Article Structure
Common mistakes
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Neglecting to Check All Required Sections: Many individuals overlook specific sections of the checklist, believing that a quick glance is sufficient. Each section is designed to ensure safety and compliance, so skipping any part can lead to serious oversights.
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Inaccurate Reporting of Findings: Some people mistakenly report their findings inaccurately. Whether due to haste or misunderstanding, this can result in a false sense of security about the vehicle's condition.
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Failing to Document Issues: When problems are identified, failing to document them properly can lead to complications down the line. It is crucial to note any issues clearly to ensure they are addressed before departure.
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Not Signing the Checklist: After completing the inspection, some forget to sign the checklist. This signature serves as a confirmation that the inspection was completed and can be important for accountability.
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Rushing Through the Inspection: In an effort to save time, individuals might rush through the inspection process. This hurried approach often results in missed checks and can compromise safety.
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Ignoring Previous Inspection Notes: Failing to review notes from prior inspections can lead to repeated issues being overlooked. Understanding the vehicle's history is vital for ensuring it is in safe operating condition.
Get Answers on Pre Trip Inspection Checklist
What is a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?
A Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is a document used by drivers to ensure that their vehicle is safe and ready for operation before starting a trip. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could affect the vehicle's performance or safety. By completing this checklist, drivers can promote safety on the road and comply with regulations.
Why is it important to complete a Pre Trip Inspection?
Completing a Pre Trip Inspection is crucial for several reasons:
- It helps to identify mechanical issues before they become serious problems.
- It ensures compliance with federal and state regulations regarding vehicle safety.
- It enhances the safety of the driver, passengers, and other road users.
- It can prevent costly repairs and downtime by addressing issues early.
What items should be included in a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?
A comprehensive Pre Trip Inspection Checklist typically includes the following items:
- Exterior checks, such as lights, tires, and mirrors.
- Fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid.
- Brakes and steering system functionality.
- Emergency equipment, like fire extinguishers and first aid kits.
- Interior checks, including seat belts and dashboard indicators.
How often should a Pre Trip Inspection be conducted?
A Pre Trip Inspection should be conducted before every trip. This practice ensures that any issues are addressed before the vehicle is on the road. Regular inspections contribute to overall vehicle maintenance and safety.
Who is responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection?
The driver of the vehicle is primarily responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection. However, fleet managers and operators may also play a role by ensuring that drivers are trained and equipped with the necessary checklists.
What should a driver do if they find an issue during the inspection?
If a driver identifies an issue during the Pre Trip Inspection, they should take the following steps:
- Document the issue on the checklist.
- Notify a supervisor or fleet manager.
- Do not operate the vehicle until the issue has been resolved.
- Arrange for repairs as necessary.
Instructions on Writing Pre Trip Inspection Checklist
Before you begin your journey, it's essential to ensure that your vehicle is in good condition. Completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form will help you document the state of your vehicle and identify any potential issues. Follow these steps carefully to fill out the form accurately.
- Start with the date at the top of the form. Write the current date clearly.
- Enter your name and contact information in the designated section. This helps in case there are any follow-up questions.
- Provide the vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate number. This information is critical for tracking the vehicle.
- Check each section of the checklist carefully. Begin with the exterior of the vehicle. Look for any visible damage, and note it on the form.
- Inspect the tires. Make sure to check the tread depth and look for any signs of wear or damage.
- Examine the lights. Ensure that all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals are functioning properly.
- Review the fluid levels, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid. If any levels are low, make a note of it.
- Check the brakes. Ensure they are functioning correctly and that there is no unusual noise when applied.
- Look at the windshield wipers and make sure they are in good condition. If they are worn out, note that on the form.
- Finally, review the interior of the vehicle. Ensure that all necessary safety equipment, such as a fire extinguisher and first aid kit, is present.
- After completing the checklist, sign and date the form at the bottom to confirm that you have conducted the inspection.
Once you have filled out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form, keep it in a safe place. This documentation can be vital for your safety and compliance with regulations. If any issues were noted, address them before hitting the road.
Document Example
Class A CDL
®
FRONT OF TRACTOR
LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Proper Color
o Working
o Not Broken o Not cracked
LEAKS
o Check for puddles
o Check for drips under engine
Lights
License Plate
Leaks
Reference Items |
ENGINE COMPARTMENT - PASSENGER SIDE
WATER PUMP o Mounted Securely
o No missing bolts or parts o Hoses attached securely
o No leaking hoses or water pump o Belts no more than ¾ inch of play
o Belts not cracked, frayed, or damaged
ALTERNATOR
o Mounted Securely
o No missing bolts or parts
oWires good connections, not frayed
oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play
oBelts not frayed or cracked
OIL LEVEL
oCheck for level and condition
PLUS ALL OTHER HOSES & WIRING
oNot cracked, frayed, or broken
oBelts no more than ¾ inch of play o Hoses not leaking
Engine Air Duct Work
Engine Air Duct Work
Oil Dip Stick
Oil Fill
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Accessory Drive |
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Belts |
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Water Pump |
Turbo Charger |
Alternator |
Reference Items |
1
Class A CDL
®
ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE
COOLANT
oCheck for level and condition
oHoses attached and not leaking
POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
oMounted properly
oHoses attached and not leaking
oCheck for level and condition
AIR COMPRESSOR
oMounted Securely
oNo missing bolts or parts
oNo air leaks at lines
oCheck if gear or belt driven
oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play
oBelts not cracked or frayed
STEERING GEAR BOX
oMounted properly
oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken
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Engine Coolant |
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Reservoir |
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Windsheild |
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Washer Fluid |
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Reservoir |
Engine Air Duct |
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Work |
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Power Steering |
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Reservoir |
Radiator Brace |
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Steering Gear |
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Box |
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Pitman Arm |
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Reference Items |
POWER STEERING RESERVOIR |
ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T |
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o Mounted properly |
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o Hoses attached and not leaking |
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o Check for level and condition |
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AIR COMPRESSOR |
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o Mounted Securely |
Power Steering |
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o No missing bolts or parts |
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Reservoir |
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o No air leaks at lines |
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o Check if gear or belt driven |
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o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play |
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o Belts not cracked or frayed |
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STEERING GEAR BOX |
Steering Gear |
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Box |
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o Mounted properly |
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o No missing parts, nuts or bolts |
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o Lines and hoses not leaking or |
Pitman Arm |
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broken |
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STEERING LINKAGE |
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o Pitman arm, Drag link, Steering |
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knuckle, Tie rods and tie rod ends |
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o Not cracked, bent or broken |
Spring Mount |
Drag Link |
Leaf Spring |
o Castle nuts and cotter pins |
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o Not missing and in place |
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Reference Items |
Air Governor
Air Compressor
Engine Oil Pan
2
Class A CDL
®
AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely
o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines
o Check if gear or belt driven
o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed
STEERING GEAR BOX
o Mounted properly
oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken
ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T
Engine Air Duct
Work
Fan Belts
Gear Driven Air
Compressor
Steering
Steering Column
Additional Hoses & Wiring
Shock Absorber
Steering Gear Box |
Frame Rail |
Fuel Filter |
Reference Items |
||
ENGINE COMPARTMENT - AIR COMPRESSOR
AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely
o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines
o Check if gear or belt driven
o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed
Air Governor
Gear Driven Air Compressor
Hoses
Fuel Pump
Reference Items |
3
Class A CDL
®
FRONT SUSPENSION
LEAF SPRINGS
o Not shifted or out of place
oNot cracked, broken or missing
SPRING MOUNTS
oMounted securely- front, back, and
oNot cracked or broken
SHOCK ABSORBER
oMounted Securely
oNot bent or dented o Not leaking
Shock Absorber
Leaf Spring
Tie Rod
Air Hose
Air LIne
Tie Rod End
Axle |
Service Brake |
Chamber |
Reference Items |
LEAF SPRINGS
o Not shifted or out of place
oNot cracked, broken or missing
SPRING MOUNTS
oMounted securely- front, back, and
oNot cracked or broken
SHOCK ABSORBER
oMounted Securely
oNot bent or dented o Not leaking
FRONT SUSPENSION CON’T
Frame Rail
Leaf Spring
Air Dryer location varies depending on model.
Located either behind the front bumper or behind the fuel tank.
Reference Items |
4
Spring Mount
Air Dryer
Class A CDL
®
HOSES AND LINES |
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FRONT BRAKES |
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o Mounted securely |
Service Brake |
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o |
Not leaking |
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o |
Not cracked or frayed |
Chamber |
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Tire |
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CHAMBER |
Push Rod |
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o Mounted securely |
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o Not dented or damaged |
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Wheel |
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o |
Not leaking |
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SLACK ADJUSTER |
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Slack Adjuster |
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o |
No more than 1 inch of free play at |
Castle Nut |
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the push rod with the brakes released. |
Cotter Pin |
Adjustment Nut |
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o |
Not bent, broken, loose, or missing |
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parts |
Steering |
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Knuckle |
Brake Drum |
DRUMS |
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o |
Not cracked, broken or dented |
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o |
No oil leaking from inner oil seal, |
Snap Ring |
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free of debris |
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Brake Lining |
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LININGS |
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oNo cracked, broken or missing parts o Not less than ¼ inch in thickness
Reference Items |
HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking
o Not cracked or frayed
CHAMBER
o Mounted securely
oNot dented or damaged
oNot leaking
SLACK ADJUSTER
oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.
oNot bent, broken, loose, or missing parts
DRUMS
oNot cracked, broken or dented
oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris
LININGS
oNo cracked, broken or missing parts
oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness
FRONT BRAKES CON’T
Service Brake
Chamber
Push Rod
Clevis Pin &
Cotter Pin
Slack Adjuster
Reference Items |
Air Line
Air Hose
Shock Absorber
Spring
5
Class A CDL
®
FRONT WHEEL
TIRES
oProper inflation – company or manufacturer specification
o No bulges, cuts, or retreads
o Minimum tread depth of 4/32”
RIMS
oNot bent, cracked, No welding repairs.
LUG NUTS
oNone are missing
oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails
OUTER HUB OIL SEALS
oNot leaking, no missing bolts o Proper oil level
Tire |
Wheel |
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Hub Oil |
Lug Nut |
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Reservior |
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Outer Hub |
Valve Cap |
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Oil Seal |
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Reference Items |
DRIVER FUEL AREA
DRIVER’S DOOR
oDoor opens and closes properly
oSeal is in good condition
DRIVER’S MIRRORS
oClean and free of obstruction
oNot cracked, broken, or damaged
oMounted securely
FUEL TANK
oMounted securely
o Not leaking
o Seal in cap OK
Mirror |
Storage |
Compartment |
Door |
Cap & Seal |
Battery Box & |
Cover |
Saddle Mounts |
Leaks |
Reference Items |
6
Class A CDL
®
AIR LINES & ELECTRIC LINE o Not cracked, frayed, cut, or kinked o Mounted securely at the glad hands o Not leaking
BEHIND THE CAB
BATTERY BOX & BATTERIES o Box is mounted properly
o Batteries are secure in the box o Lid secure
o Connections not corroded
CATWALK
o Mounted properly
oNot, missing, or damaged
oFree of obstructions
DRIVE SHAFT
oNot bent, or damaged
oCoupling,
EXHAUST SYSTEM
oSecurely mounted
oNot dented or damaged
oNot leaking
FRAME
oNot cracked, or damaged
oNo missing bolts
oNo illegal welds
LIGHTS & REFLECTORS
oClean and working
Lights & |
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Reflectors |
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Electrical Line |
Exhaust |
Glad Hand |
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Service & |
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Emergency |
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Airlines |
Drive Shaft |
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Battery Box & |
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Batteries |
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Frame |
Catwalk |
Reference Items |
FRONT OF TRAILER
HEADER BOARD
oNo holes or missing rivets
LIGHTS & REFLECTORS
oNone broken, cracked, or missing
oWorking and proper color of amber
Lights |
Header Board |
Height Sticker
Electric Hookup
Air Line
Reference Items |
7
Class A CDL
®
DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION
CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely
o Not bent, broken or damaged
CONTROLARM
oMounted securely – front, back, and
o Not cracked, or broken
SHOCK ABSORBER
o Mounted Securely
oNot bent, dented or leaking
TORSION BAR
oMounted Securely
oNot bent, broken or damaged
AIR BAGS
oMounted Securely
o Not leaking
Spring Brake |
Torsion Bar |
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Chamber |
Control Arm |
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Spring Brake |
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Chamber |
Air Bag |
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Control Arm |
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Mount |
Control Arm |
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Reference Items |
DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION CON’T & FIFTH WHEEL
CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely
o Not bent, broken or damaged
CONTROLARM
oMounted securely – front, back, and
o Not cracked, or broken
SHOCK ABSORBER
o Mounted Securely
oNot bent, dented or leaking
TORSION BAR
oMounted Securely
oNot bent, broken or damaged
AIR BAGS
oMounted Securely
o Not leaking
Skid Plate |
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Shock Absorber |
Mounting |
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Bolts |
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Locking |
Spring |
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Pins |
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Control Arm |
Air Bag |
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Mount |
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Tire |
Control Arm |
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Space |
Reference Items |
8
Class A CDL
®
HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking
o Not cracked or frayed
CHAMBER
o Mounted securely
oNot dented or damaged
oNot leaking
SLACK ADJUSTER
oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.
oNo bent, broken, loose, or missing parts
DRUMS
oNot cracked, broken or dented
oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris
LININGS
oNo cracked, broken or missing parts
oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness
DRIVE BRAKES & DRIVE SHAFT
Drive Shaft
Universal Joint
Differential
Reference Items |
Air Line
Service Brake Chamber
Frame
Brake Chamber Mount
Slack Adjuster
TIRES
oProper inflation - company or manufacturer specification.
o No bulges or cuts, can have retreads o Minimum tread depth of 2/32”
RIMS
oNot bent or cracked
oNo welding repairs
LUG NUTS
oNone missing
oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails
OUTER AXLE SEAL
oNot leaking, no missing bolts
SPACE OR SPACER
oCheck for objects between wheels
oCheck for proper spacing
Lug Nuts
Outer Axle Seal
DRIVE WHEELS
Tire
Bud Rim
Dayton Rim |
Spacer |
Reference Items |
9
Class A CDL
®
REAR OF TRACTOR
LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Not cracked, or broken
o Working and proper color
SPLASH GUARDS
oNot missing or torn and properly mounted
Locking Jaws |
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Reflectors |
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Lights |
Splash Guard |
Air Bags |
Reference Items |
MOUNTING BOLTS
oNone missing or broken
RELEASE ARM
oNot bent, broken, or damaged
oEngaged in the lock position
LOCKING PINS
oNo missing or broken parts
oEngaged and locked
PLATFORM
oSecurely holds skid plate
oNot cracked, or broken
SKID PLATE
oMounted properly on the platform
oProperly greased
oTilting freely
Mounting Bolts
Slide Stops (all 4 corners)
COUPLING SYSTEM
Skid Plate |
Pivot Pin |
Release Arm |
Platform |
KING PIN |
Welds |
oNot broken, bent, or damaged
APRON
oNo bends or damage to visible portions
GAP
oCheck that the trailer apron is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid plate
Frame |
Slide Locking Pin |
Spring Mount |
JAWS |
Reference Items |
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o Check that the locking jaws are fully |
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closed around the shank of the king pin |
10 |
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Dos and Don'ts
When filling out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and thoroughness. Here are four things you should do and four things you shouldn't do:
- Do: Review the checklist thoroughly before starting the inspection.
- Do: Use clear and concise language when noting any issues.
- Do: Double-check your entries for accuracy.
- Do: Sign and date the form once completed.
- Don't: Rush through the inspection process.
- Don't: Leave any sections of the form blank.
- Don't: Use abbreviations that may be unclear to others.
- Don't: Forget to keep a copy of the completed checklist for your records.
Similar forms
The Vehicle Maintenance Log is similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist as both documents focus on ensuring vehicle safety and reliability. The Vehicle Maintenance Log tracks repairs and maintenance performed on a vehicle. It helps identify patterns in vehicle performance and assists in scheduling future inspections. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it emphasizes the importance of regular checks to prevent breakdowns and accidents.
The Daily Vehicle Inspection Report serves a similar purpose by documenting the condition of a vehicle before it is used. This report is typically filled out at the start of each day. It includes checks for essential systems like brakes, lights, and tires. Both documents aim to ensure that vehicles are safe for operation, helping drivers identify any issues before hitting the road.
The Driver’s Daily Log is another relevant document. It records a driver's hours of service, including driving time and rest periods. While it focuses on the driver's activities, it complements the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist by ensuring that drivers are well-rested and compliant with regulations. This is crucial for safe vehicle operation, just as the inspection checklist is vital for vehicle safety.
The Equipment Inspection Checklist is similar in that it also focuses on safety and functionality. This checklist is used for various types of equipment, not just vehicles. It ensures that all equipment is in good working order before use. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it helps prevent accidents and equipment failures by identifying issues early.
The Maintenance Request Form is another related document. It allows drivers or operators to report any issues found during inspections. By documenting these problems, the form initiates repairs or maintenance. This process is essential for keeping vehicles safe and operational, much like the proactive approach of the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist.
The Safety Inspection Report shares similarities as it evaluates the overall safety of a vehicle or equipment. This report often includes checks for compliance with safety regulations. Both the Safety Inspection Report and the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist aim to identify potential hazards before they lead to accidents or failures, ensuring safer operation.
The Incident Report Form is also relevant, though it serves a different purpose. It documents accidents or near-misses involving vehicles. While the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist helps prevent incidents by ensuring vehicle safety, the Incident Report Form provides a way to analyze and learn from events that have already occurred. Both documents play vital roles in promoting safety in transportation.
The Maintenance Schedule is another document that complements the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. It outlines when regular maintenance tasks should be performed on a vehicle. This schedule helps ensure that inspections and maintenance are not overlooked, promoting long-term vehicle reliability and safety. Both documents work together to maintain the health of the vehicle.
Finally, the Compliance Checklists for DOT regulations are similar. These checklists ensure that vehicles meet federal and state requirements. They cover aspects such as safety equipment and maintenance records. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, they are essential for ensuring that vehicles are roadworthy and compliant with legal standards, thus enhancing overall safety.
Document Breakdown
| Fact Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that vehicles are safe and operational before they are used on the road. |
| Components | This checklist typically includes sections for checking brakes, lights, tires, and other essential vehicle systems. |
| Frequency | Drivers are required to complete this inspection before each trip to comply with safety regulations. |
| Legal Requirement | In many states, including California and Texas, completing a Pre Trip Inspection is mandated by law for commercial drivers. |
| Documentation | The completed checklist should be kept on file as proof of compliance with safety inspections. |