Making the Pump Road Ready!

I have been asked by a few people lately what the preferred method is to taking the pump out of gear...Now keep in mind that this depends totally on what rig you have...But a good rule of thought and the way most of us were trained is like such.....1), Throttle down the apparatus at the pump panel to normal engine idle, 2).Place the vehicle in neutral, keeping in mind to watch your rpm gauge come down to idle as well, 3).Place the apparatus in drive. Here is something extra I was taught a long time ago. To prevent damage to the drive shaft, and to keep your maintenance division off your back, Always place the vehicle in drive after a pumping operation, prior to putting it in reverse. This will allow all of the gears to "Mesh or Seat" themselves before moving the apparatus. Hopefully this will help you if you have the same question...Remember follow what your department policy above all...Stay Safe...RudeDog