Got My CDL-A PA Permit Today (Yay!)

Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by fjrgerry, Jan 21, 2016.

  1. doglover44

    doglover44 Light Load Member

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    That's what scares me is asking the exmaner because your supposed to know what your doing
     
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  3. Chewbongka

    Chewbongka Light Load Member

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    After you you spent some time going over the pretrip have a friend help you out with checking off all the items. Basically do the pretrip from memory like you are taking the test and the friend checks off items you missed on the pretrip list. I did this a few times with another student in my class and it made remembering the list a lot easier.
     
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  4. lfod14

    lfod14 Road Train Member

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    Sounds like your not screwing around, good! But don't get so in your head that it becomes an issue. Stay relaxed and you'll be fine. Don't worry about the new standards, if your school does it's job you'll be fine.
     
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  5. RMU91

    RMU91 Light Load Member

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    I find that "pre-tripping" my car is helping me. When I approach the vehicle, I look at the general condition of the car. I look for damage. I look for leaks. I look for leans that could indicate a problem with the suspension or a shifted load. I look for leaks, obstruction, and potential hazards.

    Also, when I open the hood, I check all the fluids (oil coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, etc).

    But, that's just me and how I am preparing for the skills test.

    Good luck to you, fjrjerry... As well as everyone who reads this. Stay safe!!!
     
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  6. fjrgerry

    fjrgerry Light Load Member

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    Thanks for the support and recommendations - I like using my car as a practice vehicle, and teaming up is a great idea. I've thought about asking one of the local trucking companies if I can practice the external pre-trip inspections as well, but I'm not at that point yet.
     
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  7. RMU91

    RMU91 Light Load Member

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    Oh, one more thing, fjr... Be careful using TT's material: Pennsylvania's CDL Manual changed 12/22/2015.

     
  8. fjrgerry

    fjrgerry Light Load Member

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    Dec 30, 2015
    Philadelphia suburbs
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    Yes, it's helpful though in that it has the recommended text on what to say to the examiner as well. I'm not memorizing it, just getting familiar with parts & process for now. I think I'll make my own inspection form based off the PA 7 step method as well.

    I just finished reading over it again before making this post.

    http://www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/D...mercial Drivers Manual/Vehicle_Inspection.pdf
     
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  9. RMU91

    RMU91 Light Load Member

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    Excellent, fjrgerry. And, thanks for the link.
     
  10. street beater

    street beater Road Train Member

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    Its not that you dont know what your doing. "Mr instructor, at this time im going to check my lights, it will take less time if you help, if not im fine with that." Just make sure you have something to hang on the jonny valve, or put on the brake pedal.
     
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