CDL Pre-trip Inspection Quiz

By inspecting the hoses and lines for cuts, chafing, splicing, wear, and ensuring they are not tangled, pinched, or dragged against tractor parts, you are checking the condition and integrity of the air and electric lines. This is important to ensure that there are no leaks or damage that could affect the proper functioning of the tractor's air and electrical systems.

The air compressor is responsible for maintaining air pressure in the air brake system. It compresses air from the atmosphere and stores it in the system's reservoirs. The air pressure is necessary for the proper functioning of the brakes, as it activates the brake chambers and applies pressure to the brake pads or shoes. The belt is used to drive the air compressor, ensuring that it operates continuously and maintains the required air pressure in the system.

When looking for puddles on the ground and dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission, you would be looking for leaks. This is because leaks can cause fluids such as oil, power steering fluid, or other fluids to drip onto the ground. By inspecting for leaks, you can identify any potential issues with the vehicle's engine or transmission that may require repair or maintenance.

To ensure safety and proper functioning of the vehicle, it is important to make sure that the fuel tank is secured, the cap is on tight, and there are no leaks from the tank or lines. This is crucial because any leakage can lead to fuel spills, which can be hazardous and cause accidents. Additionally, a loose fuel cap can lead to fuel evaporation and decrease fuel efficiency. Therefore, regularly checking and securing the fuel tank is necessary for the overall maintenance and safety of the vehicle.

The correct answer is AMMETER/VOLTMETER. An ammeter/voltmeter is an instrument used to measure the electrical current or voltage in a circuit. In the context of an alternator or generator, an ammeter/voltmeter can indicate whether the device is producing the desired output or if there is a problem with the electrical system. By monitoring the current or voltage, it can be determined if the alternator or generator is functioning properly and charging the battery. Therefore, an ammeter/voltmeter is the gauge that indicates whether the alternator and/or generator is changing.

Brake hoses/lines carry air or hydraulic fluid to the wheel brake assembly. These hoses/lines are responsible for transmitting the necessary pressure to engage the brakes and control the braking system. Without the brake hoses/lines, there would be no way for the air or hydraulic fluid to reach the wheel brake assembly, resulting in a loss of braking power and potentially dangerous situations.

The correct answer is TANDEM RELEASE (ARM/LOCKING PIN). The sliding mechanism and locking device for tandem axles on trailers is the tandem release, which consists of an arm and a locking pin. This mechanism allows the axles to slide and adjust their position, enabling the trailer to distribute weight more evenly and improve stability. The locking pin ensures that the axles remain in place once adjusted, preventing them from sliding unintentionally. This mechanism is crucial for maintaining control and balance while towing a trailer with tandem axles.

The windshield should be clean with no illegal stickers, obstructions, or damages to the glass. This is important for clear visibility while driving and to ensure the safety of the driver and other road users. Illegal stickers or obstructions can block the driver's view, while damages to the glass can impair visibility and compromise the structural integrity of the windshield. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly clean and inspect the windshield to maintain its functionality and safety standards.

The minimum tread depth of 4/32 of an inch is required for the steering axle tires. This is important because the steering axle tires are responsible for controlling the direction of the vehicle. Having an adequate tread depth ensures proper traction and grip on the road, especially in wet or slippery conditions. It helps to prevent skidding and allows for better handling and maneuverability of the vehicle. Therefore, it is necessary to maintain the minimum tread depth for the steering axle tires to ensure safe and efficient driving.

The driveshaft is responsible for transmitting power from the transmission to the drive axle. It is a rotating shaft that connects the transmission output shaft to the differential input shaft, allowing power to be transferred from the engine to the wheels. The driveshaft is typically made of steel and consists of a series of connected tubes or shafts. As the transmission rotates, it spins the driveshaft, which in turn rotates the drive axle and ultimately the wheels, allowing the vehicle to move.

When you pump the pedal three times and hold it down for five seconds without any movement, you are inspecting the hydraulic brake system. This action helps to build up pressure in the brake system and check for any leaks or malfunctions. By ensuring that the pedal does not move during the five seconds, you are testing the integrity of the hydraulic brake system and confirming that it is functioning properly.

To ensure that all are present, free of cracks and distortions, and show no signs of looseness such as rust trails or shiny threads, you would inspect the lug nuts. Lug nuts are used to secure the wheels to the vehicle's hubs, and any issues with them could result in the wheels becoming loose or detached while driving. Therefore, it is important to regularly inspect the lug nuts to ensure they are in good condition and properly tightened.

To improve visibility during inclement weather, it is important that the wipers/washers are secure, not damaged, and operating smoothly and correctly. Wipers are essential for clearing rain, snow, or other debris from the windshield, while washers help to clean the windshield by spraying water or cleaning solution. If the wipers are damaged or not operating correctly, they may not effectively clear the windshield, leading to reduced visibility. Similarly, if the washers are not working properly, they may not be able to clean the windshield adequately. Therefore, ensuring that the wipers and washers are in good condition is crucial for maintaining visibility during inclement weather.

The correct answer is HUB OIL/AXLE SEALS. If the wheel has a sight glass, it is important to check that the oil level is adequate. However, if the oil level is fine, the next step is to look for leaks around the hub oil/axle seals. Leaks in this area can indicate a problem with the seals, which can lead to oil leakage and potential damage to the wheel and axle system. Therefore, it is crucial to inspect the hub oil/axle seals for any signs of leaks.

The correct answer is PLATFORM. The platform is the structure that supports the fifth wheel skid plate, which is an important component in the coupling system of a tractor-trailer. It is crucial to check the platform for cracks or breaks as any damage to this structure can compromise the stability and safety of the fifth wheel assembly. Regular inspections and maintenance of the platform are necessary to ensure the proper functioning of the fifth wheel and to prevent any accidents or failures while on the road.

To check the coolant level, you can either inspect the reservoir sight glass or remove the radiator cap and check the level of visible coolant. Both options are valid methods to determine the coolant level.

The release arm is the mechanism that releases the fifth wheel locking jaws so that the trailer can be coupled. It is important to ensure that the release arm is in the engage position and that the safety latch is in place to ensure a secure coupling.

To ensure that it is solid, clear of objects, and securely bolted to the tractor frame, you should check the catwalk. The catwalk is a walkway or platform on the tractor that allows access to various parts of the vehicle. By inspecting the catwalk, you can ensure that it is stable, free from any obstructions, and properly attached to the tractor frame, thereby ensuring safety and functionality while operating the tractor.

The correct answer is STEERING BOX/HOSES. The steering box is a mechanical component that is responsible for transforming the rotational motion of the steering column into the linear motion required to turn the wheels. The hoses are used to transfer hydraulic fluid to the steering box, allowing for smooth and efficient movement. Together, the steering box and hoses form the container or mechanism that facilitates the transformation of steering column action into wheels action.

The correct answer is CLUTCH/GEARSHIFT. The clutch/gearshift disengages the engine from the drivetrain, preventing the vehicle from moving. It also reduces the load on starting the motor by allowing the engine to spin freely without transferring power to the wheels. This is commonly used when starting a manual transmission vehicle, as it allows the driver to shift gears without the vehicle moving.

Spacers should not be bent, damaged, or rusted through and should be evenly centered with the dual wheels and tires evenly separated. This is important for proper alignment and balance of the vehicle.

The locking pins should be fully engaged, with no loose or missing pins in the slide mechanism of the sliding fifth wheel. This is important for ensuring that the fifth wheel is securely locked in place, preventing any movement or separation between the tractor and trailer. If the locking pins are loose or missing, it can lead to a dangerous situation where the trailer could potentially become disconnected from the tractor while in motion. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly inspect and maintain the locking pins to ensure they are in proper working condition.

Worn brake drum/linings can cause excessive heat buildup because they have a reduced ability to absorb and dissipate heat. This can lead to a loss of brake response as the heat buildup can cause the brakes to become less effective.

Spring mounts are the brackets, bolts, or bushings that are used to attach the spring and/or airbag to the axle and vehicle frame. These mounts provide support and stability to the suspension system, allowing the spring and/or airbag to properly absorb and dampen shocks and vibrations. They help to ensure a smooth and comfortable ride by securely connecting the suspension components to the chassis of the vehicle.