I got my CDL license with a standard truck but I only drove a standard truck for the test. The job I have been in for 6 months only has automatic trucks. I got a job offer today but all there trucks are standard. I feel like I kinda forgot how to drive a standard truck. Should I give it a go still? I told the manager I might need to refresh a little and he was okay with it. I hope I learn how to power shift cuz I heard that’s a game changer. What do you guys think I should do.
First thing, never say power shift anywhere near a semi again. I assume you mean float or shift without the clutch?
Use the clutch. It's there for a reason. A lot of drivers that "float gears" are just shaving metal. JMO.
It’s like riding a bike. Within 2-3 days it’ll be second nature m.. remember your downshifts speeds (6,10,15,25,35,45) giver a rev and figure it out.. jamming and grinding gets old and you’ll figure it out fast
I was away from driving for over 11 years. That was 5 1/2 years ago. I got right back into it with no problems.
And a lot of us are still using the same transmission that was old 4 years ago no problem... (mine falls outta gear in 12th if my foot isnt in her and theres a broken tooth on reverse, but again thats how i got it with 400k on it already...) But generally yes at least learn to use the clutch as intended, then you can see if floating makes sense for you.
That's all I'm saying. "If you're gonna float gears, then do it right". And using the clutch doesn't make a trucker's willie any shorter.....
Find out what the trans is a play stupid. If its a 10 just say you’ve only shifted a 13 and are not familiar with it. There have been 8 to 10 different model 10 speeds and shift patterns for them over the years so you or I not knowing wouldn’t be to far fetched. Heck there are 6 different 13 speed patterns over its 50 year history as well.
