The course begins with an emphasis on tractors, nomenclature, flat-rate manuals, suspensions, frames, sheet metal, glider kits, fuel and electrical, fifth wheels, diesel and gas engines, wear and tear and warranties.

The course covers the construction and design of trailers. Also emphasized are frame and sheet metal repairs, mechanical, electrical and refrigeration units.

Students are introduced to Mitchell's TruckEst estimating software for trucks.

This course will provide the basic knowledge to prepare cost-effective estimates on damaged tractor-trailer units. Cost savings on heavy losses provide a significant and quick return on training dollars spent.

Estimating Process
Truck Identification
Mitchell Estimating Guide/Ultramate

Paint & Materials
Add-Ons
Stripes

Bumpers, Hoods, Fenders, Lamps

Plastic Repairs

Cabs
Types of Materials
Repairs
Sectioning
 
Cab Replacement

Deflectors

Sleepers

Wheels, Tires, Front Axle, Suspension & Steering

Mechanical, Air Brakes, Cooling, A/C, Engines, Fuel Systems, Transmissions

Fifth Wheels

Rear Axles, Suspension, Glider Kits

Trailers & Step Vans

Total Losses & Salvage

This one-week course is designed for the student with a good working knowledge of automobile damage estimating but without experience in truck damage estimating.

Several factors make it difficult for experienced auto damage estimators to handle truck damage estimating without specialized training. Factors such as betterment or depreciation on vehicles built to give a million miles of service, income-producing high-value unites, customized rigs, and availability of parts demand proper training. Essentially, Vale's Tractor-Trailer Damage Estimating course is a detailed examination of all the factors that make tractor-trailer appraising different from auto damage appraising.

Student should have good working knowledge of automobile damage estimating prior to attending course.

Texas 15 hours