Class A CDL skills tests just got easier to pass!

Must know backing Tip: Stop trying to move the back end of the trailer with an opposite turn of the steering wheel!

Many truck driving students struggle with the backing part of their Class A CDL training because they are unsure where to focus their attention. In this video I show you the important role the front part of the trailer plays. You will see exactly how to move the steering wheel and what to look for in your mirrors.

Truck Backing Episode: 3

Many students struggle with the backing part of their Class A CDL skills test because they are trying to move the wrong part of the trailer

Finesse the front corners for precise trailer control

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Many students find that the most difficult part of their Class A CDL training is backing the trailer.

I always tell the truck driving students that I mentor that moving my trailer around reminds me of pushing a long wheelbarrow.

I never try to move the rear of the trailer directly.
It just doesn’t work that way.
I move the front part of the trailer so that its entire length points in the direction that I want the rear of the trailer to go.

It’s all about how I pressure the kingpin.
When working within my mirrors, this amounts to pushing the front corners.

Class A CDL tip: Push the Front Corners

Class A CDL skills tip: Control the trailer by moving the front corners.

If my steering wheel were a clock and my hand started at the noon position, I will move my hand in the direction I want the front corner to move.

I only move my hand and the steering wheel as much as the front corners dictate. If they are not moving fast enough, I move my hand a little farther.

Class A CDL skills tip : I work directly within my mirrors. I move my hand in the direction I want the front corner to move. There is no 'opposite' thinking needed. — Class A CDL skills tip : I work directly within my mirrors. I move my hand in the direction I want the front corner to move. There is no ‘opposite’ thinking needed.

When I move the steering wheel, it’s usually a direct response to how the front corners move.

I’m looking for subtle movements. I’m using a fixed-line as a reference point. Either the inside edge of my mirror or the back part of the tractor.

When I notice these movements, I can make small correcting moves with my steering wheel and maintain complete control.

Here’s another important detail that new drivers don’t realize.
The tires must be rolling.

If the tires aren’t rolling, the front corners don’t move, and I have nothing to react to.

You don’t need to roll fast or step on the accelerator; let out the clutch and idle back slowly.

CDL A License related post:

Expert Trailer Control: Pushing the Front Corners