Inspection Basics & Regulations
These are the 3 types of vehicle inspections required by the FMCSR.
What are pre-trip, on-the-road (en-route), & post-trip inspections?
This is the minimum required tread depth for steer tires.
What is 4/32"?
When checking belts in the engine compartment, you should ensure there is less than this amount of play.
What is 1"?
Drivers must inspect cargo & load securing devices within the first 50 miles of a trip & again after driving for this many hours or 150 miles.
What is 3 hours?
This report is required by the FMCSRs & must be completed by the driver if defects or deficiencies are discovered that would affect the vehicles safe operation.
What is the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR)?
LAB-PS is the acronym often used to remember the steps of the brake system check.
What is L-leaks, A-alarms, B-buttons, Parking brakes, & Service brakes?
This component recharges the battery & should be checked to ensure mounting bolts are tight & wires are connected.
What is the alternator?
This facility is staffed by law enforcement to ensure compliance with size & weight limit laws.
What are weigh stations?
A DVIR requires signatures from the driver who prepared it, a mechanic or company official, & this person.
Who is the next driver of the vehicle?
The leakage rate in one minute for an air brake check.
What is 4 psi/minute?
If this engine component is damaged, the air lines on the tractor-trailer will not function properly.
What is the air compressor?
You are not required to check cargo securement on the road if the load is sealed or if this condition applies.
What is loaded in a way that makes inspection impossible?
The main reason to complete a vehicle inspection is:
What is safety?
During a brake check, the air pressure should build from 85-100 psi within this amount of time at 1400 RPMs.
What is less than 45 seconds?
One inch is the maximum amount of free play you will want to see on this when your brakes are released.
What is the push rod?
When inspecting a tanker, special attention should be given to these, ensuring they are fastened & secured.
What are hoses & pumps?
Type of inspection performed before going on the road.
What is a pre-trip inspection?
If this specific mechanism on the trailer is unlocked, the trailer axles could slide out from under the trailer when brakes are applied.
What is the slide mechanism (or locking pins)?
An adjustable device located on the brake chamber pushrod that is used to compensate for brake shoe wear.
What is the slack adjuster?
A quick walk around inspection of your vehicle is required every time you do this.
What is stop?