Reversing lorries. "back her in drive"

Reversing lorries. "back her in drive"
Mark Pritchard reversing a 44 ton articulated Volvo FH lorry in the uk.
I DON'T BELIEVE IT, I put the thanks for watching bit in the wrong place.
Filmed by Mark Pritchard DX57BYL E llesmere, Oswestry and Wrexham. You can also find me on instagram at / drivermarkrpritchard

[@tonydean2541]

ive driven lorries for 30 odd years, im telling ya, this boy can reverse

[@schnozz87]

Right on. Calm, slow, no wobbly oversteering.... that's experience and confidence right there.

[@Airtrooper719]

This compilation is perfect for new drivers to see the various types of reverses. I found it helpful myself and I've been driving artics for 3 years now.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks you, That was my exact thought when I was making it and the reason I included some easy reverses at the start. Tried my best to get as many different types and different situations I could find in the time I was filming so as to be useful. Seems to of paid of as this is easily my most popular video.

[@indodaemdaka]

I'm still in awe how he manages to swing it in with the road being narrow with parked cars as well!

[@martinmillar8447]

The boy is a wizard 👍🏼

[@Neurion]

7 years old and this video is still super useful! I passed my test last year and didn't find a job until recently. I just did 3 months of day shift rigid work and now they've put me in a double decker artic on night shift at the hubs... Rather intimidating to say the least! I've just done a week of that and while it all went fine, I found myself doing needless laps around the hub to find more suitable parking spaces, because some of the free spots were too scary lol. Watching this compilation of various different reverses helps loads! My biggest issue was setting myself up for tight and awkward maneuvers and this video gives some insight on how to position the truck and trailer prior to actually reversing. Thank you :)

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy. Well done making the start in driving artics, It definatly not easy when you first start out. You right though. Half of reversing is setting yourself up when your pulling up forwards and positioning yourself. When i'm watching other drivers revers i can tell how well they are going to do it before they even get it into revers, i can tell by how they possition befor reversing, if you watch that bit you can tell instantly if they know what they are doing or not. There will be a reversing lorries 2 out one day. I've filmed all the lorry bits but am doing something along side it which is taking ages to film. One day it will be out though and i'm hopping it will be even better then this one.

[@deane9050]

Hi Mark, i know this is 3 yrs old but its the best bit of reversing ive ever seen, thank you for the insight.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you buddy, Just don't look if ever you see me trying to revers a steering rear axle when I've forgotten to lock the rear axle straight on the trailer, again.

[@MrJasdog107]

Master class on reversing a LGV in everyday LGV driving situations. Look and learn.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@nondompom]

Just a tip for those drivers who've recently passed their HGV test and are reversing into an unfamiliar loading bay. Take your time. Get out of your cab and have a look around the spot you're going to reverse into. It can take a few precious minutes or a few seconds, but it's worth every second. Chances are it'll also save you hitting something nasty. If you're unsure about the reversing, stop and double check. Rushing around will result in stupid accidents.

[@markpritchard]

I normaly open the trailer doors while i'm out there, kill two birds with one stone.

[@paradoxicalcat7173]

Oct 2021 and this is still the best reversing video on YT. Thanks for making it! :D

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy. I'm working on another which will be out one day.

[@MrEdwardsno8]

The best reverse vid on you tube.Top job Mark

[@markpritchard]

Thank you It would appear to be doing rather well this one. Just a shame I left the thanks for watching bit in the wrong place. Never mind. Mark

[@MrRobertotim]

You are a genius, when I become a truck driver I want to be like you

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, Start growing that beard.

[@marcellodelira5601]

@@markpritchard Lol

[@Konnecta-kb9gg]

Masterclass. As a new learner starting, I learnt a lot from this. Attitude is top quality.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, Glad it helped.

[@1982PRA]

Defnetely the best video on KZbin for anyone learning to reverse

[@markpritchard]

Thank you Mike,

[@ChrisKlein0]

This video and your commentary has helped me a lot on my reversing. I keep repeating to myself “follow the trailer round”. Thanks for the video!

[@markpritchard]

Your welcome, I'm glad it helped.

[@richiec164]

I'm on my 3rd lesson for my artic license and this is thee only video to show you real daily driving. That blind side still scares the hell out of me! I would love to have your confidence, skill and patience.

[@markpritchard]

I'm sure one day you willbe just as good as me. I would say it me 3 months to be half decent at it, Then say around two years to be really good able to back it anywhere no problem good at it. That said, i still strugle a tiny bit with my blind side so i gess nobodys perfect. If your lucky enough to have a lorry with a rear camera blind side becomes alot easier. Sadly i haven't got one.

[@elfa7952]

You are a natural, and you make it look so easy. Your hand/eye co-ordination is spot on.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you. I did actually used to run my own driving school only it was a car not a lorry. Unfortunately we had the credit crunch and every man and his dog decided they could make good money as a driving instructor and before long we had more driving instructors then people wanting to learn to drive. So I had to go and find another job in 2010. Spent a year at Arriva driving a bus around Oswestry which I didn't enjoy. Then managed to get in at Pentons in 2011 and have been there ever since. I do miss running my own driving school though.

[@misioo8841]

The best movie. Very helpful for a rookie. Thanks a lot Mark

[@markpritchard]

Glad to be of some help.

[@pablosearth]

Thanks for this fella! Had my licence 11 years but started trucking full time so basically green. I've learned its all in the set up. If you get that wiggle on, thats the battle won.. Great vid Mark! Peace

[@markpritchard]

Defiantly all in the set up. How you position is key and I know it might sound obvious but always do it on your good side unless there really is no other choice. If I'm in a one way system and the bay is on my blind side I very often spin it right round on itself so it ends up on my good side, its just that I've seen so many people trying to get it on the blind side when they could simply spin it around so its on your good side. Failing that if possible i'll drive past tern around and come back so its on my good side.

[@laurencemartin3026]

As a newly passed class 1 driver all I can say is this guy makes it look easy. How you stayed so calm baffles me I would’ve had steam coming out of my ears 😮

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy,

[@laurencemartin3026]

@@markpritchard any tips for newly passed drivers?

[@markpritchard]

@@laurencemartin3026 Well done on passing your class one. I must admit i did struggle for a few months reversing it and i did get myself into a few situations. Its a learning curve we all have to go through. A right of passage sort of thing. I can remember taking 90 shunts trying to get it onto a bay holding everybody up. Don't panic, we've all been there. Take your time, don't be afraid to get out the cab and have a good look around or asking someone to watch your blind areas if your unsure. Good luck and stay safe buddy. It will get easier.

[@schnozz87]

​@@laurencemartin3026how you getting on a year down the line pal?

[@sihaworth2793]

Mark, by far the calmest, clearest video and mate, you sure can reverse those things. Great Great competition brother. Thank you for the tips.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy your welcome. One day there will be a reversing 2 video. Its in the making anyhow.

[@Wolvesfan-oz6yh]

Excellent... very well presented... & it goes without saying .... very skilful indeed.👍

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Harvey, I'm extremely chuffed with the amount of good responses I've had on this video.

[@a320nick]

A guy, who won't be freaked out! Well done Mark😷👍 Your mindset is unflappable.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@miketravis6149]

The biggest vehicle I have ever drove was a 7.5 t with tail lift and that was a challenge to back up. You have balls of steel my man and if I wore a hat I would take it off to you. Keep on trucking buddy.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you Mike. I used to drive a 7.5 toner to. I just slowly worked my way up in size.

[@darrenhenderson8047]

Absolute joy to watch, a true master of his craft. Kudos to you fella. 👍😎

[@markpritchard]

Thank you Darren. If i was every going to be good at anything in life it had to be going backwards lol.

[@darrenhenderson8047]

@@markpritchard 😂😂😂 top notch driver mate. Well jealous. Stay safe fella 👍

[@cliffninja]

That's a masterclass in driving mark, great skills, safe driving mate.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks very much, Most of it was accidental you know.

[@MrCaptainscarlet68]

Good skills.Mark. Enjoyed watching it.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you, The main thing is to close your eyes, Then when you hit something tell everybody that it's a loading bay.

[@funkyjunkyjai]

A video of reversing is perfect. Just done my 1st month on Class 1, and just getting the hang of reversing manoeuvres.

[@markpritchard]

Well done on passing your class 1 buddy. I can still remember my first few months of driving, its not easy at first. Keep going and you'll be reversing it in like a pro in no time.

[@kennethwhitfield5371]

Great video mate. Really helpful advise for drivers with little experience. Thanks

[@markpritchard]

Your welcome and thank you.

[@davetaylor5511]

Hi Mark, great vid and you make it look so easy to us newbies.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Dave, Trust me we've all been there and I can remember taking about 20 shunts trying to get it onto the bay. Give it time and you'll be there before you know it. It is strange though as I can remember being really terrible at it, and I'm now at a good level of being able to revers it. But I've no I dear when I stopped being terrible and started being ok?

[@tintedsnowman]

Nice manoeuvres Mark, excellent observations, well done !!!!

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, I think this video might get a few more hits now they stopped teaching reversing in the uk driving test LOL.

[@akaweetommy9751]

class video Mark great the way it's all reversing. I passed my test few months ago and really struggled with the reversing. you make it look so easy lol

[@markpritchard]

I wouldn't worry, I lived on a farm and was reversing tractors and trailers from a young age. I still struggled with an artic and it took me a little while to get the hang of the size. Funny thing is now I struggle when I get into a tractor and trailer or my van and trailer. I know what I'm doing its just the points of turning are all in different places and I spend most my time in the lorry so that's what I'm now used to. The really strange thing and I did this the other day when I was at the supermarket I was reversing my van into a parking space and I turned the wheel in totally the wrong direction. I'm not used to not having a trailer behind me, Got some funny looks from the people walking buy. Mark

[@letshaveya]

I know the feeling, I am a bus driver of 25 years, the other day driving my car past a bus stop a person signalled and I pulled into the bloody bus stop before realizing and taking off again. They must have thought I was a looney! I have been thinking of upgrading to semi's as I much prefer to be on my own and not have to deal with half wits but reversing an artic is my biggest fear. Can reverse a rigid with my eyes closed but I have never even reversed a trailer with a car so is alittle intimidating when you have traffic all around you while trying to do it.

[@marcellodelira5601]

Top man! Those tiny yards and blind reverses...Respect 👍🏼💪🏼

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, Am now working on a reversing lorries two. which is taking ages but but should be good, I hope.

[@TheJadalee]

Driving assessment next week so watching this video to learn. Great video by the way.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Sam, Good luck with your driving assessment.

[@MaxHeadRush]

Excellent vid, much appreciated!

[@markpritchard]

Thanks bud.

[@fastasfox]

mark pritchard Mr A sent me here lol. nice reverse buddy.

[@fastasfox]

Mr A Cheers Mr A.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you both. Mark

[@davidpartington2739]

Thanks mark,great video.You certainly get some interesting locations on your job.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks David, We certainly get around a bit.

[@Smudger96]

I've only just stumbled by this video and your channel and I'm glad that I did. Really nice reversing mate. I'm starting my new job and career as a HGV C1 this week following 22 years in the Forces and I'm really excited about it. I've only held my class 1 for about 14 months but not had much experience. You make this reversing look so easy and one day, I'd hope to be half as good as you.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you Nigel. Believe it or not reversing isn't that hard, once you get used to it. I must admit I did struggle when I first passed my test but its one off those things you just have to work through it and keep trying. I always think of it like pushing a wheel barrow. I'd be the unit and the wheel barrow the trailer. Its the same principle as when you want the wheel barrow to go left you push the handles the right. Main things though, Just take your time, if you need to get out and have a look then its fine and at the end of the day better then hitting something. Also if you go nice and slow if you did hit something you won't do much damage. Final thing is not to worry about holding other drivers up, chances are if you get somebody honking there horn at you there were once a beginner who couldn't revers to save his life to. I remember when I first started I think it took me about 3 months before I could revers without to much of a problem, and I'd say two years when I was good at it. The first three months was hell and I got myself into a right mess a few times so don't worry if it happens to you, we've all been there. Good luck with the new job and I hope everything goes well for you. With any luck you won't go out by yourself on the first day as most places have a training driver who will keep an eye on you and also help you out if it goes a bit wrong. Thanks for watching and hope to see you out on the road. Mark.

[@robbie5604]

Some quality manoeuvres, excellent camera work as well. Brilliant video Mark. Great commentary too 👍👍👏

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Robbie.

[@stonesie81]

Thanks for this video! I passed my HGV1 test last week and had my first reversing assessment yesterday. The best thing I can say about that is I didn't hit anything with that 13 m trailer and I forgot most of the new info, They still said Okay and I'm waiting for the call with my start date. After 14 years on buses class 2 was easy, class 1 is a whole new challenge.

[@markpritchard]

Well done passing your test, Thats not an easy test to pass. I also came across from coaches and busses. I spent 4 years driving a coach for Owens and a year driving a bus at Arriva. The lorry i did my class two in was smaller then the 53 seater coach i'd been driving so it was a walk in the park. It will take a few months to get the hang off reversing but its like a rights off passage thing, we all go through it and i'm sure you will get the hang of it in no time. Hope you get the call for your start date soon, we're really busy moving stuff around the country right now so we need all the help we can get.

[@stevenesq]

13.30 was genius driving.

[@Ajt1994]

Very good video thanks you uploading.

[@markpritchard]

Cheers buddy.

[@frankbing1]

Thanks for uploading Mark, I remember some time ago asking if you were putting some reversing on, too many drivers uploading videos but no reversing, for me most of the skill in HGV driving is in the reversing, great video Mark thanks again.

[@markpritchard]

No worry's fella, I've been trying to do a reversing video for years its just they never worked out. Its why I ended up spending some money any getting my Hero 5 with the head mount.

[@nicksutube221]

New driver and was struggling with off the road backs. Watched this video and got her in with one stunt after copying the line you took (don't get them all that often tbh). Anyway, thanks so much. Top video.

[@markpritchard]

Glad to have helped Nicholas, It is hard when you first start out and we've all been there. Mark.

[@dunder_init7016]

Hey Mark , passed my rigid test on Wednesday... and now onto the artic. Have ten lessons and then the class 1 test. Great video! I rewatch it regularly. Would love to see another reversing video from you if possible. Great skill 👏

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, and well done on passing your rigid. Now the real fun begins with the artic but i'm sure you will get the hang of it. With any luck i will see you out there driving the biggest things on the road soon. Good luck buddy.

[@bestdj2010]

Top class reversing mate

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@paulyk7092]

Thank you for the reversing video, it gave me a few pointers

[@markpritchard]

Glad it was of help buddy.

[@richvincent6282]

Wow, thanks for uploading this, it just shows where these trailers can be parked, when you know how. I've just passed and was out solo this week. I understand the concept but it's the length, distance and timing that I need to figure out. Can park between 2 trailers when straight and can park up from 90 degrees when theres loads of space but trying to park from 90 degrees between 2 trailers.... aagghhh! Lol. It'll come and thanks again for proving whats possible.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy. The thing i try to do is get the thing straight or as close to straight as posible before you enter the gap between the trailers. This lowers the risk of any overhang touching another trailer. The problem is there isn't a standered size for parking bays. I'm working on a parking at services video and you will be amazed at the size diffrence of the bays. Some bays are alot wider then others while some are not long enough so you have to be very carful not to hit the lorry behind you if there is one parked there.

[@bigbeps7755]

The best uk hgv reversing tips that i come across well done mark am a new c1 driver i cant park for shit atm

[@markpritchard]

Thank you. The reversing will come, I think of it like pushing a wheelbarrow. the unit is you and the trailer is the wheel barrow, it sort of works for me any way.

[@MrTenctonian]

First video I've come across of yours, needless to say I've followed you now lol. Very skilled driver, I have a class one also and the way you explain what you're doing is far more helpful than what you get in training. The test does not prepare you for real driving. Keep up the good work mark 👍

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy. I used to be a driving instructor but in cars not lorries. I know what you mean about the test though. All you have to do is memorise markers and how much to turn at each marker on your test. Which isn't much use in the real world when you've got to blind side it into somewhere you've never been before at night.

[@ferdigoldschagg5410]

Top job! Serious skill there.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you.

[@tambrath]

Just found you videos tonight , going to be watching your video a lot as reversing still new to me after passing class1

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy. You will get there, its a rights of passage thing for class one drivers. We all go through it.

[@seanmorris1754]

been driving trucks three weeks. insane the places you are being told to reverse in to lol. no help the way people are parking. and your so calm. something for me to aim for. thanks for the video .

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, With a little practise you will get there. Mark

[@mrwisdom2121]

Really awesome reversing video mate. I'm training for my C+E at the moment, sadly the 1 reverse they teach you doesn't really prep you for the real-world situations, this is a great vid of what to expect!, i keep coming back to it :), i always worry about having to negotiate with busy traffic on a tricky reverse once i'm working! Hope one day i can be as laid back as you when you breeze through these reverses :D

[@markpritchard]

Thanks, It dose take a few years to pick up but when you get it you get it. The problem with the test is you can learn it, You know when to turn and how much to turn at which point. In real life you can't because there all different and its a little more stressful when your reversing round cars as it doesn't matter as much if you hit a cone. That said in 8 years of driving I've only had two accidents, Once I reversed into a car that was so close behind me I couldn't see him. And I did a nice job of a front wing and door panel trying to reverse out of a yard I couldn't turn around in. All well, Nobody's perfect.

[@radiogramgramophonetoons5802]

I haven't got a class one licence, only the class two. I've always wondered how it would be to reverse a class one trailer, I doubt I'll ever find out but really enjoyed this video. You make the reversing look so easy, congrats on a masterclass of reversing

[@markpritchard]

Thank you, I went out in a class two once and couldn't drive it for the love of money. Kept missing my point of turn on tight junctions because a class 1 is longer and has a better steering lock. Had a bit of a night mare that day.

[@theydontlikeitupem.4725]

I hope they pay you well 😂 that's crazy skills

[@markpritchard]

Thanks fella. I wouldn't say I'm rich but I'm a long way off poor. So I'm doing all right.

[@DarkAF.]

This video is the official go to video for reversing videos. I did my assessment yesterday. The reverse was a nightmare, something I was never taught properly for my test and I also can't get my head round it. I know how to prepare and get angles then the rest doesn't fall into place as easy ha.

[@markpritchard]

Learning the art can be a bit of a night mare. It will come though, Never give up and you will be able to master it my friend.

[@indodaemdaka]

The Depots and Warehouses are quite packed. You have impressive skill negotiating such a packed environment

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@IanBrewster]

These reverses are insane

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy,

[@patthewoodboy]

excellant. Great drivers eye view of reversing a beast.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you. Next challenge is to sort out a drivers eye view that doesn't make people feel sick. Think I'm moving my head around a bit to quick. Mark.

[@patthewoodboy]

no problem ..I ride a motorcycle and my mirror checks and shoulder check are the same:-)

[@markpritchard]

Yep, you've got to have eyes every where, And even if your not on the road and in a yard I then have the same problems with fork lift drivers.

[@2001smythy]

Great video fella , I am slowly getting into tight spots after just 6 days of driving and today was a major test for me but I stayed calm and 3 people clapped me .... Now to practice my blindside reverse ....

[@markpritchard]

Good man, The important thing is staying calm and not getting into a panic. I must admit I'm not as good on my blind side as I could be, I can get by but I've seen others do it better then I can on the blind side. That said, some trucks have cameras in them so they might be cheating.

[@jacksonpauljackson2557]

That was epic bud you are one hellof a driver

[@markpritchard]

Thats 11 years work of experiance in hgv's. To be fair many of the other drivers at Pentons are just as good. With the places we deliver to it do or die at are place.

[@firstnamesurname955]

great video! I hated my first week class 1 driving. couldnt get my head round it but watched this video after nearly giving up after fuking up a reverse bay simple multi 5 shunt park at downtons. next day did it first time and found it preety seemless after. just the 1 shunt now-an-then and ive just finished watching your vid and think ive picked up a few more tips ready for next week! have a beer on me!

[@markpritchard]

Thank you and well done. Reversing is one of those things that look easy but then isn't when you try to do it for the first time. But when you crack it you crack it. I've allways felt its like a right of passage for all class 1 lorry drivers. I can remember getting in a bit of a mess myself more then once when i frst started and i could alread revers trailers as i used to drive tractors on a farm, But tractors don't have a blind side and they bend in a comletly difrent place so although the theory is the same, in reality it's totaly diffrent which gave me a headache.

[@craigsingy90]

Brilliant 👍🏻👍🏻

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@leemassey9029]

What a driver 🤩

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@thetrucksimchap]

Great video! 👍

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@stevenesq]

fantastic tutorial video, taken lots of advice here thank you.

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, Reversing is one of those things, it is hard at first but it gets easer with time. It's a sort of rights of passage thing but its well worth hard work. There is no better feeling when somebody says you'll never get it in there and then you just wangle it in with no problems. Be carefull of the ones who say you'll get it in there easly, the driver yesterday did it. What they don't tell you was he was in a lorry half the size or he had steering axles or something. There are many diffrent sizded lorries with many diffrent size axle configerations and some revers better then otheres. Good luck and keep at it.

[@stevenesq]

@@markpritchard One day i might be as good as you lol. Need to find hgv class 1 work as no company wants to hire new drivers. shame really.

[@markpritchard]

I can remember that problem. Everybody want's two years experiance and you sit there thinking how am i going to get the two years experiance if everybody wants two years experiance. I came across from driving coaches. Funny thing is when i came across to hgv i was turned down from a job driving a class two bin lorry becouse i didn't have the experiance, I sat there thinking i can drive your children to school in a 55 seater coach but i don't have the experiance to take your rubbish? Makes no sence to me that. Good luck, i feel your pain.

[@stevenesq]

@@markpritchard im a bus driver and have been for nearly 5 year's. I recently left a hgv job because they lied about the hourly rate but most shocking of all was they left me for 2-3 hour's on my own. I hadn't a clue what to do at that point I was dropping trailers off here and there but still. After 2 day's they wanted me to go to London Birmingham and Manchester over the weekend. I refused stating insufficient training. Take it or leave it. I left it I dont need that kind of pressure. So disappointed i really wanting to do the work but not like that. That said I've taken on board alot and will ask questions next time.

[@markpritchard]

@@stevenesq Yes i must admit the training is a bit shit. I see drivers who can hardly do the job themselves and have only been doing the job months teaching others to do the job as badly as they are doing it. And yet i used to be a driving instructor, have years of experiance and have never been asked to help train.

[@chenery161]

Very interesting...we'll presented

[@markpritchard]

Thank you, I do tell them in the office us hairy bready people are well presented but they won't believe me ;-)

[@neilfrench6597]

Great vid. I'm new to class 1 and reversing is a bit worrying. Needless to say, this vid is really helpful. Cheers

[@markpritchard]

Glad it was of some use. I wouldn't worry about the reversing to much, I was terrible at it when I first started and I was used to reversing tractor and trailers. Give yourself a few years at it and you'll be as good as me.

[@dotty265]

Great video. I'm 'only' a van driver but I don't even drive a car because I have used a motorbike for 20 years. When I first started I used to think I couldn't reverse around bends or go through small gaps. One year later and it's second nature. Good to see how it's done in a lorry. I like your comment about seeing daylight in the mirrors is a good thing when reversing. I found this out for myself and it was a revelation😁

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Jim, Reversing is something that's not that hard, once your used to it. Getting used to it however can be a challenge. I remember getting myself into one or two tight spots when I first started out and I was driving a Land Rover and trailer and tractor and tailors on farms before I was driving a lorry so I did have a little bit of experience before I started out. But if you do it often enough as you know it soon becomes second nature. The only down side, I was reversing my van (no Trailer) into a parking bay the other day and I turned the steering wheel completely the wrong way. Opps, Force of habit.

[@dotty265]

@@markpritchard I too used to work on farms as a teenager, back in day before rules and regs took over. If could do it, you did it😁 I used to be able to reverse hay trailers with a tractor. Used to drive tractors, dumpers, forklifts, diggers even an old drott. But I was a lot younger then and therefore invincible😁 oh how I miss those carefree days.

[@markpritchard]

Me to, I drove a ford 5000, four speed box with a high low range, no power steering and you had to stand on the clutch to change gear. Nothing like todays modern tractors. I used to love muck spreading and vacuum tanking. Have you ever pulled and artic trailer? I could not revers that, that said we hardly used one so I didn't drive it enough to become good at it as it was only used for a few weeks during harvest, and again with the ford 5000 having no power steering I could hardly flick the steering wheel around from lock to lock. I was a bit like you as I grew up on a goat farm and I first drove a dumper truck with a starter handle and rear wheel steering. I then moved on to a grey fergie TEF-20. I would love to know where that is today how ever I brought one at a farm auction about ten years ago and fixed it up. While its not the one I learnt to drive in or on as the case is with little greys it still brings back the memory's when I start it up and take it out for a quick drive. After that I started driving my mums Land Rover 90 on the farm, it was one of the first 90's as it was a B reg and only had the 2 1/4 petrol engine that was fitted to the series 3 that it replaced. Any how, I watched a video on how to change gear in a J.C.B fast trac a few months ago, Must say, the video was half an hour long and I was lost after the first 5 minuets. I can understand two clutches but why would you need 7? I've a feeling if I climbed into a modern tractor it would take me a long time to learn all the computery flashing lights and buttons stuff? Give me a four speed high and low with a diff lock any time. And they say computers make life easier?

[@dotty265]

@@markpritchard no, never driven artic. Biggest on the road has been a 7.5 ton. I'm looking forward to retiring from the NHS in a couple of years (I'm a van driver and a nurse!) And I fully intend to spend some of my I'll gotten time and money on HGV training. Thanks for your interest. Ride safe.

[@markpritchard]

Cheers buddy, Sorry, when I said artic trailer I was talking a farm tractor with the artic hay trailers. There a night mare and was wondering if you had every tried on while on the farm. I can't revers the things. There's basically and axel at the front and back of the trailer with the front on being a turning axel. So the trailer is double articulated. I've seen others revers them but can't do it my self, they also exist in the hgv world as well as a wagon and drag but I've never driven one. The drags where the axels are in the middle of the trailers are fine. Its the ones with one axel at the back and one at the front which are the problem. I couldn't find a tractor and trailer video but I did find a wagon and drag video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4GknXRjgtlnns0

[@LA-fr7fx]

Great video... Thanks

[@denzel3888]

Not a HGV driver yet. But watching those reverses gives a real sense of buzz/thrill and nervousness of the those challenges.

[@markpritchard]

Glad to here you enjoyed it Wane. Reversing the thing is defiantly the most challenging part of the job but once you get the hang of it you can do it without even thinking about it.

[@beermonsterbrewing4873]

Top job 👌

[@markpritchard]

Cheers buddy.

[@Dieseldogmodels]

nice video Mark, would be good to see more great content from yourself. its been really interesting to watch this video and your other ones aswell

[@markpritchard]

Thank you, Must admit I'm having a bit of a brake at the moment, partly because I accidently dropped my camera out the lorry and then reversed over it. Bugger! And partly because my mind has simply been on other things these last few months. No doubt i'll be back soon, With a newer camera.

[@Dieseldogmodels]

mark pritchard thats a shame to hear but ill be keeping an eye out for your new videos popping up on my notifications. I hope all is well with yourself and i wish you all the best with everything youve currently got going on. Again i love your content and the commentry is spot on. best wishes, Alex

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Alex, Its always nice to here from the people who view my videos.

[@beeksy82]

Looking to leave the military to do this. Have had the normal BASIC get your license training we normally get, but reversing just seems such a head fk right now, so these kind of videos are a god send to the likes of me. I'm keen to see the front wheels on the manoeuvres but love the variety. Great skills buddy cheers Beeksy👏👍🏻

[@markpritchard]

Thank you, It just takes time and practise then it soon comes. I was properly pushed of the deep end in Pentons as I passed my test and within weeks is was driving London. Got myself into a pickle a few times trying to turn round and making wrong turns then driving 10 miles before I can find somewhere to turn around. The first year was a proper head ache. That said you do get used to it and it becomes easier.

[@doncoleman4938]

I screamed in silence at 2:00. We were taught never look over your shoulder when backing up, always use just your mirrors. If your blind spot mirror and normal mirror on both sides are set up right they're all you need. The rationale was that doing so took that second or so longer to look and check your left mirrors and reversing camera (if fitted). We had to complete a manoeuvre where we'd reverse through an obstacle course while being timed using just the mirrors. If you looked over your shoulder or didn't beat the stopwatch you had to do it again.

[@markpritchard]

Which country was this in? Here I was taught all round observations and there's nothing wrong with looking in the direction of travel. We have to back up through a small obstacle course and although they don't stand there timing us as such you will fail the test if you take to long. But on the whole if you haven't got time to check around then your going to fast. I also do a lot of my work at night in the dark in unlit areas so for practical reasons I look over my shoulder although I can't see much I can see even less in the mirror. Just for interest though, I used to be a driving instructor in a car, and if you reversed a car just using your mirrors in a driving test you would fail. You have to look in the direction of travel while making effective all round observations during the revers.

[@doncoleman4938]

@@markpritchardThis was Australia with a government emergency service department with getting an MR (Medium Rigid 2 axle) truck. Was taught the same but without being timed when I went for my HR (Heavy Rigid with 3 or more axles). But then again every country do things different, and neither is necessarily better or worse than the other. Drive safe out there driving around Britain!!

[@markpritchard]

Thanks for the info its interesting to here how things are done in other country's. There is defiantly more then one way to skin a cat so to speak and as long as its safe and accurate then at the end of the day it doesn't mater. Although one thing I have noticed is American trucks have a narrow cab but the sleeping area and trailer are wider then the cab making it hard to see if you look backwards, So driving one of them it would make total sense to be able to revers just using your mirrors. I've noticed this in American trucks, I think Canadian trucks and I might be wrong but in the Australian road trains you have over there, I think might have a slightly narrower cab?

[@doncoleman4938]

@@markpritchard We have a pretty even spread of Kenworths, Volvos, Macks, Scanias, Peterbilts and Mercedes Benz trucks. Cab overs are just as popular as conventional cab prime movers. And you're right, with prime movers that have a 2.5metre (8 ft.) sleeper box, you couldn't see back over your shoulder anyway. I think you've hit the nail on the head as to why the different methods of visual aids when reversing.

[@markpritchard]

Yes, it kind of makes sense in my hairy little head. Stay safe out there fella.

[@ballykaur8310]

my head started to spin with that camera

[@markpritchard]

No need to thank me, Its a free extra i chuck in to make the whole think more realistic. I'm going to coming out with my own sick bags with my channel on them soon. LOL.

[@lesbeyer5292]

I'm truck driver in the United States Ii think it would be cool to go to another country and drive a truck.It would be an experienced that's a fact.Safe traveling and have a blessed day.

[@markpritchard]

You know I've always had the same thing in mind. I've fancied coming over to America or Canada and driving. The thing is I don't want to do it permanently, but I would love to do it for say 3 months, The trucks over your end look so much nicer and the living area looks massive compared to my little bed tucked just behind the seats..

[@galacticambitions1277]

@@markpritchard What would put you off doing it long-term?

[@markpritchard]

@@galacticambitions1277 Its what i'd miss, I've put alot of work into my little house out here in the country side, And i'm of the thinking a mans house is his castle, its where i feel safe. I also live nice and close to my s close to my sister and her kids i'd miss them to. plus theres my Landy and my old tractor both of which have massive sentimental value to me. I could leave for say six months knowing i'd be comining back, but i just couldn't leave what i've got here for ever.

[@galacticambitions1277]

@@markpritchard All excellent reasons! Sounds like the perfect life!

[@nasos_kayak_fishing]

dude nice job good video!!!chears from truck driver in greece!!

[@markpritchard]

Thank you, Glad you enjoyed it. Mark.

[@arthurjdale8684]

I was so used to reversing the long Articulated Trucks. In Somerset I was sometimes sent out with an 8 legger tipper and when it came to reversing I invariably turned the steering wheel the wrong way, then had to think. I much preferred the long Artics. Later in Nottingham on Saturdays the boss would drive the Artic Trucks out so the staff could wash the unit and trailer. Then the boss told me to reverse the washed vehicles back in line as I was better at it than him. I used to say to him, "Admire the skill" He would say, "Just get on with it big head" Rather long video, will have to come back to it later.

[@markpritchard]

I know what you mean, I've turned the steering wheel the wrong way before now reversing my van into a car park space in the local supermarket.

[@alasdairboyd7299]

mark pritchard glad a professional driver does this too!- after I have had a trailer on the back of my van all day, after I take it off I sometimes have ‘trailer brain’ on and turn the wheel the wrong way!

hey, lovely vid

[@markpritchard]

Thank you.

[@williamfence566]

As a new driver I've so much to learn that the training and test didn't teach. This video gives me a bit more confidence when the tight reverse comes up. Still not sure about lifting and dropping tag axle and diff locks at each site . Its still a bit of "try That"

[@markpritchard]

Thank you William. I totally agree, reversing around cones on your test is nothing like tight reversing on the public road with parked cars and traffic trying to squeeze past or stopping to close behind you right where you can't see them. As with getting traction I would use diff lock only if its in a straight line as it won't want to turn with the left and right drive wheels locked together. Lifting an axel is often the best bet if its able to. However on uneven ground watch you don't rip your wing tops off. If your to heavy to lift an axel I know my Volvo will put an extra 30% weight on the drive axle if I can't lift my tag axle. Although I can't say on other makes of trucks. This is however in a perfect world and there have been times when I've had to say lock the diff even though I'm trying to turn or lift a tag axle on uneven ground, just be carful and keep an eye out for the what can go wrong. Some times you only need to do it for just a second to get yourself moving again.

[@mumtazzafar1576]

great video m8 very practical serves the purpose absolutely. I am thinking of going to class 1. ive been driving class 2 for the last 7 months. but the sheer size of class 1 plus reversing scares the hell out of me

[@markpritchard]

Two main things with reversing a class one. The first is setting yourself up for the revers, you can make life easy for yourself just by the way you position the lorry. The amount of times I've seen drivers struggling to revers onto a loading bay on there blind side when they could just simply drive past it, turn around and then drive back to it on there good side. The 2nd thing I would always say is use all the room available to you. Some places are very tight and others have loads of room, If I am going to get tight to something I always get close to the thing I can see knowing there is enough room the other side, also if there is say a skip and some parked cars, i'll put it closer to the skip as its not as bad if you nock an old skip. A lot of it is common sense and practice really. I wouldn't let it put you off doing it as we all struggle with it to start with. It took me at least 3 months before I could do it with some confidence and then I would say another two years before I could say I was good at it.

[@mumtazzafar1576]

Thanks for the advice mark. I will try to remember it all. I am thinking of progressing to class 1. I went out with my friend who passed class 1 about 6 months ago to do 2 drops here in west Yorkshire. One of the yard was very tight for class1. I told my friend to reverse the trialer in from the main road but he was scared to do it as there were cars parked on either side. So he drove in and once we were in the yard things became quite hetic in terms of getting out. So it wss a scary experience but for some reason I also wanted to drive a class 1. I will go for class 1. Any way I really liked the video. Keep the good videos coming in m8. They are very educational.

[@kennethhoran1983]

Savage video Mark great reversing from start to finish ..how did you get that good ? :-)

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy, And with many years of editing ;-)

[@stevenesq]

Credit where credit is due.

[@pickering746]

Always thought driving those is a work of art 👍😎 I've always been tempted to do Cat C then C+E

[@markpritchard]

You used to be able to go straight for your C+E but these days you have to do your ridged first. Some people pay for the C+E with the money they earn driving cat C. So you only really need to save up for the cat C before the licence starts paying for itself. Always worth bearing in mind there's a shortage of drivers and work these days is easily found as most places are struggling to recruit drivers.

[@daviecampbell5215]

My god your a fantastic driver ive just started out in the HGV (uk) world and struggle a great deal in the reversing so your skills are fantastic I hope one day ill be able to reverse like yourself is it down to practice like everyone is telling me or is it something thats natural and comes easy to you . Thanks for the video it helps alot

[@markpritchard]

Thank you Dave. I was lucky as i was brought up on a farm, so i was driving tractors and trailers and Land Rovers and trailers from a young age in fields. So i have a small advantage. However, with practice i'm sure you get the hang of it, Unfortunatly for me i now suffering from a frozen shoulder so my reversing isn't as good as it was, My brain knows what to do but my arm with the frozen shoulder can't keep up.

[@daviecampbell5215]

@@markpritchard Im still recovering from an operation for a frozen shoulder had the opp in Jan this year getting better but not 100 % yet i wouldnt wish it on any body hurts like hell hope you get it sorted soon it took over a year doing physio injections ive had the lot until the doctors decided an opp was in order hope it not that long for you thanks your your reply your one hell of an HGV driver hopefully ill be as good as you one day .good luck with the shoulder mate keep up the vlogs great stuff

[@markpritchard]

@@daviecampbell5215 Daft thing is i've had a day off today. So took my bike out. Yes i can ride the bike, but it did take and hour and a half to get my leather bike jacket on, I still haven't got it off yet, Starting to think i'll be waring it to work tomorrow.

[@SB-hr5yr]

Have a joint to calm the nerves is my top tip. 🙂

[@Oheky]

Good reversing compilation Mark. After watching your video the terror came flooding back of all the horrid reverses truck driver suffer from. An old manager once said to me while sitting in his office "be honest it isn't difficult, if you can reverse a 7.5 tonne waggon, you can reverse anything". Remembering back the great reverses I had to do just like you Mark. Can I ask what would you say was the longest reverse you ever did? Mind was the time I had to reverse about a mile down a single track country lane in the dark with a land range behind to illuminate the lane. Just to deliver 38 tonne of wire spools to a farm.

[@markpritchard]

I've done something similar. Got lost and took a wrong turn looking for a farm down un named single track lanes then came to a corner I couldn't get round. Had to revers back miles, It was in the daylight though. There is also a place I deliver to and there is no turning around down there, Don't go very often but you have to revers all the way down to the building, then the loading bay is at the back of that building so you have to revers all the way around to the back of that building. Always a fun one. Unfortunately on the gate there's a no cameras or filming sign on the entrance so I can't put it on here or I might get myself into a bit of trouble.

[@markpritchard]

Also, Reversing an artic is a lot easier when your sat in an office 300 miles away.

[@jacksonpauljackson2557]

You are very very good

[@markpritchard]

Thanks buddy.

[@Airtrooper719]

30:53 that's the layby I used to tramp in after loading from Sheerness Docks

[@markpritchard]

Nice and quite there as well isn't it. I sometimes go for a wonder around town as its only 10 minuet walk away.

[@alexrobinson2281]

Been driving lorries 50 odd years and hate being called driver and even worse , drive !

[@markpritchard]

I didn't like it at first, but i've got used to it, and i get called far worse.

[@mikeb6385]

Nice video. I'm on trunking these days, same place every night, no challenges, tricky reverses or getting lost. Need a change I think!

[@markpritchard]

We should swap, some times I think it would be nice to know when I'm going to be home and to know what I'm doing.

[@yasirmahmood8009]

I'm a class1 driver your good at your job well done m8.

[@markpritchard]

Thank you. Although I do have the odd off day I try my best. Stay safe out there buddy.

[@pokedude104]

y'know after over 300 hours in ETS2 with a logitech wheel I kinda want to go get an actual truck license but tell them I've never driven a truck before and then park into a bay with trailers on both sides in one shot. If i can do it on a screen with no depth perception or any physical feedback from the truck I feel like real life should almost be easier.

[@markpritchard]

You should definatly do it buddy. Although i can't tell you if ETS2 is anything like the real thing as i've never driven a truck on the computer. I did do Farming Simulator which was going realy well and i was making a fortune. I built my way up to a fleet of top tracors and everything. But then they descovered my 3000 acres of heroin and closed it down. I think it might have been when i joined the Mafia II: Definitive Edition and tryed to sell it.

[@rokketron]

Didn`t know Baldrick had his HGV licence.

[@markpritchard]

Well it seemed like a very good cunning plan at the time.

[@paulm1162]

Amazing to watch an expert in action, Have you ever had a place which you thought "no, I can't reverse in there"? great reversing, I see quite a few Pentons lorries as I work in Carlisle, i;ll keep an eye out,....p.s. always annoys me when drivers of cars won't allow lorries to manouvre in peace

[@markpritchard]

Thanks Paul. Sadly i spend most of my time stuck in London these days but every now and then i do go north instead. Last year i did get to park up at Carlisle truck stop so it does happen every now and then. And yes cars can be anoying when your trying to revers, in 11 years of driving i've hit two of them, I don't think thats to bad a record considering they keep putting themselves right where i can't see them.

[@MrMortifi69]

we go to the same places as you, its a steep learming curve, (bidvest banbury being one of them )

[@markpritchard]

The worst of the lot used to be 3663 Enfield, Thank god we don't do that any more. Only room for two lorries and you couldn't park anywhere near the place, mount the pavement and the council fine you. and after all that you had the tightest revers on your bland side. They've got a bigger place now thank god. Worthing was bad to but I went there for the first time in ages and they have moved to a bigger building to loads of room at both now. Some can still be trick for newbies though but its normally the smaller companies that are the worst. 3663 Battersea is still bad though. Watch out for that one if you get it.

[@Dan-HongTong]

Like your videos mate,only just discovered them!! I do class 1 work from Staffordshire,where are you from? Also what camera do you have for your videos. Sorry​ for the questions! Please keep your videos coming!!☺

[@markpritchard]

Hello and thanks for watching, I used a Gopro hero 5 black for this one. To be fair its a dam good camera, For one I have hundreds of mounts for it and its voice activated so it keeps me hands free and legal when I'm driving. I can place it outside the lorry as well as inside and it can take a bit of a battering. I was filming outside the truck and had it stuck to the side of the trailer on a suction mounted camera mount when it fell off. Luckily I spotted it fall off and although that revers was not usable for the video the camera was fine with no damage at all. Only bad point is its taking ages to upload the videos to KZbin compared to my old camera. My older camera is a Sony w300i. Again a good camera but I wouldn't want it outside as I would be worried about damage. To be honest I didn't by the Sony with making videos in mind it was just the camera I had when I decided to have a go. Mark

[@Dan-HongTong]

Thanks for that matey, I still have to give my reversing a shunt on occasions but I am still a newbie!

[@markpritchard]

I wouldn't worry about it, If you can revers it in without damage your doing fine. I still make a mess of it sometimes and have to shunt it. The daft thing is I'll do a really hard one and get it on first time with nobody about. Then an hour later i'll mess up a really easy on and there will be loads of drivers hanging around watching. Sods law isn't it.

[@grimreaperbadboy]

on a blind side I always use joystick on Mirrors to adjust it out as I reverse.only on the blind side reverse though

[@markpritchard]

Good I dear. You see lorries these days with cameras and everything. I pulled a trailer the other day and it had an extra lead for a camera that was on the back of the trailer. Pity my unit isn't set up for it. I recon it would be easy with a camera on the back. Am thinking about fitting one to my van though. That should make blind side with the van no problem at all.

[@redbeardedt3437]

I do the same thing, if not, I'd have to get out half a dozen times.

[@skahwa]

Funny lad,stay safe

[@markpritchard]

Stay safe buddy.

[@robinsearle9308]

Was 1st one Greencore? Done that one and there other yard just down the road and thats a proper S**t hole to reverse in, barrier opposite docks is smothered in paint from cabs of lorries. I am finding like others reversing is a skill that takes practice and is always worse when others are watching / waiting for you to get out the way. Nice Vid Mark and yes, good attitude.

[@markpritchard]

Yep it takes a little time to get the hang of, And its always good when you can see all the scrape marks other lorries have left isn't it.

[@jakcarn4184]

this is not easy. i hope the best for new learners and drivers

[@markpritchard]

Its easy once your used to it. But that takes time and practice. Until then we all get stuck and hold people up taking 20 shunts trying to get onto the bays. Unfortunately there's no easy way to learn.

[@alba9507]

@@markpritchard - just had my license for a month & I'm struggling a little on reversing 😁

[@markpritchard]

Happens to the best of us fella, Just remember to be patient in five years time when you see someone who's only just passed there test struggling to get onto a bay. I think its easy to forget what it was like as a new driver when five years latter on your running a little late and your in a hurry.

[@johnbarry3476]

Mark, im only 14 mins into video but already its quite obvious you know your stuff .. Its great to watch a pro in action , especially one without an ego .. I've been away from artics with 12 yrs and about to return in Jan '18 ...Like you , i spent my teenage yrs around agri machinery; combines to tractors/trailers etc ..I went to London at 21(1987) and within 4 yrs was driving 1 of the first semi auto Merc units STGO 2 ,approx 70 feet and could make that baby dance a jig ..... BUT i'm so worried that i may have lost that edge ... I'm having to start all over again .. at 51 yrs ..Any kind encouraging advice or suggestions would be nice ... I put myself in this fucked up prediciment and i gotta get myself out of it ..I'm back in Ireland getting ready to do euro fridge work in Jan , but im bricking it Mark !!! You know when you're young , one just takes things as they come , but at 51 its different .. Fuck , some of my friends are retiring ,, and im getting ready to start all over....But its great watching you ..As i said, im only 14 mins watching , but you aint had to "straighten up " once .And i'd say thats how vid will continue ....The very best of luck mate ...From IRL and all the Scania Scoundrels

[@markpritchard]

Thanks John. I'm sure it will come back to you without to much of a problem. Trucks are a lot easier to drive these days main thing being the auto gear box so now all you have to do is steer if you've got one. I think it might take you a little practice to get it back but it will be a lot easier getting it back then it was to learn in the first place. If possible and your a bit un sure you could try get a ride out in one of your mates trucks, Get a feel for it from the passenger seat. Finally don't worry if it dose go a little bit wrong. I don't mind admitting it goes wrong some times, Worst thing I find is i'll do something really difficult and get it spot on without anybody seeing. Then i'll totally mess something easy up because I'm just tired or in a rush and you can be sure there be about 100 drivers hanging around watching. All well, Only thing I can do is laff at myself. I'm sure after a few weeks you'll be as good as you were 12 years ago.

[@TruckerMarkDring]

Hi Mark. We met in Gomez the other week. I too make the odd video. Small world Stay safe mate.

[@markpritchard]

Hi Mark, Just been on your channel and subscribed. It is a small world isn't it. Have fun mate.