C+E | Class 1 - How to Couple and Uncouple a trailer!

[@doitnow2]

Having completed 46 years of truck driving. One thing I would like to add to your checks. Is to shine a torch across the 5th wheel pin, to see that the bar has come across. It's stood me in good stead for all those years and it takes a second to do.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A very good point Ray I hope everyone takes it on board. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@paulie5076]

Agreed 🤘

[@johnmayberry7669]

No wonder l left a shite industry.. christ you wouldn't be in a job long if you spent so much time on a trailer check before you left the yard

[@tlangdon12]

@@johnmayberry7669 I think you are missing the point that this is an instructional video for people about to take their test for the first time. The examiner wants to see a professional driver doing things profressionally; certainly not dawdling but not going so fast that vital checks might be missed.

[@134StormShadow]

I take it there are no reverse or fog lights on your trailers then???

[@thomasfromswindon7609]

I was told to pull forward a foot, then lower air suspension before pulling away.

[@schnozz87]

It does seem that doesn't often get taught, but most experienced drivers I see do exactly that. Drop the suspension, get under the trailer, lift the suspension back to to take the trailer's weight, and vice versa when dropping it. Saves smashing up the mudguards and also taking the weight off the trailer legs means you don't risk bending them when doing your tug test (I've done that, couldn't wind the legs up, absolute nightmare)...

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Yes this is not unusual, it is called a close quarter uncouple. Previously we did do this because we had a refrigerated trailer. With regards to the suspension that can come down to company policy or safe system of work. We do not use that due to skids on the tractor unit these are designed to do this job perfectly. If the rain and spray suppression is making contact with the trailer then this can be removed.

[@Jesswoolliss]

Been a shunting on a dock for 13 years, self taught on these, I always lift as u go under, an lower as I leave a trailer, in the real world drivers don't leave an inch, doing my hgv tests next month old habits an all that ☹

[@Slim-b7s]

Its good practice to drop the air out the unit when dropping a trailer. Ive damaged mudguards by not doing it. When picking up a trailer you should also drop the air out the unit then reverse under stopping short of the kingpin.. raise unit suspension all the way then back into kingpin (that way no damage to legs when doing tugtest and no grease all over) all this should be on test

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Hi Mark, appreciate the input! The procedure in the video is a more in depth account of what is needed for the DVSA driving test. But there could always be more info added.

[@robbiemurderingminion2556]

This is the way I do it using the air system I find it protects the mudguards and lights better.

[@neilwarden7973]

@@NationalDrivingCentre If you have a loaded trailer, the distance from the legs to the headboard can 'droop', therefore if leaving a gap under the legs this can result in the underside of the rubbing plate damaging the mud guards and tail lights once clear of the 5th wheel. (been there done that...) When coupling up, by leaving the landing legs short of the ground, the 5th wheel scrapes the grease off the 5th wheel on to the edge of the rubbing plate. When the driver stands on the catwalk to plug in the suzies, you can get the grease on the leg of your jeans, which can then can transfer to inside the cab. jeans ruined, grease inside the cab... not good. Not a criticism on your teachings, but DVSA need to come into the real world. These are skills for life, which should be done correctly or could result in serious injury or damage.

[@neilwarden7973]

Once coupled up to the trailer and taking a forward 'shunt' or 2, to ensure the king pin is engaged, if the landing legs are still on the ground, this can cause undue stress on the legs and mechanism.

[@BrianV-ie4mw]

@@neilwarden7973 Yes.. With a heavy loaded trailer the legs DO need to be wound all the way down and then the suspension lowered. If not the trailer nose may be too low to get under again. There is also the danger of shooting the unit out if lowering it on the run-up ramps.

[@raithrover1976]

Back when i passed my class1 in 2009, you had to learn and sit your test with a manual gearbox. I was asked to do some yard shunting soon after passing my test and struggled a little with the auto box having been used to using a clutch pedal! Needless to say, i put the vehicle in D rather than crawler mode and took off from under the trailer like a greyhound gong after a mechanical rabbit😂

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

🤣🤣🤣

[@Ugo4jog]

About to start my C+E, these videos are helping me understand aspects. Love the clear calm delivery keep up the good work 👍

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much Ross. Best of luck for the training, hope all goes well. 👍👍👍👍👍

[@ShaneArmstrong-p3j]

Thanks Paul and Keith passed my reverse and uncoupling and recoupling. This week got my class 1 test on Monday the 14 of Oct thanks for all Ur videos great help keep up the good work.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much and a big well done. Best of luck for Monday 🤞🤞👍👍👍 Kind Regards Paul

[@franticstorm7411]

Now try that with a fridge trailer! And that must be the first time I have ever seen a driver not using gloves. All trailer power and air lines start of nice and clean but a few really tight turns and a bit of screwing around, those lines can get covered in grease.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you, with regards to personal protective equipment this always comes down to company policy (it is not the law to wear gloves). It is always reminded when you turn up to a company to read the safe systems of work or method statement with regards to PPE. 👍👍👍👍 As long as your hand held equipment is kept clean and tidy, (Like ours is) then no transfer of dirt to the steering wheel.

[@georges60]

@@NationalDrivingCentre Probably you didn't notice the grease on your colleague's hands. And PPE is imposed by the law.(Health and Safety at Work Act).Imagine touching this freezing iron in minus degrees during the winter.

[@clivegrah]

ITS NOT THE LAW TO WEAR GLOVES????? ITS HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENT....I WILL CLIMB IN AND MY HANDS WILL BE FILTHY FROM THE STEERING WHEEL...FUCKIN PAIR OF DICK HEADS....

[@icslegion]

@@clivegrah I was about to say that. he opend the tractor door to put the trailer plate with the hands full of grease.

[@earlgrey691]

Pretty darn stupid on stilts to eschew the gloves tbh ? who needs a cacky steering wheel ? Bit of bogus machismatry going down here methinx ? l usually lubricate the male suzy (oerr)... with a finger scrape of grease from the trailer front to enable an easier purchase and avoiding risking a back strain issue as some plugs can be fairly unyielding at times.

[@mrknowitall126]

Started my c+E this morning. Mastered the reverse manoeuvre ready for the test tomorrow. Using your videos as content to build the confidence up. Thank you!!

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work. Best of luck, hope all goes well. 👍👍👍🤞🤞🤞

[@edi8656]

How did you get on with test mate I'm starting soon

[@mrknowitall126]

@@edi8656 reversing bit is easy bro. Just listen to your instructor and he’ll tell u exsctly what references to use when reversing. Took a few attempts to pass the driving bit though cos whacked a kerb few times lol but got there in the end

[@Craig6623]

Had already passed my test and have beeb driving class 2s for the past 6 months, however I'm going into a class 1 soon and the last time i coupled a trailer was for my test so I'm just refreshing my memory 😂 Thank you guys

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Best of luck for the new job 👍👍👍👍

[@ShaneArmstrong-p3j]

Thanks Paul and Keith passed my class 1 today no minors. Thanks for all your videos great help keep up the great work.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thats great work, well done 👍👍

[@OliverEdwards-c4f]

Passed my Class 2, 2 years ago thanks to your videos. I’ll be doing my Class 1 in October/November so watching these videos early so I know what to expect.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work, Thank you so much 👍👍👍👍👍

[@hoosierpete]

Nice video, but in America we always look to make sure the locking jaws are secure around the kingpin, and we always leave the landing gear handle loose after cranking gear down, that way it doesn't flip up and get jamed under the trailer rail when the next guy hooks it.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your input Toni. Much appreciated.👍👍

[@neiltitmus9744]

Had that last week recently back after 20 or so years away and took me a few minutes to work out how to unjam the jacking legs lever but lucky jacked up air suspension and the lever dropped into position

[@brianbrown826]

Years ago when doing my HGV 1 we were taught to disconnect the lines nearer to oneself so not leaning over and perhaps getting gunge on your clothes. When connecting start with the furthest one.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Good call Brian. Got to keep yourself looking fresh!

[@Jabber-ig3iw]

Doesn’t care about gunge otherwise he would wear gloves, obviously likes spending his working day with dirty hands, added flavour for when he has his sandwiches at lunchtime. And then leaving a dirty steering wheel for the next guy.

[@MA-hc6mb]

I was taught that, too. Just this weekend at work the company I work for now has decided they want red airline first, then yellow, and yellow the red when coupling and uncoupling for safety. I see their logic, and so long as your unit's lines are mashed with grease or twisted to hell, it's probably a safer way of working.

[@Trucker_MJ]

That's a top tip that my mentor gave me on my 2 week assessment / induction ( My firm are very thorough & supportive) I am on frdges so split couples, a bit of a PIA taking the gloves on and off but it pays dividends to have clean hands & a clean steering wheels and grab handles. These are the smaller, finer details when we get on the road.

[@typhoon-7]

No idea why I'm watching this - I work on the railway. But what amazes me and I never really thought about it but there's more to hooking up one of these things than coupling together two modern trains.... This is more like coupling a loco to wagons or old carriages with buffers, chains, air and power lines. Fascinating.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your comment Mike. Would love to have a go at doing it with a loco 😬😬👍👍

[@rookiebird9382]

I’m an American trucker. The procedures are basically the same. While the mechanisms like airline couplers in European trucks are much more complicated than American trucks. Excellent work!

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your comment, hope all is going well stay safe.👍👍

[@Magill2571]

One thing that I would say is when releasing the trailer break at the end of your checks is, that you wait for 5 seconds with your hand covering the break so you can re-apply it if the vehicle starts to move due to the cab break accidentally disengaging from the on position.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Some great points, thank you so much👍👍

[@Steve1968longyBenjy0]

Excellent videos Paul and Keith really helped passed C+E yesterday thanks.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Well done 👍👍👍

[@kathleenpearce2150]

my father passed his hgv in the 70s and my brother about 15 years ago i have always wanted to but never had the money well happy to say i can finally make my dream come true and am just waiting for my provisional to come back so i can start my journey hoping to have my pass certificate by the end of the year

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work best of luck for the future, hope your training goes well.👍👍👍👍

[@AFCbailey]

I completed my reversing and re-coupling test a bout a week ago, and I just finished my C+E road test with zero faults. Absolutely delighted with it. Only thing is the vehicle I had to use was a drawbar unit (like two Class 2’s stuck together). I am worried when I go to workwith normal artics I’m going to struggle, so I’m binging all these videos to help me out! 😂

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

This is very true, and this is the problems we have with certain training schools. You'll find a lot of companies will carry out assessments when you start and often what they do is separate a tractor and trailer and ask you to put it back together. This is a good indicator to see if you are familiar with these units. If you have any questions or problems, please give us a call. We are here to help. Kind Regards Paul 👍👍 and great work on the pass.

[@aaronmccardie8795]

I was shown first number plate ,park brake ,legs, sussies then pin, pull forward slightly then lower the air suspension then do in reverse and still do it to this day never failed me in 15 years.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Perfect routine. That is the key to this task. With regards to the suspension that can come down to company policy or safe system of work. We do not use that due to skids on the tractor unit.

[@chrislamb4876]

I don't think it matters what order you do it in, everyone works out their own system, except that pulling the pin should be the last thing you do when uncoupling, so the trailer's got the handbrake on and legs down before you release it from the unit. I worked with a guy years ago who was in the habit of pulling the pin as soon as he got out of the cab then doing the brakes, lines and legs. This was fine until one day he was parked on a slight backward slope, got out, pulled the pin, and a brand new milk tanker trailer slid off the back of the unit, dropped onto its knees, and ripped the front open on the back of the unit's chassis.

[@Glenn7719]

Going from car to class 1. Ive done my theory, had my medical, done my cpc and got my two week practical course booked in next month. Sure, two weeks will be enough, the thing thats daunting me is ive never stepped foot in a lorry cab, ive never towed anything, not even a small trailer in a car. At the moment i drive for a living delivering cars, so i spend a lot of time on the roads and confident on them. But its like i am going into everything blind regarding lorries, hence why i am here to get some pointers. Thanks for the vid guys, will surely be watching plenty more in the coming month.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your kind words. Best of luck for your training.👍🤞

[@Glenn7719]

@@NationalDrivingCentre First day today, done the reversing and this. A few different things. After pulling out the king pin, we're told to pull forward a few feet, then lower the trucks suspension until there is a gap between 5th wheel and the trailer, and then drive off, and the trucks suspension automatically raises. Then have to re-lower it when coupling back up, basically do it in reverse, move the tractor a few feet under, raise it with the remote so the legs come off the floor, then drive back locking it into the 5th wheel. And then two shunts forward after the trailer is locked in place, just to make sure. All in all, pretty much all the same. Thank you.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work yes there's always a little bit difference between companies and trucks. When you do end up at the firm you are employed with just check their companies safe systems of work as to the main routine.. 👍👍@@Glenn7719

[@Glenn7719]

@@NationalDrivingCentre All done and passed my test. CV updated, Licence sent off, CPC done a couple of months ago and Digi tacho also sent off for, and all ready started applying for jobs. Ive got a bit of a safety net where my brother works, they take on new drivers, he's been there around 20 years and plus, he gets a £1000 bonus for referral. 👍 I live near Dartford, plenty of opportunities around with Tilbury docks, Purfleet, Thurrock etc, so fingers crossed, hopefully something comes up soon. And thanks for all your videos, ive watched quite a few of them over the past year, they've really helped me out, much appreciated.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Absolutely great work well done. Best of luck for the future. Hope all goes well thank you so much. 👍👍👍@@Glenn7719

[@Patrick-fp2jz]

Thanks for the video got my class 1 test Thursday morning. Watching your videos in the evenings are helping me keep all the info in my head

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Good luck🤞🤞🤞

[@gordonbishop1981]

Cheers, just watching a few of your videos as a refresher as Im driving for work for the very first time on monday 😬

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you. Best of luck hope all goes well.

[@matthewcalder1102]

Done my cpc infeb 2020.. then covid, i drove 7,5 4 10 yrs.. really good video , no messin....alot to know . , they know .

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much 👍👍

[@dorintamas7286]

Got my reverse training tomorrow so im watching this for my personal knowledge. 10x for posting it. !

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Best of luck and thank you👍👍🤞🤞

[@pstannard1]

Hope I don't confuse you when saying this but after watching the video, Everything you do from the first (trailer legs) to the last (Kingpin) on the uncoupling basically you do the last one first and the first one last.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your comment.

[@bridgerectifier7711]

I know nothing about trucks or driving, but I am about to buy a used trailer for storage and this is a very useful vid to familiarize myself with. Thank you very much.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

No problem, Thank you so much 👍👍👍

[@deanacheson2683]

Great video guys, but why did he not wear gloves? Not great for the steering wheel! I’m taking my reverse, coupling/uncoupling test today. Feeling confident!

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Wearing gloves, it's not a legal requirement as long as the equipment you are using is clean and tidy (like ours) then it would come down to your company's safe systems of work. There's no reason for dirt to be on the handles or couplings that you will be using, not when you take a pride in the truck that you are using. Best of luck for your test. Hope all goes well.🤞🤞👍👍

[@paulosgood5565]

Watched your videos on reverse and uncouple and the recouping. Passed my 3a today . Thanks

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work Paul. Well done and thank you.

[@TheDog8876]

Started my class 1 training today. 5 years on class 2, ADR and HIAB but still nervous and knowing it’s a whole different animal!

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work, well done. Best of luck. Hope all goes well. 👍👍

[@Chris-iw4up]

it is very good to clean all tires with your hands and then transfer the dirt to the steering wheel.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Haha this is true Chris 🤪

[@1Lance1984]

Black plate. I sometimes find that the kingpin doesn't want to budge! But moving the unit back or forward will then be able to release it. But obviously all the sizes etc need reattaching.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A great point, Thank you so much👍👍

[@stevebarter4221]

Im revising to take me theroy next week and LGV Multible test. and revising using the books. Very Helpful information and Thank You...! 😎

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work Steve best of luck for the test hope all goes well.👍👍👍

[@sebahaziz4800]

I am doing my class one soon , so I will updae you about the result . However, I am sure the your videos is helping me to pass . thanks

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your comments. Best of luck for the test hope all goes well.👍👍👍👍

[@tseringzhaxi4316]

Thanks for your demonstration as I m take too long to the backward most of time

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

You are more than welcome👍👍

[@AD-cn2uw]

Past my Class 1 today! And this video helped with that! So thank you .

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much👍👍👍

[@caprarualincatalin217]

Hy. It is safer to lower the truck axle, when disconnecting, before pulling away ... risk damaging the mud flaps. My steps when disconnecting are 1 trailer brake and king pin 2 pull out one meter and legs down 3 suzies 4 lower the truck axle and pull out. I am over 100kg and the suzies are in central position ... no way connecting them with the king pin on.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Perfect routine. That is the key to this task. Yes this is not unusual, it is called a close quarter uncouple. Previously we did do this because we had a refrigerated trailer. With regards to the suspension that can come down to company policy or safe system of work. We do not use that due to skids on the tractor unit. If the rain and spray suppression is making contact with the trailer then this can be removed.

[@andrewkerr7795]

Had my test on Wednesday used this video to double check all the correct procedures one last time before heading in past both tests first time thanks for that last minute hand 😃

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work Andrew. well done 👍

[@benhiggins7390]

Not taking my test but going back on to the Arctic’s, this videos was helpful and reminded me of a few things… but seriously wear gloves lol, don’t be that guy that leaves the steering wheel disgusting because you can be bothered to wear gloves 👍🏻👍🏻

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

👍

[@raithrover1976]

I got asked to do a bit of yard shunting at my work (I'm a van driver with a class 1) and didn't have a pair of gloves. It took me weeks to grow the dirt out from under my fingernails.

[@kaleem669]

Very Friendly and Educated staff. A Great training company.. Keep up the Good Work.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thanks Kaleem!

[@brookelangsfordrhdhs661]

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[@mpumeleloncube7196]

Any depo for training in cumbria, i really need help

[@zionmbomio4983]

I passed my c+e by watching your videos

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. And a big well done 👍👍👍👍

[@Ashley-y6u4n]

I would recomend to help the students out to remember which order to do things in by using the work BLACK B-BRAKE L-LEGS A-auxiliary C-clip K-kingpin

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work 👍👍👍

[@GetItRightUpYees]

Doing a one day refresher next week to get back into a bit of C+E ,these videos are fantastic

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much good luck👍👍

[@johncone9516]

As a near 70yr old lorry driver, one thing i have learnt over the years is if you future truckers intending to go tramping is instead of fitting the 5th wheel clip when coupling, fit a padlock through the hole. I have learnt there are some unscrupulous people about that will pull the pin while you are asleep. There are some people that don't check it in the morning.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A very good point John, That really show the importance of a daily walk around check. Thank you so much 👍👍

[@willbowen4065]

When coupled should student carry out a "rolling brake test" (drive forward a few yards, gently apply service brake, then park brake on, engine off). I was expected to by examiner. Mind you I did my test some year ago back when we had to do a "controlled stop and all gear change exercise up and down the box!

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

My word Will that was some time ago. I remember teaching that. They will do it for the wagon and drag but not for the tractor unit and trailer for some reason.

[@MA-hc6mb]

@@NationalDrivingCentre If you can explain it, it's not a fail. I did similar on an ADI drive and avoided a timed bus lane because I KNEW it was full of cars. I told them what I was doing as I did it and was told afterwards that BECAUSE I explained it as I did it it was fine. If you have any queries, just tell the examiner beforehand what you're going to do and they'll tell you if you're being an idiot.

[@Setinmywaysalways]

Very good verbal instruction / Would be happy to attend your course.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much Robert, we would be happy to have you👍👍👍👍

[@brenmck3743]

Took my test yesterday. Forgot to take the 2 shunts when recoupling failed on that

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

So sorry to hear that. Hope it all foes well for the next one.🤞🤞🤞

[@shanesayers89]

I don't know if my method is awkward but I always lower legs fully, pull forward then drop suspension from cab and drive out, when hooking up lower suspension get under it raise to take the weight then reverse to lock it in

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A good point. As you need to remember Shane we are trying to teach students with very limited knowledge of category C+E so giving them a basic routine is the simplest way once they go to their place of business they can then study their systems of work or method statement and help that company will carry out the couple.

[@MA-hc6mb]

Depends on the tractor unit. Scanias are taller at the kingpin in general. We used to have issues if anyone drove the 2 scania units we had who DIDN'T know better, you'd have to raise the air in them to hit the kingping, which put DAF/MAN etc at a stretch, which meant you couldn't lift the legs which made it hard to wind...

[@1RebelDog1]

Passed this part of my test today, when i got to the walkround of the vehicle, the examiner said, and i quote "ok, ok, its not an MOT, that'll do", only went half way down one side haha

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work well done there's just no pleasing some examiners.😜😜

[@HoedownFTW]

Great video, I've been passed 3 months now but never really had to do it at work. Have got to do it this week and your video help remind me on the process 👍

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great work, well done👍👍👍 thank you so much.

[@markduggan3004]

Thanks guys. I’m just about to start my HGV journey. These videos are so helpful. Thanks again

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

You're more than welcome Mark hope all goes well and good luck. 👍👍👍👍

[@sine-nomine]

When we take the C-E in Denmark, we always use a rigid truck and a dolly trailer. Except for a few exercises on dry/wet road on maneuver-day on the track, which is done in both rigid truck/dolly trailer and tractor/trailer.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

That’s interesting, do you think it’s a better way of doing things?

[@sine-nomine]

@@NationalDrivingCentre I think it is much more difficult to back up with a rigid truck/dolly trailer than it is with a tractor/trailer. So if you can back up with a rigid truck/dolly trailer, chances are that you are able to back up with a tractor/trailer. I wouldn't be so sure the other way around. I think that is one of the reasons why we use the rigid truck/dolly trailer. (Even though the combined vehicles in Denmark are probably 75 % tractor/trailers and 25 % rigid truck/dolly trailers). Another reason is probably that the driving centers already have a rigid truck for the C license courses. It's cheaper for them to simply slap a dolly trailer on it for the C-E, than having to buy a tractor/trailer in addition to the rigid truck. It's probably smartest using the more difficult way during learning, so one knows that one is able to handle all scenarios. We also use manual transmission instead of automatic. But I would have liked to at least having tried to couple/uncouple a tractor/trailer. That wasn't possible at my course.

[@sine-nomine]

@@NationalDrivingCentre How much does it cost in your country? In Denmark a C license takes 30 weekdays and cost £ 4.000 and a C-E license takes 20 weekdays and cost £ 2.400. In addition are a few fees to photo, doctor, government, etc.

[@keritrigg8416]

Excellent video.. used as a refresher before job interview

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Good luck🤞🤞🤞🤞

[@Roy-rr5ds]

Me too. Thanks guys

[@brianbridle951]

All the trailers I encountered had a ratchet handbrake Undoing the lines put the brakes on/ratchet just added security. By coupling first you be able to check the lights as well in one go.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Good morning Brian, only come across ratchet handbrakes in the military nearly all trailers we come across now have airbrakes very rare to come across ratchet brakes but thank you for your comment good luck and stay safe.👍👍👍

[@alanthurley6061]

Very interesting I didn't know there was so much to do before you took the truck out onto the main road, you live and learn. Alan/Liverpool.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

So true Alan. Thank you so much 👍👍👍👍

[@arnold9526]

i DID MY BUS LICENCE WITH YOU GUYS AND PASSED FIRST TIME. Looking forward to starting my HGV2 training soon ;-D

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Hello Graham, Hope all is well and safe. Looking forward to having you back.👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@gunslingersvfa-105.]

Great video but sadly unless I'm wrong the reverse lights were not working, they were on the tractor unit but not the trailer.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

🧐 for the light check for the re couple it is not essential to check the reversing lights that's why they were not put on for this light check. Reversing lights still not an MOT failure (2011 onwards) if they check them.

[@petehalpin1157]

I would love to be able to learn to drive a HGV and be able to help my country out in this desperate time of need for HGV DRIVERS but it's the cost to which I just simply can't afford right now 🤦‍♂️ BIG RESPECT TO YOU GUYS WHO ARE UNDER SO MUCH PRESSURE TO DELIVER 👊

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much👍👍👍

[@petehalpin1157]

@@NationalDrivingCentre No!!! THANK YOU GUYS AND LADIES !!! Having to go above and beyond to deliver and you's do and should be Proud of YourSelfs Too. 🙌🤝👏👏

[@normabloice894]

You may be able to get a company that will sponsor you, worth finding out

[@truthisnotanopinion71]

You do realise you can get HGV training for free now! And go straight to a class 1 truck.

[@truthisnotanopinion71]

@Jinx either you know something I don’t or you’re on another scheme. As of yet I’ve not paid a penny, had my medical and all three tests have been booked and paid for. And on a recent email they have told me that the funding has been allocated to me to do my CAT C , which was disappointing as I was lead to believe I was on the direct access to C+E.

[@andrewjohnson582]

Doing class 1 training tomorrow, given me a good idea of what to expect, thank you

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Best of luck, hope all goes well 🤞🤞🤞👍👍👍

[@andrewjohnson582]

Passed 1st time thanks 😂

[@CARTALKUK]

I'm about to start training to be a hgv driver I'm a mechanic by trade wouldn't you also use a torch to check the inside on the tyres and also when you have done the light check wouldn't you also check for air leaks on the breaking system to make sure the system is fully operational?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Some good points. 👍👍

[@troydavies7311]

Perfect videos guys, u couldnt of made that any better, has to b the best one ive watched on here.. got my lessons and test next week. The nerves are slowly setting in. Need / really want to pass.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much Troy👍👍👍👍. Best of luck for the training🤞🤞🤞.

[@troydavies7311]

@@NationalDrivingCentre thank you Paul. Ive been watching all your videos all weekend prepping myself 👍🏽👍🏽

[@Cjpikey]

Just my lessons and practical test to do I feel like these videos will help a lot Thankyou for the vids

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Best of luck for the training 👍

[@troydavies7311]

Another great video guys. Im itching to do my class one but being put off and worried about failing before ive even started.. ive been a class 2 driver for about 8 years and feel nows the time to do my class one

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Pop in for a free assessment to see.👍👍👍👍

[@troydavies7311]

@@NationalDrivingCentre id love to but im here in Wales 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿.. ive been watching your videos on here, very formative and will help alot, thanks again 👍🏽👍🏽

[@twmlloyd5257]

Another cracking video,, be watching this non stop and taking notes , Diolch yn fawr, Thanks both

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Mae croeso mawr i chi. Thank you so much 👍👍👍

[@RobertMihalache]

Excellent work! Thanks guys

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@railvlogger1439]

What are the other two hose connections for, apart from the brake and electrical hoses. I drove trucks in Australia and they only other connections we had were hydraulics if you were pulling a tipper. R

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

You some times find a Blues line in the uk, this would be an auxiliary line. So the two electrical lines for lights and EBS or ABS Plus yellow service brake line and the red emergency line. Hope this helps 👍👍👍

[@truckerwhitney]

Great video, I will watch this even more so it sticks in my head Doing class 1 December so this will help thanks guys.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you Andy. Good luck for the test.

[@paulthrelfall9313]

When checking wheels its always good practice to use gloves so if there is a nail in the tyre you will not cause an injury to your hands

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A very good point well spotted.🧐

[@AD-cn2uw]

I must watch this video at the twice a Day, I'm doing my class 1 very soon I'm trying to do as much homework on the uncoupling and coupling procedure as I can along with the reversing exercise. Such an informative video and explained is great Detail.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much. Best of luck for the test👍👍👍🤞🤞.

[@ibrahimuhincha1457]

where are you learning your course??

[@AD-cn2uw]

@@ibrahimuhincha1457 I did my Training and passed with EP Training services.

[@AD-cn2uw]

Excellent, I did my class 1 with them . Great service.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

@@AD-cn2uw 👍👍

[@Weichentechnix]

Very nice video to pass the test, but it might be beneficial for future professionals to make a video explaining how it actually works in real life as there are many important points missing.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Great suggestion Michael! We will add this to our content list for future ideas

[@sevokevo]

As a person in the USA... Can I please ask what all 3 of those Electrical do on your Trailer? Here in the USA we only have 1 Electrical Cable that is used to power the Trailer Lights as well as our ABS system.. We also have 1 or 2 more cables depending if the trailer have a Liftgate... Majority of all newer trailers only need 1 Electrical line and a Liftgate Line if the trailer has one on it. So seeing the UK have 3 Electrical Cables got me quite curious what they do. If you have a video explaining this I would greatly appreciate it.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

No problem at all. Thank you so much for watching our videos. The first two electrical cables which are normally black or green. These will be powering the lights running Earth and live, and sometimes even back up voltage for all the lighting system. The cable with the trigger would be our ABS or IBS, depending on what braking system, the tractor or trailer is running. If the vehicle has a tail lift, this will be done on a completely separate circuit and would never be connected when the vehicle is driving. Hope this helps, 👍👍👍👍

[@sevokevo]

@@NationalDrivingCentreI find that crazy that everything you have are separated where all of ours are in one cord here in the US…. I understood most of your terminology on this post.. but when you said the lights on Earth and Live… that terminology confused me. But yeah our Lift-gate (tail lift) is always plugged in at all times as it charges the batteries for our lift-gate.. I also found it crazy how your parking brake on the trailer is there on the outside where ours is directly in our trucks… if you’re curious…… here is ours….. We have 3 cables for all of our trailer (exclude lift-gate)…. Blue line is our brake line… Green is our electrical of all lights and ABS, Red is our service line which is used to release the trailer brakes from the Red Brake button inside the truck.

[@sevokevo]

@@NationalDrivingCentreas for your Air Line connectors.. I can completely understand your connection method as I can see that being a better secured way to prevent them from coming off in transit so good on you guys for that.. ours is a easy put on with just one hand depending on your on physical difference like Height… but they can be annoying if the black caps are damaged from wear and tear which can cause air leaks

[@wheelsonroad9367]

Thanks for the demonstration.....really appreciated your efforts team

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

We will make more to help and if you have any recommendations let us know!

[@bestdj2010]

Starting my c+e training next friday 🤞

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Best of luck. Hope all goes well.👍👍

[@garethvenables9607]

Failed my recoupling test today when I forgot to check the trailer break was on when checking the new trailer over. School boy error. Always remember BLACK especially the B! Never mind, retesting tomorrow. Shame it's going to cost me another £40!!

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

So sorry to hear that it's good to have a routine and to stick to it. Best of luck for tomorrow. 🤞🤞👍

[@stu82pendous]

Thanks for all these videos guys, putting in for my Class two once the provisional is through I think I might even try for the Class one now because of these helpful videos

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Its worth a look at. thank you so much 👍👍👍.

[@dangerousdavecox]

When I go under, as a shunter who's done 50,000 trailers, I would life the air suspension to ensure the feet of the legs are well clear of the ground. If someone has not dropped.the trailer leaving the inch floor clearance, then the feet will be flat on the ground putting strain on the legs. I would also have done the height check, then walked round to check no one is stood behind the trailer and that the parking brake is definitely on

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Some good points👍👍Correct, Like the height check we done at 9:38 and the trailer brake at 1:38 and 5:55.🧐🧐🧐

[@dangerousdavecox]

@@NationalDrivingCentre applying the break before dropping the trailer but also checking it's applied before going under as well as walking round the back of the trailer to check it's clear behind

[@Reddevil514]

This is the exact thing you do on your C+E test guys remember the acronym B = brake (trailer brake) L= legs, wind up the legs A = airlines, disconnect K= kingpin, make sure it’s open And you won’t go far wrong 👍

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A great top tip , thank you so much.👍👍👍👍

[@brunocardoso8758]

I use BLANK...Just added the N for number plate... And KNALB to reverse the process 👍

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

@@brunocardoso8758 Great work 👍👍

[@BirdieBrietling]

If someone forgets one of the things in this process, is this a major fail?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

It depends what it is. If it is something like forgetting the trailer brake for example then yes it is. Are you doing your test soon Birdie?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

@@BirdieBrietling Uh oh. Whereabouts did you take the test?

[@oceanmaster7]

Great video. However I do have a question. Doesnt not lowering the trailor legs all the way down prevent the grease from the fifth wheele coming off?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A great question, thank you. As long as the firth wheel and base plate are greased to spec then no.

[@oceanmaster7]

@@NationalDrivingCentre Thank you for your prompt answer.

[@jeffa6180]

What about the finish checks on trailer lights, my way. 1st trailer brakes, number plate checking lights, legs, lines then 5th pin release.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Its good to have your own routine, whatever works well. We checked the lights at 13:08.

[@MalkeetSingh-cc5ft]

I see your all videos is it very helpful for all new drivers

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much 👍👍

[@ashterfadgadget817]

Great video. Nice and clear with good advice. Thanks.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much 👍👍 this is exactly what it's therefore.

[@mrknowitall126]

Hi guys. Is it recommended to put the air suspension on the unit down before pulling out from the trailer…and then raising it back up when coupling back up to the trailer. Thanks guys

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much for your comment and input 👍👍

[@mrknowitall126]

@@NationalDrivingCentre thanks but I was asking you guys lol wasn’t telling 🤣

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

@@mrknowitall126 so sorry, this all comes down to your companies safe systems of work. In some cases you can lower the suspension to then make your way under the trailer. However, some companies do this a little bit differently and they will use the skids of the trailer. Hope this helps 👍👍

[@brardeepg6672]

Dropping air is must when you release trailer 🤔

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Unfortunately not, for this training environment when training students to do this we are trying to keep it simple and under stressful conditions of a test environment having students play around with a suspension is far too overwhelming we've been doing this for over 20 years and this is the way it works this is why we have skids on the vehicle and it makes the process work very well, and obviously prior to air suspension this was done for a very long time. Once a student goes to their company they can go through the companies safe systems of work to implement the methods that company will use. Thank you so much for your comment. 👍

[@aking9999]

Why was the number plates removed ? Is this a UK requirement ? To stop theft of the trailer ?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

In the UK the trailer is not a registered vehicle even though it has a numberplate once we connect the tractor unit to the trailer the trailer will then have the same numberplate as the tractor unit.👍

[@aking9999]

@@NationalDrivingCentre Thank you for the prompt reply.

[@pow5ter1975]

Ok! Well when I took my HGV 1 test the examiner rushed me through this process which resulted in me failing my test. Was gutted to say the least.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

So sorry to hear that. Obviously you cannot drag your heels on this process as Examiner has got tests to carry out for the rest of the day, that's why the process that is taught during your training period needs to be observed. The moment one thing has changed then this can upset the timeframe whether that's from carrying out your checks.

[@dunkyhut]

Should you not lower the suspension before pulling out from trailer. Similarly if you lower the suspension whilst backing under the trailer stops the grease getting wiped off the fifth wheel by the front of the trailer, then when the fifth wheel is under the trailer you lift the suspension to raise the trailer legs slightly off the deck.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A good comment, Thank you. With regards to lowering suspension this can come down to you companies SSOW or internal policy the skids on the tractor unit are designed for this job and is specified in the owners manual. Obviously if the trailer was fully loaded then this routine could be changed. Thank you for your comment.

[@tony.b4368]

Always used to get told to go by the acronym B.L.A.C.K , brakes , legs, auxiliaries (suzies) clip and kingpin then reverse order to recouple…how would this affect the test scenario as you did the suzies before the legs on recouple?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you for your comment. This would have no affect on the test. We have done how you said "Brake, Legs, Aux, Clip and kingpin and like you said the reverse to recouple. so Aux is before legs in the reverse order.

[@cypher9000]

Do you get any/many people passing the test for fun? I'm a software developer but I'm thinking of getting the C+E license one day just to have that experience. Who knows, maybe one day I get bored of writing code and decide to head out in a truck :D

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

A fantastic question. Yes, quite often we get people that do this. We've had quite a few Pilots and some doctors. Lots of different people who have thought about driving C+E's through their lives but never got the chance. So yes it does happen. 👍👍

[@deepdarkness4051]

So for the light test on the trailer , would I ask the examiner to check the lights or operate the lights for the check ? About to start my training but nice to know the tips and tricks thanks for the videos guys very helpful

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

The best thing to do is ask Examiner and more often than not they will be glad to help. If the examiner was to say "imagine you are on your own" then carry out the light check as if you alone working.👍👍👍 good luck for the test hope all goes well.

[@chrislamb4876]

​@@NationalDrivingCentre I (and most others I knew) used to put all the lights on, including the hazards, before getting out of the cab, then walk around once it was coupled up and check everything was on. The only trouble is how do you check the brake lights? At night you might see a pool of red light behind you when you put the brakes on, or see them reflected off another vehicle or a building, but very often you have no way of testing whether your brake lights are working. I always wondered why the manufacturers didn't fit a switch to put the brake lights on, perhaps with an annoying buzzer so you didn't forget to turn them off again and drive down the road with your brake lights on. Out of interest, on a modern HGV test if the examiner tells you to imagine you're on your own are you expected to try and test the brake lights or do you just test all the others and hope the brake lights are working?

[@karl8805]

Just use the button on the key fob flashes all the lights in sequence Our mercs have them as do our dafs scanias and volvos

[@AD-cn2uw]

Great video guys , very informative. I'm doing my class 1 in June so its good to do some homework.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you. Good luck for the course👍👍👍

[@nobbynomad2010]

Hope you passed ok and now gaining useful experience on the road. I passed my class one way back in 1980 in the RAF. Demobbed in 1987 and driving in civilian life. During the early years there was still a honeymoon period which I enjoyed but it soon became very monotonous and for many years I was on prozac, I needed a change of direction whilst still utilising my HGV 1 license. I managed to find a job in the Conference and Exhibition sector and within days was driving an IBM trailer around Europe, parking up for sometimes a week at a time. When finding the particular venue we had to rig the trailer ready for use which took a couple of hours. I loved this job and thought I had the best job in the world but it got even better. During this time I was in contact with many people in this industry and soon had a little black book of contacts. Long story short I found the address for HR at Formula one management in Biggin hill. Sent in a CV, secured and interview and then a job as a F1 driver/rigger. This position took me all around the globe starting in Australia in February and finishing in Japan in October. During closed season we refurbished the equipment before the next season. That lasted for three seasons before I went and explored pastures new. I got myself a job in the Rock and Roll industry as a touring driver with the bands (Yes you will have heard of most, if not all of them). The point of my story is to say, if you have a class one license you will rarely be out of work and the license can lead onto some really exciting ways to expand your skills whilst earning a very good living.(I retired at 60) I learned how to rig an television broadcast centre, rudimentary TV camera skills in F1 and also in the Rock and Roll job, spotlight operator on and off stage (Yes, sometimes being part of the act on stage) I loved this stage of my working life but if I'd never made the positive change, who knows I may still be on the prozac.

[@paul301]

Personally I put the legs all the way down without the inch gap and use the units air suspension to lower the unit to get out and then on the recouping go in with a lowered suspension and then jack it up to the highest and slide onto the kingpin. We all have our own ways..

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Very true Paul. Thank you for your comment. Yes, this will all come down to your companies safe system of work and when the drivers go to there employers this will be in place as part of H&S and management of health and safety at work regulations. 👍👍👍👍

[@murrayfowler1749]

Hi. Do you not have taps on your air lines ? I drive in Australia and all the euro trucks I've seen have taps. Most American trucks don't have taps because they have 2 separate parking breaks 1 for truck and 1 for the trailer. Also I understand what your trying to do with leaving an inch under the landing gear (legs) but with a loaded trailer it could damage the guards unhooking.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thanks for the comment Murray, We only really see taps on NATO hitch. Not to much from day to day trucks.

[@chrislamb4876]

When I started in the early 1980s we had taps, but they were gradually phased out in favour of the self-sealing connectors. I'm not sure why, perhaps drivers were connecting airlines and forgetting to turn the taps on! We used to have three air lines as well, there was a blue one as well as the red and yellow. To be honest I never knew what it was for, but if it was there I used to connect it up anyway. The blue lines were phased out years ago as well.

[@gibboj]

that`s how to do it , useing the run up ramps to lift the trailer NONE OF THE SHITE LIFTING AND DROPING THE AIR SUSPENTION TO LIFT THE TRAILER . i was tought if you carnt lift it you dont shift it . no air suspention back in the day

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

👍👍

[@LukeW1090]

Thank you so much for doing these videos! I have my medical booked next weekend and trying to do some forward reading/watching to know what to expect. Thanks for all the info :)

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

When lockdown ends and you have your new licence back with provisional Luke, give us a call!

[@scalezi]

forget taking the medical Luke, you do not need one to unload a truck. take my advice go get a job at Aldi and get paid more and better thought of.

[@clivegrah]

@@NationalDrivingCentre DONT DO IT LUKE...These clowns have not got a fuckin clue...... Fuckin Amateurs..... makes a mockery of the Transport Industry......

[@1RebelDog1]

@@scalezi 18 pounds an hour in Aldi? and have to listen to gender neutral people with faces full of metal all day, no thanks, i'll drive my truck thanks :)))))

[@scalezi]

@@1RebelDog1 crack on mate, wonder if you will think the same in a few years? good luck.

[@scanny8793]

I passed my test in an ERF, non of these green lights. Just had to manage, especially with the kids coming in now they need to learn more than ever.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Proper driving that in an ERF!

[@scanny8793]

@@NationalDrivingCentre It's going to be have be a Generational change, love to see people passing their test no matter what.

[@herbertsommer1376]

Simple and criteria, great explanation gents.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much.👍👍

[@giftkondwanibanda3661]

Am in joying your teaching 🎉🎉

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much 👍👍👍

[@kenwkls6392]

im seriously looking into driving HGVS. your videos are great.

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

Thank you so much.👍

[@paulmorris2738]

At the end when Keith was at the rear of the trailer checking the lights, why did they not check the reverse (white) light was functioning?

[@NationalDrivingCentre]

🧐 this was checked prior to him leaving the yard.👍