Packing List for Students

Absolutely.

The baby step to floating is to "single clutch" to get out of gear, then float into the next. I do that anyway when pulling grades or coming down a grade, since it's hard to get out of gear in those situations.

I originally learned to float only. Getting back into trucking it was a bit of a learning curve to double clutch, which I then did exclusively for the first few months solo. Then I started floating a little. Now I float most of the time and double clutch as needed, depending on the situation.

 

If you learn to do it you won't forget it. Kind of like riding a bicycle .I have had to use it several times over the years when a clutch gave up and I had to get somewhere safely. Just one of the many many skills you will acquire to make your journey to professional a bit easier.

 

I learned to float shift on my motorcycle when the clutch cable broke. As Gordon said, once you "get it", you won't forget it.

There are times where you will need to double clutch. If you are on a slight down grade and up against the speed limiter, you can't "bump" the throttle to get the transmission to disengage.

I know drivers that double clutch 100% of the time. I generally float because of arthritic knees...

 

Here is my take on floating the gears. Clutching is ok and at times necessary but floating the gears is =You don't wear out what you don't use.

 

Ok, experienced drivers out there; how much ca$h do you carry on you for the times when you need something and either the amount is too small to justify a card charge, or cards are not being accepted? Do you figure this amount based on a per day basis?

 

Up to $100 in the pocket each week. Usually I get cash back when purchasing food at a Walmart.

 

Do you really need to carry $100 in cash per day to use. It seems it would be safer to use a credit card.

 

Glad you had a good experience mcdiddy1
I plan to train soon if I can get out there and get going. I have to get things in order at home first so I can be gone.
I am new to all of this and a female but so far people in school have been supportive of me learning.
I am not the sharpest tool in the shed or the brightest crayon in the box but I can learn. What worries me is that I sometimes take a bit longer than most to catch onto things. I asked the recruiter about this and she said that was ok I can train for longer if need be.

I hope to get some good tips from here and to pack light and smart like you did. I have seen some people show up with 10 bags and this is far too much to take. I have been told I can bring laundry soap and do laundry while out.
I suspect some things might be able to be worn more than once. Its hard to remember every little thing you might need its not like at home where you can go and get something. I am not so keen on packing a first aid kit but they all say to and this might come in handy. I am still unclear about how much money to take and in what from, credit cards or cash.

 

Lets say if you can't learn how to float is it ok to just stick with clutching.
Whats better for the truck. Whats better for the driver.

 

Yup, sure is. Most big companies don't want you floating anyway. I'm sure most everybody does float though. I may have missed it, but where did you apply to work?