TRK 1050 - Vehicle and Vehicle Component Orientation

1. Describe proper procedure for checking ice accumulation on brakes, slack adjuster, air hoses, electrical wiring and radiator shutters during operation.
2. Describe preparation for operation in cold weather, including activating the front brake limiting valve, removing snow and ice from windows, mirrors, brakes, lights, hand and toe holds, etc. and installing tire chains when necessary.
3. Demonstrate the ability to perform checks on brake adjustments prior to mountain driving.
4. Describe procedure required for observing temperature gauge frequently when pulling heavy loads up long grades.
5. Check and secure tractor trailer or vehicle permits.
6. Check accident report packets for proper contents.
7. Check and secure tractor trailer or vehicle permits.
8. Check accident report packets for proper contents.
9. Plan a route from one point to another that is optimal in terms of travel time, fuel costs, potential hazards and federal, state and local travel restrictions.
10. Demonstrate map reading skills.
11. Estimate travel time and plan rest stops and layovers.
12. Estimate fuel consumption and plan fuel stops.
13. Estimate expense money and obtain funds or credit cards.
14. Check general appearance and condition of vehicle.
15. Check fuel, oil, and water level and transmission fluid levels as appropriate.
16. Check signal lights, stop lights and running lights.
17. Check tires rims and suspension.
18. Check horn, windshield wipers, mirrors and reflectors.
19. Check fifth wheel, trailer hook-up and brake lines.
20. Check triangles and fire extinguishers.
21. Check instruments for normal readings.
22. Check steering system, brake action and tractor protection valve.
23. Perform enroute inspections of mirrors, instrument panel, engine and power train, suspension system and brakes.
24. Perform post-trip inspection of vehicle and systems.
25. Describe function and operation of principle vehicle systems including engine, engine auxiliary brake, drive train, coupling, suspension and electrical system.
26. Check engine fuel, oil, coolant, battery and filters.
27. Check tire air pressure.
28. Check for proper tire and wheel mounting.
29. Drain moisture from air brake supply reservoirs. Check brakes.
30. Clean lights.
31. Change fuses and reset circuit breakers.
32. Clean interior and exterior of vehicle.
33. Check mud/rain flaps.
34. Check and adjust tandem and fifth wheel slides if applicable.
35. Understand, identify and explain the use of vehicle safety equipment.
36. Explain the use of fire extinguishers and firefighting procedures.
37. Utilize seat belts and personal protection gear appropriate to type of operation.
38. Describe personal safety equipment and procedures.
39. Place the transmission in neutral before starting the engine.
40. Start, warm-up and shut down the engine according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
41. Build full pressure (90 - 120 PSI) in air tanks before starting.
42. Test parking brake and service brake before starting.