Trying to find a good GPS

I think you are misunderstanding what I said. To begin with, I don't use my GPS for routing, and I certainly didn't advise that in my post. My company gives me the route they want me to use, and I follow that. Before doing so, I use an atlas to make sure the company route is not sending me on any restricted roads or any low bridges, etc. While on the road, I also use a GPS to help me on the way. It's a way of double checking the route my company gives me. Many times, the GPS recommends a different route than the one the company gave. In that situation, the company route is what I follow. My company also gives me local directions to shippers and consignees. When they do not provide those, I make the phone call for directions. The GPS is a backup that reinforces the information I have. I wasn't trying to be a jerk about the "super trucker" comment. I understand that not all older, more experienced drivers who don't want to use a GPS are "super truckers". Some of them (and not the guys who posted in this thread) just come across with that attitude when they eschew the GPS as a helpful tool. I highly recommend the use of a GPS as an additional tool in helping you get where you need to go. I do not recommend it as a substitute for the traditional methods such as an atlas/map, phone call, etc.

 

Critters, I apologize if I offended you or anyone else in this thread personally. My post was not directed at anyone who posted here. I only wish I had a tenth of your knowledge. Unfortunately, with only 2 years on the road, I don't. For me, the GPS is something that has been a big help, and I highly recommend it to others who, like myself, do not have the miles and years of experience under their belts like you do.

 

my input and personal thoughts are misinformation? I dont use one dont feel I need it,if it works for you and you like then use it. to many drivers soley relay on those thinking they are acrute and get into trouble..but what do I know... some one else thinks I'm a super trucker because I use an atlas.

 

you didnt offend me no worries, most of the younger generation just don't understand the old school ways. As for knowledge,if you keep an open mind and good attitude we are more happy to share.

 

They still use tree bark!

A wise trucker knows how to integrate all resources into one. Just because there are some dummies that punch and go doesn't mean that's how everyone uses a GPS. Those type people still hammer nails with the handle. They are a very handy tool if used correctly. But you learn the basics first and add the GPS last to your knowledge base. Hence, don't put the cart in front of the horse. The drivers that rely solely on a GPS get in trouble.

I can say with a GPS programmed by known directions from the driver, getting lost and being late has dropped to nearly zero.

Look down in the Electronic Connection forum. There are 500 threads on the same topic.

 

The Rand McNally GPS is relying on the same restricted route data found in the Rand McNally Motor Carriers Atlas.

As others have said it is a tool. Nothing more nothing less. If you arrive safely and on time you have used your tools wisely and effectively.

I was a young buck of 18 and about to start driving tractor trailers solo in Germany. This was 1980, my first run out my Squad leader asked me if i spoke German, when I said no, he handed me an atlas and said "I suggest you learn to read this"... so I did.

I have my atlas... and I have my GPS, Rand McNally that even gives me the page number of the atlas that is is using at the moment so I can verify.

Just tools, it's simply a personal preference as to which ones to use.

 

I've seen too many drivers who rely solely on gps. My personal opinion is there is no such thing as a good gps. I suggest new drivers hone their skills with an atlas and calling for local directions, using a truck stop book, etc before they start using a gps. THEN a gps can be a useful tool. But if you start out using a gps then you will never really learn. The highway system ends up becoming one long gray ribbon you follow on a little screen.

 

don't need a GPS to tell me if I'm speeding and before I'm low on hours I already know where the stops are.

How?

proper trip planning. have a little $5 truck stop and rest area guide book.

Oh,and traffic jams?

My old trusty 1994 Cobra 29, helps there.

 

I have used the garmin,cobra and rand mcnally truck specific gps units. I have found the rand mcnally is the best by far. Just remember it is only one more tool to help you. Still do your preplanning ahead of time and dont rely on any one source.

 

Whatever does the job I guess. I try to do all of those things too, and hopefully I'm gradually improving as a driver. Once I get in as many miles as you have I'll probably be a lot better off. As for now I find the GPS to be a helpful tool. Whatever gets you through safely is great I guess. I hope my "super trucker" comment didn't offend you either. It wasn't aimed at you or anyone in this thread. Also, a HUGE THANKS to you for your service to our country. I know it's because of guys like you that I currently enjoy the freedom to drive a truck or have any other career I choose. Ooh-rah!!!