Can anyone near Melbourne,FL assist me with Alley Docking?

Discussion in 'Ask An Owner Operator' started by trucker_411, Apr 11, 2018.

  1. trucker_411

    trucker_411 Bobtail Member

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    Apr 11, 2018
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    Hello everyone,

    :( I failed my maneuvers test today; specifically Alley Docking. I completed the Straight Line Backing and Offset without a problem.

    As it relates to the Alley Dock, I understand whats required to get the trailer within 10 feet of the box (the set-up). My problem is backing and pulling forward so that I can get the trailer in the box without encroaching upon the yellow line. I am unable to gauge whats required to position the trailer toward the inside of the box. I'm having a difficult time understanding when to turn my wheel, how much to turn my wheel and what direction to turn my wheel when trying to put the trailer in the box.

    Are there any drivers in the Melbourne, FL area that can assist me with a practice instruction session? If not, can anyone assist me with any information that will help me conquer the Alley Dock maneuver?

    :) I appreciate it! Thanks In Advance! :)
     
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  3. fatmike02

    fatmike02 Light Load Member

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    Who’s truck you using for the tests? How come that guy won’t help you?
     
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  4. trucker_411

    trucker_411 Bobtail Member

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    I am using the school's tractor and trailer. The instructors at the school are assisting me. However, I don't feel as though I'm getting the instruction that I need. The questions that I have are not being answered in a manner that I feel will assist me in conquering the Alley Dock maneuver. I also think that since there has not been consistency in training, due to training with numerous instructors who all have different ways of instructing me on how to conquer the Alley Dock, it has become confusing for me to grasp the appropriate reasoning behind what they are yelling at me to do.
     
  5. dunchues

    dunchues Medium Load Member

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    Likely you're not getting it because of the yelling. For me that would bring on a red mist attack and put concentration out of my mind. You might be better asking them to calm down and speak reasonably as their point is being missed amongst the noise.
     
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  6. trucker_411

    trucker_411 Bobtail Member

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    It's not abusive yelling. The problem I'm having is not receiving clear instruction. Instead of them telling me to turn the wheel right or left, they should be telling me when, why and how does the direction of the wheel turning affect the movement of the trailer. I also need more time to practice on my own and learn from my mistakes. I need good instruction and practice.
     
    Last edited: Apr 11, 2018
  7. fatmike02

    fatmike02 Light Load Member

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    Sorry you are having that experience at a school.
     
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  8. trucker_411

    trucker_411 Bobtail Member

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    Thanks! Eventually, I'll get it together. Thanks for replying!
     
  9. Siinman

    Siinman Road Train Member

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    YouTube can be a great help if instructors are not helpful.
     
  10. Ezrider_48501

    Ezrider_48501 Road Train Member

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    think of it as if you were backing up a long car only your long car is the trailer, your drive tires are your front tires on the car drive the trailer in worry about where the front of the truck is second.
     
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  11. Ezrider_48501

    Ezrider_48501 Road Train Member

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    i think the way most school teach backing is wrong, turn the wheel this much this way and that much that way yadda yadda blah blah does you no good. it may get you in the hole on that exact maneuver to pass your test but you really need to learn to drive the trailer not the truck.

    for passing your test if you can get the back of your trailer part way into the hole you should be able to use one of your pull ups pull all the way forward as far as your allowed to go. get completely straight to the spot and straightness back it in.
     
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