Comments By Mark D.

Thanks again for all the tips Guys, I appreciate it. Brett you lay out the formula in a way to learn it quite easily so Thanks for that. An app like you're talking would definitely be helpful, I will start with creating my own little cheats/tips on some index cards. Thanks again guys. Mark

I am on the Weight and Balance section of the High Road Training Program. Just had a quick question about the Fuel weights. I am curious if there is or if anyone has an info. Sheet made up regarding the fuel weight formula?? Or should I just create my own with the formulas Brett has given in the Training Programm? Thanks, I appreciate it. Mark

Thanks Old School, yeah a buddy of mine told me I need to get a DC to AC power inverter. Or a 12 volt direct to PC power source the reason he explained was because it is not good for the laptop long term. The power inverters don't seem to be real expensive so I think I will pick one of those up. Mark

Just curious if I need any special adapters or charges to bring my Laptop Computer and Smartphone with when Trucking?? or does my normal charges cover this for me? Thanks for the info. Mark

Thanks Guys, I didn't think I would have any issues with the HOS but wanted to make sure. Yes, the school is having us fill out our log books and keep track of our time and miles. It definitely helps with learning how to fill out the book correctly. Thanks again, I appreciate it. Mark

I am presently in CDL School, does the HOS rules apply to me as well during this training time? Or can I attend and drive 7 days a week without any issues. We take turns driving through 3 - 4 students maybe an hour or so behind the wheel before we switch drivers. otherwise we may be working on our skills in the truck yard. Thanks for any info you can give me. Mark

Thanks Brett, I appreciate it. Today was much better than yesterday as far as the driving we did. The instructor took us to a old closed down k-mart parking lot and had us practice our straight line backing. On the course in the yard and testing the lane is 12 feet wide and the lanes in the parking lot are only 10. Dang, that 2 feet don't seem like much until your in a big truck. lol we did great staying in the lines so I was happy with that. My shifting was much better today then yesterday so overall very satisfied with today. Thanks again for the positive comments, I appreciate it very much. Mark

Thanks for this post Guy, it definitely gives us something to think about for sure. I personally am training with a private school which worked out better for me. I am not at all saying it is any better or worse than a company sponsored school. My Wife and I are in a position that I could pay cash out of pocket for my training. I have 3 pre hire letters from different trucking companies and all 3 will reimburse me for my training on a monthly bases once I am driving for them. So that to me is also a good deal. just an fyi, and thanks again for this post and the info. Mark

Thanks Starcar, yeah I have heard a few guys talking about the whole double clutching. You're right about confusing me, there is a lot of stuff to think about and remember and YES it will get better/easier with time. I have taken in a lot of information the past few days and most of it is sticking but then again a lot is so new and foreign but also exciting on the same note. I enjoy learning something new so I am enjoying each new thing that comes up. Mark

I just have to say after today I have a whole new respect for Truck Drivers. Yesterday was my first day of training at the truck yard. I got started with Pre-trip Inspection, AZ 4 point Brake and the straight backing. Today I continued on with Pre Trip Inspection and Brake tests and also the drop and hook. Then the Instructor said he's going to show us the Parallel Parking, tried it for about 15 minutes and just couldn't hit my marks, got out and talk with the Instructor and glad I did because the next try I hit every mark and parked the truck exactly where it should be. Next we went on to Off Set backing, this was a bit easier for me to pick up. After lunch i was able to practice my off set backing for a couple hours and since there was 2 Instructors we were able to take two trucks out with 4 students. I got to drive for my first time ever and I have to say the whole double clutching and floating the gears to down shift will take some serious getting used to. For my first time out I think I did ok and I feel I will get the hang of this with lots more practice. Just wanted to share my first couple days of training on the trucks. I will be back tomorrow morning to continue learning. Like I said I have a whole new respect for all you professional drivers out there and thanks for all the info your willing to share with us greenhorns. Mark