CDL General Knowledge I

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| By Mclarke65
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Mclarke65
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Quizzes Created: 3 | Total Attempts: 9,186
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  • 1/20 Questions

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

    • It makes people think you are a better driver.
    • There are blind spots you can't see.
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About This Quiz

The 'CDL General Knowledge I' quiz assesses essential pre-trip inspection skills for commercial drivers. It covers checking brakes, cab inspection, gauge monitoring, and light system verification, ensuring readiness and safety compliance for effective vehicle operation.

CDL General Knowledge I - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

    • Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move.

    • Drive 20 mph and slam on the brakes.

    • Drive slowly and pump the brake pedal. Make sure it doesn't hit the floor.

    Correct Answer
    A. Pump the brake pedal three times, then apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move.
    Explanation
    To test hydraulic brakes for leaks, you need to pump the brake pedal three times to build pressure in the system. Then, apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold it for five seconds. If there are no leaks, the pedal should not move, indicating that the hydraulic system is holding the pressure properly. This test helps to ensure the integrity of the brake system and identify any potential leaks that may compromise its performance.

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  • 3. 

    When preparing to do a pre-trip inspection you must check to see that the parking brakes are on and/or chocked.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    When preparing to do a pre-trip inspection, it is important to check if the parking brakes are engaged and/or chocked. This is necessary to ensure that the vehicle remains stationary and does not roll or move during the inspection process. By verifying that the parking brakes are on and/or chocked, the driver can prevent any potential accidents or injuries that may occur if the vehicle were to unexpectedly move. Therefore, the statement "True" is the correct answer.

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  • 4. 

    After inspecting mirrors and windshields for cracks, dirt, illegal stickers or other obstructions to see, you should:

    • Look in the mirror to see if you look good.

    • Clean and adjust as necessary.

    • Not worry about any of it.

    Correct Answer
    A. Clean and adjust as necessary.
    Explanation
    After inspecting mirrors and windshields for cracks, dirt, illegal stickers or other obstructions to see, the correct course of action is to clean and adjust them as necessary. This is important for maintaining clear visibility while driving. Looking good in the mirror or not worrying about it are not relevant to ensuring safe driving conditions.

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  • 5. 

    What is the proper way to hold the steering wheel?

    • Firmly with both hands on opposite sides of the wheel

    • With your right hand on the wheel

    • Firmly with one hand at the top of the wheel and the other at the bottom

    Correct Answer
    A. Firmly with both hands on opposite sides of the wheel
    Explanation
    The proper way to hold the steering wheel is firmly with both hands on opposite sides of the wheel. This provides better control and stability while driving, allowing for quick and accurate steering adjustments. Holding the wheel with one hand or with the right hand only can lead to less control and slower reaction times, which can be dangerous on the road.

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  • 6. 

    What is the most important hand signal that you and the helper should agree on?

    • Stop

    • Go

    • Right

    • Left

    Correct Answer
    A. Stop
    Explanation
    The most important hand signal that you and the helper should agree on is "Stop." This signal is crucial for ensuring safety and avoiding accidents or potential harm. It signifies the need to halt or pause any actions or movements immediately. By agreeing on this signal, both you and the helper can effectively communicate and coordinate your actions, preventing any potential risks or misunderstandings.

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  • 7. 

    What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

    • Color of paint used on cover

    • Cleanliness

    • Hub oil level and no leaks

    Correct Answer
    A. Hub oil level and no leaks
    Explanation
    Wheel bearing seals should be checked for the hub oil level and any signs of leaks. This is important because the wheel bearing seals are responsible for keeping the hub oil contained and preventing any leaks. If the hub oil level is low or there are leaks present, it could indicate a problem with the wheel bearing seals, which can lead to damage and failure of the wheel bearings. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly inspect the hub oil level and check for any leaks to ensure the proper functioning of the wheel bearing seals.

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  • 8. 

    How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

    • 1

    • 2

    • 3

    • 4

    Correct Answer
    A. 3
    Explanation
    According to the question, the correct answer is 3. This suggests that it is recommended to carry three red reflective triangles. These triangles are typically used as a safety precaution in case of a breakdown or emergency on the road. By placing them behind the vehicle, they help to alert other drivers and increase visibility, reducing the risk of accidents. Carrying three triangles ensures that there are enough to create a safe perimeter around the vehicle.

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  • 9. 

    What are two special conditions where you should downshift?

    • When starting off fast and speed shifting

    • Before starting down a hill and before entering a curve

    • Before starting up a hill and before entering a curve

    Correct Answer
    A. Before starting down a hill and before entering a curve
    Explanation
    Downshifting before starting down a hill and before entering a curve is necessary because it allows the driver to have better control over the vehicle's speed and stability. Downshifting before going downhill helps to utilize engine braking, which reduces the strain on the brakes and prevents them from overheating. Downshifting before entering a curve helps to maintain a proper speed and balance while navigating the curve, ensuring better traction and stability.

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  • 10. 

    When getting in to start the engine and inspect inside the cab you must

    • Make sure the parking break is on.

    • Put gearshift in neutral (or park if automatic).

    • Start engine and listen for unusual noises.

    • All of the above.

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above.
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "All of the above." This means that when getting in to start the engine and inspect inside the cab, you must make sure the parking brake is on, put the gearshift in neutral (or park if automatic), and start the engine while listening for unusual noises.

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  • 11. 

    You should check the following for looseness, sticking, damage or improper settings:

    • Steering wheel

    • Accelerator, brake and clutch pedals

    • Transmission controls

    • All of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "All of the above" because checking the steering wheel, accelerator, brake and clutch pedals, and transmission controls for looseness, sticking, damage, or improper settings is essential for ensuring the proper functioning and safety of a vehicle. These components are crucial for controlling the vehicle's movement and any issues with them can lead to accidents or malfunctions on the road. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect and maintain these parts to ensure optimal performance and safety.

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  • 12. 

    Why should you back toward the driver's side?

    • Backing toward the right side is dangerous

    • So you can see better

    • Both A and B

    Correct Answer
    A. Both A and B
    Explanation
    Backing toward the driver's side is the correct choice because it allows the driver to have better visibility while reversing. By backing towards the right side, the driver can see the rearview mirror and have a clearer view of the surroundings. Additionally, backing towards the right side is safer as it reduces the risk of colliding with passing vehicles or pedestrians. Therefore, the correct answer is both A and B.

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  • 13. 

    To avoid roll backs when you start, you should:

    • Stop on a flat area

    • Engage the clutch very quickly

    • Press the accelerator

    • Partly engage the clutch before you take your right foot off the brake

    Correct Answer
    A. Partly engage the clutch before you take your right foot off the brake
    Explanation
    To avoid roll backs when starting, it is important to partly engage the clutch before taking your right foot off the brake. This allows the engine to start engaging with the transmission and prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards. By engaging the clutch partially, you can smoothly transition from a stationary position to moving forward without any roll backs.

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  • 14. 

    Look at the guages - the oil pressure gauge should come up to normal within how long after starting the engine?

    • Minutes

    • Seconds

    • It does not matter.

    Correct Answer
    A. Seconds
    Explanation
    The correct answer is "Seconds" because the oil pressure gauge should come up to normal within a few seconds after starting the engine. This is because the oil needs to circulate throughout the engine to lubricate its moving parts and ensure proper functioning. If the oil pressure gauge takes longer than a few seconds to reach normal levels, it may indicate a problem with the engine's oil system, such as a clogged oil filter or low oil level.

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  • 15. 

    What are the two ways to know when to shift?

    • Use engine speed (rpm) and road signs

    • Use your watch and engine sound

    • Use engine speed (rpm) and use road speed (mph)

    Correct Answer
    A. Use engine speed (rpm) and use road speed (mph)
    Explanation
    The correct answer is to use engine speed (rpm) and road speed (mph) to know when to shift. Engine speed (rpm) indicates the speed at which the engine is rotating, and road speed (mph) indicates the actual speed at which the vehicle is traveling. By monitoring both the engine speed and road speed, drivers can determine the appropriate time to shift gears, ensuring smooth acceleration and optimal fuel efficiency.

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  • 16. 

    How far ahead should you look?

    • Most good drivers look 20 to 30 seconds ahead

    • Most good drivers look 5 to 10 seconds ahead

    • Most good drivers look 2 to 4 seconds ahead

    • Most good drivers look 12 to 15 seconds ahead

    Correct Answer
    A. Most good drivers look 12 to 15 seconds ahead
    Explanation
    Most good drivers look 12 to 15 seconds ahead because this allows them to anticipate potential hazards and react in a timely manner. Looking too far ahead, such as 20 to 30 seconds, may cause the driver to lose focus on the immediate surroundings and miss important details. On the other hand, looking only 2 to 4 seconds ahead may not provide enough time to react to sudden changes in traffic or road conditions. Therefore, looking 12 to 15 seconds ahead strikes a balance between being aware of upcoming situations and staying focused on the present.

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  • 17. 

    When checking lights you should:

    • Make sure that the parking brake is set.

    • Turn off the engine and take the key with you.

    • Turn on the headlights and four way flashers.

    • All of the above.

    Correct Answer
    A. All of the above.
    Explanation
    When checking lights, it is important to ensure that the parking brake is set in order to prevent the vehicle from moving. Turning off the engine and taking the key with you is necessary for safety reasons and to avoid any accidental starting of the vehicle. Turning on the headlights and four-way flashers allows you to check if all the lights are functioning properly. Therefore, all of the given options are correct and should be followed when checking lights.

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  • 18. 

    Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during the pre-trip inspection?

    • So you don't lose it

    • So no one moves the vehicle

    • For your safety

    Correct Answer
    A. For your safety
    Explanation
    Putting the starter switch key in your pocket during the pre-trip inspection is for your safety. By keeping the key with you, you ensure that no one can start or move the vehicle without your knowledge or permission. This prevents unauthorized use of the vehicle, potential accidents, and protects your personal belongings that may be inside the vehicle. It is a precautionary measure to maintain control and ensure the safety of both yourself and the vehicle.

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  • 19. 

    Retarders keep you from skidding where the road is slippery.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Retarders are devices used in heavy vehicles to assist in slowing down or stopping the vehicle. They are not designed to prevent skidding on slippery roads. The correct answer is False.

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  • 20. 

    When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

    • When going down grades

    • When going up grades

    • when going around curves

    • None of the above

    Correct Answer
    A. When going down grades
    Explanation
    When going down grades, downshifting in automatic transmissions is necessary to maintain control of the vehicle and prevent the brakes from overheating. Downshifting allows the engine to provide additional braking power, helping to slow down the vehicle without relying solely on the brakes. This is especially important when driving downhill, as gravity can cause the vehicle to gain speed and put excessive strain on the brakes. Therefore, downshifting when going down grades is the correct answer.

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Quiz Review Timeline (Updated): Jun 10, 2024 +

Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.

  • Current Version
  • Jun 10, 2024
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • Aug 26, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    Mclarke65
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