Pre-Trip Inspection

The following are sample guidelines that can be used to conduct a step-by-step pre-trip inspection of your commercial motor vehicle. Chock blocks should be utilized to prevent the truck from moving inadvertently during the inspection.

CARRY AT LEAST THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WITH YOU DURING YOUR INSPECTION:

Flashlight to see in dark or shaded areas
Clean rag to wipe off light lenses and reflective tape
Air gauge to check tire pressure
Ruler to measure brake travel

GUIDELINES:

Check the vehicle’s general condition. Start about 20 feet away from the truck to view the entire vehicle. Check underneath for any puddles or pools of oil and other vehicle fluids. Also look for any visibledamage to the vehicle and for anything that may be hanging or dragging underneath.
Walk around the vehicle and inspect all major requipment items. During the walk-around, constantly look for any body and/or frame damage to the tractor, trailer and cargo.
Check the condition of all tires and rims and use a tire gauge to check inflation. Tire thumpers donot identify improperly inflated tires.
Check the brake system. Listen for air leaks. Confirm all brakes are in proper adjustment.
Check coupling devices, including a visual inspection of the king pin jaws to make sure they are properly locked. Look for “high hitching” and any cracks in the fifth wheel assembly and frame.
Make sure all emergency devices are in the vehicle as specified in theFMCSR,Section393.95, including a properly rated and maintained fire extinguisher and warning devices to use for emergency stops.
Start the engine and check for any unusual smells and noises. Watch for fluid leaks as well.
Check all gauges to make sure the yare functioning properly.
Activate horns to make sure they work properly.
Inspect the steering system. Check for loose play and look for broken parts.
Check mirrors for proper adjustment, cleanliness and securement.
Activate windshield wipers to check for proper operation. Also, check for any worn or damaged wiper blades and that the windshield washer reservoir is full.
Check all lights for proper operation, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, directional lights andwarning lights.
Check under the hood for worn belts, leaking fluids, cracked wires, etc.
Review the vehicle inspection report that was completed at the end of the last trip. If any defects were reported on thatinspectionreport,make sure thedefects are corrected before signing the report and beginning the trip.

NOTE: This card is not to be considered all-inclusive for vehicle inspections. Refer to company policies, procedures and forms for complete compliance.

This article is Provided by Sunlight Logistics Inc

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