Explanation:

Clean mirrors and windows help the driver maintain clear visibility around the vehicle. Obstructed views increase the risk of missing hazards, vehicles, or pedestrians.

Explanation:

Pulling to one side under braking could indicate uneven brake adjustment, defective components, or mismatched tire pressure. It must be diagnosed and corrected before continuing.

Explanation:

Before departure, the driver must ensure that air lines and electrical cables are secure, and perform a brake check to verify trailer brakes respond properly.

Explanation:

A sidewall bulge indicates internal damage or separation, increasing the risk of a blowout. The tire must be replaced before the vehicle is moved.

Explanation:

According to the guide, air loss must not exceed 4 PSI per minute for the power unit plus 2 PSI for each trailer. Exceeding these limits signals leaks that must be repaired before operating.

Explanation:

The low air pressure warning must activate by 60 PSI. If it fails to do so, or activates later, the warning system is faulty and must be repaired before operating the vehicle.

Explanation:

A cracked brake drum compromises braking power. Under heat and pressure, the crack can expand, potentially causing brake failure and increasing the chance of a crash.

Explanation:

Low coolant, oil, or brake fluid can cause engine failure, overheating, or brake malfunction. Checking fluid levels is a critical part of pre-trip safety.

Explanation:

The governor maintains proper air pressure by activating the compressor (cut-in) when pressure is low and shutting it off (cut-out) when pressure reaches the upper limit.

Explanation:

Gradual acceleration reduces stress on engine, transmission, and tires, and contributes to better fuel efficiency. It also supports cargo stability and passenger comfort in buses.

Explanation:

Over-inflated tires reduce the contact area with the road, causing less grip and a higher risk of blowouts, especially under heavy load or high speed.

Explanation:

An in-cab air brake inspection must be performed before each trip to test air pressure buildup, leak rate, and warning devices. This ensures the brakes are functioning before driving.

Explanation:

Improper coupling can lead to the trailer separating from the tractor, especially when braking or cornering — a major safety risk that may result in serious accidents or fatalities.

Explanation:

Reservoir tanks store the compressed air produced by the compressor. This air powers the service and parking brake systems. Low air levels lead to brake failure.

Explanation:

A vehicle with a major defect listed on the inspection schedule is considered “out of service” and must not be operated until repaired. Driving it would be unsafe and illegal.

Explanation:

Improper brake adjustment can cause uneven braking, brake fade, or complete failure. Regular checks ensure maximum brake performance under all driving conditions.

Explanation:

Spring brakes are the last safety system if air pressure is lost. If they fail to hold the vehicle, the truck must not be driven, and the issue must be reported and repaired immediately.

Explanation:

The drive axles (typically the tractor’s rear axles) are designed to carry most of the weight and provide traction. Overloading other axles could lead to poor handling or violations.

Explanation:

Wide loads can extend beyond standard lane widths. Warning flags during the day and red lights at night help alert others, prevent collisions, and comply with legal requirements.

Explanation:

Glad hands must be clean and free of cracks, debris, or air leaks. Damaged connectors may cause air pressure loss, resulting in brake failure or insufficient stopping power.

Explanation:

Drivers must use a combination of engine braking and light, steady service braking to prevent overheating and maintain control on long downhill sections.

Explanation:

A post-trip inspection must be done at the end of each trip to identify defects for repair before the vehicle is used again. This helps maintain a safe and reliable fleet.

Explanation:

During inspection, check the springs for cracks or displacement and airbags for leaks or damage. Suspension problems affect load support and can cause poor ride quality or tire wear.

Explanation:

The inspection schedule must be in the vehicle. Failure to carry it is a legal violation, and the driver may be fined or removed from service during a roadside inspection.

Explanation:

To be compliant, each new log entry must include the date, carrier’s name, driver’s name, home terminal address, and starting odometer. This information supports accurate hour tracking and enforcement.

Explanation:

Improperly secured cargo may shift, fall off, or affect the vehicle’s center of gravity, potentially leading to rollovers, collisions, or cargo damage. Securement must follow NSC Standard 10.

Explanation:

When spring brakes engage (usually around 20–45 PSI), you should hear a sharp air release, confirming that the system automatically applied the parking brakes due to low pressure.

Explanation:

Poor load distribution may lead to overloaded axles, reduced control, or cargo shift. Ensuring even distribution helps maintain vehicle stability, legal axle weights, and control.

Explanation:

Brake fade happens when excessive heat reduces friction between the brake components, leading to reduced braking power or failure, especially on long descents.

Explanation:

To safely test brakes, you must chock the wheels (prevent movement) and release the parking brakes to simulate normal driving conditions and conduct pressure drop or leak tests.