45 Degree Backing Vs 90 Degree

Which method do you prefer? And how do you set up for a 90?

They both have their use, 90 is mostly in tight places. There are whole bunch of Tube videos on this.

Which method do you prefer? And how do you set up for a 90?

Its not a matter of which I prefer, I don't even think about a backing event by angles. I just look at the place I'm backing and the area available and just do it. I know it probably doesn't help but I just kind of instinctively know how I need to set to finish my backing/docking. There are different situations at every backing so I also feel concentrating on a 45 or a 90 is somewhat defeatist from the getgo. Again, this may or may not be helpful but try to look at the big and complete picture on what setup is needed to successfully complete the backing maneuver. JMHO.

I do the same thing Mikey B does. I can’t remember the last time I thought in terms of 45 vs. 90.

Which method do you prefer? And how do you set up for a 90?

Its not a matter of which I prefer, I don't even think about a backing event by angles. I just look at the place I'm backing and the area available and just do it. I know it probably doesn't help but I just kind of instinctively know how I need to set to finish my backing/docking. There are different situations at every backing so I also feel concentrating on a 45 or a 90 is somewhat defeatist from the getgo. Again, this may or may not be helpful but try to look at the big and complete picture on what setup is needed to successfully complete the backing maneuver. JMHO.

Is this an example of how trucking school prepares a person to pass the test and not for real world trucking?

Yeah, I think so. Learning to pass the CDL test is important but as was pointed out, backing becomes instinctive for experienced drivers. I still have a long ways to go but I get better one “back” at a time

How much room in front of the spot determines it for me. I do a standard z turn if I can because it's easier. Actually a straight back if I can. Lastly I'll do a 90. I just use my instincts and freestyle it. I'll pull the end of the trailer a couple of places past the hole see how it tracks going backwards.

Same, see how much rooms available in front and set up accordingly. Lotta times, in wide open places like truck stops, hell I'll cheat and do straight pull thrus, especially like in DC's, F-Ex, Xpo etc. had couple times to need to do a 90, in very tight spots. Like Amazon's grrrr get it in with inches to spare on both sides of the trailer....

My preferred method is to drop the trailer and let the yard dog park it. It's very fast & easy, works any time of the day, and in any weather.

The choice is seemingly between 90 and 0 (straight back). A few months ago I was at a very tight spot in Manchester, NH, I took my time and honestly struggled for five or ten minutes, then a driver got out of his truck and showed me a setup which was about 120 if defined in degrees. It worked perfectly, and I was very impressed.