About to go solo ,how do I check the brake lights?

On the trailer brake that is a T like freightliners I hook a bungie cord on one end and hook under the seat to keep it down. This lights up all break lights. Also as someone else said, when it's dark turn off all other lights and press the brake and look for the glow in the mirrors.

-Steven

 

I know Originalbigfoot, but what do they learn those kids ????

 

There are a couple of things to remember:
1) You will always have the opportunity to check them at least twice a day in the dark.
2) Other drivers will let you know if they do not work.
3) There's going to be a dock somewhere!
You can simply measure the distance between your brake pedal and your seat, add 2", and cut or break a stick to fit.

 

I will say, training solo drivers on checking the brake lights is not covered in driving schools, but then again, they don't really cover anything you need to learn to be successful as a driver in these schools either! You're trained to pass a test...

 

I put a small 5lb sledge hammer on brake pedal, why? putting a heavy weight on trailer valve may break an air chamber. but 5lbs pressure will not stress brake system but it will activate brake lights. Good luck with your new career.

 

Do what, with who? You use 90 lbs (about 25 ft lbs) of pressure to do a leak down test... I really doubt you can break an air chamber by using the pedal for a light check... Been a couple of times over the years I have hit that foot valve with a couple of hundred pounds of pressure, a few times in a row, never broke one myself.

 

Oh, okay, you're talking trolley or hand brake, now I get you...

 

Plenty of how to's now pick one or all and roll with it

think man think !

 

Your friendly neighborhood DOT officer will be happy to inform you they are not working.

 

Yes, trolley or hand brake. What ever method you use that works. At least they're asking a good question, one can never be too safe.( Nice picture of older truck)