Consumption

Question 1

What is the purpose of the electronic braking system?

Answer 1

Improves vehicle control during braking

Improves stability and reaction during braking

Question 2

What are the advantages associated with the use of a retarder

Answer 2

May be used when descending steep hills
The service brake remains cool for optimum performance
Speed can be stabilised without using the service brake

Question 3

What are the main types of braking systems fitted to HGV’s?

Answer 3

The service brake
Parking brake
Retarder
The secondary brake

Question 4

How would you bring about a decrease in fuel consumption?

Answer 4

Drive sensibly and keep within speed limits
Avoid harsh braking
Avoid rapid acceleration 
Correct tyre pressure
Proper use of gears

Question 5

What types of practices would ensure the optimum use of vehicle inertia

Answer 5

Forward planning
Timely braking
Ensure vehicle is serviced
Energy saving tyres

Question 6

How would you slow down on downhill stretches

Answer 6

Foot brake
Retarder
Or both

Question 7

What course of action should be followed in the event of service brake failure where vehicle has ABS fitted

Answer 7

Use handbrake/secondary brake
Apply maximum constant pressure on the brake pedal
Do not pump the brakes

Question 8

Many trucks have the facility of ‘gear splitting’ what are the major benefits of it

Answer 8

Increase horsepower
Increased torque
Prevent drop of RPM in gear changing

Question 9

In the interest of better fuel consumption what points should you remember when arranging a load on a vehicle

Answer 9

Load close to the rear of the cab
Ensure axle weights are not exceeded
Keep load within the width of the cab
Avoid gap between load units on the vehicle

Question 10

What is the purpose of the gearbox

Answer 10

Multiplies the torque
Provides a means of reversing the vehicle
Provides permanent position for neutral