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Very new driver with fear

Discussion in 'The Welcome Wagon' started by MoverMover, Apr 10, 2015.

  1. Apr 10, 2015 #1
    MoverMover

    MoverMover Bobtail Member

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    Apr 10, 2015
    0
    I've been in the moving business for a few years and feel comfortable with thE in's and outs. I csn move furniture, talk to the customer, lead a crew, pad, load, pack etc. This stuff I know. What I'm new to, is driving....

    My company wants me to become a full driver. I started with smaller, automatic Internationals and Freightliners with air breaks. Class D trucks in WV essentially.

    A few days ago I got my class B CDL permit. The only problem is... my company is a "learn by doing" company which I guess could be a good thing, but they lack with hands on training.

    Tomorrow they're putting me in an old '91 International 6 speed (17,000 lb class D truck) that I do not feel comfortable in yet, and I don't really have the option of saying "I'm not there yet". Truthfully, I'm scared. I have questions on downshifting that I don't know exactly where to post at. I have questions about proper rpms etc.

    Is there any advice for the "sink or swim" approach to learning to drive a truck lol ?
     
    MoverMover, Apr 10, 2015
    MoverMover, Apr 10, 2015
    #1
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  3. Apr 10, 2015 #2
    cnsper

    cnsper Road Train Member

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    With a permit you must have a licensed class B cdl holder or higher with you when you drive. Since he has to be there with you ask him/her how to drive the dang thing. Sounds to me you would drive it like a pickup.

    Remember, with a permit you CANNOT drive it without a fully licensed driver in the passenger seat.
     
    cnsper, Apr 10, 2015
    cnsper, Apr 10, 2015
    #2
  4. Apr 12, 2015 #3
    RetiredUSN

    RetiredUSN Medium Load Member

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    Jan 9, 2015
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    It's not that big of a deal. The turning radius will be different, and you will have to learn to shift. Is it the DT series? If so,.......not a bad truck to drive. It will be second nature with a little wheel time.

    No worries!
     
    RetiredUSN, Apr 12, 2015
    RetiredUSN, Apr 12, 2015
    #3
  5. Apr 12, 2015 #4
    Landstar412709

    Landstar412709 Bobtail Member

    17
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    Apr 8, 2015
    New Marshfield,Ohio
    0
    Sounds to me like its the size of a large U-Haul. Either way it sounds like a straight truck with synchronized gears. Just drive it like a pick up like the first Driver said.
     
    Landstar412709, Apr 12, 2015
    Landstar412709, Apr 12, 2015
    #4
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