CDL Class A Study Guide Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What does the trailer air supply control do?

By pushing it in, you supply the trailer with air.

What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle inspection?

To ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers.

What things should you check during a trip?

Gauges, mirrors, check vehicle cargo or load when instructed.

Name some suspension system defects.

Broken or cracked leaf springs, broken hangers, leaking hydraulic suspension fluids. Signup and view all the answers

What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have on your vehicle?

Spare electrical fuses, 3 red reflective triangles, and properly charged and rated fire extinguishers. Signup and view all the answers

What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

Cleanliness: no dirt, grass, sand etc. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you back toward the driver's side?

It is easier to see and adjust your mirrors. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to use a helper when backing up?

Because there are always blind spots you're not able to see. Signup and view all the answers

What are the 2 special conditions where you should downshift?

Before going down a hill or downgrade, and before entering a curve. Signup and view all the answers

What are the 2 ways to know when to shift?

Your Engine Speed and your Road Speed. Signup and view all the answers

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

12 to 15 seconds ahead, which is 1/4 of a mile or 1 block ahead if you are in the city. Signup and view all the answers

What's your most important way to see the sides and rear of your vehicle?

Your side mirrors. Signup and view all the answers

What does communicating mean in safe driving?

Using your blinkers or signal lights when turning or passing a vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

Where should your reflectors be placed when stopped on a divided highway?

10, 100, and 200 ft. behind your vehicle. Signup and view all the answers

If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance increase by 2 or 4 times as much?

4 times as much. Signup and view all the answers

If you are driving a 30 ft. vehicle at 55 mph, how many seconds of following distance should you allow?

4.5 seconds. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Vehicle Inspection and Safety

Conducting vehicle inspections ensures your safety and that of other drivers.
During a trip, monitor gauges, adjust mirrors, and check cargo or load when instructed.

Trailer and Air Supply

The trailer air supply control provides air to the trailer when pushed in.

Emergency Equipment

Essential emergency equipment includes spare electrical fuses, three red reflective triangles, and properly rated fire extinguishers.

Suspension System Defects

Report any defective suspension systems such as broken or cracked leaf springs, broken hangers, or leaking hydraulic fluids.

Backing Procedures

Backing up should ideally be done toward the driver’s side for better visibility of mirrors.
Always use a helper when backing, as blind spots can obstruct your view.

Shifting and Speed

Downshift before going down a hill or entering a curve for better control.
Key indicators for shifting include engine speed and road speed.

Safe Driving Practices

Maintain a lookout 12 to 15 seconds ahead; this is roughly 1/4 mile or one city block.
Use side mirrors as your primary method for seeing the sides and rear of the vehicle.
Communicate intentions to other drivers using blinkers or signal lights.

Reflectors and Stopping Distance

When stopped on a divided highway, place reflectors at distances of 10, 100, and 200 feet behind the vehicle.
Doubling your speed increases stopping distance by four times.
Maintain a following distance of 4.5 seconds when driving a 30 ft vehicle at 55 mph.

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Description

Prepare for your CDL Class A exam with these flashcards. Each card covers important concepts such as trailer air supply controls and vehicle inspection criteria. Use these cards to reinforce your knowledge and ensure you're ready for the road.