Stopping Without Downshifting?

Hey John, from reading your comments, you obviously think your driving test has a challenging stretch that you're uncomfortable with. I get that.

The problem is... you need to downshift. That's required on the driving test. Figure it out. You're wasting a lot of energy on trying to avoid it. We understand the issue. All of us had trouble downshifting when we tested. But it's a test - that's why you do what it requires.

When you're out here on your own, you'll figure out your own way of stopping at a quick light. For the test you need to figure out how to at least catch another gear. You can do this. Just be deliberate and make it happen.

Alright, I'll just figure it out. Thanks.

Your letting this stretch of road get inside your head. In reality it is no different than any other time you need to slow and down shift. It may be quicker if a light flips. Like was said pay attention to the lights and how long they have been set.

Also look to see if there is a left turn arrow. Most these days will blink yellow while through traffic is green. It will quit blinking just before the thru traffic light goes red.

If your approaching a stale green slow a bit and downshift 1 gear preparing for a red. If it does go red slow more before using up your space. Try to time your speed so the light goes back green before you reach it, downshift as needed.

In those cases where a light flips quick you just gotta do what is safe. But looking further forward and picking them up early will give you more options.

John, the other topic related to your question is one that gets discussed on a regular basis here. And that is Auto vs Manual. Opinions and advice vary from driver to driver, but you apparently have a choice in which truck to take the test with. What would you prefer: Fail the test in a Manual or pass the test in an Auto?

I agree it is ideal not to have a Manual restriction if you can pass the test. I trained in a Manual, tested out in a Manual but have not driven a Manual in my entire 3 year solo career. I also love the Auto and will, in all probability, finish out my career in an Auto. But I never had the option of testing out in an Auto. You have that choice if I understand your situation correctly. There is no shame in taking the test in an Auto.

John, I forgot to mention this thing. For you to get a high paying job driving a Manual, you will need at least 3 years experience and probably 5 years, realistically. So there’s that to consider, also.

John, I forgot to mention this thing. For you to get a high paying job driving a Manual, you will need at least 3 years experience and probably 5 years, realistically. So there’s that to consider, also.

That's not necessarily true across the board. Even up in my remote area, there are some highish paying companies that still run manuals, and only require one year experience.

John, I forgot to mention this thing. For you to get a high paying job driving a Manual, you will need at least 3 years experience and probably 5 years, realistically. So there’s that to consider, also.

That's not necessarily true across the board. Even up in my remote area, there are some highish paying companies that still run manuals, and only require one year experience.

Turtle, thanks for the clarification. Most of the jobs of the higher paying variety that I have looked into, like heavy hauling, want to see that the applicant has some time under their belt. Most of those jobs also require more physical ability than I have at my age. A younger guy with good physical abilities might have an advantage.