CDL-Section 2.2 and 2.3

Question 1

Why should you back toward the driver’s side?

Answer 1

Back to the driver’s side so you can see better. Backing toward the right side is very dangerous b/c you can’t see well. If you back and turn toward the driver’s side, you can watch the rear of your vehicle by looking out of the side window. Use driverside backing–even if it means going around the block to put your vehicle in this position. The added safety is worth it.

Question 2

If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without rolling back?

Answer 2

Put on the parking break whenever necessary to keep from rolling back. Release the parking break only when you have applied enough engine power to keep from rolling back.

Question 3

When backing, why is it important to use a helper?

Answer 3

Use a helper when you can. There are blind spots you can’t see. That’s why a helper is important. The helper should stand near the back of your vehicle where you can see the helper.

Question 4

What’s the most important hand signal that you and the helper should agree on?

Answer 4

Before you begin backing, work out a set of hand signals that you both understand. Agree on a signal for “stop”.

Question 5

What are the two special conditions where you should downshift?

Answer 5

1. Before starting down hill. Slow down and shift down to a speed that you can control without using the brakes hard. Otherwise the brakes can overheat and lose their braking power. Downshift before starting down the hill. Make sure you are in a low enough gear, usually lower than the gear required to climb the same hill.
2. Before entering a curve. Slow down to a safe speed, and downshift to the right gear before entering the curve. This lets you use some power through the curve to help the vehicle be more stable while turning. It also allows you to speed up as soon as you are out of the curve.

Question 6

When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

Answer 6

You can select a low range to get greater engine braking when going down grades. The lower ranges prevent the transmission from shifting up beyond the selected gear (unless the governor rpm is exceeded). It is very important to use this braking effect going down grades.

Question 7

Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery. True or False?

Answer 7

False. You should turn the retarder off whenever the road is wet, icy, or snow covered. It causes skidding when there is poor traction.

Question 8

What are the two ways to know when to shift?

Answer 8

1. use Engine Speed (rpm). Study the driver’s manual for your vehicle and learn the operating rpm range. Watch your tachometer, and shift up when your engine reaches the top of the range. (Some newer vehicles use “progressive” shifting: the rpm at which you shift becomes higher as you move up the gears. Find out what’s right for the vehicle you operate.)
2. Use Road Speed (mph). Learn what speeds each gear is good for. Then, by using the speedometer, you’ll know when to shift up. With either method, you may learn to use engine sounds to know when to shift.