Today went horrible backing up so we could couple and uncouple the trailers. I know how to couple and uncouple, but getting the tractor just right and lining up the kingpin on the 102" trailers proved iffy when I was driving the manual freightliner. Lined up the kingpin perfectly the first time with the international auto, the second time was iffy as well.
I got nervous when the instructors jumped on the side of the truck( i didn't want to hurt them) to help guide me backing and essentially mini popped the clutch witch sent the instructors to quickly step down.
I have no issue letting the clutch out but I just got nervous when they stood on the side, I just wish they would let us work out these maneuvers before they come over and show us how they would do it.
I have issues backing up the manual freightliner because I am trying to watch my mirrors and feather the clutch so I can go slow enough to back up, so I am going to work on it some more and see what the instructors say about it. I watched the students from the other class A class, which are almost done with school and driving otr for the last few weeks, and they were backing up 53' trailers, and were having no issues going slow in reverse. I have no idea why its so hard to get my truck to do it when I am driving
We will see how tomorrow goes, I spoke with my 2 instructors and depending on how the 100ft straight line backing of the trailers go, I might just be bumped down to class B, dump trucks could be in my future, I don't want to give up though and will try my hardest at class A
Just drove for the first time, couple of reverse questions.
Discussion in 'Questions From New Drivers' started by 2500HDRob, Apr 9, 2012.
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I disagree that boots need to be worn while driving. I like the feel of sneakers when behind the wheel. Now, carry a good pair of boots in the truck with you (once you passes your test and am with a company) cause alot of places require boots, esp. steel mills, lumber yards, ect. But for driving i feel they are bulky, heavy and not nessecary when rolling down the road. Just my $.02
As far as your backing questions the other posters have put up some good info, but one that cannot be stressed enough is to GOAL. Get out and look as much as is needed to not hit anything. You can also piss off 4 wheelers in nyc by doing it alot at 6am on jamacia ave & 120th street. Guilty, but new yorkers need to learn to be more paitient for trucks backing down side streets
Glad to hear you are pumped about being behing the wheel. Enjoy it. Listen. Learn. Do well. We dont need any more steering wheel holders out here.Last edited: Apr 10, 2012
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Every month 400 people find a job with the help of TruckersReport.
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