CDL Pre-Trip Inspection- Engine Compartment

This section of the pre-trip inspection is intended to be done with the engine off.

Check for Leaks, Condition of Hoses

1. Look for puddles on the ground that would indicate a leak.
2. Look for dripping fluids on the underside of the engine and transmission.
3. Inspect hoses for �good� condition and leaks.

Oil Level

1. Indicate the location of dipstick.
2. Make sure the oil level is within safe operating range and above the refill mark.

Coolant Level Inspect the coolant level by either:

1. a) Checking the reservoir sight glass, or
2. b) Removing the radiator cap if the engine is not hot and visually checking the coolant level.

Power Steering Fluid

1. Indicate the location of the power steering fluid dipstick.
2. Confirm that there is an adequate power steering fluid level that is above the refill mark.

Engine Compartment Belts Check these belts for cracks, frays and snugness (at most 3/4 inch play at center of belt):

1. power steering belt
2. water pump belt
3. alternator belt
4. air compressor belt

If any of the components mentioned above are not belt driven, you must make sure that the component(s) are operating properly, are not damaged or leaking and are mounted securely.

Steering Box and Hoses

1. Check that the steering box is mounted securely and is not leaking.
2. Check for damage to power steering hoses and power steering fluid leaks.

Steering Linkage

1. Check that connecting links, arms, and rods from the steering box to the wheels are not worn and cracked.
2. Check that the joints and sockets are not loose or worn and that there are no missing nuts, bolts, or cotter keys.

Suspension

Springs, Air

1. Check for shifted, cracked, broken, or even missing leaf springs.
2. Check for broken and distorted coil springs.
3. If equipped, check the air ride suspension for damage and leaks.

Mounts

1. Look for cracked or broken spring hangers, missing or damaged bushings, and broken, loose, or missing bolts, U-bolts or other axle mounting parts.

Shock Absorbers

1. Confirm that the shock absorbers are secure and that there are no leaks.

Brakes

Slack Adjusters

1. Look for missing, loose or broken parts.
2. The angle between the adjuster arm and push rod should be not less than 90 degrees when the brakes are applied and when the brakes are released a little over 90 degrees.
3. When pulled by hand, the brake rod should not move more than one inch with the brakes released.

Brake Chambers

1. Check that brake chambers are not dented, cracked, or leaking and that they are mounted securely.

Brake Hoses and Lines

1. Check for worn, cracked or leaking hoses, lines, and couplings.

Drum Brake or Rotor

1. Check for dents, cracks or holes, and loose or missing bolts.
2. Brake linings and pads should not be worn thin.

Brake Linings

1. Where visible, check that a reasonable amount of brake lining is showing.

Rims

1. Check for damaged or bent rims. Rims cannot have welding repairs.
2. Tires For every tire, check:
3. Tread depth: need a minimum tread depth of 4/32 on steering axle tires, 2/32 on all other tires.
4. Tire condition: Check that tread is evenly worn and without cuts or damage to tread or sidewalls. Valve caps and stems should not be missing, broken, or damaged.
5. Tire inflation: Check for proper inflation with a tire gauge or by striking tires with a mallet.

Hub Oil Seals, Axle Seals

1. Check that hub oil/grease seals and axle seals are not leaking.
2. Lug Nuts
3. Check for any missing lug nuts, cracks, distortions, and for signs of looseness such as rust trails or shiny threads.
4. Check for cracked or distorted bolt holes.

Spacers

1. Spacers should not be bent, damaged, or rusted through.
2. Spacers should be centered evenly.

Side of Vehicle

Doors and Mirrors

1. Check doors for any damage and that they open and close properly.
2. Hinges should be secure with seals intact.
3. Mirrors and mirror brackets should be mounted securely.

Fuel Tank

1. Check for secure tanks, tight caps, and that the tanks or lines don�t leak.

Battery and Battery Box

1. Check to see that batteries are secure, for tight cable connections, and that cell caps are present.
2. Check for signs of excessive corrosion.
3. Battery box and cover/door must be secure.

Drive Shaft

1. The drive shaft should not be bent or cracked.
2. Couplings should be secure.
3. Exhaust System
4. Check system for rust or carbon soot as they are signs of damage or leaks.
5. System should be secure and connected tightly.

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