Detailed Inspection Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough inspection of your truck, tractor, or trailer. These procedures align with FMCSA requirements and industry best practices.
Air Brake Test Procedure
- Start engine and build air pressure to governed cut-out
- Turn off engine, release parking brake, and apply foot brake
- Monitor air gauge for pressure drop (should not exceed 3 psi in one minute for single vehicles, 4 psi for combinations)
- Start engine and build pressure - should go from 85 to 100 psi within 45 seconds
- Test low air warning device - should activate before 55 psi
- Continue applying and releasing brake until pressure drops to parking brake activation range
Fifth Wheel Inspection
- Check for proper lubrication on fifth wheel plate
- Verify jaws are closed around kingpin
- Ensure release handle is in locked position
- Check for gap between upper and lower fifth wheel plates
- Examine mounting bolts for tightness and integrity
- Verify proper operation of sliding fifth wheel locking pins
Tire Inspection Method
- Check tire inflation with calibrated gauge
- Measure tread depth at multiple points
- Inspect tire sidewalls for cuts, bulges, or other damage
- Look for signs of irregular wear patterns
- Verify proper tire pairing on dual wheel assemblies
- Check valve stems for damage and ensure caps are present
Coupling Verification
- Connect tractor to trailer and verify kingpin engagement
- Connect air lines and electrical connections
- Raise landing gear fully and secure handle
- Perform tug test with trailer brakes applied
- Check for proper clearance between tractor and trailer
- Verify ABS malfunction lamp operation