Driving a big rig is similar to driving a car. You have more to navigate through traffic. Operating a truck is about constant supervision on the vast cluster of gauges and blind spots. The sight from in a big rig can be intimidating, but with practice it becomes easy.
Inspect the truck for low tire pressure. Inspect the fluid levels. Perform a walk-around and make sure all your lights are working correctly. Inspect your mirrors to give you clear vision of each side of the truck.
Inspect the trailer for low tire pressure and working lights. Double check the gladhands to make sure they are correctly installed in the back of the truck. There will be an air line and a power line.
Place the shifter in the neutral position. If the truck has a push-button ignition, make sure the key is turned and press the button. If not, turn the key to the start position.
Allow the truck to idle to build air pressure in the air tanks. The air pressure should reach 120 pounds of pressure.
Press the clutch pedal and the brake pedal to the ground. Release the air brake switch on the dash. You will hear the air release as the switch is depressed.
Carefully engage the truck in second gear. The principals of driving a manual transmission apply. Release the clutch as you're applying the accelerator pedal. Your gear ratio is much smaller, as you will need to shift more frequently in a truck.
Watch your mirrors as you merge with oncoming traffic since your blind spots are greater. Use wider turning since you have to maneuver the trailer, as well as the truck.
Watch and observe your gauges, as well. You can track oil pressure, air pressure, fuel pressure and know how your truck is running from the gauge cluster.
Shift up, and when you run out of gears, you can utilize your high gears. The hi-lo switch can be turned to the up position, and you can start back in the number one position. You will be seventh gear.
Reverse the truck by following the trailer. Using your mirrors and following your trailer will help you manipulate the trailer where needed. Do not jerk the wheel or turn too tightly, as you increase the chance of jack-knifing your trailer.
