90 Degree Backing (Alley Dock)

I'm currently struggling with my 90 Degree backing. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thank You

I'm currently struggling with my 90 Degree backing. Does anyone have any suggestions? Thank You

This can be answered a couple different ways depending on: A) if you're trying to do it on the pad for the cdl exam. B) real world backing. (You already have your cdl.)

It may sound strange but the way you back for the test is rarely used when you get out into the real world. After you have your cdl you set up for the alley dock different in that you never start from 90 degrees when at all possible.

It's tough to explain this without visual aids. I suggest going to YouTube and searching for the alley dock. For now that is the best advice I can give. When I'm not as tired (after working a 20 hour day) and if no-one else is weighed in I'll try to explain as best I can. Good luck in your video search!

I would start rolling back about 5 to 10 feet, then start my turn. Once the front of my truck was facing the 11 o-clock position I would get my wheel straight and go very slow. What worked for me at that point was to just go very slow and watch the trailer tires. As I was backing I would constantly be moving the steering wheel right to left while watching the trailer tires. As you back while watching the tires you can just guide it to were you want them to go. Remember to go very slow, that way you have time you can make up for a mistake if you turn the wheel the wrong way or too much. If you go fast then you wont be able to save it. I am assuming this is for the test, so also remember you have pull ups you can use.