Just purchased a 48 flatbed split axle. Chains and Straps?

All I’m saying is that a test neither teaches you anything nor ensures you’re capable of doing the job. I stand by my statement that I could get about anyone to pass a test. The problem with these tests and such is it’s just an inconvenience to those who can do it and then when it doesn’t help they’ll want a stricter policy. As far turning people loose without training that’s exactly what they did until the early 90’s, I didn’t study one bit. I stopped at the BMV took the test and left, nothing about it made me safe or qualified.

 

I have a friend that is border line genius. He could read any book, pass any written test youd ever give to him. Extremely smart.

I've let him read some of my CAT engine and Eaton transmission manuals because he wanted to learn about engines and transmissions. So, he reads them. I ask him questions. Hes got it down pat. He could literally TELL you anything youd ever wanna know to diagnose or fix one.

As soon as he touches a wrench, screwdriver ratchet or sockets, Its over. He couldn't fix a dam wheelbarrow. Point is, a stupid written test dont mean jack. You either got it or can learn it, or you dont. Common sense and actually understanding physics is the main player here, not memorizing a 25 question test. That's gonna basically do nothing but waste time.

 

So where does one "learn" WLLs without a hands on "trainer" and how do we know they know them? You all are missing the point. According to ya'll we should just forget about endorsements and any other sort of testing requirements because they aren't hands on. I totally agree that hands on is best BUT we don't have that and getting a written test/endorsement would be better than nothing.

 

I fully endorse getting rid of endorsements, the doubles/triples, tank and hazmat taught me nothing about any of them. You’re not going to learn anything from a test.

 

Ummm no, I think you are missing the point. It's called homework. These days we have the internet at our disposal, If you really wanna learn, if you really care about what job you're getting ready to take on, do your homework.

I guarantee most of the newbies that would take that test wouldn't remember atleast 80% of it in the following weeks. You're giving far to much credit to people getting into an industry that's turned into a revolving door for many.

If they really wanna learn, they will ask an old timer, or get on the net and start reading. Not head down to the BMV for an endorsement.

 

I agree. Get rid of endorsements. Some of the guys I've seen hauling propane and anhydrous definitely prove that the hazmat endorsement means absolutely NOTHING.

 

The test shows you read and understood the material. The material breaks it all down for someone with no hands on training option. I'm flabbergasted you think just anyone without the slightest amount of evidence of knowledge is acceptable. To each is own but I'm certainly glad this isn't something that left up to you to decide. Hey! Maybe you're on to something here. Let's do away with driver's licensing entirely. Just because someone can parallel park doesn't mean they're qualified, right?! Anyone can read a book and practice a maneuver.

 

YEAH! HOMEWORK! But how do we know they did ANY sort of said homework without a knowledge test? Sorry. I'm not willing to trust that someone went to an "Old Timer" and learned. I want documented evidence that you have an understanding of the basics before you start securing loads. No different than a Learner's Permit. Read. Learn the basics. Take a written test to show you've done your "homework". Get put on the road with someone who already has a license and practice. Then go prove you skills and take the driving test to get the full license.

 

LOL.

Hey fyi, they still dont have an open deck endorsement. Theres alot of guys that didnt know squat bout trucks, trucking, or open deck work. They did their homework put forth some testicular fortitude and learned.

Some of best guys I've ever seen run a truck down the road started when they were 16, 17 ,18 early 20s and didnt go to a school of any kind. Matter of fact, alot of us here did not go to a trucking school.

It's all about the man and weather or not he wants to succeed. No 25 question test or endorsement is gonna instill that or prove they will succeed. Any book worm can pass a test.

 

I try to stay off of threads where the OP asks for help, but seemingly knows everything already. But I just want to point out to you the spirit of JD’s post.

The worst thing, the biggest problem in trucking is that the rules and regulations are written by people who don’t have the slightest clue of how to do the job.
Every cry and clamor for MORE regulation is asking for trouble. It’s like asking a hangman for a stronger rope.

“But Six, all they would have to do is do a written test on the current regs.”

What are the odds of OP losing his load and killing someone? What are the odds of the legislators screwing things up more? I will bet that OP gets it right before the legislators.