Auto vs Standard

think they pay will stay low regardless of transmission in the truck, the megas will be cheap

 

They have to pay less bc of the extra expense of the auto to begin with.

 

Depends on who you talk to. They are much more dependable today then they were 8 years ago. They have their place, but IMHO, they are primarily used to "idiot-proof" their high-dollar trucks. Eliminating the shifting problems many new drivers have is one less distraction to contend with. Plus, it "guarantees" a better MPG given the realization, many won't or don't know how to drive a manual the way they should be driven to maximize MPG.

But, I can't see autos being a key factor in keeping wages low[er] in the short term or the long term.

 

From what I understand, the newest generation of of smart shifts (autos) is not that much more expensive than a stick. (This coming from a few mechanics that have worked on both.) The megas use smart shifts so they can attract more drivers and have less wear and tear. (supposedly) But I will say that mine is starting to act up, but with over 300k miles on this trans. I think it's about time for a checkup so-to-speak.

As for pay, If the company is doing well, then there should be no reason to pay less just because of smart shift or not. The cost (IMO) is the same regardless of type.

 

How do you "drive the heck out of a auto "??

 

I have a job offer driving an auto in the north east part time for $.47 per mile. Without hazmat it would be $.45 per mile. I have two years experience driving part time. Regional van company with 90 tractors, all auto. No nyc for me, but other drivers go there....company believes auto frees up driver to focus more on traffic and safety, and I would agree.

Saw a Serta truck stuck under a bridge last week, that was 12' 8" high. It was an obviously old bridge in the middle of the day! Was he paying attention?

I am going in for a Wakefullness Test in two weeks to see how my sleep apnea is controlled by my bipap machine. I have a lot of health issues and barely passed the basic physical, but I have a squeaky clean background and they want to hire me.....and I can back up fairly well.

I can float gears once I get to know a truck, and the new autos are as good as the manuals. I have never seen a pay differential for driving a manual vs. an auto.....don't think we ever will.

 

Who is paying $.20 a mile. I have not seen any pay below $.30 a mile....or is that just a TN thing?