This is a very thorough introduction, a lot better than when I started learning to drive trucks. No checks, no tacho introduction. Driving trucks is easy, driving safely a skill. I think reversing is the hardest part in the test!
Reversing has been removed from the test. They say it will be tested separately, whatever that means 🤷♂️ They've taken it out to get more people through the test. You also can go straight to artic now, don't need to do rigid first.
I just passed my LGV theory this week and about to start my practical training, so Ashley couldn't have started doing these videos at a better time for me 🙂
Brilliant video Ashley, I passed my car driving test yesterday at my second attempt at the tender age of 53 so it’s never too late to learn a new skill. I have to thank you for the work you put into your clips, I took your tips onboard and put them into practice in my lessons and on my driving test. I’ll keep watching and look forward to seeing you progress on your HGV training. Good luck mate 👍🏼
My favourite memory of learning was doing the 16 speed manual gearbox wrong and getting it stuck in neutral on the middle of a busy roundabout in Sheffield blocking the entire roundabout. My comment was something along the lines of 'flipping heap of junk gearbox'. The instructors comment was something along the lines of 'if you blame my gearbox once more for your incompetence I'll drag you out the truck by your ear and leave you on the roundabout'. Didn't have a problem with it after that 😄
I want to give credit to the instructor. His instructions are very clear and extensive. You are a very patient learner as well, Ashley. Thanks for the upload! Highly anticipated series for me. Have a good rest of your day. :) Edit: by the way, I was expecting a tachograph to take bank-like cards.
Ever since 2006, new trucks have been fitted with digital tachographs, which take a smart card (the same size as a bank card/driving licence). This truck pre-dates the transition, hence it is still fitted with an old, analogue tachograph.
@@misterflibble9799 This is very interesting. Thanks for telling. In fact, I think the instructor said it was a 17 year old truck. It looks superb for its age. It was definitely looked after. Just goes to show that machinery can last for a very long time if maintained properly.
@@artemkatelnytskyi it's a 54 plate, so second half of 2004 (or early 2005). It's certainly starting to show a bit of rust in places, but generally good. Remember that a typical truck will be doing 100,000 miles per year or more, but they have to be safety-checked (like a mini-MOT) every 8 weeks. A good company will look after its trucks as they're an expensive asset.
Safety Checks were virtually non existent back when I was driving 7.5ton and 3.5ton vehicles. Best decision I ever made was to take myself out of the Industry; albeit just after a near-fatal accident. Although questions were raised by me, prior to this, Management was only interested in getting the job done quickly. I dread to think how dangerous some of the fleet might've been. This really shows how things have changed...... not before time, I hasten to add. Stay safe everyone 👍
@@johno4521 My experience is - or was - as an Agency driver for several different firms. None of them *circa 1994/5* seemed to give a 💩 about Maintenance or Safety. It was a case of..... once you are on the clock; get out and deliver....... end of story. Very much appreciate your reply as each of us has experienced a different perspective. I'm glad to be out of it for many reasons. Respect, johno 👍
@@freddieparrydrums Straight up 💯 but I choose not to name/shame the Agency or Companies due to a potential Lawsuit that I cannot afford to fight. However, Ashley's aware that I would not post what is classed as misinformation. Respect, Freddie 👍
Takes me back to my PCV training a few years back! What Paul said about carrying a torch is great advice, obviously in the winter it's dark most of the day but often you're doing your vehicle checks in close proximity to buildings/other vehicles etc where the light might be poor even in the height of summer. I actually use a wee headtorch as it means both hands are free to do my checks. As always, looking forward to the next video 👍
I got pulled once for a roadside check. When they saw I had had an early start they asked to see my torch. I didn't have one to hand so they asked how I did my walk around checks. I said I started the day in a well lit yard which is true. They said how did I check the tyres and suspension etc as they dont believe the yard lights would shine under the truck well enough to see the tyres. I showed them the torch function on my phone. They'll try anything to get a bit of money out of you. Worth having one in your bag!
Most phones these days have a torch so handy to know how to use it and saves you carrying another item. Never hurts having a spare torch in the cab though.
I recently passed me C1 driving test for small delivery vans. I hope to drive an ambulance one day and your videos sure helped my observations during the week of C1 training. Keep it up Ash. :)
I now know that the reason that lorry I gave a wide birth to yesterday was leaning to one side is not necessarily because of uneven loading but it could’ve been air suspension on one side. I can already see that this series is going to be a great learning experience for us car only drivers. Great job 👏
Ashley, I just wanna say another thank you. Your helpful videos got me through my driving test some years back, and I'm now delving into a career change to become a HGV driver. This series will no doubt prove to be a valuable resource.
I'm 26 and have worked around HGVs and drivers for 8 years now, and I know what most of the checks consist of and how long they take but I've never actually watched a driver do them before, not fully anyway, and I was surprised at how rigorous they are! Good luck Ash, and keep up with the amazing content 👍
I do a thorough walk around every workday even if it`s been in for a sevice as I once found a spanner on the side of the truck(on one of the tanks) which the fitter had forgotten about.
Remember to stow handle👍 Do as much of your reversing maneuver as possible going forwards but remember there's cheeky and then there's "For blimey cheeky" but was the best advice I ever had and I used it in nearly all reversing situations👍
Thank you SO much for these videos, you've helped me get behind the wheel and as luck would have it, I'm starting my HGV driving journey... low and behold I find these! Seriously, thank you so much for everything you've done for people getting behind the wheel.
Currently studying for my LGV theory (for ambulance driving) and the tachograph was a new thing for me. The type of thing you wouldn't really know without the DVSA theory book.
Great informative content as always however on the point of rust coming away from wheel nuts a little more information IF a wheel nut is loose water will get behind onto the thread (normally rusty) as the vehicle drives centrifugal force forces the rusty coloured water out. If this is evident get All wheel nuts checked . Also if the class 2 vehicle is equipped raise the rear suspension to see the two wheels more clearly this will also raise the spray suppression enough to see between the wheels to check for debris . Looking forward to up and coming C2 content as it has been very informative great work as always
Thank you so much for the video Ashley! Just applying and about too begin the process for my HGV training and this was really helpful. Appreciate the effort you've put in here!
Great timing for me , I'm about to start my HGV training I'm looking at every video I can find , seeing it as a pupil though is unique , looking forward to the next one .
Best of luck with it I enjoyed the work of driving trucks, going to different places, meeting different people was great fun at times but it had its downside too
@@Keithbarber every job has its downside , I've been a bus driver for years so I know what driving a big vehicle is like , I wanted a different challenge and a bit more money .
@@garybrown4854 I held a PCV alongside my lgv licence for about 11 years and did bus driving in London just short of 2 years - not a bad job even with idiot passengers But in 2019 I surrendered my licence over mobility issues but never regretted my career as a driver
This video was pretty good and one of my favourites Ashley on your channel. It also shows it can be a very difficult start, especially for me, to know a lot. I wish you good luck and I'm looking forward to your next videos. Also thanks to that instructor for being on your channel.
I did my Class 2 a couple weeks ago, there was NO checklist given to me, and it was a manual truck not auto as this one, tbh I wasn't taught a lot and what I was taught was very brief skimmed over, just glad I still remembered my bus training as most is the same including on the CPC. I saw the instructor with another pupil driving the truck recently and actually felt sorry for him.
Watching this helps me empathise with my car learner drivers when they first get in the car. There’s so much you don’t have a clue about and you’re trying to take it all in.
great thorough full circle check. i wish more people would do the same for their cars or motorbikes, on a regular basis.. I DO, at least once a week, on both.. cheers, S from Canada.
A torch is a must have for vehicle checks, Pro tip always check the vehicle plate and test certificate and the tacho calibration certificate are up to date the first time you use a vehicle new to you, as you walk towards and around the vehicle look underneath it for any fluid leaks on the ground, if the vehicle is loaded ALWAYS check the load and its security trust no one check it yourself, and on tyres unless you are 100% sure it's only caught in the tread or is very very short NEVER NEVER pull a foreign object out of a truck tyre at 125psi + it may explode and the resultant injuries if not fatal will be life changing.
This surprised me! Since when was the training made so thorough?! When I did my training a couple of years back my training wasn’t so involved as this like having anything to do with tachos etc I was just trained to drive and do walk round checks that was about it!!
Great content Ash, Class 1 is on my bucket list (just for extra knowledge, I don't think I'd use it). Currently have car, bike and National B race licence and have plans for a Private Pilots Licence over the next few years. Hope you enjoy the experience of 'learning to drive'.
I used to work for a removals company as a drivers mate and one of the other drivers while working there once got pulled over on side of motorway (by someone but not police i think) and turn out they had too much weigt on one of the axles and so had to take everything out and put back in more evenly.
Very nice! I drive, amongst other brands, also Volvo-buses and the sounds and displays are exactly the same! The button below the parking brake is no 'emergency brake' though. It's a security feature that comes in handy when you do run out of air, it sets the brakes for you. This comes in handy when you run out of air, go outside in a bit of a panic (forgetting to set the parking brakes), wait for a mechanic that fixes the problem, and then your lorry won't take off because this neat little knob came out. ;-)
This is pretty much identical to the outside first user check on a bus, we were told never put our hands between the wheels and when you see suspension failure you understand why? Only thing we don’t have to do is the tacho because we are within a certain distance to the depot so we don’t need them.
Driving HGVs with air suspension and having had the bags blow out before showed that one to me. Also some of the stores we go to you need to lower the Unit's suspension to avoid striking the ground with the back of trailer and you can feel the tyres rubbing in the wheel arches. Definitely dont want to be putting your hand in there
Very comprehensive introduction ash, mine was pointing out the controls, then watching the instructor leave the yard and drive about 2 miles down the road with explanations of how and why lol . He then pulled over and climbed out and said your turn, 😳
Just finished my first practical lesson on HGV, and I tell you that the video doesn't even capture how intense the experience is: If you drive a car, forget everything you know about speed + 1Mph on your speed,say you have 8Mph while negotiating your turn ,thinking that the lorry is just a bigger car,equals you mounting a kerb or roundabout which is a fail at the exam ,not to mention something more serious ! Ask your instructor to show you the lorry blind spot experiment videos for lorry, they will shock you. ALWAYS DO LEAN FOR BLIND SPOT WHEN MANOEUVRING! It's the difference between freedom and jail ! Always check your mirrors and follow through when you pass or after being passed by a large vehicle ! Kill your speed and take the roundabout very slowly, and remember that you are way wider than your car ! Get a Paracetamol after the first session. Your head will hurt due to the amount of new information and adjustment you have to make, in such a short time ! Don't overthink(like I wrongly do) , just try to relax and listen to your instructor . I hope that these fresh opinions will help you with your journey , towards becoming a professional driver 👍
Did my class 2 13years ago. I dont remember getting taught or being asked about any of the cab drills. Only thing I remember being asked was to demonstrate how the curtain side ratchets operated and how to load the old paper tacho charts.
@@scottlaaa probably but I passed my test on a Wednesday and started working on the railway the following Tuesday. I'm now driving freight trains. I drive buses in Edinburgh for 2 years before getting my class 2. Never used either licence since joining the railway. I did go for some refresher training for my Motorcycle licence after I decided to get in the saddle 20 after passing the test. That was interesting.
@@graememckay9972 I’ve not ridden a motorcycle for 4 years now I probably would get some extra training when I decide to get another bike. I would love to drive trains I’m a bus driver and really not enjoying it atm
Appreciate you may cover this later but you'll need to learn to action a manual entry on a digicard tacho as most vehicles now are not analogue. Good content though and seeing some of the cars on the road it's a shame there is no defect check required for them 😀
Not as part of the driving test, or wasn't when I learnt. There is a cpc module. When I did that I asked how to do it. They said it depends what make. At that time there were only 3 models and I told them which I had. Basically the instructors had never seen a tacho they'd just learnt the slide show verbatim. Really annoyed me that the cpc isn't hands on practical when it comes to tacho, securing loads etc.
@@cynic-al Yep. I know . I was suggesting Ashley may need to know if he drives a different vehicle and it would make good content. Like you I learnt as I went along . Not sure if that's good or bad but clean licence and no loads lost 👍
Yeah I remember those annoying analogue tacho charts back when I drove HGVs over a decade ago. CD wallet was great for keeping them in. Even then most trucks were Digicard though so I think analogue ones will be very rare nowadays. Driving a bin lorry for the first time was a tacho learning curve as the driving hours don't apply in the same way. You have to get into the sub menu and change the tacho settings for driving one, can't for the life of me remember how if I had to drive one again lol.
The trick used to be to stick a cigarette end in the top of the needle slot to stop it reading high. Then pull the fuse on the speed limiter and Brum in record time.
The pre driving checks make excellent sense as they do when in a car or any vehicle really . It was strange to see you on the other side of the coin . But looks good .👍
Do you not vent the air tanks to drain any accumulated water in them? That’s an important check here because if you get pulled for a roadside check, you get two seconds of venting and if any water drains after that it’s ticket time.
Ashley, can you tell us confused viewers who OBVIOUSLY MISSED the video with you explaining it, but Q#1: Why HGV training..something you've always wanted to do? Q#2: PLEASE don't tell us you're moving away from teaching learners how to drive? I'm 68 yrs old, DON'T live in the UK, but ALWAYS watch your teaching vids!!
Great videos pal lots of information taking 1st class 2 lesson next week nervous as heck about what to expect drove big vans so used of observation I know the truck is different but it might help 🇮🇪👍
I honestly very suprised by the lower min tread limit for a HGV. I wonder how much of that is a balance between commercial costs and safety? Or does the weight decrease the the chance of aquaplaning? In regards to the tip regarding a torch, I keep one in the boot of the car at all times, just in case. Saves your phone battery for more important stuff should it be needed.
Much harder compound aids tyre longevity. Empty trailer you'd experience aquaplaning slightly (given a huge puddle) yet fully laden little to non at all tbh. Most firms feature a vehivle service every 3 months too.
Aquaplaning is (at least in the first order) increases at the square root of tyre pressure, roughly 10*sqrt(pressure in psi) to get the aquaplaning speed in mph. Lorry tyres are generally pretty high pressure, generally in excess of 100psi (by comparason, a car tyre is usually around 35 psi).
Whilst this is the minimum tread depth (1mm across 75% of the width of the tyre and must be so for the whole of the circumference ) no blue chip company would allow a vehicle on the road with tread depth that low most set the bench mark at 3 mm minimum however most blue chip companies will not allow tyres to get as low as this. Also as professional drivers it is their responsibility not to allow a vehicle on the road if tyres are not fit for purpose at the point of doing their pre vehicle checks as the accountability would rest solely with the driver for failing to carry out thorough vehicle checks. As already highlighted checks are done quarterly as well and in the worst case scenario if a vehicle did have a tyre at minimum legal depth it could be used however would be booked in on return and prior to further use for a tyre change. Also to consider is the company operators licence which could be revoked if poor vehicle standards were evident . So in answer to your question a reputable company puts safety first at all times.
Mad eh? All digital these days. Since 2006. Suppose that volvo is a 54 plate though guessing instructor just covered the exercise just cz its equipped with paper base tachograph charting
I worked in the office of a logistics company back in the early 2000's. All the analogue tachos were sent to a specialist tachograph reading company. I imagine all the data is instantly downloaded nowadays.
@@antonycharnock2993 yeah, some units can upload the data over the mobile network but most places have a download machine in the office and you put your card in it after each shift but I think the card can store a month's worth on it (or 3 months?), they are better than paper tachos but some things, like doing manual entries, can be a real pain. Not having to keep hold of those paper charts is great and you don't have to work out your hours as much, there's a display showing exactly what you've done. It was funny seeing the paper tacho again, brought back some memories.
@@tbridgey2619 they don't need a tacho for learning do they? If he did need one I would think he'd have to install a digital one. I thought you only need a tacho if you're moving goods commercially, I thought that's why scaffolder trucks don't need one, they're just moving their own kit around.
@@TheGreg6466 learning is tacho-exempt, unless you're doing the learning on-the-job with a paying load. Scaffolders are exempt provided they don't go more than a certain distance from base, and driving is not their main duty. There is no need to retrofit a digital tacho into an older truck. If it was first registered before the cutoff date, then they can continue using analogue charts. However, there are very few working trucks old enough to still be fitted with analogue tachos, so you're unlikely to come across one nowadays.
Even though this is just checks, Ash feels like an excellent student lol. I had no idea how involved truck checks were, but it does make sense for such a massive machine
this is a regular routine for SMART motorcyclists, at least once a week, and cage drivers at least once a month... not knowing is NOT an excuse. cheers, S.
Globetrotters are really nice to drive. I drove one for a couple of months during my second HGV job. Unfortunately I've given up lorry driving because it's a thankless, overworked and underpaid job. There's a reason why there's a driver shortage and that's because employers don't want to pay a decent salary and expect drivers to work long hours without overtime pay. Also, why are courses still training in paper tachographs? Other than one employer who still had an old lorry with a paper tacho, every lorry that I have driven has been digi-tacho.
Some still operate the analogue ones, but not many. A lot of the merchants use older trucks with analogue tachos. Eventually they will stop teaching on analogue. Also, have you considered going into something more specialised such as agriculature, hiabs or adr? I do hiab work and I enjoy it. I did some class 2 curtain side work delivering stillages and similar items, but found it boring. My current job is a total contrast, plus I only drive locally (usually up to an hour away) so know a lot of the roads.
if the air drops to zero overnight, I'd be leaving a note for the mechanic. it may not do any good, but I'd still be leaving a note. in theory, the system should keep full air indefinitely.
The mechanics were amazed that ours held air overnight, let alone for 3 days. There's a lot of pipe for small air leaks, lots of connections and valves. A drop overnight is normal. As long as you can't hear it hissing and can't see the air dropping on the guage, it's an MOT pass. Must also pressurise in under 6 minutes I believe for a trailer capable system (big tanks). Most newer lorries, the parking breaks come on automatically with air pressure loss(springs hold them on, air then counter acts this, and then provides force when you push on the pedal to stop quicker), so there's little risk that it'll roll away over night. This can be a nightmare when doing repairs!
@@Theaveragenerd2000 yes, spring brake cans have two air chambers - the brake release chamber counteracts the spring pressure, and then pressure added to the brake chamber applies the brakes. and over here, that's 50 year old technology. and yes, many mechanics have a "good enough for MOT is good enough for me" attitude. which explains why I once had to drive a diesel that was "fire by friction" because the mechanic never had more than two glow plugs working at any one time.
@@kenbrown2808 most larger diesels don't have glow plugs in as far as I've experienced. Some cold weather equipped diesels have an intake heater and possibly a fuel heater before the injectors. Only my smaller (sub 3 litre ) diesels have had glow plugs.
@@Theaveragenerd2000 well, now you've learned differently. Most US made light commercial diesels run glow plugs. Good ones don't need them, but that one sure did.
what a great video !!! im going straight for my class 1 and yet to start my training, this is a great vid to kno what to expect.. will watch all the vids and give you a subscibe !! thanks ash !!
Ashley i been a ADI since march 2010 and i was wondering what made you go down this path? I know i wont give up driving instructing but i have felt like id like to get class 2 then class 1 under my belt even if it's just for the experience and mybe even teach it in years to come. love the vids mate.
Its funny, my first lesson driving a hgv there was 2 of us for training, the instructor said who's first, the other guy pointed at me, the instructor threw the keys at me, said fire it up and pull away, and off we went. Lol.
If nothing elsr, Ashley can teach car drivers how to deal with trucks from the perspective of a truck driver, and he can modify his Instruction accordingly
Gives an added perspective to his teaching and gives extra very interesting content. I hope motorists view these and take some notice. I would also like to see motorcycle lessons covered.
On a added note: those green triangular projected rotors within the wheels should be aligned/pointed toward one another.. proves the correct torque tension has been applied to each via the wheel nut gun. Important*
@@graememckay9972 Yeah it occurred to me after being able to show these lessons and also know about how to drive one of these is godd information to have when you have a channel dedicated to teaching people to be better drivers.
Do you ask your pupils to go around the car and check the lights, tyres etc before they set off? No reason they shouldn't, the amount of cars on the road with faulty lights is shocking. They shouldn't be training HGV drivers today to use paper tacho charts. They stopped fitting them in trucks in 2006 so it's unlikely you'll ever use one but you will need to know how to use a digital tachograph.
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it’s amazing how driving instructor being instructed again and everything feels like starting from scratch. Keep these video coming.
This is a very thorough introduction, a lot better than when I started learning to drive trucks. No checks, no tacho introduction. Driving trucks is easy, driving safely a skill. I think reversing is the hardest part in the test!
Reversing has been removed from the test. They say it will be tested separately, whatever that means 🤷♂️ They've taken it out to get more people through the test. You also can go straight to artic now, don't need to do rigid first.
@@cynic-al Oh dear! That is worrying.
I just passed my LGV theory this week and about to start my practical training, so Ashley couldn't have started doing these videos at a better time for me 🙂
Passed mine a month ago and the hardest part is finding a.job 🤣 good luck with it all.
@@RisenCS Yes I'll be interested to see how easy finding work is with the apparent driver shortage crisis.
@@Tom.J.O like I say been a month and I've just now received an email about a job 😂
Same situation, employers aren’t keen on hiring new passed drivers
@@Motorheadsup yeah it's such a struggle hoping for something next week in time for Christmas
Brilliant video Ashley, I passed my car driving test yesterday at my second attempt at the tender age of 53 so it’s never too late to learn a new skill. I have to thank you for the work you put into your clips, I took your tips onboard and put them into practice in my lessons and on my driving test. I’ll keep watching and look forward to seeing you progress on your HGV training. Good luck mate 👍🏼
Great job Lee!
Thanks again Ashley 😍
My favourite memory of learning was doing the 16 speed manual gearbox wrong and getting it stuck in neutral on the middle of a busy roundabout in Sheffield blocking the entire roundabout. My comment was something along the lines of 'flipping heap of junk gearbox'. The instructors comment was something along the lines of 'if you blame my gearbox once more for your incompetence I'll drag you out the truck by your ear and leave you on the roundabout'. Didn't have a problem with it after that 😄
I was floating out of my lane as well when I was trying to learn the splitter box but they test new drivers in automatics now.
I want to give credit to the instructor. His instructions are very clear and extensive. You are a very patient learner as well, Ashley. Thanks for the upload! Highly anticipated series for me. Have a good rest of your day. :)
Edit: by the way, I was expecting a tachograph to take bank-like cards.
Ever since 2006, new trucks have been fitted with digital tachographs, which take a smart card (the same size as a bank card/driving licence). This truck pre-dates the transition, hence it is still fitted with an old, analogue tachograph.
@@misterflibble9799 This is very interesting. Thanks for telling. In fact, I think the instructor said it was a 17 year old truck. It looks superb for its age. It was definitely looked after. Just goes to show that machinery can last for a very long time if maintained properly.
@@artemkatelnytskyi it's a 54 plate, so second half of 2004 (or early 2005). It's certainly starting to show a bit of rust in places, but generally good. Remember that a typical truck will be doing 100,000 miles per year or more, but they have to be safety-checked (like a mini-MOT) every 8 weeks. A good company will look after its trucks as they're an expensive asset.
Well Done Ashley - I Took my HGV 1 test thirty years ago. Good Luck & You’ll Love it .
Safety Checks were virtually non existent back when I was driving 7.5ton and 3.5ton vehicles. Best decision I ever made was to take myself out of the Industry; albeit just after a near-fatal accident.
Although questions were raised by me, prior to this, Management was only interested in getting the job done quickly. I dread to think how dangerous some of the fleet might've been. This really shows how things have changed...... not before time, I hasten to add.
Stay safe everyone 👍
I started driving in 1978 and we had company defect books then, not sure when it became law...
@@johno4521 My experience is - or was - as an Agency driver for several different firms. None of them *circa 1994/5* seemed to give a 💩 about Maintenance or Safety. It was a case of..... once you are on the clock; get out and deliver....... end of story.
Very much appreciate your reply as each of us has experienced a different perspective. I'm glad to be out of it for many reasons.
Respect, johno 👍
@@grahamnutt8958 This is interesting information. Crazy how it was not even that long ago
@@freddieparrydrums Straight up 💯 but I choose not to name/shame the Agency or Companies due to a potential Lawsuit that I cannot afford to fight. However, Ashley's aware that I would not post what is classed as misinformation.
Respect, Freddie 👍
Takes me back to my PCV training a few years back! What Paul said about carrying a torch is great advice, obviously in the winter it's dark most of the day but often you're doing your vehicle checks in close proximity to buildings/other vehicles etc where the light might be poor even in the height of summer. I actually use a wee headtorch as it means both hands are free to do my checks.
As always, looking forward to the next video 👍
Wow a head torch. That's a good pro tip.
I got pulled once for a roadside check. When they saw I had had an early start they asked to see my torch. I didn't have one to hand so they asked how I did my walk around checks. I said I started the day in a well lit yard which is true. They said how did I check the tyres and suspension etc as they dont believe the yard lights would shine under the truck well enough to see the tyres. I showed them the torch function on my phone. They'll try anything to get a bit of money out of you. Worth having one in your bag!
Most phones these days have a torch so handy to know how to use it and saves you carrying another item. Never hurts having a spare torch in the cab though.
If your UK,Asda do an excellent Torch for £2 with batteries which fits easily in your pocket for morning checks.
I recently passed me C1 driving test for small delivery vans. I hope to drive an ambulance one day and your videos sure helped my observations during the week of C1 training.
Keep it up Ash. :)
Very interesting video, the instructor was clear and concise with information. Looking forward to the next episode, thanks for sharing.
I now know that the reason that lorry I gave a wide birth to yesterday was leaning to one side is not necessarily because of uneven loading but it could’ve been air suspension on one side. I can already see that this series is going to be a great learning experience for us car only drivers. Great job 👏
Ashley, I just wanna say another thank you. Your helpful videos got me through my driving test some years back, and I'm now delving into a career change to become a HGV driver. This series will no doubt prove to be a valuable resource.
I'm 26 and have worked around HGVs and drivers for 8 years now, and I know what most of the checks consist of and how long they take but I've never actually watched a driver do them before, not fully anyway, and I was surprised at how rigorous they are! Good luck Ash, and keep up with the amazing content 👍
I do a thorough walk around every workday even if it`s been in for a sevice as I once found a spanner on the side of the truck(on one of the tanks) which the fitter had forgotten about.
Love the video!
I did my Class 2 at 18 and it made me realise how many idiots there are on the road. Class 1 at 19 and I absolutely love it!
Such an enjoyable watch. Little wonder Ash is a great instructor to this day cz he's a wonderful learner & listener to begin with 👌
Remember to stow handle👍 Do as much of your reversing maneuver as possible going forwards but remember there's cheeky and then there's "For blimey cheeky" but was the best advice I ever had and I used it in nearly all reversing situations👍
I love driver seats in lorrys and coaches, especially the newer models, so many options and very comfy
Thank you SO much for these videos, you've helped me get behind the wheel and as luck would have it, I'm starting my HGV driving journey... low and behold I find these!
Seriously, thank you so much for everything you've done for people getting behind the wheel.
Currently studying for my LGV theory (for ambulance driving) and the tachograph was a new thing for me. The type of thing you wouldn't really know without the DVSA theory book.
Great informative content as always however on the point of rust coming away from wheel nuts a little more information IF a wheel nut is loose water will get behind onto the thread (normally rusty) as the vehicle drives centrifugal force forces the rusty coloured water out. If this is evident get All wheel nuts checked . Also if the class 2 vehicle is equipped raise the rear suspension to see the two wheels more clearly this will also raise the spray suppression enough to see between the wheels to check for debris . Looking forward to up and coming C2 content as it has been very informative great work as always
Thank you so much for the video Ashley! Just applying and about too begin the process for my HGV training and this was really helpful. Appreciate the effort you've put in here!
Great timing for me , I'm about to start my HGV training I'm looking at every video I can find , seeing it as a pupil though is unique , looking forward to the next one .
Best of luck with it
I enjoyed the work of driving trucks, going to different places, meeting different people was great fun at times but it had its downside too
@@Keithbarber every job has its downside , I've been a bus driver for years so I know what driving a big vehicle is like , I wanted a different challenge and a bit more money .
@@garybrown4854 I held a PCV alongside my lgv licence for about 11 years and did bus driving in London just short of 2 years - not a bad job even with idiot passengers
But in 2019 I surrendered my licence over mobility issues but never regretted my career as a driver
That is an old truck there, never seen the backup handbrake before, or an analogue tacho lol
This video was pretty good and one of my favourites Ashley on your channel. It also shows it can be a very difficult start, especially for me, to know a lot. I wish you good luck and I'm looking forward to your next videos. Also thanks to that instructor for being on your channel.
here, it's the mallet test for the tire pressure. hit square in the center, so you get a good ring, and you can hear if it sounds flat.
This is fascinating! I never knew there were so many checks to do before driving an HGV. Thanks for sharing Ashley.
I did my Class 2 a couple weeks ago, there was NO checklist given to me, and it was a manual truck not auto as this one, tbh I wasn't taught a lot and what I was taught was very brief skimmed over, just glad I still remembered my bus training as most is the same including on the CPC.
I saw the instructor with another pupil driving the truck recently and actually felt sorry for him.
Watching this helps me empathise with my car learner drivers when they first get in the car. There’s so much you don’t have a clue about and you’re trying to take it all in.
Very interesting. Can't wait to see the next episode.
great thorough full circle check. i wish more people would do the same for their cars or motorbikes, on a regular basis.. I DO, at least once a week, on both.. cheers, S from Canada.
Thank you Ashley. I have my class 1 next week and it had been great refresher :)
A torch is a must have for vehicle checks, Pro tip always check the vehicle plate and test certificate and the tacho calibration certificate are up to date the first time you use a vehicle new to you, as you walk towards and around the vehicle look underneath it for any fluid leaks on the ground, if the vehicle is loaded ALWAYS check the load and its security trust no one check it yourself, and on tyres unless you are 100% sure it's only caught in the tread or is very very short NEVER NEVER pull a foreign object out of a truck tyre at 125psi + it may explode and the resultant injuries if not fatal will be life changing.
I'm going to start my lorry driving lessons soon. This video is really good, I really appreciate it! Thank you.
Literally everyone wishing they absorbed information as quickly as Ashley.. Well me at least anyway 😂😂
Thanks so much for sharing your lessons! I’m really looking forward to my own and learning what this was like! Really appreciate it, Ashley!
This surprised me! Since when was the training made so thorough?! When I did my training a couple of years back my training wasn’t so involved as this like having anything to do with tachos etc I was just trained to drive and do walk round checks that was about it!!
Great content Ash, Class 1 is on my bucket list (just for extra knowledge, I don't think I'd use it). Currently have car, bike and National B race licence and have plans for a Private Pilots Licence over the next few years. Hope you enjoy the experience of 'learning to drive'.
I did my hgv in 1979. Boy how things have changed.
This video is gold. Just what I needed cause I'm learning all the theory right now.
I just did mine 3 days ago and got asked the same question 4 times in the case studies 😂
Loving this series
Helps checking if you have fluids, spare bulbs, wipers, torch, tools with you too.
especially blinker fluid! ;)
Passed my HGV cat C test today.
I used to work for a removals company as a drivers mate and one of the other drivers while working there once got pulled over on side of motorway (by someone but not police i think) and turn out they had too much weigt on one of the axles and so had to take everything out and put back in more evenly.
Very nice! I drive, amongst other brands, also Volvo-buses and the sounds and displays are exactly the same! The button below the parking brake is no 'emergency brake' though. It's a security feature that comes in handy when you do run out of air, it sets the brakes for you. This comes in handy when you run out of air, go outside in a bit of a panic (forgetting to set the parking brakes), wait for a mechanic that fixes the problem, and then your lorry won't take off because this neat little knob came out. ;-)
My word that's an old tacho surely? Surprised they still use that as most if not all modern lorries use the digital card version.
Hit the Mark again. Excellent video.
This is pretty much identical to the outside first user check on a bus, we were told never put our hands between the wheels and when you see suspension failure you understand why?
Only thing we don’t have to do is the tacho because we are within a certain distance to the depot so we don’t need them.
Driving HGVs with air suspension and having had the bags blow out before showed that one to me. Also some of the stores we go to you need to lower the Unit's suspension to avoid striking the ground with the back of trailer and you can feel the tyres rubbing in the wheel arches. Definitely dont want to be putting your hand in there
This is brilliant. Want to do mine one day!
I have done my class 2 with learn our way I have my class 1 test tomorrow. They are brilliant 👏
Good luck 🤞 Say hi to Paul if he’s doing your training
Very comprehensive introduction ash, mine was pointing out the controls, then watching the instructor leave the yard and drive about 2 miles down the road with explanations of how and why lol . He then pulled over and climbed out and said your turn, 😳
Good video. Got my lesson beginning thirsday. Just had a call of cancellation so in going in
Hi Ashley, I just came across your video. Thanks for sharing this video. It’s brilliant 👍
Nice one looking forward to this series
Just finished my first practical lesson on HGV, and I tell you that the video doesn't even capture how intense the experience is:
If you drive a car, forget everything you know about speed + 1Mph on your speed,say you have 8Mph while negotiating your turn ,thinking that the lorry is just a bigger car,equals you mounting a kerb or roundabout which is a fail at the exam ,not to mention something more serious !
Ask your instructor to show you the lorry blind spot experiment videos for lorry, they will shock you. ALWAYS DO LEAN FOR BLIND SPOT WHEN MANOEUVRING! It's the difference between freedom and jail !
Always check your mirrors and follow through when you pass or after being passed by a large vehicle !
Kill your speed and take the roundabout very slowly, and remember that you are way wider than your car !
Get a Paracetamol after the first session. Your head will hurt due to the amount of new information and adjustment you have to make, in such a short time !
Don't overthink(like I wrongly do) , just try to relax and listen to your instructor .
I hope that these fresh opinions will help you with your journey , towards becoming a professional driver 👍
Did my class 2 13years ago. I dont remember getting taught or being asked about any of the cab drills. Only thing I remember being asked was to demonstrate how the curtain side ratchets operated and how to load the old paper tacho charts.
A lot has changed in 13 years, I wonder if you would learn anything from some extra tuition?
@@scottlaaa probably but I passed my test on a Wednesday and started working on the railway the following Tuesday. I'm now driving freight trains. I drive buses in Edinburgh for 2 years before getting my class 2. Never used either licence since joining the railway. I did go for some refresher training for my Motorcycle licence after I decided to get in the saddle 20 after passing the test. That was interesting.
@@graememckay9972 I’ve not ridden a motorcycle for 4 years now I probably would get some extra training when I decide to get another bike. I would love to drive trains I’m a bus driver and really not enjoying it atm
Appreciate you may cover this later but you'll need to learn to action a manual entry on a digicard tacho as most vehicles now are not analogue. Good content though and seeing some of the cars on the road it's a shame there is no defect check required for them 😀
Not as part of the driving test, or wasn't when I learnt. There is a cpc module. When I did that I asked how to do it. They said it depends what make. At that time there were only 3 models and I told them which I had. Basically the instructors had never seen a tacho they'd just learnt the slide show verbatim. Really annoyed me that the cpc isn't hands on practical when it comes to tacho, securing loads etc.
@@cynic-al Yep. I know . I was suggesting Ashley may need to know if he drives a different vehicle and it would make good content.
Like you I learnt as I went along . Not sure if that's good or bad but clean licence and no loads lost 👍
This was surprisingly interesting to watch, even though i have no intentions of driving a large vehicle like a truck anytime soon haha
Looking forward to this one.
love to see some one actually do a visual on teh prop shaft bolts and also exsplain about the rust comming from wheel studs
Yeah I remember those annoying analogue tacho charts back when I drove HGVs over a decade ago. CD wallet was great for keeping them in. Even then most trucks were Digicard though so I think analogue ones will be very rare nowadays. Driving a bin lorry for the first time was a tacho learning curve as the driving hours don't apply in the same way. You have to get into the sub menu and change the tacho settings for driving one, can't for the life of me remember how if I had to drive one again lol.
The trick used to be to stick a cigarette end in the top of the needle slot to stop it reading high. Then pull the fuse on the speed limiter and Brum in record time.
The pre driving checks make excellent sense as they do when in a car or any vehicle really . It was strange to see you on the other side of the coin . But looks good .👍
Looking forward to more of these!
Very interesting and informative. Well done. 👍🏼
Do you not vent the air tanks to drain any accumulated water in them? That’s an important check here because if you get pulled for a roadside check, you get two seconds of venting and if any water drains after that it’s ticket time.
I did get to drain the air tanks on day 2 👍🏼
Tread depth applies to any 3/4 of the width, not just the middle 3/4. It’s not the same as a car
Ashley, can you tell us confused viewers who OBVIOUSLY MISSED the video with you explaining it, but Q#1: Why HGV training..something you've always wanted to do? Q#2: PLEASE don't tell us you're moving away from teaching learners how to drive? I'm 68 yrs old, DON'T live in the UK, but ALWAYS watch your teaching vids!!
Just doing it for the different perspective, but I will use the licence in some capacity.
Oh my God did he just tell you what the wipers do 😆 that’s amazing I guess we’ll wondered what they were there for...
Great videos pal lots of information taking 1st class 2 lesson next week nervous as heck about what to expect drove big vans so used of observation I know the truck is different but it might help 🇮🇪👍
Good luck 🤞
There’s a lot goes in to delivering your bread to market.
I honestly very suprised by the lower min tread limit for a HGV.
I wonder how much of that is a balance between commercial costs and safety?
Or does the weight decrease the the chance of aquaplaning?
In regards to the tip regarding a torch, I keep one in the boot of the car at all times, just in case. Saves your phone battery for more important stuff should it be needed.
Much harder compound aids tyre longevity. Empty trailer you'd experience aquaplaning slightly (given a huge puddle) yet fully laden little to non at all tbh.
Most firms feature a vehivle service every 3 months too.
Aquaplaning is (at least in the first order) increases at the square root of tyre pressure, roughly 10*sqrt(pressure in psi) to get the aquaplaning speed in mph. Lorry tyres are generally pretty high pressure, generally in excess of 100psi (by comparason, a car tyre is usually around 35 psi).
Whilst this is the minimum tread depth (1mm across 75% of the width of the tyre and must be so for the whole of the circumference ) no blue chip company would allow a vehicle on the road with tread depth that low most set the bench mark at 3 mm minimum however most blue chip companies will not allow tyres to get as low as this. Also as professional drivers it is their responsibility not to allow a vehicle on the road if tyres are not fit for purpose at the point of doing their pre vehicle checks as the accountability would rest solely with the driver for failing to carry out thorough vehicle checks. As already highlighted checks are done quarterly as well and in the worst case scenario if a vehicle did have a tyre at minimum legal depth it could be used however would be booked in on return and prior to further use for a tyre change. Also to consider is the company operators licence which could be revoked if poor vehicle standards were evident . So in answer to your question a reputable company puts safety first at all times.
Wow, a paper tacho, haven't seen one of them for a long time
Mad eh? All digital these days. Since 2006. Suppose that volvo is a 54 plate though guessing instructor just covered the exercise just cz its equipped with paper base tachograph charting
I worked in the office of a logistics company back in the early 2000's. All the analogue tachos were sent to a specialist tachograph reading company. I imagine all the data is instantly downloaded nowadays.
@@antonycharnock2993 yeah, some units can upload the data over the mobile network but most places have a download machine in the office and you put your card in it after each shift but I think the card can store a month's worth on it (or 3 months?), they are better than paper tachos but some things, like doing manual entries, can be a real pain. Not having to keep hold of those paper charts is great and you don't have to work out your hours as much, there's a display showing exactly what you've done. It was funny seeing the paper tacho again, brought back some memories.
@@tbridgey2619 they don't need a tacho for learning do they? If he did need one I would think he'd have to install a digital one. I thought you only need a tacho if you're moving goods commercially, I thought that's why scaffolder trucks don't need one, they're just moving their own kit around.
@@TheGreg6466 learning is tacho-exempt, unless you're doing the learning on-the-job with a paying load.
Scaffolders are exempt provided they don't go more than a certain distance from base, and driving is not their main duty.
There is no need to retrofit a digital tacho into an older truck. If it was first registered before the cutoff date, then they can continue using analogue charts. However, there are very few working trucks old enough to still be fitted with analogue tachos, so you're unlikely to come across one nowadays.
Even though this is just checks, Ash feels like an excellent student lol. I had no idea how involved truck checks were, but it does make sense for such a massive machine
Try doing this at 3am when it's black dark!
this is a regular routine for SMART motorcyclists, at least once a week, and cage drivers at least once a month... not knowing is NOT an excuse. cheers, S.
Have you thought about going straight for class 1 and skipping the class 2 now the rules have changed?
Globetrotters are really nice to drive. I drove one for a couple of months during my second HGV job.
Unfortunately I've given up lorry driving because it's a thankless, overworked and underpaid job.
There's a reason why there's a driver shortage and that's because employers don't want to pay a decent salary and expect drivers to work long hours without overtime pay.
Also, why are courses still training in paper tachographs?
Other than one employer who still had an old lorry with a paper tacho, every lorry that I have driven has been digi-tacho.
Some still operate the analogue ones, but not many. A lot of the merchants use older trucks with analogue tachos. Eventually they will stop teaching on analogue.
Also, have you considered going into something more specialised such as agriculature, hiabs or adr? I do hiab work and I enjoy it. I did some class 2 curtain side work delivering stillages and similar items, but found it boring. My current job is a total contrast, plus I only drive locally (usually up to an hour away) so know a lot of the roads.
Tachograph chart!!!.. What year is this 😂😂👍
I felt for you there Ashley; all you want to do is start up and drive away but you had to put your mind to an outdated tachograph!
if the air drops to zero overnight, I'd be leaving a note for the mechanic. it may not do any good, but I'd still be leaving a note. in theory, the system should keep full air indefinitely.
The mechanics were amazed that ours held air overnight, let alone for 3 days. There's a lot of pipe for small air leaks, lots of connections and valves. A drop overnight is normal. As long as you can't hear it hissing and can't see the air dropping on the guage, it's an MOT pass. Must also pressurise in under 6 minutes I believe for a trailer capable system (big tanks).
Most newer lorries, the parking breaks come on automatically with air pressure loss(springs hold them on, air then counter acts this, and then provides force when you push on the pedal to stop quicker), so there's little risk that it'll roll away over night. This can be a nightmare when doing repairs!
@@Theaveragenerd2000 yes, spring brake cans have two air chambers - the brake release chamber counteracts the spring pressure, and then pressure added to the brake chamber applies the brakes. and over here, that's 50 year old technology.
and yes, many mechanics have a "good enough for MOT is good enough for me" attitude. which explains why I once had to drive a diesel that was "fire by friction" because the mechanic never had more than two glow plugs working at any one time.
@@kenbrown2808 most larger diesels don't have glow plugs in as far as I've experienced. Some cold weather equipped diesels have an intake heater and possibly a fuel heater before the injectors. Only my smaller (sub 3 litre ) diesels have had glow plugs.
@@Theaveragenerd2000 well, now you've learned differently. Most US made light commercial diesels run glow plugs. Good ones don't need them, but that one sure did.
Awesome!!
Are you eventually also train to be a instructor on the lorry?
Did you do any truck drivjng after licence then Ash? Or was it just to understand their view and problems jn road compared to car driving?
Are you aware you have to weigh at least 300 pounds before you can pass your HGV test?
how many dogs are in the back of the lorry
impressive storage space
what a great video !!! im going straight for my class 1 and yet to start my training, this is a great vid to kno what to expect.. will watch all the vids and give you a subscibe !! thanks ash !!
Good Luck Ricky! Let me know how you get on!
@@ashley_neal thankyou appreciate that, i will let you know 👍thanks again
Good luck with this Ashley
Hope it's a first-time pass 👍
Enjoyed it. Thanks , 👍😁
Ashley i been a ADI since march 2010 and i was wondering what made you go down this path? I know i wont give up driving instructing but i have felt like id like to get class 2 then class 1 under my belt even if it's just for the experience and mybe even teach it in years to come. love the vids mate.
Just for the different perspective Chris, but I will put the licence to use!
Why are they using old style tachos ?? They’ve not used them for at least 15 years……
Good job
How much does this all cost lesson to the test
how many check all thing he checking now do you rhink
great video
The instructor was probably more nervous because your an instructor too lol
Its funny, my first lesson driving a hgv there was 2 of us for training, the instructor said who's first, the other guy pointed at me, the instructor threw the keys at me, said fire it up and pull away, and off we went. Lol.
My class one lessons tomorrow.
Good Luck!
I believe the French commonly fitted two horns to cars in the distant past.
i do all my checks on tablet
I am curious as to why Ashley is doing this? Is he wanting to become a hgv driver? Seems unlikely tbh but idk.
If nothing elsr, Ashley can teach car drivers how to deal with trucks from the perspective of a truck driver, and he can modify his Instruction accordingly
Gives an added perspective to his teaching and gives extra very interesting content. I hope motorists view these and take some notice. I would also like to see motorcycle lessons covered.
On a added note: those green triangular projected rotors within the wheels should be aligned/pointed toward one another.. proves the correct torque tension has been applied to each via the wheel nut gun. Important*
@@graememckay9972 Yeah it occurred to me after being able to show these lessons and also know about how to drive one of these is godd information to have when you have a channel dedicated to teaching people to be better drivers.
They show that none of the wheel nuts have moved since being installed
Do you ask your pupils to go around the car and check the lights, tyres etc before they set off? No reason they shouldn't, the amount of cars on the road with faulty lights is shocking. They shouldn't be training HGV drivers today to use paper tacho charts. They stopped fitting them in trucks in 2006 so it's unlikely you'll ever use one but you will need to know how to use a digital tachograph.