Training, manual/automatic?

Discussion in 'US Xpress' started by Wild Murphy, Jul 10, 2014.

  1. Wild Murphy

    Wild Murphy HAPPY TRUCK DRIVER

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    I heard that US Express has a lot of automatics. My question is: if I go out with a trainer will I be driving a manual or an automatic? Will I have a choice? Then when I team for eight weeks with another new driver, auto or manual? Then when I go solo, do I get a choice? Will someone please clarify this for me. I probably want an auto when I go solo but it is not necessary.
     
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  3. Redbeard93

    Redbeard93 Light Load Member

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    i believe almost all of their fleet is autos like 95% i think but the wiser guys know more then me
     
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  4. cabwrecker

    cabwrecker The clutch wrecker

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    Learning how to drive stick is no real issue.
    If you can't pickup manual trans you're not gonna be able to do a lot of other things in this job.

    Just be open and willing to learn, with the most basic sense of rhythm and timing and you can do it. Look at swift drivers for Christs sake.
     
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  5. BigBluePeter

    BigBluePeter Heavy Load Member

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    Its the luck of the draw. Mine is a 10 speed stick.
     
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  6. RedPrince

    RedPrince Light Load Member

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    It's whatever they give you. No choice on training or after. Whatever kind of truck your trainer has is what u learn on and whatever the equipment manager has available is what you will drive. I also have a 10 speed manual
     
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  7. CrappieJunkie

    CrappieJunkie Wishin' I was fishin'

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    Autos suck. I'd rather have my 10 speed anyday
     
  8. Wild Murphy

    Wild Murphy HAPPY TRUCK DRIVER

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    I already have a pre-hire with Crete who only have manuals. Since I am hearing it is luck of the draw concerning manual or auto with US Xpress, I will look at which company appeals best to me. To the guys that think driving stick makes you more of a man, you keep thinking that if that's what makes you feel good about yourself. I'm driving to make a living for my family. I'm also gonna be as comfortable as possible. For example, Crete doesn't allow inverters but US Express allows up to 1700 watts. If I get to have a fridge and a microwave but have to drive auto then so be it.
     
  9. BigBluePeter

    BigBluePeter Heavy Load Member

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    Its not about feeling like being a man. Its about having better control of your truck.
     
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  10. CrappieJunkie

    CrappieJunkie Wishin' I was fishin'

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    I started with Crete, they aren't bad pay wise. Only thing going for them. Only reason I hate autos is not as much control of truck with auto than manual. Also harder to back up without clutch to make tiny movements. Once you get out there you will know what I mean. Good luck in whatever you decide
     
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  11. Wild Murphy

    Wild Murphy HAPPY TRUCK DRIVER

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    I can drive manual with no problems. An issue i do have is being 6'3 with a size 15 foot. When my left leg comes of the clutch it is still depressed almost an inch, so I have to delay a little longer when accelerating making my transition less smooth than I would like it to be. I have my seat all the way back and my steering wheel adjust but my leg still presses against the door when pulling off the clutch. The thought of an auto removes this issue.
     
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