You will speak with recruiters today. Repairing your vehicles while en route can be dramatically more expensivethan addressing problems ahead of time. Look for dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission. You will be standing along the side of the tractor doing a series of checks on the mirrors, fuel tanks, batteries, exhaust system, and more. Want to learn the language of the truck driver? Know how long pre-trip inspections are conducted using time stamps. Do not rush inspections. Drive at idle speed. A CLD pre-trip inspection checklist helps uncover potentially dangerous conditions, such as unsecured loads or problems with brakes or steering. Jeff from Apex Institute does an in-depth explanation of the entire pre-trip inspection process. Release handle and locking pins are in the fully locked position. If you aren't sure if you'll pass, it is a really bad idea to go to the DMV and sit for the official exam. Make sure the drag link is properly mounted and secure, and not cracked, bent or broken. When checking the engine compartment, you always want to make sure the following components are properly mounted and secured. The steering pump is located in the same place as the air compressor and is also gear driven. Inspections of trailers should be done every time you swap trailers. Step 1- Introduction. There are distinct niches in the trucking industry where trucker pay is above the average wages paid. The shock absorber should be checked at both ends for leaks. If you use a tire thumper, still check with a tire gauge from time to time. The first is the entire pre-trip inspection and the second is an abbreviated checklist for the inspection. The shock absorber is secure at both ends and not leaking. Then turn off the engine Immediately turn the engine back on. This video is loaded with tips that go beyond the CDL test to help drivers really understand how to identify problems. Check for fluid leaks by looking under the truck for signs of fluid on the ground, including: Fuel Oil Check the frame and crossmembers under the trailer to make sure they're not cracked, bent, or broken. 5.2.0Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance (Part 396) 5.2.1Records 5.2.2Vehicle Inspections 5.2.3Brake Inspections 5.2.4Common Violations CHAPTER 6Driver Requirements 6.0Driver Requirements 6.1Hiring Qualified Drivers (Part 391) 6.1.0Hiring Qualified Drivers (Part 391) 6.1.1Exceptions Seriously! Tractor Parking Brakes Set the tractor brake, release the trailer brake and tug lightly on the trailer. There is at least of an inch of friction material. Brakes must be working fine. Trailer Parking Brakes Set the trailer brake, release the tractor brake, then tug lightly on the trailer. These are gold nuggets for the new truck drivers! When the gauges have stabilized, announce the Primary and Secondary PSI. The Emergency Equipment And Fifth Wheel Section will include questions about additional emergeny equipment required by school buses, inspecting the gap between the kingpin apron and the fifth wheel skid plate, and the landing gear securement. It must be logged in your logbook as "on duty not driving.". A tug test tests both your coupling and your brakes. Look for cracks, bends and breaks. Reflectors tend to fade over time from exposure to the elements. The shock absorber should be secure at both ends and not leaking. Tread depth is no less than 2/32 of an inch. Pay particular attention to the oil pressure gauge to make sure its working properly. All rights reserved Site Map. Regardless of tire condition, you also need to check the lug nuts. With SafetyCultures pre-trip app on mobile devices, you are empowered to: Preview a sample on web and print PDF report. There are three stages to an Air Brake Test, #3 Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out. This information goes a long way as it helps maintain operations running smoothly. According to federal law (FMCSR Section 396.11 ), every day, a driver must submit a Daily Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) for each power unit he operates. Better safe than sorry should be the mantra 100% of the time, and drivers shold never skip a thorough pre-trip inspection before a truck hits the road. There should be no abrasions, bulges or cuts to the tread or sidewalls. Start completing the fillable fields and carefully type in required information. The answer is yes. Push in the tractor and trailer valves which will then release the parking brakes. Your process will look different from mine, but as long as you are consistent, you will be less likely to miss anything. Check the tandem frame and release pins to make sure the frame is in good condition and the release handle and locking pins are in the fully locked position. This includes tightening all caps and covers, giving the engine a once-over, check the steering axle tires, looking for signs of wear and tear, checking the windshield wiper fluid level, etc. Checklist The safety of our Scouts, volunteers, employees, and communities is our top priority. Suppose the document incorporates the service company filling. Some states will allow for a "cheat sheet" for the CDL . This also applies to the first inspection after being assigned a truck. Each driver should do a thorough pre-trip every time they swap drivers. With the transmission in neutral, fully depress the clutch. Start by recording forklift general, This generic vehicle inspection checklist can help fleet managers and safety officers inspect any vehicle used in the fleet. Common courtesy goes a long way in trucking, between drivers. Make sure your trucks reflectors are free of any dirt or debris. Lighting Indicators - Left Turn, Right Turn, Four Way Flashers, and High Beams. Service Brake Check - Release both Tractor and Trailer Brakes. This includes the engine, brakes, tires, lights, mirrors, and more. Make sure the tie rod is properly mounted and secure, not cracked, bent or broken. Make sure you stay in compliance so you dont end up with hefty fines and an out of service. You will also be checking to see if all components are properly mounted and secured. This can be checked with an air gauge. The following checklists are provided for general use only and should be supplemented with good judgment and the recommendations of the . Parking Brake Check. Tire thumpers arent very accurate. Look for cracks, bends, and breaks. Check the exhaust system to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. This is why you should always do a tug test when picking up a trailer. Push and hold the brake pedal, allowing the gauges to stabilize. It will put you in a lake. Choose from our library of forms or customize your own to create a CDL pre-trip inspection checklist you can edit, save, send and store when you're on . The brake chamber should not be leaking air. Capture photo evidence to better describe. Printable Pre Trip Inspection Checklist (PDF). Make sure the mud flap is secured properly. Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist Forms and Apps Inspection checklists are designed to improve the inspection process by providing staff with an easy-to-use template on the best practices to follow for that inspection. There should be at least of an inch of friction material. Please try again later. The engine oil pressure gauge should rise to normal operating range. The Tires And Coupling Devices Section will include questions about shiny trails or rusty threads on lug nuts, inspecting the battery box and cover, and inspecting electrical lines. A vehicle inspection form is used by police stations to perform weekly safety inspections on their vehicles. Its useful to plan routes and avoid restricted roads. Your truck should have a fire extinguisher, three red reflective triangles and spare electrical fuses. Any deficiencies must be acknowledged and certified that appropriate repairs have been made before a trip begins. Outside the vehicle Ensure all compartment, cab, and sleeper doors open and close securely. This inspection is meant to be a thorough check of the truck, trailer and load. When the brakes are released and pulled by hand, the push rod should not move more than one inch. A practical guide to paid CDL training programs. There are no rust trails, loose bolts, powder residue, or cracks around the bolts. Tractor Parking Brakes- Then set the Tractor Brake, release the trailer brake, and then tug lightly on the tractor. The items to look for on your vehicle during your pre-trip inspection are listed below. Gently pull against the brake by releasing the clutch, and it should hold the vehicle. Also check all the hoses running to and from the water pump to make sure nothing is leaking. The actual airbag is rubber, so it is important to check for abrasions, bulges, cuts and leaks, in addition to any missing mounting bolts. Tires should be checked with a tire gauge. 2. The skid plate needs to be properly lubed. Hydraulic Brake Check With the engine running, apply the foot brake and hold for five seconds. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, required to carry emergency equipment kits. Take photos of issues and submit reports using your mobile device. The rims do not have any unauthorized welds. Test windshield wipers to ensure clear sight during rain or snow. Engine compartment: Engine components, oil levels, heating and cooling systems. Check the suspension system and brakes on the drive axles, making sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. The cat walk and steps are clear of any loose objects. Check the left turn, right turn, four way flashers and high beams; also point these out on the dashboard. The seat belt is not ripped or frayed and adjusts and latches properly. Tip. A proper pre-trip inspection will include inspecting the brake system both in-cab and externally. Apply the service brake to make sure you come to a complete stop and that it doesnt pull to the left or right when applying the brakes. When Im done for the day, and every time I swap trailers, I do a post-trip inspection. A School Bus Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist is used by school bus drivers to ensure their school bus is fit to transport children. The airbag should not be missing any mounting bolts. Look over engine oil . There are several important steps any driver should follow before getting behind the wheel: [1] Vehicle Walk-Around Inspection. Great for practicing before the CDL exam. Warning Light and Buzzer Test: Pump down on the Brake pedal until the warning light and buzzer comes on, at or before 60 PSI. Interpreters are prohibited. Get a free demo of the load board that delivers more. Allow the gauges to stabilize. The seat belt should not be ripped or frayed and should adjust and latch properly. There should be no lug nuts missing. The following information is a brief summary of Daniel's Complete Pre-Trip Inspection taken from our oustanding free PDF download: You will be checking the engine compartment for any sort of leaks. The platform is properly mounted and secure, without cracks, bends and breaks. 1-800-832-5660. Your pre-trip truck inspection checklist should include every aspect of your vehicle and its loads. In the case of an audit, the DOT may review your pre-trip inspection checklist to ensure they have been filled out properly. There should be at least of an inch of friction material. There are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts on the tread or sidewalls. Make sure the pitman arm is properly mounted and secure. Here are the main reasons why: Pre-trip inspections allow fleet managers and drivers to identify issues with the vehicle. With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the Push Rod should not move more than 1 inch. Your pre-trip truck inspection includes checking for adequate fluid levels and the condition of hoses, belts, and wires for safe operation. There will also be questions regarding the windshield wipers and free play in the steering wheel. Visually check for and describe how you would check: Lights: All lights (e.g., high and low beam headlights, turn signals, clearance, identification) must be clean and working. It covers the air brakes, suspension parts, steering components, wheels and rims, fuel tanks, batteries, lights, and more. Brake checks should include air brakes, parking brakes, and hydraulic braking systems. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION. There should be no abrasions, bulges or cuts. Make sure this reservoir is not leaking and filled to the manufacturers specifications. All three caste nuts and cotter pins are present. Repairs can be addressed before they become costly, major repairs. Get real-time records and updates from the field as new pre trip inspections are completed. Driver's Information Driver's License Number: . This is typically at or before 60 PSI. The mud flap is secured properly, with no cracks, bends and breaks. About FMCSA; Regulations; Safety; Our Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide has everything you need to prepare for the Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam. Also make sure there is no gap in between the fifth wheel and the trailer apron once the tractor and trailer are coupled. It also covers the air brake tug test and checks for everything under the hood including alternator, water pump, fuel pump, fluids, and more. Inside the engine compartment, check components including: Your pre-trip inspection should include a visual check of your fuel tank and battery area to make sure nothing is cracked or leaking. Inspecting the vehicle before driving each day is a Federal requirement and normally takes about 15 minutes. A pre-trip inspection checklist helps keep drivers safe. They should not be leaking, dragging, or tangled. The shock absorber is secure at both ends with no leaks. Printable Pre Trip Inspection Checklist (PDF) Find the 9 highest paying truck driver jobs in 2022. Inspection Report For missing contents and damaged U.S. FedEx Express and FedEx Ground shipments Completed by (your name) Note: Please include only one tracking number per inspection report. Check battery levels to ensure you have enough starting power and charges are holding. This is typically at or before 60 PSI. Turn the key on, check the ABS light, announce when it comes on and off, and start the engine. 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