Since you did not state what aircraft your coming from my first recommendation is to go in even on your days off and get all of your CMI done, complete, finished. This resets your clock and it is one less thing that after class each day you have to get done. Thust me you'll have plenty to do and to study. As far as reading the manual, well there are so many acnoyrms that will baffel your mind you will just get a headache. I would look at boldface and limitations and thats it. Limitations are not underlined as in other manuals, however you can quickly get a hold of another MD guy or instructor and they can point out which might be helpful to know for your oral,

If your coming from the DC-10 remember it's an electronic DC-10. All those checks that your second officer did are now done by the system controllers. Systems are pretty much the same as the 10. Do not get the attitude that if the the A/C is not doing what you want you can turn it all off and fly it like a 10. At least not in the training enviroment.

If your coming from the Bus, there are just a few differances in the FMS but you'll catch on very quickly.

If your coming from the 727 then at least you've been a Captain and that is one less thing to worry about.

Finally I've been through the Bus when it was AQP and the Mad Dog when it was not. Others will chim in I'm sure to offer you the most up-to-date gouge. I think our instructors are excellent with no real wankers that I know about. Its a big mountain to climb so just keep taking small bites and you will get thru it. About 3 months from the time you walk in the door. Good Luck I hope your junior to me............