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TA Offering Free ‘Mid-Trip’ Inspections Ahead of Roadcheck

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TravelCenters of America (TA) is helping truckers prepare for next month’s CVSA International Roadcheck by offering free CMV inspection services at participating locations.

From April 15 through May 15, TA Truck Service locations located in TA truck stops and Petro Stopping Centers will offer free mid-trip inspection services.

TA is offering the free service to help drivers through CVSA International Roadcheck (May 16-18, 2023). This is the nation’s largest truck inspection blitz, with nearly 15 trucks and motorcoaches inspected, on average, every minute across North America during a 72-hour period.

TA says that mid-trip inspections include checks on the following parts:

• Tires– Ensure proper pressure and tread depth, and spot damage or wear early.
• Brakes– Test the entire system for performance, functionality, safety, and compliance.
• Fluids — Look out for oil, coolant, and other fluid leaks, or signs of contamination.
• Electrical System– Verify that the battery, alternator, wiring, connectors, lights, and signals are functioning.
• Suspension — Detect any damage or malfunction in the shocks and other suspension components.
• Cargo– Be sure your vehicle’s cargo is secured properly to avoid safety hazards on the road.

Story via CDL Life. 

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Pilot Flying J to offer free mid-trip inspections to help drivers prep for Roadcheck

Starting now, Pilot Flying J will be offering truck drivers mid-trip inspections free of charge as a way of helping drivers and carriers prep for the CVSA’s Roadcheck 2018.

Pilot Flying J says that they will be offering the mid-trip inspections (valued at $50) from now through June 7. International Roadcheck 2018 is scheduled for June 5 — 7.

Jason Davis, director of operations for Pilot Flying J Truck Care Service Centers, says, “During the 72-hour CVSA Roadcheck event, all commercial drivers should be prepared for a thorough inspection of both driver operating requirements and vehicle mechanical fitness. Leading up to the event, Pilot Flying J Truck Care is here to provide necessary preparation tips to professional drivers and to help ensure trucks meet the requirements necessary for the checks. By offering free mid-trip inspections, our hope is that we help more professional drivers pass the checks successfully.”

These mid-trip inspections will be “heavily focused on checking the tires and brakes of trucks, and also include the inspection of windshields, exhaust, lights and more,” according to a press release from Pilot Flying J. “The three most common failed items are tires, brakes and lights. Performing proper inspections on each of these will help reduce the chances of receiving a violation.”

The free inspections are available for booking at Pilot Flying J Truck Care Service Center location or through Roadside Assistance mobile units. Pilot Flying J notes that they will be offering a visual inspection only and that while the driver will be informed of any potential problems, the inspection in no way guarantees that the truck will pass inspection during Roadcheck.

You can click here for more information on the free mid-trip inspections .

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Free Mid-Trip Inspections at TA

Now through May 15, ahead of the 2023 International Roacheck, TA Truck Service locations inside TA® travel centers and Petro Stopping Centers® will offer free mid-trip inspection services.

TA is offering the added inspections to help drivers prepare for International Roadcheck May 16-18. During the 72-hour inspection and enforcement event, CVSA inspectors will conduct inspections of commercial motor vehicles and drivers at weigh/inspection stations, designated inspection areas and along roadways across North America.

According to TA, the mid-trip inspections include checks on the following parts:

• Tires– Ensure proper pressure and tread depth, and spot damage or wear early.
• Brakes– Test the entire system for performance, functionality, safety, and compliance.
• Fluids — Look out for oil, coolant, and other fluid leaks, or signs of contamination.
• Electrical System– Verify that the battery, alternator, wiring, connectors, lights, and signals are functioning.
• Suspension — Detect any damage or malfunction in the shocks and other suspension components.
• Cargo– Be sure your vehicle’s cargo is secured properly to avoid safety hazards on the road.

TA is also advising drivers to look for warning signs that a truck needs service sooner than anticipated.

Vigilant professional truck drivers learn to look out for any signs that their vehicle needs extra attention. Warning signs can sometimes indicate you need a mid-trip inspection even sooner than you expected. Look out for unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in vehicle performance or functionality. Take note of any warning lights that appear on your dashboard, as they may indicate what needs to be inspected. Also be aware of any unusual odors or smoke from the engine or exhaust. Any of these warning signs could mean it’s time to schedule services or repairs to address potentially detrimental symptoms.

Click here to view a list of participating TA locations and to schedule an inspection prior to May 15 and the start of the International Roadcheck.

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Free Mid-Trip Inspections at TA

Now through May 15, ahead of the 2023 International Roacheck, TA Truck Service locations inside TA® travel centers and Petro Stopping Centers® will offer free mid-trip inspection services.

TA is offering the added inspections to help drivers prepare for International Roadcheck May 16-18. During the 72-hour inspection and enforcement event, CVSA inspectors will conduct inspections of commercial motor vehicles and drivers at weigh/inspection stations, designated inspection areas and along roadways across North America.

According to TA, the mid-trip inspections include checks on the following parts:

• Tires– Ensure proper pressure and tread depth, and spot damage or wear early.
• Brakes– Test the entire system for performance, functionality, safety, and compliance.
• Fluids — Look out for oil, coolant, and other fluid leaks, or signs of contamination.
• Electrical System– Verify that the battery, alternator, wiring, connectors, lights, and signals are functioning.
• Suspension — Detect any damage or malfunction in the shocks and other suspension components.
• Cargo– Be sure your vehicle’s cargo is secured properly to avoid safety hazards on the road.

TA is also advising drivers to look for warning signs that a truck needs service sooner than anticipated.

Vigilant professional truck drivers learn to look out for any signs that their vehicle needs extra attention. Warning signs can sometimes indicate you need a mid-trip inspection even sooner than you expected. Look out for unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in vehicle performance or functionality. Take note of any warning lights that appear on your dashboard, as they may indicate what needs to be inspected. Also be aware of any unusual odors or smoke from the engine or exhaust. Any of these warning signs could mean it’s time to schedule services or repairs to address potentially detrimental symptoms.

Click here to view a list of participating TA locations and to schedule an inspection prior to May 15 and the start of the International Roadcheck.

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What is a Post-Trip Inspection? Exploring the Basics and Benefits of this Essential Fleet Management Tool

By Happy Sharer

Introduction

Post-trip inspections are an important part of any fleet management program. These inspections ensure that vehicles are in good working order before they leave the depot, during their journey, and after they have completed their route. Post-trip inspections help to identify potential problems with a vehicle before they become more costly issues, as well as ensuring that drivers and other personnel are following all necessary safety protocols.

Exploring the Basics of Post-Trip Inspections

Before diving into the specifics of post-trip inspections, let’s first define what post-trip inspections are and why they are important.

What is a Post-Trip Inspection?

A post-trip inspection is a visual examination of a vehicle after it has been used. During a post-trip inspection, a technician or driver will check the condition of the vehicle, look for any signs of damage or wear, and make sure that all safety features are functioning properly. The purpose of a post-trip inspection is to detect any problems with the vehicle and address them before they become bigger issues.

Why Are Post-Trip Inspections Important?

Post-trip inspections are an essential part of any successful fleet management program. They help to identify any potential safety issues with a vehicle before they become more severe problems. Additionally, these inspections help to ensure that drivers and other personnel are following all necessary safety protocols. Finally, post-trip inspections can help to reduce maintenance costs by identifying potential issues early on.

What Are the Benefits of Post-Trip Inspections?

The benefits of post-trip inspections are numerous. First, they help to improve vehicle safety by detecting any potential issues before they become bigger problems. Second, they can help to reduce maintenance costs by identifying any issues early on. Finally, post-trip inspections can help to increase driver efficiency by ensuring that all safety protocols are being followed.

The Essential Checklist for a Successful Post-Trip Inspection

In order to ensure that a post-trip inspection is conducted properly, there are certain steps that must be taken. Here is an essential checklist for conducting a successful post-trip inspection:

Pre-Inspection Checklist

• Check that all required paperwork is filled out correctly.
• Verify that all safety equipment is in working order.
• Check that all fluids and tires are at the correct levels.
• Inspect the exterior of the vehicle for any damage.

During the Inspection Checklist

• Test all lights and signals.
• Check the brakes and steering for any issues.
• Listen for any unusual sounds coming from the engine.
• Make sure that all safety features are functioning properly.

After the Inspection Checklist

• Fill out any required documentation.
• Make sure that all fluids and tires are at the correct levels.
• Check for any signs of damage or wear.

How to Complete a Proper Post-Trip Inspection

Now that we understand the basics of post-trip inspections and the checklist for a successful post-trip inspection, let’s look at how to actually complete a proper post-trip inspection.

Step-by-Step Guide to Conducting an Effective Post-Trip Inspection

• Start by completing the pre-inspection checklist. Verify that all required paperwork is filled out correctly, check that all safety equipment is in working order, and inspect the exterior of the vehicle for any damage.
• Next, test all lights and signals, check the brakes and steering for any issues, and listen for any unusual sounds coming from the engine.
• Once the inspection is complete, fill out any required documentation, make sure that all fluids and tires are at the correct levels, and check for any signs of damage or wear.
• Finally, test all lights and signals again to ensure that they are functioning properly.

Navigating the Different Types of Post-Trip Inspections

When it comes to post-trip inspections, there are three main types: pre-trip inspections, mid-trip inspections, and post-trip inspections. Let’s take a closer look at each type:

Pre-Trip Inspections

Pre-trip inspections are conducted before a vehicle leaves the depot. During a pre-trip inspection, a technician or driver will check the condition of the vehicle, look for any signs of damage or wear, and make sure that all safety features are functioning properly. The purpose of a pre-trip inspection is to detect any potential problems with the vehicle before it leaves the depot.

Mid-Trip Inspections

Mid-trip inspections are conducted during a vehicle’s journey. During a mid-trip inspection, a technician or driver will check the condition of the vehicle, look for any signs of damage or wear, and make sure that all safety features are functioning properly. The purpose of a mid-trip inspection is to detect any potential problems with the vehicle before they become bigger issues.

Post-Trip Inspections

Post-trip inspections are conducted after a vehicle has completed its journey. During a post-trip inspection, a technician or driver will check the condition of the vehicle, look for any signs of damage or wear, and make sure that all safety features are functioning properly. The purpose of a post-trip inspection is to detect any potential problems with the vehicle before they become more costly issues.

Understanding the Regulations and Requirements of Post-Trip Inspections

In addition to understanding the basics of post-trip inspections and the different types of inspections, it is also important to understand the regulations and requirements for post-trip inspections.

Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Regulations

The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets regulations for post-trip inspections. These regulations include requiring drivers to conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections, as well as documenting any defects found during the inspections. Additionally, the FMCSA requires that all drivers receive training in vehicle inspection and safety procedures.

State Regulations

In addition to the FMCSA regulations, each state may have their own regulations and requirements for post-trip inspections. It is important to familiarize yourself with the regulations in your state so that you can ensure that you are meeting all requirements.

The Benefits of Including Post-Trip Inspections in Your Fleet Management Program

Post-trip inspections can provide numerous benefits to your fleet management program. Here are some of the key benefits of including post-trip inspections in your fleet management program:

Improved Vehicle Safety

Post-trip inspections help to improve vehicle safety by detecting any potential issues before they become bigger problems. By regularly conducting post-trip inspections, you can help to ensure that your vehicles remain safe and reliable.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Post-trip inspections can help to reduce maintenance costs by identifying any issues early on. By addressing any issues quickly, you can help to avoid more costly repairs down the line.

Enhanced Driver Efficiency

Post-trip inspections also help to increase driver efficiency by ensuring that all safety protocols are being followed. By regularly conducting post-trip inspections, you can help to ensure that your drivers are following all necessary safety protocols.

Post-trip inspections are an essential part of any successful fleet management program. These inspections help to improve vehicle safety, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance driver efficiency. By understanding what post-trip inspections are and why they are important, as well as how to conduct a proper post-trip inspection and the different types of inspections, you can ensure that your fleet management program is as effective and efficient as possible.

It is also important to be aware of the regulations and requirements for post-trip inspections, as well as the benefits of including them in your fleet management program. By implementing post-trip inspections into your fleet management program, you can help to ensure that your vehicles remain safe and reliable, and that your drivers are following all necessary safety protocols.

(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)

Hi, I'm Happy Sharer and I love sharing interesting and useful knowledge with others. I have a passion for learning and enjoy explaining complex concepts in a simple way.

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Get Your FREE Mid-Trip Inspection and Avoid Downtime

CVSA’s Brake Safety Week is August 21-27, and last year alone, 12% of unannounced inspections resulted in vehicles being placed out of service. To help keep you on the road, TravelCenters of America is offering  FREE mid-trip inspections until August 20 . Come get your free inspection at participating TA Truck Service locations and enjoy peace of mind during this year’s safety enforcement campaign. We look forward to seeing you at TA®, Petro Stopping Centers®, and TA Express® travel centers.

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Truck Inspections for Brake Safety Week 2022

Roadside truck inspections are an essential part of improving the safety of our roadways, and the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) is continuing its efforts to do just that with their annual Brake Safety Week inspection event. Brake Safety Week is a high-visibility, week-long enforcement initiative that calls attention to the importance of commercial motor vehicle safety through roadside inspections.

CVSA launched an  unannounced Brake Safety Day back in April , and in just the one day, more than 9,000 vehicles were inspected. Fourteen percent of the inspections (roughly 1,300) uncovered critical brake violations that took vehicles out of service. Get ready for a full week of inspections by making sure your truck is well maintained and that you have the proper documents ready to hand over to inspectors.

What is CVSA Looking for During Brake Safety Week 2022?

During brake safety week, CVSA inspectors will focus on:

• Broken, loose, or missing brake system parts
• Non-manufactured holes caused from friction or rust
• Brake housing springs that need to be replaced
• Air leaks, system pressure, and S-cam flip-over
• Slack adjuster length and air chamber size
• Brake system warning devices

Make sure your truck is well maintained

It’s always best to conduct a thorough inspection prior to hitting the road. Not only will this help you identify any mechanical issues and avoid being placed out of service, but it also ensures your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Every year, the majority of mechanical violations are related to brake adjustment. In fact, during last year’s three-day International Roadcheck, brake system and brake adjustment violations took nearly 40% of inspected vehicles out of service.

While there is a clear increase in the number of inspections conducted during Brake Safety Week, commercial motor vehicle inspections take place throughout the rest of the year as well. Inspections are just as important before and after the week-long enforcement event. Find a TA Truck Service near you to get a free mid-trip inspection through August 20 and hit the road ready.

Have the necessary paperwork on hand

Having the right paperwork and documents on hand is just as important as making sure your truck and trailer are in good operating condition. Take the time now to get your paperwork in order and make sure the condition of your vehicle complies with FMCSA regulations, so you can avoid being placed out of service and keep on rolling.

Not only should your vehicle’s mechanical fitness be up to par, but you should also be prepared to hand over the appropriate paperwork when it’s time to start the inspection process. Here’s what you should have ready to present to an inspector during Brake Safety Week:

• Driver’s license/commercial driver’s license (CDL)
• Insurance, DOT number, and operating license if needed
• Record of duty status and any supporting documents
• Shipping papers or applicable manifest
• Vehicle registration, inspection certificate(s), and any trip inspection reports
• All necessary documentation for any hazardous materials or dangerous goods
• All relevant permits and paperwork, where needed

“Having your driver documents and vehicle maintenance all in order helps a lot,” said Will Schaefer, director of safety programs for the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance. “Inspectors and drivers are all trying to maintain safe operations and a safe roadway environment. We are all trying to do our part. A shared respect among inspectors and drivers goes a long way toward a positive, efficient inspection experience.”

Good luck out there to all professional drivers, and we look forward to helping you prepare for anything, no matter what make or model you drive.

Ready for your free inspection?

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Taking a Mid Trip inspection

Discussion in ' Experienced Truckers' Advice ' started by americanroads , Mar 2, 2020 .

striker Road Train Member

gentleroger said: ↑ Those would be my fault for not doing my job. Spending 3 hours for Skippy to thump my tires and look at my lights isn't going to happen unless I'm getting paid. Click to expand...

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gentleroger Road Train Member

striker said: ↑ Ok, I'm with you, let's run with this. You broke down and cost the company a couple grand in repairs (maybe 4 or 5 grand if a tow bill is involved) due to you not doing your job, so you're fine with not getting paid for it, ok. So, let's take it the other way, I own the company, I tell you that every two weeks I expect a specific mid-trip maintenance sequence to be done, by a qualified shop or the company terminal, and you want me to pay you to wait for "Skippy" to inspect your truck/trailer more thoroughly. Sounds fair, BUT, if "Skippy" finds defects that you should have caught during your pre- or post-trip inspections, I'm not going to pay you for those 3 hours you had to wait for "Skippy", and I'm not going to pay you to sit and wait for "Skippy" to repair those items, would you be acceptable of that, because obviously you are not doing your job. I don't know this company, but, I bet, they have outrageous repair bills because drivers are not doing their jobs, and as such are trying to curtail those expenses, meanwhile, they have drivers like you who are crying about doing something extra to save the company serious money and not getting paid for it. Click to expand...

Final Drive Road Train Member

Brandonpdx Road Train Member

americanroads said: ↑ That's the problem. Some drivers always say they do pre trip and their truck and trailers are fine. But when they come back to the office they fail big time. By having them take mid trip I can see if there is a problem by looking at the inspection report. Click to expand...

Lucky12 Medium Load Member

americanroads said: ↑ Hi all! I am working as an assistant fleet manager for a small trucking company. This is my first job in the long haul industry. I am still learning the ropes. One of my job duties is to make sure drivers take a mid trip inspection now and then. However, some drivers are being extremely difficult about it. They always have an excuse to skip it or just refuse to do it. I am wondering if ya'll have any tips on how to work with difficult drivers and have them take a mid trip inspection. I call and text them well in advance before due date so they have plenty of time to stop by a truck stop and take a mid trip. I notify their dispatch as well. Yet, half of the drivers are late or refuse the inspection. Thank you all in advance! P.S. To clarify what I mean by Mid Trip Inspection: A walk around by a 3rd party mechanice, usualy at a truck stop, to check the tires, brakes, lights and ect. And we ask drivers to take the inspetion once a week, or less often. Click to expand...

REALITY098765 Road Train Member

gentleroger said: ↑ How about when I blow a tire a day after Skippy does his "midtrip"? Do I get paid then? We can go back and forth all day. In my opinion these mid trip inspections aren't going to do didly to lower maintenance costs. All they are is a suck on a driver's income. If a driver isn't doing his own pretrips, then they need to dump the driver. Not inflict stupid policies on everyone else. Click to expand...

REALITY098765 said: ↑ On the other hand ,if you paid the driver to do the whole job you wouldn't have the problem in the first place, What happens when I go to pick up a preloaded trailer at a shipper on a Sunday when nobody is open and I find problems. Click to expand...

striker said: ↑ pre-trip and post-trip are part of your job requirement, Click to expand...

ZVar Road Train Member

REALITY098765 said: ↑ And you didn't answer what happens when a driver does find a real problem. Click to expand...

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Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide

Our Pre-Trip Inspection Study Guide has everything you need to prepare for the Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Exam . Our study guide will cover the pre-trip inspection terminology as well as a thorough list of all of the parts you will be inspecting on the vehicle. For each part you will be inspecting there will also be a list of items you will be checking for. Our study guide is broken down into the following sections:

• What You Need to Know About Pre-Trip Inspection

Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions

• Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Pre-Trip Inspection Videos

Pre-trip inspection printable resources, what you need to know about the pre-trip inspection.

The Pre-Trip Inspection is a thorough inspection of the vehicle and all of its major systems. Inspecting the vehicle before driving each day is a Federal requirement and normally takes about 15 minutes. It must be logged in your logbook as "on duty not driving."

You will have to do thorough safety inspections of the coupling system, the vehicle lights, engine compartment, tires and brakes, the chassis, the fuel tanks, and an in-cab inspection.

The following information is a brief summary of Daniel's Complete Pre-Trip Inspection taken from our oustanding free PDF download:

Engine Compartment

You will be checking the engine compartment for any sort of leaks. You will also be checking to see if all components are properly mounted and secured. None of the mounts must be cracked, bent, or broken.

You will be checking all hoses to make sure they aren't leaking, frayed, or sliced and the fluid levels including the oil level, the coolant, and the power steering fluid.

You must check the components like the water pump, the power steering pump, and the alternator to make sure nothing is leaking, the belts are not frayed, and that everything is properly mounted and secured.

From inside the engine compartment you will also find the steering system, the front suspension system, and the front brake system. All components of these systems must be properly mounted and secured without anything being cracked, bent, or broken. Finally you will be checking the tires, rims, and axle seals to make sure the tires are properly inflated, the rim isn't bent or cracked, and the axle seals are not leaking.

Fuel Tank And Battery Area

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. You will check to make sure nothing is bent, cracked, broken, or leaking.

Check the mirrors, door hinges, door handle to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Check to make sure there is no fuel leaking and that the fuel cap is secured and the gasket is not missing.

Check the exhaust system to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Check the driveshaft, cat walk, and steps to make sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken.

Check the frame and crossmembers for structural integrity. Check the air lines going to the trailer to make sure they're properly connected and that there are no abrasions, bulges, or cuts. Make sure the gaskets are present.

Check the suspension system and brakes on the drive axles, making sure nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the brake linings are the proper thickness and that the air bags and properly inflated. Inspect the brake chambers, slack adjusters, and pushrods are properly mounted and secure. Not Cracked, Bent, or Broken. With the brakes released and pulled by hand, the Push Rod should not move more than 1 inch.

Check the rims, tires, and axle seals of the drive tires for proper inflation, no leaks around the seal, and the lugs are all present and secured.

Coupling System

You will be standing where the tractor and trailer are connected and you'll start by checking the electrical line and air lines to make sure they're properly mounted and secure at both ends. No abrasions, bulges or cuts. Not leaking air. Make sure the electrical line has no wires exposed. Check the gladhands to make sure the seals are in good condition, no cracks or signs of dry rotting. Not leaking air.

Check the skid plate of the fifth wheel and the apron of the trailer to make sure there is no debris and nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the fifth wheel is properly greased. Also make sure there is no gap in between the fifth wheel and the trailer apron once the tractor and trailer are coupled. Make sure the kingpin of the trailer is properly mounted and not cracked, bent, or broken and that the locking jaws of the fifth wheel are properly secured when the tractor and trailer are coupled.

Check the mounting bolts where the fifth wheel attaches to the tractor frame. Make sure there are no missing bolts and that everything is secured properly. Check the locking pin if you having a sliding fifth wheel to make sure it's properly locked into place.

Make sure that there is the proper clearance space between the tractor mudflap and the trailer landing gear so that they don’t hit each other when making a turn.

You will start inspecting the trailer at the head board, which is the front wall of the trailer. Make sure there are no holes or missing rivets. Check the landing gear to make sure it is properly mounted and secure. Not cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the fully raised and the handle is secure in the cradle when the tractor and trailer are coupled.

Check the frame and crossmembers under the trailer to make sure they're not cracked, bent, or broken. 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.

You will check the entire suspension and brake system for the trailer tandems the same way you did for the drive axles of the tractor. You will also make sure the mudflaps are properly secured. For dual tires check to see that there is proper space between the tires and there is nothing stuck between the tires.

Check the rear door and hinges to make sure they are properly mounted and nothing is cracked, bent, or broken. Make sure the door seals are not worn, torn, or dry rotted.

Light Check

You will be checking all of the lights and reflectors on both the tractor and the trailer. Check the reflectors and reflective tape to make sure they are properly mounted and secure, not cracked, bent, or broken, and clean and illuminated. Check that you have the proper color of amber to the front and sides, and red to the rear.

Start by turning on your marker lights and headlights. Now walk around the entire truck and trailer and point out the lights. Give the function of the light and the location. You should then ask your examiner to help you check your five functions.

While you're sitting in the drivers seat, the examiner will stand to the front of the truck, then behind the trailer. He will then check your Turn Signals, Four Way Flashers and Brake Lights. You must do each function at every location.

The five locations that you must check your lights:

• Front of the Truck
• Both sides of the Truck
• Rear of the Truck
• Both sides of the Trailer
• Rear of the Trailer

The Five Functions you are checking for:

• Left Turn Signal
• Right Turn Signal
• Four Way Flashers
• High Beams/Low Beams
• Brake Lights

In-Cab Inspection

The in-cab inspection and air brake check will cover the various gauges and systems inside the cab along with several tests to make sure you air brake system is working properly.

You will start by checking the following:

• Seat Belt- Properly Mounted and Secure. Not ripped or frayed Adjusts and latches properly.
• Fire Extinguisher- Properly Mounted and Secure. Fully charged
• Three Red Reflective Triangles- My three red reflective triangles are GIVE LOCATION
• Spare Electrical Fuses- My spare electrical fuses are GIVE LOCATION
• Volmeter, Oil Pressure Gauge, Water Temperature Gauge, and Air Pressure Gauge all show proper operation
• City horn and air horn functioning properly
• The windshield and mirrors are clean, no cracks or breaks, no obstructions. The mirrors are in proper adjustment.
• Windshield Wipers and Washers - Demonstrate that the washers work by spraying the windshield. The Wipers are: Properly Mounted and Secure and operate smoothly. The blades aren't cracked or dry rotten.
• Heater and Defroster - Demonstrate that both the Heater and Defroster are working properly.
• Lighting Indicators - Left Turn, Right Turn, Four Way Flashers, and High Beams.

Trailer Parking Brakes - Set the Trailer Brake, release the tractor brake, and then tug lightly on the trailer.

Tractor Parking Brakes- Then set the Tractor Brake, release the trailer brake, and then tug lightly on the tractor.

Service Brake Check - Release both Tractor and Trailer Brakes. Now drive at idle speed. Apply the Service Brake to make sure you come to a complete stop, and that it doesn't pull to the left or right when applying the brakes.

Air Brake Test

The air brake test will consist of a leakdown test to make sure your air brakes aren't leaking air and losing pressure. It will also test the warning lights and buzzer to make sure the driver gets the proper warning if the air pressure drops too low.

There are three stages to an Air Brake Test

#1: Applied Pressure Test

#2: Warning Light and Buzzer

#3 Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out

Applied Pressure Test: Build the air pressure to governor cut out. Put the truck in the lowest gear. Then turn off the engine Immediately turn the engine back on. Push in both the tractor and trailer valves. (This will release the parking brakes.) Push and hold the Brake pedal fully. Allow the gauges to stabilize. Announce the gauges have stabilized and the Primary and Secondary PSI. With the Brakes fully pressed, you should not lose more than 4 PSI in one minute. Announce that you are listening for air leaks during that minute.

Warning Light and Buzzer Test: Pump down on the Brake pedal until the warning light and buzzer comes on, at or before 60 PSI.

Tractor/Trailer Protection Valve Pop Out Test: Pump down on the brake pedal until both the tractor and trailer protection valves pop out. They should both pop out between 40 and 20 PSI.

We have a ton of Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Questions along with the answers and a complete scoring system in our Free Online CDL Practice Tests :

The Engine Compartment Section will include questions about checking the oil level and coolant levels, inspecting belt-driven engine components (like the water pump, alternator, and air compressor), and the safety devices required in the cab. There will also be questions regarding the windshield wipers and free play in the steering wheel.

The Lights And Brakes Section will include questions about dashboard indicator lights, inspecting the parking brakes, and doing a leakdown test on the air brakes. It will also include questions about the low air pressure warning signal and testing your air horn and city horn.

The Suspension And Steering Section will include questions about the tractor protection valve, inspecting the steering box, and inspecting many suspension system parts. It will also include questions about welds being present on tire rims and the minimum tread depth required on steering axle tires.

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. It will also contain questions about inspecting the coupling devices and the fifth wheel skid plate.

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 will also contain questions about inspecting driver mirrors and the trailer frame.

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Class A

Our pre-trip inspection checklist covers every part of the truck from front to back, both inside and outside of the truck. It covers the air brakes, suspension parts, steering components, wheels and rims, fuel tanks, batteries, lights, and more. It also covers the air brake tug test and checks for everything under the hood including alternator, water pump, fuel pump, fluids, and more.

This is a super handy checklist to study anytime you have a few minutes to spare:

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Free Word Document Download (Editable Version)

Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist - Free PDF Download (Print Version)

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Apex CDL Institute

Jeff from Apex Institute does an in-depth explanation of the entire pre-trip inspection process. This video is loaded with tips that go beyond the CDL test to help drivers really understand how to identify problems.

Pretrip Inspection Self-Test By CDL College

The Pretrip Inspection Self-Test By CDL College is really unique. It's a silent video which will show you the part you're inspecting and then gives you a few seconds to figure out what you should be checking for before giving you the answer. Definitely check this one out. Great for practicing before the CDL exam.

Pre-Trip Inspection Video By Averitt Express

This is a complete back to front pre-trip inspection of a truck and trailer by Averitt mainentance associate Kevin Breeding. This thorough pre-trip inspection covers all inportant points of inside the cab, lights, engine, the tractor itself and the trailer.

We have included two print versions of the pre-trip inspection process from Daniel. The first is the entire pre-trip inspection and the second is an abbreviated checklist for the inspection.

• PDF: Daniel's Pre-trip Inspection (Print Version)
• PDF: Daniel's Pre-trip Inspection Checklist (Print Version)

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Secret Service agent robbed at gunpoint during Biden’s Los Angeles trip, police say

LOS ANGELES (AP) — A U.S. Secret Service agent was robbed at gunpoint as President Joe Biden was  visiting Los Angeles  for a fundraising event over the weekend, officials said.

The agent was returning from work Saturday night when he was accosted in a residential community in Tustin, about an hour’s drive southeast of Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Someone called the Tustin Police Department shortly after 9:30 p.m. to report the robbery. Police said the agent had his bag stolen at gunpoint. The agent, who was not injured, fired his gun during the confrontation, police said. The Secret Service said they did not know if anyone was shot.

Tustin Police said Monday they had not found a suspect. Officers did find some of the agent’s stolen belongings in the area. Police reported a silver Infiniti FX35 was seen leaving the scene.

Biden and former President Barack Obama held a star-studded fundraising event in Los Angeles on Sunday that brought in more than $30 million for Biden’s reelection campaign.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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