CDL Section 2

Question 1

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

Answer 1

Safety for yourself and for other road users.

Question 2

What things should you check during a trip?

Answer 2

Watch gauges for signs of trouble.
Use your senses to check for problems (look, listen, smell, feel)
Check critical items when you stop:
Tires, wheels, and rims.
Brakes.
Lights and reflectors.
Brake and electrical connections to trailer.
Trailer coupling devices.
Cargo securement devices.

Question 3

Name some key steering system parts.

Answer 3

Steering wheel, tie rod, steering shaft, power steering cylinder, steering arm, spindle, steering knuckle, drag link, pitman arm, gear box, Hydraulic Fluid Reservoir.

Question 4

Name some suspension system defects.

Answer 4

Check spring hangers to ensure they do not allow any movement, craked or broken spring hangers, missing or broken leaf springs, leaking shock absorbers.
Air suspension system that are damaged and/or leaking
Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame members

Question 5

What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have?

Answer 5

Fire extinguisher(s)
Spare electrical fuse (unless equipped with circuit breakers)
Warning devices for parking vehicles: three reflective triangles or at least 6 fuses or 3 liquid burning flares)

Question 6

What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? for other tires?

Answer 6

You need at least 4/32-inch. 2/32inch on other tires.

Question 7

Name some things you should check on the front of your vehicle during the walk-around inspection.

Answer 7

Condition of front axle.
Condition of steering system.
No loose, worn, bent, damaged, or missing parts.
Condition of windshield.
Check for damage and clean if dirty.
Check windshield wiper arms for proper spring tension.
Lights and reflectors.
Reflectors clean and proper color (amber at front)

Question 8

What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

Answer 8

Leaking

Question 9

How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

Answer 9

Three red reflective triangles.

Question 10

How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

Answer 10

Pump the pedal three times with the engine on. Then apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, there may be a leak or other problem.

Question 11

Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during the Vehicle inspection?

Answer 11

Safety- no one can start the vehicle and move it.