California CDL Class-C Pre-Trip Inspection Test

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Questions and Answers

What should be checked for brake fluid vacuum hose?

No looseness, cracks, or leaks

How should tires be assessed for wear?

Look at the wear bars and use a penny to measure the depth.

What is the ideal tire gauge reading for a vehicle?

55 PSI

What does the air cleaner look like?

A large round cylinder Signup and view all the answers

What should you check regarding the engine computer?

Check the connection of the big wire on the right of the engine. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked for coolant and hoses?

Level of tank, no hose cracks, leaks Signup and view all the answers

Where is power steering fluid dipstick located?

Check for adequate power steering fluid level. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked for transmission fluid?

Check while the engine is running. Signup and view all the answers

How often should a fire extinguisher be tested?

Every few months Signup and view all the answers

What should be inspected for the engine belt?

Not worn or frayed, tight Signup and view all the answers

What should electrical wires be checked for?

Ensure nothing is cutting or rubbing Signup and view all the answers

What does a properly functioning steering wheel need to feel like?

A little resistance Signup and view all the answers

What is important to check regarding axles?

Check that pivot points on axles have tight bolts. Signup and view all the answers

What should be confirmed about shocks?

No oil leak and springs aren't broken Signup and view all the answers

What indicators suggest issues with brakes?

Brake pad wear, no leaking brake fluid, no cracked/worn hoses. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked for passenger seats?

Seat belts work and seats are bolted down. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked before lowering the spare tire?

Remove anti-theft, stick in bar, lower, have blocks on hand. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked regarding the exhaust system?

Leaking parts and leaks that could allow carbon monoxide. Signup and view all the answers

What is checked for front and rear suspension?

No cracks or breaks in rear leaf spring. Signup and view all the answers

What should you look for in suspension shock absorbers?

No leaks Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked for wheels and rims?

No damage, rust around nuts, loose nuts, no welded wheels/rims. Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that the steering system may have issues?

Steering wheel play of more than 10 degrees. Signup and view all the answers

What should be ensured regarding cargo?

Everything is secured and balanced. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked in the engine compartment?

Engine oil level, coolant level, power steering fluid level, etc. Signup and view all the answers

What controls do you need to check during a cab inspection?

Steering wheel, brake controls, emergency brake, horn, etc. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked in the right rear section of the vehicle?

Wheels and rims, tires, suspension, brakes. Signup and view all the answers

What should be looked at for the rear part of the vehicle?

Lights and reflectors, license plate, splash guards. Signup and view all the answers

How to perform a hydraulic brake check?

Pump the brake pedals 3 times then hold for 5 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

What to do for an emergency brake check?

Set the parking brake, put the vehicle in low gear, gently release the clutch. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked in passenger areas?

Emergency exit, seats secure, seatbelts work. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked for the front of the vehicle?

Lights, reflectors, wipers, license plate. Signup and view all the answers

What should be observed on the cab dash?

Warning lights turn off, no check engine lights. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Brake System

Brake Fluid Vacuum Hose: Ensure no looseness, cracks, or leaks are present.
Brakes: Check for pad wear, leaks of brake fluid at wheel brakes, and inspect hoses for cracks or worn conditions.

Tires

Tires: Inspect wear bars using a penny; should read 4/32" depth in front and 2/32" in rear. Ensure no mismatched, cut, or damaged tires; front tires cannot be retreaded.
Tire Gauge Reading: Confirm tire pressure is set to 55 PSI as noted inside the door.

Fluid Levels

Coolant: Check level of the tank and inspect hoses for cracks and leaks.
Power Steering Fluid: Verify the dipstick location and ensure fluid level is above the refill mark.
Transmission Fluid: Check while the engine is running to ensure adequate levels for effective gear shifting.

Engine Components

Engine Computer: Inspect the connection of the large wire located on the right side of the engine.
Engine Oil: Assess the oil level during the engine compartment inspection.

Belts and Hoses

Engine Belt: Look for wear or fraying; should be tight. Replace serpentine belts every 60-70,000 miles.
Electrical Wires: Check right side for any frayed wires or cuts.

Suspension and Steering

Shocks: Verify that springs are intact, bolts are tight, and there are no oil leaks on shock absorbers.
Front and Rear Suspension: Inspect for cracks or breaks in leaf springs; ensure rubber bushings are tight.
Steering System: Steering wheel play should not exceed 10 degrees (about 2 inches) for responsiveness.

Miscellaneous Checks

Cab Inspection (Vehicle On): Test controls (steering, brakes, horn), inspect mirrors/windshield, ensure emergency equipment is present.
Passenger Areas: Check emergency exits, secure seats, and functionality of seatbelts.
Cargo: Ensure all cargo is secured and properly balanced.

Other Components

Fire Extinguisher: Must be tested every few months for readiness.
Exhaust System: Inspect for leaks that could allow carbon monoxide to enter cabin; ensure components aren't loose or rubbing against other systems.
Wheels and Rims: Inspect for damage, rust around nuts, loose nuts, and ensure no welded wheels/rims are present.

Safety Checks

Hydraulic Brake Check: Pump brake pedals three times, then hold for five seconds; pedal should not move if in good condition.
Emergency Brake Check: Set parking brake, shift vehicle to low gear, and gently release the clutch to test engagement.

Visibility and Lighting

Front Inspection: Check lights, reflectors, wipers, windshield, secure hood, and license plate.
Rear Inspection: Ensure lights and reflectors, license plate visibility, splash guards, and bumper condition are satisfactory.

Dashboard Inspection

Cab Dash: Ensure warning lights turn off, check for no check engine lights, and ensure vital gauges (temperature, voltage, tachometer, fuel) are functioning properly.

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Description

Prepare for your California CDL Class-C test with this set of flashcards focusing on pre-trip inspection items. Each card covers essential checks for components like brake fluid, tires, and tire gauge readings. Test your knowledge and improve your readiness for the practical exam.