Pre Trip Inspection for Newbies

Just making a suggestion here. In the air brakes portion you could add the Air pressure build up rate. With engine at 1500 RPM pressure should build up from 85 psi to 100 psi within 45 sec. Again, I am not trying to be critical, just a suggestion.
Kirk

 

Very good job there ! You might want to include checking 5th wheel for handle being secure, no gap between coupler plate & 5th wheel plate. I personally make it a habit to shine my flashlight to CONFIRM the kingpin is secure . I am paranoid about my 5th wheel not being locked.

 

Also I do alot of driver training myself and if I may have your permission, I would like to use your list. If I think of anything else I will post suggestions.
As I was writing I thought of this .....Make sure tractor & trailer's tags & permits are current , this can save you many headaches at the scale house . Another thing although it may sound too elementary .....check your fuel ! I personally look in the tank ! I tell my drivers DON'T ever trust a fuel gauge !

 

Where is here?

Marty

 

It can never be there, so it must be here.

 

It's a very good list and covers everything that I've seen in the books. The one problem I have is appling power to the axles with the brakes set. If you have a new driver and he applies too much power he'll twist a drive line right off or weaken the u-joints. What I've taught drivers to to roll the truck very slow and pull the knobs out. I mean maybe 1mph, just enough so you'll know they are working.

A strong point to get across is to shut the engine off when testing the air leakage. You'd be surprised how many drivers keep the engine running which negates the test.

You might find some companies that will not let you under the truck. That makes it real hard to check the brakes on some units. I also believe that safety should play a big roll if you are under the truck. What I've done is chock the wheels and take the key and put it in your pocket.

You have so many different kinds of trucks out there but your list is a basic starting place. Most CDL booklets that train you for the test have that list too. And some have a pocket guide. The key is to take that list and modify it for your equipment and use it so much it becomes second nature. I'm glad to see new drivers looking out for the equipment which I think was lost somewhat in the CDL school mills. Good job.

 

I saw where you checked the springs under the hood, but I did'nt see u-joints, shackles and spacers. Also the welds are called: non-manufactured welds. (no non-manufacturer welds)

Good check list though. I sent it to a couple of friends. It's complete, simple and easy to read. I like it! Good job. Thanks.