CDL Class B Vehicle Inspection Quiz

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?

It will slow down the engine speed and help in continuing normal stopping distances. Signup and view all the answers

What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?

Too much heat from using the brakes excessively, and they can also be out of adjustment. Signup and view all the answers

The use of brakes on a long, steep downgrade is only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine.

True Signup and view all the answers

If you are away from your vehicle only a short time, you do not need to use the parking brake.

False Signup and view all the answers

How often should you drain air tanks?

After each working day. Signup and view all the answers

How do you brake when you drive a tractor-trailer combination with ABS?

Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely and stay in control. Signup and view all the answers

You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is not working.

True Signup and view all the answers

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

Safety Signup and view all the answers

What things should you check during a trip?

Instruments, air pressure gauge, temp gauge, pressure gauge, ammeter/voltmeter, mirrors, tires, cargo/cargo covers, lights. Signup and view all the answers

Name some key steering system parts.

Steering wheel, tie rod, steering shaft, hydraulic fluid reservoir, gear box, pitman arm, drag link, steering knuckle, spindle, steering arm, power steering cylinder. Signup and view all the answers

Name some suspension system defects.

Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from proper position, cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring, leaking shock absorbers, air suspension systems that are damaged and/or leaking, any parts of the suspension or frame that is cracked or broken. Signup and view all the answers

What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have?

Fire extinguisher, 3 reflective triangles, spare fuses. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum tread depth for front tires?

4/32 inch Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum tread depth for other tires?

2/32 inch Signup and view all the answers

Why should you back toward the driver's side?

Better visibility Signup and view all the answers

If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without rolling back?

Partly engage the clutch before you take your foot off the brake; put on the parking brake whenever necessary to keep from rolling back. Signup and view all the answers

When backing, why is it important to use a helper?

There are blind spots you won't be able to see. Signup and view all the answers

What's the most important hand signal that you and your helper should agree on?

STOP Signup and view all the answers

What are the two special conditions where you should downshift?

Before starting down a hill, before entering a curve. Signup and view all the answers

When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

When going down grades. Signup and view all the answers

Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are the two ways to know when to shift?

RPMs or speed Signup and view all the answers

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

12 to 15 seconds Signup and view all the answers

What are two main things to look ahead for?

Look for vehicles coming onto the highway, into your lane, or turning; watch for brake lights from slowing vehicles. Signup and view all the answers

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

Mirrors Signup and view all the answers

What does 'communicating' mean in safe driving?

Signaling your intentions Signup and view all the answers

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

10 feet, 100 feet, and 200 feet toward the approaching traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What three things add up to total stopping distance?

Perception distance, reaction distance, braking distance. Signup and view all the answers

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

Four times Signup and view all the answers

Empty trucks have the best braking.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is hydroplaning?

Tires 'water-skiing' across the road; tires lose their contact with the road and have little or no traction. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'black ice'?

A thin layer of ice that you can see the road through. Signup and view all the answers

How do you find out how many seconds of following distance space you have?

1 second for every 10 feet of vehicle length under 40 mph; over 40 mph add a second per 10 feet. Signup and view all the answers

If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 MPH, how many seconds of following distance should you allow?

Five Signup and view all the answers

You should decrease your following distance if somebody is following you too closely.

True Signup and view all the answers

If you swing wide to the left before turning right, another driver may try to pass you on the right.

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazard?

Any road condition or other road user that is a possible danger. Signup and view all the answers

Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

To be prepared if you have to take action in an emergency. Signup and view all the answers

What are some tips to follow so you won't become a distracted driver?

Review and be familiar with all in-vehicle electronics, pre-program radio stations, clear the vehicle of unnecessary objects, review maps and plan your route before driving, adjust mirrors for visibility, don’t attempt to read or write while driving, avoid smoking, eating, drinking, and engage in complex conversations. Signup and view all the answers

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

Pull off the road when making/receiving a call; keep conversations short; don’t use equipment when approaching heavy traffic or bad weather. Signup and view all the answers

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Watch for drifting vehicles, inconsistent speeds, drivers preoccupied with objects, or engaging with passengers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Aggressive driving is pushy or selfish driving; road rage is driving with the intent to harm others. Signup and view all the answers

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

Get out of their way, avoid eye contact, ignore gestures, report to authorities if necessary. Signup and view all the answers

What are some things you can do to reduce your stress before and while you drive?

Listen to music, give full attention to driving, be realistic about travel time, keep a reasonable following distance, avoid gestures, and be courteous. Signup and view all the answers

You should use low beams whenever you can.

False Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before you drive if you are drowsy?

Sleep Signup and view all the answers

What effects can wet brakes cause? How can you avoid these problems?

Wet brakes will be less effective. Avoid by not driving through deep puddles. If unavoidable, slow down and maintain light pressure while crossing. Signup and view all the answers

You should let air out of hot tires so the pressure goes back to normal.

False Signup and view all the answers

You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as the engine isn't overheated.

False Signup and view all the answers

What factors determine your selection of a 'safe' speed when going down a long, steep downgrade?

Total weight of vehicle/cargo, length of grade, steepness of grade, road conditions, weather. Signup and view all the answers

Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?

Because you will not be able to downshift after your speed has already built up. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the proper braking technique when going down a long, steep downgrade.

Apply brakes just hard enough to feel a definite slowdown; release when speed is reduced approximately 5 MPH below 'safe' speed. Signup and view all the answers

What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad-highway crossing?

Low slung units (lowboy, car carrier, moving van, possum-belly livestock trailer); single-axle tractor pulling a long trailer with landing gear set for tandem-axle tractor. Signup and view all the answers

How long does it take for a typical tractor-trailer unit to clear a double track?

More than 15 seconds Signup and view all the answers

Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an emergency.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are some advantages of going right instead of left around an obstacle?

There is usually no one in the shoulder of the road; fewer risks from passing traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What is an 'escape ramp'?

A traffic device that enables vehicles with braking problems to safely stop; typically a long, sand or gravel-filled lane adjacent to a road with a steep grade. Signup and view all the answers

If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes on hard to stop quickly.

False Signup and view all the answers

How do you know if your vehicle has antilock brakes?

They will have yellow malfunction lamps on the instrument panels and trailers. Signup and view all the answers

What is the proper braking technique when driving a vehicle with antilock brakes?

Use only the force necessary to stop safely and stay in control. Signup and view all the answers

How do antilock brakes help you?

Help you avoid wheel lock-up and maintain control. Signup and view all the answers

What are some things to do at an accident scene to prevent another accident?

Protect the area, notify authorities, and care for the injured. Signup and view all the answers

Name two causes of tire fires.

Under-inflated tires and duals that touch. Signup and view all the answers

What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher NOT good for?

Fires in combustible metals, wood, paper, ordinary combustibles. Signup and view all the answers

When using your extinguisher, should you get as close as possible to the fire?

False Signup and view all the answers

Name some causes of vehicle fires.

Spilled fuel, improper use of flares, under-inflated tires and duals that touch, short circuits, driver smoking, improperly fueling, loose fuel connections, flammable cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy.

True Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if you do become sleepy while driving?

Stop at a safe place and sleep. Signup and view all the answers

Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up.

False Signup and view all the answers

What is a hazardous materials placard?

Placards are signs put on the outside of a vehicle that identify the hazard class of the cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Why are placards used?

They are used to warn others of hazardous materials. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'sleep debt'?

A building up of lack of sleep. Signup and view all the answers

What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?

Your eyes close or go out of focus by themselves; you have trouble keeping your head up; you can't stop yawning; you drift between lanes. Signup and view all the answers

What four things related to cargo are drivers responsible for?

1: Inspecting your cargo. 2: Recognizing overloads & poorly balanced weight. 3: Knowing cargo is properly secured. 4: Knowing your cargo does not restrict access to emergency equipment. Signup and view all the answers

How often must you stop while on the road to check your cargo?

Within the first 50 miles after beginning a trip. Signup and view all the answers

How is Gross Combination Weight Rating different from Gross Combination Weight?

GCWR is the maximum weight specified by the manufacturer for a specific combination of vehicles plus its load; GCW is the total weight of the vehicle plus trailer(s) and cargo. Signup and view all the answers

Name two situations where legal maximum weights are not safe.

Bridges and going up or down steep grades. Signup and view all the answers

What can happen if you do not have enough weight on the front axle?

It can make the steering axle too light to steer safely. Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of tiedowns for any flat bed load?

Two Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of tiedowns for a 20-foot load?

Two (one for every 10 feet of load) Signup and view all the answers

Name two basic reasons for covering cargo on an open bed.

To protect people from spilled cargo and the cargo from weather. Signup and view all the answers

What must you check before transporting a sealed load?

Check that you do not exceed gross weight and axle weight limits. Signup and view all the answers

Why must air tanks be drained?

To remove water and compressor oil that can freeze and cause brake failure. Signup and view all the answers

What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

It shows how much air pressure you have in your tank. Signup and view all the answers

All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air pressure warning signal.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are spring brakes?

Spring brakes are a backup braking system for the air brakes. Signup and view all the answers

Front wheel brakes are good for under all conditions.

True Signup and view all the answers

How do you know if your vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes?

True Signup and view all the answers

What is a dual air brake system?

It has two separate air brake systems, which use a single set of brake controls. Signup and view all the answers

What are the slack adjusters?

They determine how hard you have to press on the brakes to have them engage. Signup and view all the answers

How can you check slack adjusters?

By visually inspecting them to ensure they are functioning correctly. Signup and view all the answers

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.