Transcription
TRUCKINGTRUTH.COMTTDaniel B.’sCDL PRE-TRIPINSPECTION GUIDE
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDETable Of ContentsIntroductionPre-Trip Inspection TerminologyEngine CompartmentDriver’s Door Fuel AreaCoupling SystemTrailerLight CheckIn-Cab Inspection & Brake Testsi
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDEiiIntroductionThis is my Pre-Trip Inspection , done my way! This PreTrip is done on my truck and trailer. It is a completePre-Trip Inspection and features everything you’ll needto know. I’ve been working on this for a long time andmy hometime finally gave me the chance to finish it allup.This is based off of Prime Inc.’s Pre-Trip Inspection procedure. Your companies Pre-Trip might vary slightly.Here are our sections:Engine CompartmentDrivers Door Fuel AreaCoupling SystemTrailer (Please note in the type of suspensionyour trailer has)Light CheckIn-Cab Inspection and Brake Tests
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDEiiiYou will absolutely have to do the Coupling System, LightCheck, and In-Cab Inspection. Then they select for youto also do either the Engine Compartment, Drivers DoorFuel Area, or the Trailer. It could be either one. You willhave a total of 4 sections that you must pass on yourexam. So study extra-hard on those required sections.As stated, these are solely based off of how I like to dothe Pre-Trip. I give my personal opinions as well as somehelpful tips.Your Instructors advice may vary. In the end, just do itthe way your Instructor wants you to do it.Daniel B.Original Forum st-see
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDEivPre-Trip InspectionTerminology:PMS - Properly Mounted, SecureCBB - Cracked, Bent, BrokenABC - Abrasions, Bulges, CutsA few general tips:If its rubber - ABCIf it has fluid/air going through it or in it Not leaking.If its mounted (almost everything is)- PMSIf its metal or some other hard surface- CBB
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE1Engine CompartmentLeaksCheck for leaks under the truck.DANIEL’S TIP: This is easy to forget, I suggest youmention it first to get it out of the way.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE2Belt Driven AlternatorProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. All wires connected The belt is not cracked or frayedand the free play on the belt is between 1/2 to 3/4 of aninch.DANIEL’S TIP: Remember the Alternator is Belt Driven.Do not forget to mention the belt!
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE3General Hoses Passenger SideProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts and not leaking.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget to mention “at both ends”.Fluids run through these hoses so you must say thatthey’re not leaking.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE4General Hoses Drivers SideProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts and not leaking.DANIEL’S TIP: Same thing - Don’t forget to mention“at both ends”. Fluids run through these hoses so youmust say that they’re not leaking.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE5Coolant ReservoirProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking. Not leaking and filled to manufacturersspecifications.DANIEL’S TIP: The Reservoir must be Properly Mount-ed and Secure, but don’t forget about the hoses leading toand from the Reservoir! You must also state that its filled tomanufactures specifications and not leaking.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE6Belt Driven Water PumpProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking The belt is not cracked or frayed andthe free play on the belt is between 1/2 to 3/4 of aninch.DANIEL’S TIP: The Water Pump is Belt Driven, don’tforget that belt! Check all the hoses running to and fromthe Water Pump, ensure that nothing is leaking.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE7Oil LevelFilled to manufacturers specifications.DANIEL’S TIP: You don’t need to take out the dipstick.Just point at the dipstick and say its filled to manufacturers specifications.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE8Power Steering Fluid ReservoirProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking and filled to manufactures specifications.DANIEL’S TIP: We’ve got many hoses here. Don’t abandon those hoses! Ensure nothing is leaking and filled tomanufacturers specifications.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE9Gear Driven Air CompressorProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leakingDANIEL’S TIP: The Air Compressor is Gear Driven. It islocated behind the Frame and you really cannot see it.As long as you state all the above and point in the general area you’ll be fine.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE10Gear Driven Power Steering PumpProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leakingDANIEL’S TIP: Likewise, the Power Steering Pump islocated at the same place as the Air Compressor. Thisis also Gear Driven. Ensure its not leaking and state theabove - point in the general area and you’re good.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE11Gear Box and HosesProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts and not leakingDANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget to mention the hoses andnot leaking.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE12Steering ColumnProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Combine the Pitman Arm, Drag Link, Tie Rod,Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins and state that you’ll be checking allof these the same way. Point at each item and name the part,then state “I check all of these the same way, they’re all to beProperly Mounted and Secure and not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.” While pointing at the Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins don’t forget to state that there are no Missing Castle Nuts or Cotter Pins.All of these items make up your Steering Linkage.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE13Pitman ArmProperly Mounted and Secure Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Combine the Pitman Arm, Drag Link, Tie Rod,Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins and state that you’ll be checking allof these the same way. Point at each item and name the part,then state “I check all of these the same way, they’re all to beProperly Mounted and Secure and not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.While pointing at the Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins don’t forget tostate that there are no Missing Castle Nuts or Cotter Pins. All ofthese items make up your Steering Linkage.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE14Drag LinkProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Combine the Pitman Arm, Drag Link, Tie Rod,Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins and state that you’ll be checking allof these the same way. Point at each item and name the part,then state “I check all of these the same way, they’re all to beProperly Mounted and Secure and not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.While pointing at the Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins don’t forget tostate that there are no Missing Castle Nuts or Cotter Pins. All ofthese items make up your Steering Linkage.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE15Tie RodProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Combine the Pitman Arm, Drag Link, Tie Rod,Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins and state that you’ll be checking all ofthese the same way. Point at each item and name the part, thenstate “I check all of these the same way, they’re all to be ProperlyMounted and Secure and not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. While pointing at the Castle Nuts and Cotter Pins don’t forget to state that thereare no Missing Castle Nuts or Cotter Pins. All of these items make upyour Steering Linkage.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE16Caste Nuts and Cotter PinsNone missing. Cotter Pin is present.DANIEL’S TIP: Lots of folks like to combine this withthe Drag Link. I do not, I like to say this separely at thevery end of my Steering Section. As long as you saythere are none missing and the Cotter Pin is presentyou’ll be good to go! Don’t forget that there are threeCaste Nuts and you must point at all three.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE17Spring HangerProperly Mounted and Secure at both front and rear. NotCracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: The difference between a Hanger and aMount is that Hangers are much, much smaller. I couldgo technical but don’t over complicate this. The Hangersare in the front, Mounts in the back. Be sure to say “atboth front and rear”.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE18Leaf SpringsProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not Cracked,Bent, or Broken. None are shifted.DANIEL’S TIP: Leaf Springs will always be in the EngineCompartment, they’re not Spring Arms! Don’t let anyfool tell you that because they would be wrong. Theseare Leaf Springs because there are multiple Springs plural. Be sure to say none are shifted.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE19U-BoltsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. None missing.DANIEL’S TIP: Very simple item. Just be sure to saynone are missing, that line is easily forgettable.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE20Shock AbsorberProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not Cracked,Bent, or Broken. Not leaking.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget to say “at both ends” and“not leaking”. If it’ll leak, it’ll leak at the point where thetop and bottom portion of the Shock meet - in the Middle.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE21Brake HoseProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions,Bulges or Cuts. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Again, don’t forgot to say “at bothends”. The Hose is rubber so give it the ABC and notleaking air. You could combine the line with the Chamberbut I prefer not to but its very easy to forget to mentionthe hose. When you’re under pressure, you tend to forget the small things - like a hose.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE22Brake ChamberProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item to inspect, don’t forget tomention that it’s not leaking air.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE23Slack Adjuster and Push RodProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. With the brakes released and pulled by hand, thePush Rod should not move more than 1 inch.DANIEL’S TIP: The Slack Adjuster and Push Rod are al-ways combined. Please, be very careful with your words onthis one. Say it exactly how I wrote it! Memorize that line.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE24Brake DrumProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item to inspect. Just a simple PMSand CBB.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE25Brake LiningProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.No oil or debris. Friction Material is not worn dangerouslythin.DANIEL’S TIP: Remember, you’re checking for oil ordebris and for friction material on the Lining not on theDrum. People often mix this up. You must point exactlyat the Brake Lining, like I have it in the picture.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE26RimProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No unauthorized welds.DANIEL’S TIP: Fairly simple item. Be sure to mentionthat there cannot be any unauthorized welds.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE27Lug NutsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.There are none missing. No rust trails or powder residue. Nocracks around the bolt holes.DANIEL’S TIP: Rust trails could indicate loose bolts whilepowder residue and cracks around the bolts holes could bean indication of the bolts being over-tightened. Be sure tolet the examiner know you’re looking for rust trails or powder residue and no cracks around the bolt holes.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE28Hub SealProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.Not leaking and filled to manufacturers specifications.DANIEL’S TIP: My method is that the Hub Seal is located on the Steer Axle, Axle Seal belongs on all the otherAxles. Though it doesn’t matter if you call the Trailer Axlea Hub Seal. You can call these Hub or Axle Seals. Just besure to say that its filled to manufacturers specifications.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE29Steer TireNo Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts to the tread or sidewalls. Tread depth is noless than 4/32 of an inch. Properly filled to manufactures specifications.Check it with an air gauge.DANIEL’S TIP: Tires are a big deal! Be sure to look for Abra-sions, Buldges or Cuts to the Tread and Sidewalls. Be sure to say ittoo. Steer tires cannot be less than 4/32 of an inch depth. You mustsay “of an inch”, simply saying “4/32” is not enough. Properly filledto manufactures specifications and you absolutely must add that youcheck it with an air gauge! You don’t have to physically check it withan air gauge on your exam, just mention that you would.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE30Drivers Door Fuel AreaMirrorsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. And clean.DANIEL’S TIP: Be sure to say that it is clean. On yourIn-Cab you must do the Mirrors all over again the sameway, except you’ll add that its properly adjusted.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE31Door & HingesProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Not Cracked, Bent,or Broken. Opens and closes and latches properly. Doorseals not worn, torn, or dry rotten.DANIEL’S TIP: Physically open the door and point outthe Door Seals. Open and close the door several times todemonstrate that the door opens and closes and latchesproperly.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE32Fuel TankProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking from the tank and cap, cap is on tight.DANIEL’S TIP: Be sure to say that it cannot be leakingfrom the Tank or Cap.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE33Exhaust SystemProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Not Cracked, Bent, orBroken. There are no signs of leaks.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy to miss because its not always insight. Be sure to knock this out quickly to get it out ofthe way. Remember to look for no signs of leaks.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE34Drive ShaftProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Not Cracked, Bent, orBroken. Not twisted, and the U-joints are free of any debris.DANIEL’S TIP: I like to knock out the Drive Shaft afterthe Exhaust just because its right next to it. No reason toskip around. Be sure to state that its not twisted and theU-Joints are free of any debris.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE35Cat Walk and StepsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Not Cracked, Bent, orBroken. Clear of any loose objects.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item. Don’t forget to state thatthey are clear of any loose objects.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE36Frame and Cross MembersProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. There are no unauthorized holes or welds. No missing Cross Members.DANIEL’S TIP: You can’t miss that Frame, but the CrossMembers can be easily forgotten. Bundle them up and besure to state there are no missing Cross Members.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE37Torque ArmProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item. Extremely straightforward.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE38Spring MountProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not NotCracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Be sure to include “at both ends”. Otherwise its a very easy item. Notice the difference betweena Spring Hanger and a Spring Mount?
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE39Spring ArmProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not Cracked,Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: A Spring Arm is only one spring- unlike theLeaf Springs. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise because alot of people have this confused. Don’t forget to include “atboth ends.”
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE40U-BoltsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. None missing.DANIEL’S TIP: Very simple item. Just be sure to saynone are missing, that line is easily forgettable.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE41Shock AbsorberProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not NotCracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget to say “at both ends” and“not leaking”. If it’ll leak, it’ll leak at the point where thetop and bottom portion of the Shock meet - in the Middle.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE42Air BagProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not Cracked, Bent,or Broken. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts. Not leaking. No missing mounting bolts.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t underestimate the Air Bag. Be sure tosay its PMS at both ends. The top of the Air Bag is metal so giveit a CBB. The actual Air Bag is rubber so give that an ABC. It isnot leaking air and no missing mounting bolts. This is the oneitem that you must do a PMS, CBB, and ABC on!
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE43Brake HoseProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions,Bulges or Cuts. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Again, don’t forgot to say “at bothends”. The Hose is rubber so give it the ABC and notleaking air. You could combine the line with the Chamberbut I prefer not to but its very easy to forget to mentionthe hose. When you’re under pressure, you tend to forget the small things - like a hose.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE44Brake ChamberProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Not Cracked, Bent, orBroken. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item to inspect, don’t forget tomention that it’s not leaking air.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE45Slack Adjuster and Push RodProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. With the brakes released and pulled by hand, thePush Rod should not move more than 1 inch.DANIEL’S TIP: The Slack Adjuster and Push Rod are always combined. Please, be very careful with your wordson this one. Say it exactly how I wrote it! Memorize thatline.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE46Brake DrumProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item to inspect. Just a simple PMS(properly mounted, secured) and CBB (cracked, broken,bent).
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE47Brake LiningProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No oil or debris. Friction Material is not worn dangerously thin.DANIEL’S TIP: Remember, you’re checking for oil ordebris and for friction material on the Lining not on theDrum. People often mix this up. You must point exactlyat the Brake Lining, like I have it in the picture.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE48RimProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No unauthorized welds.DANIEL’S TIP: Fairly simple item. Be sure to mentionthat there cannot be any unauthorized welds.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE49Lug NutsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.There are none missing. No rust trails or powder residue. Nocracks around the bolt holes.DANIEL’S TIP: Rust trails could indicate loose bolts whilepowder residue and cracks around the bolts holes could be anindication of the bolts being over-tightened. Be sure to let theexaminer know you’re looking for rust trails or powder residueand no cracks around the bolt holes.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE50Axle SealProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking and filled to manufacturers specifications.DANIEL’S TIP: Just be sure to say that its filled to manufacturers specifications.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE51Drive TireNo Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts to the tread or sidewalls. Tread depth is noless than 2/32 of an inch. Properly filled to manufactures specifications.Check it with an air gauge.DANIEL’S TIP: Tires are a big deal! Be sure to look for Abra-sions, Buldges or Cuts to the Tread and Sidewalls. Be sure to say ittoo. Drive tires cannot be less than 2/32 of an inch depth. You mustsay “of an inch”, simply saying “2/32” is not enough. Properly filledto manufactures specifications and you absolutely must add that youcheck it with an air gauge! You don’t have to physically check it withan air gauge on your exam, just mention that you would.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE52MudflapProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Simple item. Just a sidenote, don’t forget the Reflective Tape on your Mudflap when you doyour Light Test.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE53SpacingOnly if you’re truck is equipped with duals! Check to seethat there is proper space between the tires. There isnothing stuck between the tires.DANIEL’S TIP: Daniel’s Tip: This only applies if you don’thave Super Singles. Just let the examiner know you wouldcheck for proper space between the tires and making surethere’s nothing stuck between them.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE54Coupling SystemElectric LineProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts. No exposed wires.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget “at both ends”. Its reallyeasy to forget to say “No exposed wires.” so really makethat line stick so you won’t miss it on the exam.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE55Air LinesProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget to say “At both ends.” Besure to point at both the red and blue air line.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE56Glad HandsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Seals are in good condition, no cracks or signs ofdry rotting. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Take an air line off during the test soyou could show the examiner the seals.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE57ApronProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: The Apron is the front surface of theTrailer that the Fifth Wheel is beneath. Its the part of thetrailer that doesn’t have visible cross members and flatwith a few holes.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE58Skid PlateProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Properly lubed.DANIEL’S TIP: The Skid Plate is the top slippery surfaceof the Fifth Wheel. It must be properly lubed.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE59GapCheck to make sure that there is no space between theApron and Skid Plate.DANIEL’S TIP: The Gap is not an actual item. Its thespace between the Apron and the Skid Plate. Thereshould be no daylight between the Apron and Skid Plate.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE60King PinProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Can be easy to miss because you can’tsee it. But please don’t miss something so important asthe King Pin. Engrave this into your head.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE61Locking JawsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Fully locked around the King Pin.DANIEL’S TIP: On your exam you must bend down andphysically check those Locking Jaws, just like you shouldbe doing every day several times. Be sure to say its fullylocked around the King Pin.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE62PlatformProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: The Platform is what the Fifth Wheelrests on. It goes Frame, then Platform, then Fifth Wheel.The Platform is easy to inspect, feel free to combine itwith the Mounting Bolts. But again, I choose not to.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE63Mounting BoltsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. None missing.DANIEL’S TIP: Technically, you could combine this withthe Platform but I choose not to. Up to you. Be sure topoint at the bolts and don’t forget to say none missing.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE64Release ArmProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Is in the fully locked position.DANIEL’S TIP: The Release Arm is what allows you todisengage the Locking Jaws. The handle, or Arm, mustbe in the fully locked position. You must say that!
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE65Sliding Fifth Wheel And Locking PinProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Is in the fully locked position.DANIEL’S TIP: Remember to point at the Sliding areaand the Locking Pin. It must be in the fully locked position. You must say that!
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE66ClearanceMake sure that there is the proper space between thetractor mudflap and the trailer landing gear. So that theydon’t hit each other when making a turn.DANIEL’S TIP: Clearance is by far the easiest to forget ofeverything in the entire test! I kid you not. Please engravethis into your head. You want to check the space betweenyour mudflap and landing gear, so they don’t hit each otheron a turn.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE67TrailerHeader BoardProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No holes or missing rivets.DANIEL’S TIP: The Header Board is the front wall ofthe trailer. You must say that it cannot have any holes ormissing rivets.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE68Landing GearProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Is fulled raised and the cradle handle is secure.DANIEL’S TIP: The hardest thing about the LandingGear is that handle. It must be in the cradle and secure.The Lading Gear must be fully raised.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE69Frame and Cross MembersProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No missing Cross Members.DANIEL’S TIP: The Frame is the bottom portion on thewalls of the trailer. Don’t get that mixed up. The CrossMembers go side-to-side throughout the trailer, therecannot be any missing.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE70Tandem Frame and ReleaseProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, orBroken. Release handle and locking pins are in the fullylocked position.DANIEL’S TIP: The Tandem Frame is the frame for thetandems. The Tandem Release is the actual handle thatreleases the Pins. You must also check the Pins, theymust be in the fully locked position.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE71Shock AbsorberProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. Not Cracked,Bent, or Broken. Not leaking.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t forget to say “at both ends” and“not leaking”. If it’ll leak, it’ll leak at the point where thetop and bottom portion of the Shock meet - in the Middle.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE72Air BagProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. NoAbrasions, Bulges or Cuts. Not leaking air. No missing mountingbolts.DANIEL’S TIP: Don’t underestimate the Air Bag. Be sureto say its PMS at both ends. The top of the Air Bag is metal so give it a CBB. The actual Air Bag is rubber so give thatan ABC. It is not leaking air and no missing mounting bolts.This is the one item that you must do a PMS, CBB, and ABCon!
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE73Brake HoseProperly Mounted and Secure at both ends. No Abrasions, Bulges or Cuts. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Again, don’t forgot to say “at both ends”.The Hose is rubber so give it the ABC and not leaking air.You could combine the line with the Chamber but I prefernot to but its very easy to forget to mention the hose. Whenyou’re under pressure, you tend to forget the small things like a hose.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE74Brake ChamberProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. Not leaking air.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item to inspect, don’t forget tomention that it’s not leaking air.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE75Slack Adjuster and Push RodProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the Push Rodshould not move more than 1 inch.DANIEL’S TIP: The Slack Adjuster and Push Rod are alwayscombined. Please, be very careful with your words on this one.Say it exactly how I wrote it! Memorize that line. The ones inthe back look a lot different than the ones on the Steer axle, butthat shouldn’t impact you on your performance.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE76BRAKE DRUMProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.DANIEL’S TIP: Easy item to inspect. Just a simple PMSand CBB.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE77BRAKE LININGProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No oil or debris. Friction Material is not worn dangerously thin.DANIEL’S TIP: Remember, you’re checking for oil ordebris and for friction material on the Lining not on theDrum. People often mix this up. You must point exactlyat the Brake Lining, like I have it in the picture.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE78Axle SealProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, orBroken. Not leaking and filled to manufactures specifications.DANIEL’S TIP: Just be sure to say that its filled to manufacturer’s specifications.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE79Lug NutsProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken.There are none missing. No rust trails or powder residue. Nocracks around the bolt holes.DANIEL’S TIP: Rust trails could indicate loose bolts whilepowder residue and cracks around the bolts holes could bean indication of the bolts being over-tightened. Be sure tolet the examiner know you’re looking for rust trails or powder residue and no cracks around the bolt holes.
TTTRUCKINGTRUTH.COMPRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE80RimProperly Mounted and Secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. No unauthorized welds.DANIEL’S TIP: Fairl
TRUCKINGTRUTH.COM PRE-TRIP INSPECTION GUIDE TT i Table Of Contents Introduction Pre-Trip Inspection Terminology Engine Compartment Driver's Door Fuel Area
