Class B CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Procedure

Questions and Answers

What should you check regarding the Overview during the pre-trip inspection?

All lights and reflectors are securely mounted.

No leaks under the tractor.

The hood is open.

All of the above. (correct)

What should you check about the coolant reservoir on the driver's side?

Check fluid levels, look for sight glass or remove radiator cap (if cool).

What condition should the alternator be in on the passenger's side?

Securely mounted, no frayed wires, and the alternator belt should have no more than ½" to ¾" deflection.

What should be checked about the water pump on the driver's side?

Ensure it is securely mounted, not leaking, and identify if it is belt or gear driven. Signup and view all the answers

What does a BELT indication signify during the inspection?

Not more than ½" to ¾" deflection and the belt should not be frayed, cracked, or have loose fibers. Signup and view all the answers

What should you check regarding the oil level?

Indicate the location of the dipstick and proper operating level. Signup and view all the answers

What should the steering box and hoses be checked for?

Securely mounted and not leaking, with no missing nuts, bolts, or damaged hoses. Signup and view all the answers

What should you check about the power-steering reservoir?

It should be securely mounted, not leaking, and hoses should be secure. Signup and view all the answers

What should you check regarding the air compressor?

Check for leaks and ensure it's securely mounted with visible nuts and bolts. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked on the suspension system?

Look for cracks, broken components, or misalignment. Signup and view all the answers

What condition should the brake system hoses be in?

Pliable, not leaking, and securely mounted on each end. Signup and view all the answers

What should be checked about the brake linings and pads?

Should be visible and not worn dangerously thin. Signup and view all the answers

What is important to check on the brake chamber?

It should not be cracked or dented and must be mounted securely with no air leaks. Signup and view all the answers

What should you inspect about the frame?

Look for cracks, broken welds, or other damage to frame members. Signup and view all the answers

What should you check regarding doors?

Ensure they are not damaged and open and close properly. Signup and view all the answers

What safety equipment should be present?

A fire extinguisher, spare fuses, red reflective triangles, and a properly functioning seat belt. Signup and view all the answers

What should you check in the cab inspection?

Mirrors for alignment, gauges for proper reading, and ensure the parking brake is set. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Pre-Trip Inspection Overview

Ensure all lights and reflectors are securely mounted, their color is correct, and they are clean, uncracked, and not missing.
Check for leaks under the tractor and open the hood for further inspection.

Coolant Reservoir (Driver's Side)

Verify fluid levels visually through a sight glass or by removing the radiator cap (when cool).

Alternator (Passenger's Side)

Ensure the alternator is securely mounted with no loose or missing bolts.
Inspect for frayed or bare wires; secure all wiring.
Check the alternator belt for ½" to ¾" deflection; it should not be frayed or cracked.

Water Pump (Driver's Side)

Confirm secure mounting of the water pump and check for leaks.
Identify whether it is belt or gear driven.

Oil Level

Locate the dipstick and ensure the oil level is between the add and full marks.
Explain the procedure of checking oil levels by wiping and rechecking the dipstick.

Steering Box and Hoses

Ensure the steering box is securely mounted and free from leaks.
Look for any missing nuts, bolts, or cotter keys and check for power steering fluid leaks.

Power-Steering Reservoir

Check for secure mounting, no leaks, and that hoses are tightly secured.
Inspect the fluid level to be between add and full marks.

Power Steering Pump

Ensure secure mounting and no leaks; identify whether it is belt or gear driven.

Air Compressor

Check for leaks and ensure the gear is securely mounted.
Confirm whether it is belt or gear driven with proper belt tension.

Suspension System

Identify if suspension uses leaf or coil springs and check for cracks, breaks, or misalignment.

Pitman Arm & Draglink

Ensure both components are not cracked, bent, or welded, and verify security of connection to the draglink via a cotter pin.

Tie Rod

Ensure secure mounting without cracks, bends, or welded connections.

Air Bags

Inspect air bags for cuts, bubbles, or leaks ensuring overall good condition.

Front & Rear Mounts

Look for damage such as cracks or bends in spring hangers and check for secure mounted bushings.

Shock Absorber

Ensure shock absorbers are secure and check for any visible fluid leaks.

Torque Rod

Check for cracks, bends, or welds, and inspect for wear.

Brake System

Examine hoses for pliability, cracks, leaks, and secure mounting at both ends.

Brake Linings and Pads

Ensure visible amount of linings visible through openings in drum, avoiding dangerously thin conditions.

Brake Chamber

Inspect for cracks or dents and ensure secure mounting with no air leaks.

Brake Drum

Look for cracks, discoloration, and excessive wear (stressed cracks).

Front Rims and Tires

Rims should have no illegal welds; inspect tires for adequate tread (min. 4/32 inch) and overall condition including pressure (80 to 110 PSI).

Front Valve Stem and Cap

Ensure both are present, leak-free, and securely mounted.

Front Lug Nuts and Hub Oil Seal

Confirm all lug nuts are present and tight; check hub seals for leaks by removing the seat.

Mirrors, Doors, and Fuel Tank

Ensure mirrors are clean and fully operational; check doors for damage and proper function, and inspect fuel tanks for tightness and no leaks.

Drive Shaft

Inspect for any bends, cracks, or welds and ensure universal joints are properly greased.

Exhaust System

Examine for damage, leaks, and ensure secure mounting from the manifold to tip.

Frame and Body Inspection

Look for any cracks or broken welds, and ensure no major damage to the vehicle frame or cargo box.

Rear Tires and Mud Flaps

Repeat front tire checks for rear with minimum tread depth of 2/32 inch; ensure mud flaps are secure.

Safety and Emergency Equipment

Fire extinguisher should be secure and charged; check for spare fuses and three reflective triangles.
Ensure seatbelt is properly mounted and undamaged.

Lights Functionality

Perform a complete walk-around to verify all lights, including brake and marker lights, function correctly.

In-Cab Inspection

Check mirrors, emergency equipment, set gearshift, and parking brake, then start the truck.
Monitor gauge operation and ensure all readings are in safe ranges.
Test air pressure gauges, windshield condition, wipers, city and air horn, and defroster/heater functionality.
Confirm anti-lock braking system checks if ABS light goes out.
Perform parking brake and service brake tests, applying pressure and observing vehicle movement.

Brake System Check

Ensure no leaks, alarms, or issues with buttons as part of the brake system inspection process.

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Description

Test your knowledge of the Class B CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Procedure with these flashcards. Each card covers essential checks to ensure vehicle safety before embarking on a trip. Learn about vehicle components, proper inspections, and maintenance tips.