Automatic driving

[nitecamper]

I am changing jobs soon, and I heard the company I'm going to has a lot of trucks w/automatic transmissions. I've never drivin an automatic. Can someone post the low-down on how to operate one of those things? i.e. shifting in general, goin up the mountain and comin down the mountain.....thanks

[Cerberus_Kelpie]

There are actually 2 types of Auto shift Transmissions:
1) Uses a Clutch just like a standard trans. Shifter linkage on the Column or in some Trucks, on the Dash.
2) NO Clutch, like ones Automatic 4-wheeler.

I've been driving an Auto shift for about 3 years and I really hate 'em.
They're good however for better Fuel mileage (or so it is claimed) yet the Trans will NOT allow a Driver to shift the gears as one wants to do, yet one can shift the gears when the computer will allow it, therefore in Mountains the gears can be reduced when the timing is correct.
There is a Manual shift mode but it isn't very fun as stated above.

US Express has recently acquired some Auto shifts in ALL AUTO form without the clutch.

These trannies are A LOT EASIER to drive with than a standard shift however these as well can create lazy drivers.

[nitecamper]

Thanks is it safe to assume upon arriving at orientation and telling them I've never driven an automatic,that there will be no problems?

[Cerberus_Kelpie]

Automatic Trans Trucks are admittedly EASIER to operate than their predecessors of the standard trans.
There isn't any more training to be done with an Auto shift than a Standard Trans.
It is NOT wrong to admit no experience with these vehicles since after all you are in orientation and you need to orientate yourself with the new vehicle.

You'll do well!!

[nitecamper]

Cool I thank you for the reply.

[Cerberus_Kelpie]

YOU'RE WELCOME AND WELCOME TO TRUCKINGBOARDS!!