In The Beginning...

Jo Anne commenting on Grumpy’s suggestion...

I think you would be better off watching some videos on shifting a 10 speed transmission, then learning at school.

I do not agree with the above statement if taken at total face-value.

Watching videos on shifting is only going to provide a conceptual overview and approach. Although it’s a good supplement, it is not a replacement for learning how-to shift under the watchful eye of an instructor like Errol.

There is no shortcut or substitute for practice and repetition. Experience is the best and most consistent teacher. Same holds true for learning PTI, backing, and highway operation.

Even the good videos are not a substitute for hands-on instruction.

Oh, absolutely, I meant before she goes to school or training, just to have an idea of the process, not as a replacement for proper training.

Jo Anne commenting on Grumpy’s suggestion...

I think you would be better off watching some videos on shifting a 10 speed transmission, then learning at school.

I do not agree with the above statement if taken at total face-value.

Watching videos on shifting is only going to provide a conceptual overview and approach. Although it’s a good supplement, it is not a replacement for learning how-to shift under the watchful eye of an instructor like Errol.

There is no shortcut or substitute for practice and repetition. Experience is the best and most consistent teacher. Same holds true for learning PTI, backing, and highway operation.

Even the good videos are not a substitute for hands-on instruction.

Oh, absolutely, I meant before she goes to school or training, just to have an idea of the process, not as a replacement for proper training.

To clarify, as G-Town and Grumpy say, the videos can show you how things work, and you get the idea of the rhythm needed.

Then it's up to you to build the middle memory, and the best place to do that is in a truck.

I agree with those that say no. I learned to drive on a manual transmission 35 years ago and it served me well with cars/trucks but when I went to CDL school my knowledge was a detriment to me as I had to learn to stop treating my Eaton 10 speed like a car tranny. Other than the fact they both have a clutch and gears they are completely different and operate differently. Go to your training like a fresh new sponge and absorb the training with new eyes. After you learn to shift the big rig I do recommend at a later date you learn to drive a car with a stick as it may come in handy someday.