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Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting
a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus11295 wrote:
I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. You live in Illinois, you know how this works- you just buy one from your hookup at the secretary of state. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus11295 wrote:
I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. That depends on what state you're in. I know that in Minnesota and California you can drop into the local DMV and pick up a manual for free; I'm almost completely sure that the manual covers commercial licenses. For a 1-ton pickup and 7 1/2 ton trailer, you might not even need a commercial license unless you're hauling passengers or are getting into the freight business. Good Luck! Rich |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
In article ,
Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. Check with your local DMV / RMV / whatever they call the drivers licensing division in your state's web site, but in most states you can drive quite a lot on a "car" driver's license - 26,000 lbs GVW on a "car" license here, so long as it's not a schoolbus. You do a lot of surplus - the duce-and-a-half is, IIRC, a classic "car license max" truck, for instance. Kind of a high bed for loading machinery without a dock, though. It's a big hassle to get a CDL (especially these days - homeland security wants to stick their oar in too.) Then you also have to maintain logs, etc. You do need a CDL-class-suited vehicle, and a CDL-class-suited licensed driver to supervise you - If you don't have a buddy that's a truck driver with his own truck, that's much of the reason for "CDL School" - access to those items. IMHO, if going to school (or exploiting buddies), if you have a need to get bigger than you can drive on a "car" license, just go for the tractor-trailer (usually class A) license - you can drive anything else with that one, and have a backup career, and more options in buying trucks. -- Cats, coffee, chocolate...vices to live by Please don't feed the trolls. Killfile and ignore them so they will go away. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-09, Ecnerwal wrote:
In article , Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. Check with your local DMV / RMV / whatever they call the drivers licensing division in your state's web site, but in most states you can drive quite a lot on a "car" driver's license - 26,000 lbs GVW on a "car" license here, so long as it's not a schoolbus. You do a lot of surplus - the duce-and-a-half is, IIRC, a classic "car license max" truck, for instance. Kind of a high bed for loading machinery without a dock, though. So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? It's a big hassle to get a CDL (especially these days - homeland security wants to stick their oar in too.) Then you also have to maintain logs, etc. You do need a CDL-class-suited vehicle, and a CDL-class-suited licensed driver to supervise you - If you don't have a buddy that's a truck driver with his own truck, that's much of the reason for "CDL School" - access to those items. I see. I think that in IL, CDL schools are required to teach 160 hours, which seems like a big overkill. IMHO, if going to school (or exploiting buddies), if you have a need to get bigger than you can drive on a "car" license, just go for the tractor-trailer (usually class A) license - you can drive anything else with that one, and have a backup career, and more options in buying trucks. I think so too. Class A would be the way to go. i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 08/09/2011 04:57 PM, Ignoramus11295 wrote:
I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. For Illinois, you should find the info you need at http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/pu...stpub.html#cdl -- Bob Nichols AT comcast.net I am "RNichols42" |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295
wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. If you get the CDL, I'll give you ten to one that you start selling liquidated big rigs, too, so go the course. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. It would truly behoove you to get the behind-the-wheel time, Ig. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. I passed my Contractor's license exam after studying a book and CD for several weeks. I doubt there's anything available from the DMV for that, though, but you could call them and the local truck driving schools to see. Well, what do you know? http://freeonlinetruckdrivertraining.com/ Let us know how it works out, Ig. -- Fear not those who argue but those who dodge. -- Marie Ebner von Eschenbach |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295
wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i That varies state by state...and often there are options other than Commerical DLs...farmers generally dont have CDLs and yet they often pull heavy loads on big trailers on roadways etc etc. Gunner -- "The danger to America is not Barack Obama but a citizenry capable of entrusting a man like him with the Presidency. It will be far easier to limit and undo the follies of an Obama presidency than to restore the necessary common sense and good judgment to a depraved electorate willing to have such a man for their? president.. Blaming the prince of the fools should not blind anyone to the vast confederacy of fools that made him their prince". |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
In article ,
Ignoramus11295 wrote: So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M35_2‡ |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple trailer, tanker, hazmat). It is not at all difficult if you are smart enough to understand how air brakes work, and can handle a vehicle with a trailer. I got a few CDL books and reviewed them over the course of a couple weeks in my spare time, then I went to the DPS office here and took the written (computer based) tests of which I passed all 8 or 9 I took on the first try in a total of about 45 minutes. After that I got in touch with one of the area "rent our truck for your CDL test" places and rented a truck for the road test. The truck place provided a nice Kenworth T2000 auto-shift truck and a 27' "pup" trailer as is normally used in a tandem configuration. The truck folks met me at the DPS office early in the morning and gave me a review of the air brake test and an hour or so of drive time to familiarize myself with the truck, which was on the actual route the DPS uses for the road test. After I passed the road test I waited in line at the DPS to do the last paperwork, then waited at the truck for the DPS tester. The actual road test was not difficult at all and the DPS guy was very nice, the test took perhaps 45 min. After that a quick visit back in the DPS office where I received my paper temporary license, with the regular license in the mail a week later. For the hazmat endorsement which you may not care about, there was an extra step of an appointment for fingerprints to go to the TSA for check and approval (new post 9/11). The TSA approval came in less than two weeks and the new license with the hazmat endorsement in the mail a few days later. The total cost with books, truck rental, license and TSA fees was around $750. If you'd like I'd be happy to loan you the books, or you could just order the best one "Bumper to Bumper the complete guide to tractor-trailer operations" which goes for about $48 and I believe is used by many of the schools. The bottom line is that it's not brain surgery and you should have no problem passing the test. You will need to get a DOT physical exam, CVS's Minute Clinic does them for $60 or so, and you'll need a log book for any commercial driving you do. Also note that you can't get any traffic tickets waived or the like as you can with a non commercial license. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote:
Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple trailer, tanker, hazmat). It is not at all difficult if you are smart enough to understand how air brakes work, and can handle a vehicle with a trailer. I got a few CDL books and reviewed them over the course of a couple weeks in my spare time, then I went to the DPS office here and took the written (computer based) tests of which I passed all 8 or 9 I took on the first try in a total of about 45 minutes. After that I got in touch with one of the area "rent our truck for your CDL test" places and rented a truck for the road test. The truck place provided a nice Kenworth T2000 auto-shift truck and a 27' "pup" trailer as is normally used in a tandem configuration. The truck folks met me at the DPS office early in the morning and gave me a review of the air brake test and an hour or so of drive time to familiarize myself with the truck, which was on the actual route the DPS uses for the road test. After I passed the road test I waited in line at the DPS to do the last paperwork, then waited at the truck for the DPS tester. The actual road test was not difficult at all and the DPS guy was very nice, the test took perhaps 45 min. After that a quick visit back in the DPS office where I received my paper temporary license, with the regular license in the mail a week later. For the hazmat endorsement which you may not care about, there was an extra step of an appointment for fingerprints to go to the TSA for check and approval (new post 9/11). The TSA approval came in less than two weeks and the new license with the hazmat endorsement in the mail a few days later. The total cost with books, truck rental, license and TSA fees was around $750. If you'd like I'd be happy to loan you the books, or you could just order the best one "Bumper to Bumper the complete guide to tractor-trailer operations" which goes for about $48 and I believe is used by many of the schools. The bottom line is that it's not brain surgery and you should have no problem passing the test. You will need to get a DOT physical exam, CVS's Minute Clinic does them for $60 or so, and you'll need a log book for any commercial driving you do. Also note that you can't get any traffic tickets waived or the like as you can with a non commercial license. Pete, this is an amazingly great answer, something that I have been hoping to hear. Thanks a lot. This is the way to go. I just ordered this book. I will stop by a CDL facility tomorrow, to get a Illinois CDL book. I |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus11295 wrote: On 2011-08-09, Ecnerwal wrote: In article , Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. Check with your local DMV / RMV / whatever they call the drivers licensing division in your state's web site, but in most states you can drive quite a lot on a "car" driver's license - 26,000 lbs GVW on a "car" license here, so long as it's not a schoolbus. You do a lot of surplus - the duce-and-a-half is, IIRC, a classic "car license max" truck, for instance. Kind of a high bed for loading machinery without a dock, though. So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? Per the actual federal CDL rules, yes if you are hauling *personal* stuff. Per corrupt IL rules, doubtful. In either case, if you are hauling items in support of a business you *must* have a CDL for any class A or B vehicle, or a class C vehicle that requires placards (hazmat). |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Gunner Asch wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i That varies state by state...and often there are options other than Commerical DLs...farmers generally dont have CDLs and yet they often pull heavy loads on big trailers on roadways etc etc. It doesn't vary too much post the '84? motor carrier safety act. Rules are supposed to be consistent across the country now. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote:
Ignoramus11295 wrote: On 2011-08-09, Ecnerwal wrote: In article , Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. Check with your local DMV / RMV / whatever they call the drivers licensing division in your state's web site, but in most states you can drive quite a lot on a "car" driver's license - 26,000 lbs GVW on a "car" license here, so long as it's not a schoolbus. You do a lot of surplus - the duce-and-a-half is, IIRC, a classic "car license max" truck, for instance. Kind of a high bed for loading machinery without a dock, though. So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? Per the actual federal CDL rules, yes if you are hauling *personal* stuff. Per corrupt IL rules, doubtful. In either case, if you are hauling items in support of a business you *must* have a CDL for any class A or B vehicle, or a class C vehicle that requires placards (hazmat). I will just get a real CDL, like you. Thanks I generally am averse of the idea of using a deuce for commercial operations. They are not that reliable and stand out a little too much. i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ecnerwal wrote: It's a big hassle to get a CDL It's pretty simple really, just did it myself. (especially these days - homeland security wants to stick their oar in too.) Only if you want the hazmat endorsement, they have nothing to do with CDLs without hazmat endorsements. I go my hazmat endorsement and it was fast and easy, and extra $60 or so, a quick appointment for fingerprints and my updated CDL with hazmat endorsement in about two weeks. Then you also have to maintain logs, etc. Yes, if driving CMVs for commercial use. Personal use of CMVs is exempt from logs and hours of service, but since Iggy is looking to haul stuff for his business he will need to keep logs, which isn't that big a deal. You do need a CDL-class-suited vehicle, and a CDL-class-suited licensed driver to supervise you - If you don't have a buddy that's a truck driver with his own truck, that's much of the reason for "CDL School" - access to those items. You can rent a CMV for your road test, and when you get your CDL "learner's permit" after you pass the written test, the truck rental place can take you out on the road to familiarize yourself with the truck before your official road test. It's not brain surgery, if you can drive a pickup with a trailer you can most likely drive a semi just fine. IMHO, if going to school (or exploiting buddies), if you have a need to get bigger than you can drive on a "car" license, just go for the tractor-trailer (usually class A) license - you can drive anything else with that one, and have a backup career, and more options in buying trucks. Yes, certainly, get the A and the extra endorsements, it's not much more effort. I got all endorsements except for passenger. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:02:37 -0500, "Pete C."
wrote: Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple trailer, tanker, hazmat). It is not at all difficult if you are smart enough to understand how air brakes work, and can handle a vehicle with a trailer. I got a few CDL books and reviewed them over the course of a couple weeks in my spare time, then I went to the DPS office here and took the written (computer based) tests of which I passed all 8 or 9 I took on the first try in a total of about 45 minutes. After that I got in touch with one of the area "rent our truck for your CDL test" places and rented a truck for the road test. The truck place provided a nice Kenworth T2000 auto-shift truck and a 27' "pup" trailer as is normally used in a tandem configuration. The truck folks met me at the DPS office early in the morning and gave me a review of the air brake test and an hour or so of drive time to familiarize myself with the truck, which was on the actual route the DPS uses for the road test. After I passed the road test I waited in line at the DPS to do the last paperwork, then waited at the truck for the DPS tester. The actual road test was not difficult at all and the DPS guy was very nice, the test took perhaps 45 min. After that a quick visit back in the DPS office where I received my paper temporary license, with the regular license in the mail a week later. For the hazmat endorsement which you may not care about, there was an extra step of an appointment for fingerprints to go to the TSA for check and approval (new post 9/11). The TSA approval came in less than two weeks and the new license with the hazmat endorsement in the mail a few days later. The total cost with books, truck rental, license and TSA fees was around $750. If you'd like I'd be happy to loan you the books, or you could just order the best one "Bumper to Bumper the complete guide to tractor-trailer operations" which goes for about $48 and I believe is used by many of the schools. The bottom line is that it's not brain surgery and you should have no problem passing the test. You will need to get a DOT physical exam, CVS's Minute Clinic does them for $60 or so, and you'll need a log book for any commercial driving you do. Also note that you can't get any traffic tickets waived or the like as you can with a non commercial license. Very informative, Pete. If i was to follow in your footsteps to get the CDL and then buy a tractor trailer unit. What else would be involved in driving my stuff cross country? Karl |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote:
Gunner Asch wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i That varies state by state...and often there are options other than Commerical DLs...farmers generally dont have CDLs and yet they often pull heavy loads on big trailers on roadways etc etc. It doesn't vary too much post the '84? motor carrier safety act. Rules are supposed to be consistent across the country now. Correct. i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote:
Ecnerwal wrote: It's a big hassle to get a CDL It's pretty simple really, just did it myself. (especially these days - homeland security wants to stick their oar in too.) Only if you want the hazmat endorsement, they have nothing to do with CDLs without hazmat endorsements. I go my hazmat endorsement and it was fast and easy, and extra $60 or so, a quick appointment for fingerprints and my updated CDL with hazmat endorsement in about two weeks. I do not quite see the point of hazmat endorsement for me. Then you also have to maintain logs, etc. Yes, if driving CMVs for commercial use. Personal use of CMVs is exempt from logs and hours of service, but since Iggy is looking to haul stuff for his business he will need to keep logs, which isn't that big a deal. So, I need to keep logs only for business stuff? "Went to Dairy Queen" You do need a CDL-class-suited vehicle, and a CDL-class-suited licensed driver to supervise you - If you don't have a buddy that's a truck driver with his own truck, that's much of the reason for "CDL School" - access to those items. You can rent a CMV for your road test, and when you get your CDL "learner's permit" after you pass the written test, the truck rental place can take you out on the road to familiarize yourself with the truck before your official road test. It's not brain surgery, if you can drive a pickup with a trailer you can most likely drive a semi just fine. I can drive a truck with a trailer. The longer the trailer is in relation to the towing vehicle, the easier it is to back up with it. IMHO, if going to school (or exploiting buddies), if you have a need to get bigger than you can drive on a "car" license, just go for the tractor-trailer (usually class A) license - you can drive anything else with that one, and have a backup career, and more options in buying trucks. Yes, certainly, get the A and the extra endorsements, it's not much more effort. I got all endorsements except for passenger. Thanks! i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:02:37 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple trailer, tanker, hazmat). It is not at all difficult if you are smart enough to understand how air brakes work, and can handle a vehicle with a trailer. I got a few CDL books and reviewed them over the course of a couple weeks in my spare time, then I went to the DPS office here and took the written (computer based) tests of which I passed all 8 or 9 I took on the first try in a total of about 45 minutes. After that I got in touch with one of the area "rent our truck for your CDL test" places and rented a truck for the road test. The truck place provided a nice Kenworth T2000 auto-shift truck and a 27' "pup" trailer as is normally used in a tandem configuration. The truck folks met me at the DPS office early in the morning and gave me a review of the air brake test and an hour or so of drive time to familiarize myself with the truck, which was on the actual route the DPS uses for the road test. After I passed the road test I waited in line at the DPS to do the last paperwork, then waited at the truck for the DPS tester. The actual road test was not difficult at all and the DPS guy was very nice, the test took perhaps 45 min. After that a quick visit back in the DPS office where I received my paper temporary license, with the regular license in the mail a week later. For the hazmat endorsement which you may not care about, there was an extra step of an appointment for fingerprints to go to the TSA for check and approval (new post 9/11). The TSA approval came in less than two weeks and the new license with the hazmat endorsement in the mail a few days later. The total cost with books, truck rental, license and TSA fees was around $750. If you'd like I'd be happy to loan you the books, or you could just order the best one "Bumper to Bumper the complete guide to tractor-trailer operations" which goes for about $48 and I believe is used by many of the schools. The bottom line is that it's not brain surgery and you should have no problem passing the test. You will need to get a DOT physical exam, CVS's Minute Clinic does them for $60 or so, and you'll need a log book for any commercial driving you do. Also note that you can't get any traffic tickets waived or the like as you can with a non commercial license. Very informative, Pete. If i was to follow in your footsteps to get the CDL and then buy a tractor trailer unit. What else would be involved in driving my stuff cross country? Karl Insurance, log book if you don't fall under the personal use exemption, and probably a DOT number (free). Oh, and a lot of diesel at 5-6 MPG :) |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus11295 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote: Ecnerwal wrote: It's a big hassle to get a CDL It's pretty simple really, just did it myself. (especially these days - homeland security wants to stick their oar in too.) Only if you want the hazmat endorsement, they have nothing to do with CDLs without hazmat endorsements. I go my hazmat endorsement and it was fast and easy, and extra $60 or so, a quick appointment for fingerprints and my updated CDL with hazmat endorsement in about two weeks. I do not quite see the point of hazmat endorsement for me. Asbestos wiring? PCB capacitors? Probably under placardable quantities though... Then you also have to maintain logs, etc. Yes, if driving CMVs for commercial use. Personal use of CMVs is exempt from logs and hours of service, but since Iggy is looking to haul stuff for his business he will need to keep logs, which isn't that big a deal. So, I need to keep logs only for business stuff? "Went to Dairy Queen" Yes and no. Personal use of CMVs is exempt from logs and hours of service regulations *but* business use is not and your logs must cover 7? hours prior to starting driving a CMV for business use. You do need a CDL-class-suited vehicle, and a CDL-class-suited licensed driver to supervise you - If you don't have a buddy that's a truck driver with his own truck, that's much of the reason for "CDL School" - access to those items. You can rent a CMV for your road test, and when you get your CDL "learner's permit" after you pass the written test, the truck rental place can take you out on the road to familiarize yourself with the truck before your official road test. It's not brain surgery, if you can drive a pickup with a trailer you can most likely drive a semi just fine. I can drive a truck with a trailer. The longer the trailer is in relation to the towing vehicle, the easier it is to back up with it. Yes, and a fifth wheel hitch puts the pivot point in a better location over the axle than a receiver hitch way behind the axle. IMHO, if going to school (or exploiting buddies), if you have a need to get bigger than you can drive on a "car" license, just go for the tractor-trailer (usually class A) license - you can drive anything else with that one, and have a backup career, and more options in buying trucks. Yes, certainly, get the A and the extra endorsements, it's not much more effort. I got all endorsements except for passenger. Thanks! i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:30:21 -0500, Ignoramus11295
wrote: On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote: Ignoramus11295 wrote: On 2011-08-09, Ecnerwal wrote: In article , Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. Check with your local DMV / RMV / whatever they call the drivers licensing division in your state's web site, but in most states you can drive quite a lot on a "car" driver's license - 26,000 lbs GVW on a "car" license here, so long as it's not a schoolbus. You do a lot of surplus - the duce-and-a-half is, IIRC, a classic "car license max" truck, for instance. Kind of a high bed for loading machinery without a dock, though. So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? Per the actual federal CDL rules, yes if you are hauling *personal* stuff. Per corrupt IL rules, doubtful. In either case, if you are hauling items in support of a business you *must* have a CDL for any class A or B vehicle, or a class C vehicle that requires placards (hazmat). I will just get a real CDL, like you. Thanks I generally am averse of the idea of using a deuce for commercial operations. They are not that reliable and stand out a little too much. A little Isuzu LCF stake/flat-bed truck would be fairly cheap ($39k brand new, half that used. ROAD TRIP!) and quite invisible, too. They're everywhere. I don't think they need CDLs, with an 11k load rating. I looked into getting one 4 years ago when I started my handyman business, but they were just too stiff and bouncy for a daily driver. They tame down under load. -- Fear not those who argue but those who dodge. -- Marie Ebner von Eschenbach |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:38:55 -0500, Karl Townsend
wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:02:37 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple --big snip-- Very informative, Pete. If i was to follow in your footsteps to get the CDL and then buy a tractor trailer unit. What else would be involved in driving my stuff cross country? A deep-pocketed, platinum credit card for the fuel? -- Fear not those who argue but those who dodge. -- Marie Ebner von Eschenbach |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
"Ecnerwal" wrote in message ... In article , Ignoramus11295 wrote: So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M35_2? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M35A2 About 50 were surplused out of FT Lewis a few months back IIRC |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:38:38 -0500, "Pete C."
wrote: Ecnerwal wrote: It's a big hassle to get a CDL It's pretty simple really, just did it myself. (especially these days - homeland security wants to stick their oar in too.) Only if you want the hazmat endorsement, they have nothing to do with CDLs without hazmat endorsements. I go my hazmat endorsement and it was fast and easy, and extra $60 or so, a quick appointment for fingerprints and my updated CDL with hazmat endorsement in about two weeks. Then you also have to maintain logs, etc. Yes, if driving CMVs for commercial use. Personal use of CMVs is exempt from logs and hours of service, but since Iggy is looking to haul stuff for his business he will need to keep logs, which isn't that big a deal. You do need a CDL-class-suited vehicle, and a CDL-class-suited licensed driver to supervise you - If you don't have a buddy that's a truck driver with his own truck, that's much of the reason for "CDL School" - access to those items. You can rent a CMV for your road test, and when you get your CDL "learner's permit" after you pass the written test, the truck rental place can take you out on the road to familiarize yourself with the truck before your official road test. It's not brain surgery, if you can drive a pickup with a trailer you can most likely drive a semi just fine. But not necessarily the other way around. IMHO, if going to school (or exploiting buddies), if you have a need to get bigger than you can drive on a "car" license, just go for the tractor-trailer (usually class A) license - you can drive anything else with that one, and have a backup career, and more options in buying trucks. Yes, certainly, get the A and the extra endorsements, it's not much more effort. I got all endorsements except for passenger. Gerry :-)} London, Canada |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus11295 on Tue, 09 Aug
2011 16:57:15 -0500 typed in rec.crafts.metalworking the following: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. Check your local state regulations. They will be able to tell you if you need a CDL and what class it would be. For a one ton pickup, I doubt you need a commercial endorsement. tschus pyotr -- pyotr filipivich We will drink no whiskey before its nine. It's eight fifty eight. Close enough! |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 8/9/2011 7:14 PM, Ignoramus11295 wrote:
On 2011-08-09, lid wrote: In articlePb6dnQ5UC8KmMNzTnZ2dnUVZ_s6dnZ2d@giganews. com, wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. Check with your local DMV / RMV / whatever they call the drivers licensing division in your state's web site, but in most states you can drive quite a lot on a "car" driver's license - 26,000 lbs GVW on a "car" license here, so long as it's not a schoolbus. You do a lot of surplus - the duce-and-a-half is, IIRC, a classic "car license max" truck, for instance. Kind of a high bed for loading machinery without a dock, though. So, I can own a Deuce and use it to haul stuff, without a CDL? Ig, anytime I ever had a question about my CDL or drivers of our company truck, I just called the DOT and the person on the other end of the line was more than happy to answer all of my questions. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 22:00:57 -0500, "Pete C."
wrote: Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:02:37 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple trailer, tanker, hazmat). It is not at all difficult if you are smart enough to understand how air brakes work, and can handle a vehicle with a trailer. I got a few CDL books and reviewed them over the course of a couple weeks in my spare time, then I went to the DPS office here and took the written (computer based) tests of which I passed all 8 or 9 I took on the first try in a total of about 45 minutes. After that I got in touch with one of the area "rent our truck for your CDL test" places and rented a truck for the road test. The truck place provided a nice Kenworth T2000 auto-shift truck and a 27' "pup" trailer as is normally used in a tandem configuration. The truck folks met me at the DPS office early in the morning and gave me a review of the air brake test and an hour or so of drive time to familiarize myself with the truck, which was on the actual route the DPS uses for the road test. After I passed the road test I waited in line at the DPS to do the last paperwork, then waited at the truck for the DPS tester. The actual road test was not difficult at all and the DPS guy was very nice, the test took perhaps 45 min. After that a quick visit back in the DPS office where I received my paper temporary license, with the regular license in the mail a week later. For the hazmat endorsement which you may not care about, there was an extra step of an appointment for fingerprints to go to the TSA for check and approval (new post 9/11). The TSA approval came in less than two weeks and the new license with the hazmat endorsement in the mail a few days later. The total cost with books, truck rental, license and TSA fees was around $750. If you'd like I'd be happy to loan you the books, or you could just order the best one "Bumper to Bumper the complete guide to tractor-trailer operations" which goes for about $48 and I believe is used by many of the schools. The bottom line is that it's not brain surgery and you should have no problem passing the test. You will need to get a DOT physical exam, CVS's Minute Clinic does them for $60 or so, and you'll need a log book for any commercial driving you do. Also note that you can't get any traffic tickets waived or the like as you can with a non commercial license. Very informative, Pete. If i was to follow in your footsteps to get the CDL and then buy a tractor trailer unit. What else would be involved in driving my stuff cross country? Karl Insurance, log book if you don't fall under the personal use exemption, and probably a DOT number (free). Oh, and a lot of diesel at 5-6 MPG :) Great! Right now its legal for me to buy and operate a semi as part of my farm in MN. Main restriction is 150 mile limit from home. My son wants me to get one but I'm hearing this farmer provision is going away. So, I've been dragging my feet. I thought a CDL was far more expensive both in time and money. I've been told to watch for a '97 or older because its pre-ABS brake and this is a huge problem on high milage tractors. Have you heard this? OTOH, I'd own the tractor for for maybe 20 years and don't want a friggin' antique. Anyway, where would i go for advice on what unit to watch for? Karl |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295
wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. .... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. Karl |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:02:01 -0700, pyotr filipivich
wrote: Ignoramus11295 on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500 typed in rec.crafts.metalworking the following: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. Check your local state regulations. They will be able to tell you if you need a CDL and what class it would be. For a one ton pickup, I doubt you need a commercial endorsement. tschus pyotr I seem to remember Iggy getting burned by the cops for driving a large trailer without a proper licence. Karl |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote:
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote:
On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 00:02:01 -0700, pyotr filipivich wrote: Ignoramus11295 on Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500 typed in rec.crafts.metalworking the following: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. Check your local state regulations. They will be able to tell you if you need a CDL and what class it would be. For a one ton pickup, I doubt you need a commercial endorsement. tschus pyotr I seem to remember Iggy getting burned by the cops for driving a large trailer without a proper licence. I was "almost burned". I proved to them that they misread the regulations. I am allowed to have up to 26,000 lbs GCWR on my regular class D license. i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 22:00:57 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 21:02:37 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. I am curious if anyone here has a CDL and, if so, how hard it was to get. I can study the study questions by myself, and I would prefer not to go to a CDL school for a whole month. Can I somehow pass it with at-home preparation? Also, can I pass that test with a vehicle that does not require a CDL? I will do some finding out by myself also, but I wanted to hear if anyone has any practical experience. i I recently go my CDL, class AM with TX endorsements (double, triple trailer, tanker, hazmat). It is not at all difficult if you are smart enough to understand how air brakes work, and can handle a vehicle with a trailer. I got a few CDL books and reviewed them over the course of a couple weeks in my spare time, then I went to the DPS office here and took the written (computer based) tests of which I passed all 8 or 9 I took on the first try in a total of about 45 minutes. After that I got in touch with one of the area "rent our truck for your CDL test" places and rented a truck for the road test. The truck place provided a nice Kenworth T2000 auto-shift truck and a 27' "pup" trailer as is normally used in a tandem configuration. The truck folks met me at the DPS office early in the morning and gave me a review of the air brake test and an hour or so of drive time to familiarize myself with the truck, which was on the actual route the DPS uses for the road test. After I passed the road test I waited in line at the DPS to do the last paperwork, then waited at the truck for the DPS tester. The actual road test was not difficult at all and the DPS guy was very nice, the test took perhaps 45 min. After that a quick visit back in the DPS office where I received my paper temporary license, with the regular license in the mail a week later. For the hazmat endorsement which you may not care about, there was an extra step of an appointment for fingerprints to go to the TSA for check and approval (new post 9/11). The TSA approval came in less than two weeks and the new license with the hazmat endorsement in the mail a few days later. The total cost with books, truck rental, license and TSA fees was around $750. If you'd like I'd be happy to loan you the books, or you could just order the best one "Bumper to Bumper the complete guide to tractor-trailer operations" which goes for about $48 and I believe is used by many of the schools. The bottom line is that it's not brain surgery and you should have no problem passing the test. You will need to get a DOT physical exam, CVS's Minute Clinic does them for $60 or so, and you'll need a log book for any commercial driving you do. Also note that you can't get any traffic tickets waived or the like as you can with a non commercial license. Very informative, Pete. If i was to follow in your footsteps to get the CDL and then buy a tractor trailer unit. What else would be involved in driving my stuff cross country? Karl Insurance, log book if you don't fall under the personal use exemption, and probably a DOT number (free). Oh, and a lot of diesel at 5-6 MPG :) Great! Right now its legal for me to buy and operate a semi as part of my farm in MN. Main restriction is 150 mile limit from home. My son wants me to get one but I'm hearing this farmer provision is going away. So, I've been dragging my feet. I thought a CDL was far more expensive both in time and money. I don't think that farmer provision is really going away, but as you note, it limits your range to in-state and near your farm. CDL schools cost a bit, seems like $2k-$4k, and even the community college CDL classes are overpriced. As long as you have a clue, the rent a truck and take the test route works fine. The truck rental places typically offer test insurance for a bit extra where if you somehow fail the first test, you get to use the truck for retests at no extra cost. Most people won't have a problem passing the first time, but the extra comfort level of knowing you won't have to pay for a retest can make it easier to pass that first time. I've been told to watch for a '97 or older because its pre-ABS brake and this is a huge problem on high milage tractors. Have you heard this? OTOH, I'd own the tractor for for maybe 20 years and don't want a friggin' antique. Anyway, where would i go for advice on what unit to watch for? I haven't heard of ABS issues on class 8 tractors, perhaps what was being referred to is emissions controls (DPF) on the newer rigs. Those DPFs are expensive to replace when they wear out, but if you get a truck with a recently replaced one it ought to last you forever in the light service you'd give it compared to normal trucking. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus19859 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i It's questionable whether a farmer is really allowed to drive a rig that far over GCWR... |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 08:58:38 -0500, Karl Townsend
wrote: I've been told to watch for a '97 or older because its pre-ABS brake and this is a huge problem on high milage tractors. Have you heard this? OTOH, I'd own the tractor for for maybe 20 years and don't want a friggin' antique. Anyway, where would i go for advice on what unit to watch for? Karl Check with brokers and watch Craigslist California. The CARB required engine/smog replacement on any truck made prior to 2003 Im aware of at least 10 companies that went out of business so far over this.... http://hotair.com/archives/2011/03/3...cience-denial/ http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r256...uction-Of-Jobs http://www.crlease.com/prop1b-heavy-...eplacement.htm http://www.allenmatkins.com/emails/L...sel/alert.html -- "The danger to America is not Barack Obama but a citizenry capable of entrusting a man like him with the Presidency. It will be far easier to limit and undo the follies of an Obama presidency than to restore the necessary common sense and good judgment to a depraved electorate willing to have such a man for their? president.. Blaming the prince of the fools should not blind anyone to the vast confederacy of fools that made him their prince". |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 09:51:46 -0500, Ignoramus19859
wrote: On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i I think we're talking about the same thing. You're looking for 15K rating trailer with a 1 ton truck. To my knowledge the largest rating you can get on a trailer with four tires is 12K. To get over that you have to go 5th wheel or gooseneck with double dually. You might as well get the best axles and tires for the 24K rating. Karl |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:08:01 -0500, "Pete C."
wrote: Ignoramus19859 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i It's questionable whether a farmer is really allowed to drive a rig that far over GCWR... That and I'm sure I can sell this rig, then buy a semi and have money left over. Karl |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Karl Townsend wrote: On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:08:01 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Ignoramus19859 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i It's questionable whether a farmer is really allowed to drive a rig that far over GCWR... That and I'm sure I can sell this rig, then buy a semi and have money left over. Karl You'll probably get better MPG too. Certainly it will handle better and be safer. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote:
Karl Townsend wrote: On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:08:01 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Ignoramus19859 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i It's questionable whether a farmer is really allowed to drive a rig that far over GCWR... That and I'm sure I can sell this rig, then buy a semi and have money left over. Karl You'll probably get better MPG too. Certainly it will handle better and be safer. Guys, I am wondering about something. Tractors that haul semitrailers are probably used until the last moment, or until they become too unreliable? Are there any possibilities, realistically, to get a used rig for relatively little money (compared to new), that would still have enough life to go another 100k miles? i |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
Ignoramus19859 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Pete C. wrote: Karl Townsend wrote: On Wed, 10 Aug 2011 11:08:01 -0500, "Pete C." wrote: Ignoramus19859 wrote: On 2011-08-10, Karl Townsend wrote: On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 16:57:15 -0500, Ignoramus11295 wrote: I am not about to become a "trucker", but I am thinking about getting a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The purpose is to be able to drive a larger truck (like a 1 ton pickup) with a larger trailer (like 15K lbs), buying and selling larger things. ... Didn't catch this part the first read. I run a 1 ton F350 Ford with a 24,000 lb. double dually trailer. I got one with a beaver tail so the fork truck runs right up on it. I'm glad I got the biggest engine made, lowest rear end ratio, and manual tranny. The unit is still WAY under powered with a ten ton load on. I bet they'd shoot you in Chicago land driving 30 on the Dan Ryan. You are a "farmer", but I am not, and I would not be allowed to drive such a rig. i It's questionable whether a farmer is really allowed to drive a rig that far over GCWR... That and I'm sure I can sell this rig, then buy a semi and have money left over. Karl You'll probably get better MPG too. Certainly it will handle better and be safer. Guys, I am wondering about something. Tractors that haul semitrailers are probably used until the last moment, or until they become too unreliable? Are there any possibilities, realistically, to get a used rig for relatively little money (compared to new), that would still have enough life to go another 100k miles? i The big trucking companies turn over rigs at about 750k as a matter of MTBF management. These are million mile trucks, so if you get one of those with fresh brakes and tires you aren't likely to have a problem in the 100k you'll ever put on them personally. |
Commercial Driver's License (CDL)
On 2011-08-11, Pete C. wrote:
Ignoramus19859 wrote: Guys, I am wondering about something. Tractors that haul semitrailers are probably used until the last moment, or until they become too unreliable? Are there any possibilities, realistically, to get a used rig for relatively little money (compared to new), that would still have enough life to go another 100k miles? The big trucking companies turn over rigs at about 750k as a matter of MTBF management. These are million mile trucks, so if you get one of those with fresh brakes and tires you aren't likely to have a problem in the 100k you'll ever put on them personally. Thanks. I have to wonder, how old are they in calendar terms, by the time they reach 750,000 miles? Assuming they go 600 miles per day, it would be just 3.5 years old? i |
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