Getting the pre trip down packed

Very good tip. On the exterior if you always go the same way around the truck. Same thing on the inside: e.g. Look at the top of the cab above the windshield and work your way down. You don't really have to memorize, just look at the truck in the same order (top down, or counter clockwise on the outside, etc) and your eyes will automatically prompt you what is next.

 

The key to a solid pre-trip is to have a routine and follow it. Start at the drivers door and work back, covering everything as you go. Back of the trailer, lights etc. up the right side to the front. Lights etc. and you are back to the drivers door. Done. It is really a no brainer following this pattern. As you work back, do not forget to stoop under and check that your 5th wheel is locked.

 

well couldn't you also practice on your own car/truck I know they don't have all the same parts but things like brakes drums brakelines steering wipers and things like that

 

Break it down into sections. I actually do mine first under hood. Then start from left front. Then up to cab/ glass/ door/ fuel tank/ frame, etc, and work your way around the truck, tires, brakes, lights, etc.

Master each part of the exterior first, and do it over and over again in the same order. Then concentrate on inside of the cab, especially the air brake test.

As the other guys have said, use the exact same routine every time. Relax, and keep practicing. You'll be fine

 

well im like the other guy I will have to drive miles to get to my school and there is no trucks around me so what you guys suggest then ?

 

You have the book, and you said it yourself. Use your own personal vehicle. The one thing that your personal vehicle lacks if AIR BRAKES. All other systems are there.
Cooling, heating, wipers, lights, fans, belts, hoses, tires /wheels, windows, mirrors, interior\exterior body panels and lights. Seats and seat belts.......
Practice on your own stuff.....it will help.
Pay attention at school, to everything that the instructor says.

 

lots of good input. all I can add is that in my area the phrase is "down pat".

I have no idea where it came from.

Mikeeee

 

Thanks for clearing that up for him. And me. Now I can sleep tonight.

 

No charge!

Mikeeee

 

Do u have cell phone take pictures or use mental pictures if you done pretrip enough something should be retained the word is visualize what your seeing on paper worked for me besides most of us that get our own truck don't do an extensive pretrip