that stuck with me and helped me I actually read here in these forums. When backing, place your hand on the bottom of the steering wheel (6 o'clock) and move the wheel in the direction you want the back of your trailer to go in.

 

I said that. I don't know if I ever put it here, but I used to train my students that way.

Another thing, don't get too over confident. Backing on a closed range with beat up trailers trucks and cones is good for learning.... but when you get your company truck, parking in between two beautiful Pete's that some dude paid 150k for while you have four or five trucks waiting for you you to get outta the way, hollering at you on the radio... it gets nerve racking. Just stay calm, take your time, and forget everyone else.

 

When new I'd also recommend asking for multiple stop loads. This will help you develop the most needed skill the quickest, backing. Hitting a dock every couple of days will take more time than 2-10 a day.

 

That is the thing that makes me the most nervous for when I finally get out there. I'm already thinking about trying to incorporate my trip planning to include getting the the truck stops early as to avoid the big crowds lol