Cockroach; That was a Bad luck run, But I'll bet it happened for a reason.

 

Central had a truck right up by where I lived so I did a truck recovery for them. It was super clean INSIDE (filthy outside but I can truck wash that) white, cummins motor, super singles, and a ten speed transmission. Exactly the truck I wanted.

As to the rumors that central is sticking people into freightliners now I can't comment on that because I have no clue but there are a bunch of brand spankin new volvos sitting here in the SLC terminal.

I am out on my own now! WooHoo. my first day SUCKED. The routing forgot to mention a connecting highway so the road I was looking for never crossed my road and the one I was on ended and dumped me onto a small two lane back hills no turn around low hanging power lines sharp tiny 90 turns road. I found a little side road to back into right before the dang thing dead ended (whew) and then booked it utah but got slowed up by freezing rain and dense fog. so it took me two days to get down here instead of one. my dispatcher said it was cool (safer to slow down then crash) and gave my load to a team so it could get delivered on time. Then I could not get my trailer to unhook, I had 2 other drivers yanking on the release with me but it would not budge, so someone from the shop came over grabbed the handle and it slid I got the right out. he gave me the 'stupid driver' kinda glare and left *shrug*

The idle optimizes in these volvos are stupid.. =\ Some idiot engineer decided an ALARM should go off before the engine starts up. WTF?

 

if that problem happens again go to the other side of the fithwheel you will c a bolt sticking out get a hammer wack it go bac to other side and pull it schould release . if not you may have to get some one to hit it while you pull the lever.

 

Well put up or shut up time just got closer. I was called on Friday and told to go get my things from my trainers truck. He was being given a new trainee and I am upgrading on Monday. Not enough trainers available right now and if you have at least 3 weeks done and the trainer feels you can do it, your going to work.

Been running around all weekend trying to get my "Truck Stuff" together!

LOL

And away I go!!!

 

Hey Bumper; Good luck.keep us updated.

 

Congratulations, Bumper and Cockroach for getting your own trucks.

I have a couple of questions for both of you when you get around to answering them.

In your opinion how has school and training been for both of you? What has been good and not so good about the company since you started? If you could have done it over would you have chose them again? I am seriously considering them just looking for some answers.

Thanks and have fun on the road.

 

I went through the Fontana California school in October and it needed some improvements and equipment and it appears that the equipment is there now. I dont feel I was ready to drive a truck, but I was capable of passing the CDL test, which is their objective. They dont have the time to teach you how to fully drive the truck, just how to pass the 4 phases of the test.

My trainer was first rate. I learned how to drive the truck from him.
I was only given three weeks of training with him instead of four, but I feel ready to go nonetheless. This is the busy part of the year and they need drivers on the road.

I feel that Central will treat me ok and if I had to do it over again, I would. I did alot of research before I chose them and nothing has changed my mind about that decision.

Now to see how the next few months go....

 

That's good to hear Bumper. About a year ago I went to CR England's school and lasted and lasted a day . It was an absolute nightmare and left a bad taste in my mouth. I have been looking at Central Ref. for awhile trying to get as much information as I can. I think I might call their recruiter tomorrow.

 

Bumper, What did you get? A Volvo? Or freightliner?

 

i see central trucks all the time down the street at the Albertsons DC in brea, if you guys are ever in town ill treat you guys to lunch.