Mar 28, 2024  
2022-2023 College Catalog 
    
2022-2023 College Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

TDT 117 - Basic Driving Maneuvers – Class B Commercial Driver’s License

3 Credits, 3.5 Contact Hours
2.5 lecture periods 1 lab period

Demonstration and skill development of basic maneuvers for operating a Class B straight truck or bus commercial vehicle. Perform pre-trip inspection, backing, basic control of left and right turns, progressive shifting, space and speed management, visual search and communication, defensive driving, and hazard perception. Successful completion of this class should prepare trainee for Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) skill examination.

Information: Admission to the Truck Driver Training Program is required prior to registration.


Course Learning Outcomes
  1. Demonstrate how to perform pre-trip inspection and make a determination as to the condition of various critical vehicle components including: instruments and controls, engine, drive train, chassis and suspension, steering system, braking system, tires, wheels and rims, lighting and signaling system, braking system, emergency equipment, cargo securement devices, and seating.
  2. Show how to back a coach/transit bus on performance test. Test will include backing as well as parking in restricted areas with appropriate tolerances, backing in straight lines, and offset and parallel parking.
  3. Demonstrate how to drive a coach/transit bus, and be able to score acceptable proficiency ratings on the operational checklist for basic controls in areas such as: executing left and right turns, centering the vehicle, and maneuvering in restricted area.
  4. Execute shifting in a variety of road and traffic conditions, match shifting to engine needs, and demonstrate safe operations for road conditions.
  5. Show how to select the lane offering the best mobility and least traffic interruption and adjust speed to the configuration and condition of the roadway, weather, visibility, traffic conditions, and driving or operator conditions.
  6. Demonstrate proficient visual search techniques in various types of traffic and locations and execute proper communication devises required to maneuver a vehicle in difficult areas.
  7. Describe how to make adjustments for driving in hot or cold weather, stormy conditions, and mountain and desert driving.
  8. Describe road conditions and other road users that are a potential threat to the safety of the coach/transit bus and suggest appropriate adjustments.

Outline:
  1. Pre-Trip Inspection
    1. Manual and visual
    2. Reporting malfunctions
  2. Maneuvers
    1. Straight line backing
    2. Offset parking
    3. Parallel parking
  3. Proficiency Development and Basic Control
    1. Left turns
    2. Right turns
    3. Centering the vehicle
    4. Maneuvering in restricted areas
  4. Progressive Shifting
    1. Proper gear start
    2. Revolutions per minute (RPM) and range control
    3. Up shift progressive
    4. Down shift
    5. Double clutch
    6. Smooth braking
  5. Space and Speed Management
    1. Road condition and speed configuration
    2. Operation conditions
    3. Lane control and change
    4. Merge and exit freeway
    5. Use of signals and horn
    6. Correct following distances
    7. Stopping distances
  6. Visual Search and Communication
    1. Road vision
    2. Vehicle communications and safety
  7. Extreme Driving
    1. Defensive driving adjustments
    2. Environment conditions
    3. Safe operating adjustments
  8. Hazard Perception
    1. Identify potential threats
    2. Aversion techniques