Delaware CDL: Pre-Trip Inspection Practice Test

Not quite. The answer is Fuel tank(s)

While inspecting the side of your vehicle, check that the fuel tanks are securely mounted and their fuel filler caps are tight. Also make sure that neither the tanks nor the fuel lines are leaking.

Not quite. The answer is Locking pins

On many vehicles, the fifth wheel is designed to slide forward and backward on slider rails. If that is so on your vehicle, check the sliding fifth wheel locking pins. Make sure that none of them are loose or missing and that all of them are fully engaged.

Not quite. The answer is Leaks

As part of your engine inspection, check the ground below the engine compartment for puddles or dripping liquids.

Not quite. The answer is remove the radiator cap if the engine might be hot.

If the engine is cool to the touch of your bare hand, you can probably remove the radiator cap and check the coolant level safely. If the engine is hot, do NOT remove the radiator cap; it's dangerous. If there is a sight glass or coolant reservoir, you can use it to check the coolant level. Otherwise, just tell the examiner how you would check the coolant level by removing the radiator cap once the engine is cool.

Not quite. The answer is Frame

The frame consists of the structural members for supporting the body of the vehicle or trailer. When inspecting the frame, (1) check for cracks; (2) check for broken welds; and (3) check for illegal holes or other damage to the longitudinal frame members, cross members, box, or floor.

Not quite. The answer is any of the above

When you check the engine compartment, make sure the engine is off. In this step, you check a number of things, including checking the air compressor, water pump, and hoses for leaks.

Not quite. The answer is Excessive steering wheel play can make it hard to steer.

If there is more than 10 degrees of play in your steering wheel, it will be harder for you to tell which way your front wheels are pointed. Have the problem corrected before you drive the vehicle. Ten degrees is equivalent to about 1¾ inches at the rim of a 20-inch steering wheel. According to federal regulations, there must not be more than 2½ inches of play at the rim of a 20-inch steering wheel.

Source: 49 CFR 570.60

Not quite. The answer is Landing gear

The trailer landing gear is a set of retractable legs that support the trailer when it is parked. During your pre-trip inspection, check that the landing gear is fully raised and no parts are missing. Check that the crank handle is secure and the support frame is undamaged. If the landing gear is power operated, check it for air or hydraulic leaks.

Not quite. The answer is do all of the above.

As part of your vehicle inspection test, if your vehicle is equipped with a cargo lift, explain how to check it for correct operation. Check for leaking, damaged, or missing parts. Also check that the cargo lift is fully retracted and securely latched.

Not quite. The answer is Heater/defroster

The heater/defroster provides a stream of warmed air. By selecting the appropriate vents, you can choose whether the air will heat the cab or melt frost on the windshield.

Not quite. The answer is Shock absorbers

During your pre-trip inspection, check the shock absorbers on every axle of your vehicle (including the trailers if any) to be sure that they are securely mounted and not leaking.

Not quite. The answer is Both of the above are true.

Your vehicle must not be driven if one-fourth or more of the leaves in a leaf spring are missing or broken. However, any defect in the leaf springs is potentially dangerous. A brake drum that is cracked more than halfway across must be replaced.

Not quite. The answer is In your pocket

While you are performing the pre-trip inspection, you do not want someone (such as a co-driver) who is unaware of your location to start your vehicle and accidentally injure you. Make sure you have the ignition key with you as you perform the inspection.

Not quite. The answer is Check that the steps leading to the cab entry are solid, clear of objects, and securely bolted to the frame.

During the in-cab inspection, shift into neutral (for a manual) or park (for an automatic) and make sure the parking brake is on. Start the engine and listen for unusual noises. (You do inspect the steps to the cab during the pre-trip inspection, but not during the in-cab part of the inspection.)

Not quite. The answer is Tandem release arm / locking pins

If so equipped, make sure that the locking pins are locked in place and the release arm is secured.

Not quite. The answer is secure and undamaged.

A front-end header board is located at the front part of a trailer. The header board prevents cargo from moving forward (and possibly injuring you) in the event of a crash or sudden stop. Check to make sure that the header board is secure, upright, undamaged (no dents, no corrosion, no missing rivets, etc.), and strong enough to prevent the cargo from moving forward past it.

Not quite. The answer is Fire extinguisher

Federal regulations require CMVs to carry a properly rated fire extinguisher and warning devices for stopped vehicles. Spare electrical fuses are no longer federally required, although they are still recommended if the vehicle uses fuses. First-aid kits and wheel chocks may be required by some employers or states, but they are not federally required for all CMVs.

Source: 49 CFR 393.95

Not quite. The answer is the service brake

To test the service brakes, pull forward at 5 mph and then apply the service brake. Unless the brakes are wet, they should apply evenly and not pull the vehicle to one side or the other. If your vehicle pulls to one side or the other, the service brakes may need repair.

Not quite. The answer is Every axle

Be prepared to perform a brake components inspection on every axle. You may need to perform a suspension components inspection on every axle, too.

Not quite. The answer is So no one drives the vehicle while you are inspecting under it.

Take the starter key with you during the inspection so no one can drive your vehicle while you are inspecting under it.