Rookie question about floating gears

[otisdog]

You'll learn to float as soon as you get on your own.

When taking driving tests for companies I have been screamed at for both using the clutch and not using the clutch. Some want it one way some the other. I now ASK what they prefer but when on my own always float.

Super ten trannys suck. Maybe a good highway tranny but lousy in the city.
My preference is a 13 sp or even an 18 sp.
Jim

[Flyerfan4life]

So THAT's what's wrong with my Freightshaker...
Don't be surprised if that happens to you with your truck. With big companies, one often inherits another's problems...

I am sure I will get one that has some character to it I cant imagine them giving a rookie a brand new or close to new tractor. I am just glad to get an oppurtunity especially in this economy plus living in Florida isnt a help. Would Tennessee be a better state to live for a trucking career ? Thanks for your help.

[1TruckDrivinSunUvAGun]

There really isn't a good or bad state for trucking. Others will disagree but it's the same all over right now.

[Flyerfan4life]

There really isn't a good or bad state for trucking. Others will disagree but it's the same all over right now.

The reason I am asking about Tennesse is the wife and I have been wanting to move there for quite a while. I guess I should give some background info on myself. I am 42 years old and have been married for 21 years. I have 2 daughters one almost 21 who has made me a proud grandpa. My youngest daughter will graduate high school this year. We are country folk who love the mountains and it is getting real tough to make it in Florida and I am getting real sick of the heat down here. I have worked on specialty vehicles and motorcoaches since 1988 and that industry is all but gone now.I have worked away from home for a week or two at a time and realize I have an adjustment coming going OTR for atleast a year but I think it will be worth it all in the end. Sorry for the long post. Dave

[Kranky]

I haven't seen anyone mentioning the single most important aspect of shifting, either with or without using the clutch:

Never "jam" a transmission in gear!

If the stick won't slide smoothly into gear, the RPM's vs road speed is incorrect and trying to jam it in is going to do serious damage not just to the transmission, but the entire driveline. Jamming also causes torsional shock to engine mounts, clutch, U joints, driveshafts, rear differentials, and axle shafts.

"If you can't shift it smoothly, you shouldn't be driving it".

.