Questions and Answers
How can you test the low pressure warning signal?
Shut the engine off when you have enough air pressure so that the low pressure warning signal is not on. Turn the electrical power on and step on and off the brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure. The low air pressure warning signal must come on before the pressure drops to less than 60 psi in the tank.
How can you check that the spring brakes come on automatically?
Continue to fan off the air pressure by stepping on and off the brake pedal to reduce tank pressure. The tractor protection valve and parking brake valve should close when the air pressure falls to the manufacturer's specification.
What are the maximum leakage rates?
2 psi in a minute for single vehicles and 3 psi for combination vehicles; when applying 90 or more psi to the brakes, the loss should be 3 psi for single vehicles and 4 psi for combination vehicles.
Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?
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What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?
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The use of brakes on a long, steep downgrade is only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine.
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If you are away from your vehicle only a short time, you do not need to use the parking brake.
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How often should you drain air tanks?
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How do you brake when you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS?
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You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is not working.
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What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle inspection?
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What things should you check during a trip?
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Name some key steering system parts.
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Name some suspension system defects.
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What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have?
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What is the minimum tread depth for front tires?
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What is the minimum tread depth for other tires?
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Why should you back toward the driver's side?
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If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without rolling back?
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When backing, why is it important to use a helper?
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What's the most important hand signal that you and your helper should agree on?
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What are the two special conditions where you should downshift?
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When should you downshift automatic transmissions?
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Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery.
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What are the two ways to know when to shift?
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How far ahead does the manual say you should look?
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What are two main things to look ahead for?
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What's your most important way to see the sides and rear of your vehicle?
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What does 'communicating' mean in safe driving?
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Where should your reflectors be placed when stopped on a divided highway?
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What three things add up to total stopping distance?
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If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance increase by twice or four times?
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Empty trucks have the best braking.
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What is hydroplaning?
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What is 'black ice'?
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How do you find out how many seconds of following distance space you have?
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If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 MPH, how many seconds of following distance should you allow?
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You should decrease your following distance if somebody is following you too closely.
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If you swing wide to the left before turning right, another driver may try to pass you on the right.
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What is a hazard?
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Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?
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What are some tips to follow so you won't become a distracted driver?
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How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?
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How do you recognize a distracted driver?
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What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?
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What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?
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What are some things you can do to reduce your stress before and while you drive?
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You should use low beams whenever you can.
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What should you do before you drive if you are drowsy?
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What effects can wet brakes cause? How can you avoid these problems?
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You should let air out of hot tires so the pressure goes back to normal.
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You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as the engine isn't overheated.
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What factors determine your selection of a 'safe' speed when going down a long, steep downgrade?
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Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?
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Describe the proper braking technique when going down a long, steep downgrade.
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What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad-highway crossing?
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How long does it take for a typical tractor-trailer unit to clear a double track?
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Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an emergency.
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What are some advantages of going right instead of left around an obstacle?
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What is an 'escape ramp'?
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If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes on hard to stop quickly.
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How do you know if your vehicle has antilock brakes?
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What is the proper braking technique when driving a vehicle with antilock brakes?
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How do antilock brakes help you?
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What are some things to do at an accident scene to prevent another accident?
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Name two causes of tire fires.
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What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher NOT good for?
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When using your extinguisher, should you get as close as possible to the fire?
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Name some causes of vehicle fires.
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Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.
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What should you do if you do become sleepy while driving?
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Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up.
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What is a hazardous materials placard?
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Why are placards used?
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What is 'sleep debt'?
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What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?
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What four things related to cargo are drivers responsible for?
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How often must you stop while on the road to check your cargo?
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How is Gross Combination Weight Rating different from Gross Combination Weight?
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Name two situations where legal maximum weights are not safe.
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What can happen if you do not have enough weight on the front axle?
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What is the minimum number of tiedowns for any flat bed load?
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What is the minimum number of tiedowns for a 20-foot load?
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Name two basic reasons for covering cargo on an open bed.
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What must you check before transporting a sealed load?
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Why must air tanks be drained?
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What is a supply pressure gauge used for?
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All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air pressure warning signal.
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What are spring brakes?
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Front wheel brakes are good for under all conditions.
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How do you know if your vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes?
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What is a dual air brake system?
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What are the slack adjusters?
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How can you check slack adjusters?
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Study Notes
Vehicle Inspection and Safety
- Vehicle inspections are crucial for ensuring safety on the road.
- Key things to check during a trip include instruments, gauges (air pressure, temperature), mirrors, tires, lights, and cargo security.
Steering and Suspension Systems
- Essential components of the steering system include the steering wheel, tie rod, and hydraulic fluid reservoir.
- Common suspension defects include cracked or broken spring hangers and leaking shock absorbers.
Emergency Equipment and Tire Regulations
- Mandatory emergency equipment includes a fire extinguisher, reflective triangles, and spare fuses.
- Minimum tread depth for front tires is 4/32 inch; for other tires, it's 2/32 inch.
Backing and Visibility
- Backing towards the driver's side enhances visibility.
- When backing, using a helper is vital due to blind spots.
Downshifting and Driving Techniques
- Downshifting should occur before descending hills and entering curves.
- For automatic transmissions, downshifting occurs while going down grades.
Safe Distance and Stopping
- Total stopping distance consists of perception, reaction, and braking distances.
- Stopping distance increases four times when speed doubles.
Weather and Road Conditions
- Hydroplaning occurs when tires lose traction due to water, while black ice is a thin, clear layer of ice.
- Proper following distance is crucial, with specific recommendations based on vehicle length and speed.
Distracted and Aggressive Driving
- To avoid distractions, familiarize yourself with in-vehicle electronics before driving and plan your route in advance.
- Recognize aggressive driving behaviors and avoid confrontation by staying calm and reporting the driver if necessary.
Drowsiness and Driving
- Sleepiness can severely impair driving ability; stopping to rest is essential if drowsy.
- Hazardous materials placards on vehicles inform others of cargo hazards and enhance safety.
Cargo Management and Weight Regulations
- Drivers are responsible for inspecting cargo, ensuring balance, securing loads, and keeping emergency equipment accessible.
- Minimum tiedowns for cargo: typically two for any flatbed and one for every 10 feet of load.
Brake Systems and Maintenance
- All vehicles with air brakes must have low air pressure warning signals.
- Spring brakes serve as a backup system for air brakes and engage automatically in case of air loss.
- Regularly check slack adjusters; excessive movement indicates a need for adjustment.
Emergency Procedures
- In emergency situations, turning is often a safer option than stopping, particularly to avoid collisions.
- When addressing brake issues, be aware of maximum allowable leakage rates and conditions affecting brake performance.
Handling Various Driving Conditions
- Familiarity with features like antilock brakes helps maintain control and enhances safety.
- Recognize signs of vehicle fires and take preventive measures, such as addressing under-inflated tires and other hazards.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the important aspects of vehicle inspections related to CDL Class B. This quiz covers key elements such as safety checks during trips, essential steering system components, and general vehicle maintenance. Perfect for aspiring commercial drivers looking to enhance their understanding of vehicle regulations.