What Do I Need To Do Or Look For When I Get My First Truck.

What do i need to do or look for besides pre trip and updating permit book for my first truck? I do not want to miss something i need to do.

Make sure you note any damage on the truck and report it before you start driving it.

Ok, thanks JakeBreak

It's so cool when you get your first truck!

Get inside, make sure the seat moves - push & pull all the levers on it, see what happens.

Turn on/off all the light switches, and make sure the sleeper cabinet doors open easily and really latch. If the mattress isn't new, ask for a new one.

If you have a bunk heater, it's supposed to work when the engine's off, so start it. The vent might be under the bunk.

Turn on the ignition (do not start it). Especially check the battery voltage. If the truck's been sitting, it might be low. Now start it up, let it run.

Check the A/C and heater.

Look for or get the instruction books (they may be up above the seats in a cabinet). Find the permit book - maybe next to or just behind the driver seat. Check those permits for expired ones, and find out how to replace them.

Get a few extra keys. Put one on your own keychain. Personally, I keep one in the ignition, and another stays in my pocket. It's hard to get locked out if you do that.

Now go drive 100,000 miles and bring it back in good condition.

Thanks Errol V. will do. i really appreciate the help. and i will come to this forum if i need any help with issues on the road. it makes me feel good knowing i have somewhere to go to ask questions with actual truck drivers.

Kris plans to be back:

i will come to this forum if i need any help with issues on the road.

Here's a better idea: don't leave! Add in your two cents when you can. And it's always better to learn about stuff before you need it! That's how I got so many posts here!

Ok Thanks Errol, i do have another question what internet do you use for mobil laptop in truck. so i can get google maps satellite view of the area i am delivering to?

Errol mentioned keys. I keep one secure and hidden under the hood too. Just in case I get locked out without my pants. You never know...

When I was assigned an automatic transmission I got lucky and parked next to a veteran driver that had plenty of experience with automatics. He shared a lot of things with me while I was loading the truck with my stuff. So don't be afraid to ask another driver in the terminal. They've been where you are.

Thanks Rob, will do. i am trying to soak up as much information from everyone.

Only takes being locked out of any vehicle ONCE to learn! They locked my running car as I pulled up to shop 1 night to run to my locker for something.....they had a good laugh as I slim jimmied it finally..............After that, kept a spare door/ignition key in wallet!