If you’re not sure whether to go for manual or automatic training you’re in the right place. Your choice boils down to how you imagine your career as a truck driver in Canada. While most companies have switched to automatic training, manual transmission is still a highly sought after skill. Let us break you down both, so you can make a choice that’s the best for you.
What is Manual Transmission Truck Training?
Manual transmission truck training teaches drivers how to operate trucks with manual gearboxes. In this type of training, drivers learn to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and a gear stick. You will be taught how to synchronize the clutch, engine speed, and vehicle speed to smoothly transition between gears.
Manual transmission training covers essential skills like starting from a stop, downshifting, and upshifting. Drivers also learn to manage the clutch effectively, avoid stalling, and handle the vehicle on different terrains.You’ll also learn some advanced techniques like double clutching, which involves pressing the clutch twice during gear changes to match engine and transmission speeds.
Overall, truckers who drive manual transmission have better ability to control the truck in various situations, such as driving in mountainous regions. Employers regard this skill as a mark of competence and versatility.
What is Automatic Transmission Truck Training?
Automatic transmission truck training focuses on teaching drivers to operate trucks with automatic gearboxes. This training is simpler as it eliminates the need for manual gear shifting.
In automatic transmission training, drivers are taught to use the various modes and features of an automatic truck, such as park, reverse, neutral, drive, and low gear settings. They also learn to understand and utilize electronic systems that assist in driving, including automated manual transmissions (AMTs) and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs).
During training, your instructor will focus on how to smoothly accelerate and decelerate, use cruise control correctly, and braking. It is recommended to drivers who prefer a more straightforward driving experience or who operate in urban areas with frequent stop-and-go traffic.
Which is better for me?
Both, manual and automatic transmission, have their perks and drawbacks. We’ll present you both sides, so you can make the right choice for you.
Manual transmission
Perks
1. Better understanding of vehicle mechanics
You get a deeper understanding of how the truck works, which is particularly useful in challenging terrains or who aim to drive older or specialized vehicles that predominantly use manual transmissions.
2. More desirable
Employers consider your skills more desirable and would prefer you for more specialized jobs. It also keeps all options open when you’re job hunting and gives you a competitive edge as well.
Drawbacks
1. More expensive
It costs more than automatic transmission training. Since it is a highly specialized course, every truck driving school sets their own price. You can expect to spend between $5,000 to $10,000 on the training.
2. Might need multiple test attempts
Considering its complex operations of gear shifting, clutch control, and driving terrains across Canada, you might not clear the test in the first attempt.
3. More driver fatigue
Constantly shifting gears and using the clutch is tiresome, especially on rocky roads or during winters. You might need to take more frequent driving breaks, so you feel refreshed for more.
Automatic transmission
Perks
1. Better suited for urban areas
Drivers who operate in urban areas or who undertake short-haul routes with frequent stops should go for automatic transmission. It works better in stop-and-go traffic and doesn’t cause nearly as much fatigue as manual transmission.
2. Less physically demanding
You don’t have to worry about shifting gears but only on being a responsible truck driver. This also means you have higher chances of getting your license in the first attempt.
3. Costs less money
Automatic AZ training in Brampton costs between $3,500 to $10,000. Of course, it goes without saying that don’t go for the lowest price. Visit the school campus, training yard, and meet with instructors before you make a decision.
Drawbacks
1. Your license is restricted
This means you simply can’t drive manual trucks. If your truck breaks down, you might miss out of 1-5 weeks of work and pay.
Consider your long-term career goal. Is trucking a pit stop for a bigger role in the trucking industry? Or would you like to work as a truck driver for 15-20 years? If you choose the second option, we recommend manual transmission training.
Caledon Truck Driving School offers both automatic and manual truck training in Brampton, Ontario. If you have any specific questions or would like to know about our MELT program, send us an email!
