Cab Inspection

You begin the cab inspection by ensuring the parking brake is on and the transmission is in neutral or park, if automatic. Start the engine and listen for unusual noises. Allow the engine to warmup properly. This takes between 3 to 5 minutes.

GAUGES.- Look at the gauges, such as the oil pressure, ammeter and/or voltmeter, coolant temperature, and engine oil temperature. These systems should come up to read normal within seconds after the engine has started. Warning lights and buzzers for oil, coolant, and charging system should go out once the system registers normal.

CONTROLS.- Check the condition of the following for looseness, sticking, damage, or improper setting:

l Steering wheel

l Clutch

l Accelerator pedal

l Brake controls, such as foot brakes, trailer brakes, parking brakes, and retarder controls

l Transmission controls

l Inner axle differential lock (if so equipped)

l Horn(s)

l Windshield wiper/washer

l Lights, such as headlights, dimmer switch, turn signals, four-way flashers, clearance, identification, and marker lights

MIRRORS AND WINDSHIELD.- Inspect mirrors for cracks, dirt, looseness, and obstructions. Clean, tighten, and adjust as necesary.

EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT.- Check for safety equipment, such as the following:

l Spare electrical fuses (unless the vehicle has circuit breakers)

l Three red reflective triangles

l A properly charged and rated fire extinguisher

l Tire changing equipment (obtain from collateral equipage)

l Accident reporting package

Brake Test

If your vehicle is equipped with hydraulic brakes, perform the following test to check the brake system. Pump the brakes three times, then apply firm pressure to the pedal and hold for 5 seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, there may be a leak or other problems.

To test the parking brake, you should allow the vehicle to move forward slowly and then apply the parking brake.

To test the service braking action, you should proceed at about 5 mph, then push the brake pedal firmly. A pull of the vehicle to one side or the other or any delay in stopping action is an indication of brake trouble. Any brake problems that occurred during this testing must be documented and repaired before operating the piece of equipment.