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Before hitting the road, ensuring that a vehicle is safe and operational is crucial, especially for commercial drivers. The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form serves as a vital tool in this process, guiding drivers through a comprehensive examination of their vehicle. This checklist typically includes sections for inspecting the engine, brakes, lights, tires, and other essential components. By systematically reviewing these areas, drivers can identify potential issues before they lead to breakdowns or accidents. Additionally, the form often emphasizes the importance of checking fluid levels, ensuring that mirrors are properly adjusted, and confirming that safety equipment is in place. This proactive approach not only enhances safety but also helps in compliance with regulatory requirements. Ultimately, completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist can contribute to smoother operations and greater peace of mind for drivers and fleet managers alike.

Common mistakes

  1. Skipping Sections: Many individuals overlook certain sections of the checklist, thinking they are not relevant. Each part of the form is designed to ensure safety and compliance, so it’s crucial to complete every section thoroughly.

  2. Inaccurate Information: Providing incorrect details, such as vehicle identification numbers or tire pressure readings, can lead to serious consequences. Always double-check the information before submitting the form.

  3. Failure to Sign and Date: Some people forget to sign and date the checklist. This step is essential for accountability and serves as proof that the inspection was completed.

  4. Neglecting to Report Issues: If any problems are identified during the inspection, failing to report them is a common mistake. Documenting issues ensures they are addressed promptly, maintaining safety on the road.

Preview - Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

 

Accessory Drive

 

Belts

 

Water Pump

Turbo Charger

Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

1

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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

 

Engine Coolant

 

Reservoir

 

Windsheild

 

Washer Fluid

 

Reservoir

Engine Air Duct

 

Work

 

Power Steering

 

Reservoir

Radiator Brace

 

Steering Gear

 

Box

 

Pitman Arm

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

 

 

 

o Mounted properly

 

 

 

o Hoses attached and not leaking

 

 

 

o Check for level and condition

 

 

 

 AIR COMPRESSOR

 

 

 

o Mounted Securely

Power Steering

 

 

o No missing bolts or parts

 

 

Reservoir

 

 

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

Steering Gear

 

 

Box

 

 

o Mounted properly

 

 

 

o No missing parts, nuts or bolts

 

 

 

o Lines and hoses not leaking or

Pitman Arm

 

 

broken

 

 

 

 

 

 STEERING LINKAGE

 

 

 

o Pitman arm, Drag link, Steering

 

 

 

knuckle, Tie rods and tie rod ends

 

 

 

o Not cracked, bent or broken

Spring Mount

Drag Link

Leaf Spring

o Castle nuts and cotter pins

 

 

 

o Not missing and in place

 

 

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Governor

Air Compressor

Engine Oil Pan

2

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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 U-Joints

Steering Column

Additional Hoses & Wiring

Shock Absorber

Steering Gear Box

Frame Rail

Fuel Filter

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

3

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

FRONT SUSPENSION

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

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

U-Bolts

Axle

Service Brake

Chamber

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

FRONT SUSPENSION CON’T

Frame Rail

U-Bolt

Leaf Spring

Air Dryer location varies depending on model.

Located either behind the front bumper or behind the fuel tank.

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

4

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

 HOSES AND LINES

 

FRONT BRAKES

 

 

o Mounted securely

Service Brake

 

o

Not leaking

 

o

Not cracked or frayed

Chamber

 

 

Tire

 

 

 

 CHAMBER

Push Rod

 

o Mounted securely

 

 

o Not dented or damaged

 

Wheel

o

Not leaking

 

 

 SLACK ADJUSTER

 

Slack Adjuster

o

No more than 1 inch of free play at

Castle Nut

 

the push rod with the brakes released.

Cotter Pin

Adjustment Nut

o

Not bent, broken, loose, or missing

 

 

 

parts

Steering

 

 

 

Knuckle

Brake Drum

 DRUMS

 

 

 

o

Not cracked, broken or dented

 

 

o

No oil leaking from inner oil seal,

Snap Ring

 

free of debris

 

Brake Lining

 LININGS

 

 

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts o Not less than ¼ inch in thickness

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Air Hose

Shock Absorber

U-Bolt

Spring

5

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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

Hub Oil

Lug Nut

Reservior

 

Outer Hub

Valve Cap

Oil Seal

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

6

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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, U-joints appear secure

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 &

 

Reflectors

 

Electrical Line

Exhaust

Glad Hand

 

Service &

 

Emergency

 

Airlines

Drive Shaft

 

Battery Box &

 

Batteries

 

Frame

Catwalk

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

7

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

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

 

Chamber

Control Arm

 

Spring Brake

 

Chamber

Air Bag

 

 

Control Arm

 

Mount

Control Arm

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

U-bolts

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

 

 

Shock Absorber

Mounting

 

Bolts

 

Locking

Spring

 

Pins

 

Control Arm

Air Bag

 

Mount

 

 

Tire

Control Arm

 

 

Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

8

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

9

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

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

 

 

Reflectors

 

Lights

Splash Guard

Air Bags

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 

 

o Check that the locking jaws are fully

 

 

closed around the shank of the king pin

10

 

Documents used along the form

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a vital tool for ensuring the safety and readiness of vehicles before they hit the road. Alongside this checklist, several other forms and documents are commonly used to maintain compliance and enhance safety protocols. Below is a list of these essential documents.

  • Vehicle Maintenance Log: This document records all maintenance activities performed on the vehicle, including oil changes, tire rotations, and repairs. It helps track the vehicle's overall condition and ensures timely servicing.
  • Driver's Daily Log: This log captures a driver's hours of service, including driving time, rest breaks, and off-duty hours. It is crucial for compliance with federal regulations regarding driving limits.
  • Accident Report Form: In the event of an accident, this form is used to document details such as the time, location, and circumstances of the incident. It aids in insurance claims and legal matters.
  • Fuel Purchase Receipt: This receipt provides proof of fuel purchases made during trips. It is important for tracking fuel expenses and can be used for reimbursement purposes.
  • Inspection Report: After a vehicle inspection, this report summarizes findings and any necessary repairs. It helps ensure that vehicles meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Route Plan: This document outlines the planned route for a trip, including stops and estimated travel times. It assists in logistics and helps drivers stay on schedule.
  • Non-disclosure Agreement (NDA): A critical document for protecting sensitive information, ensuring that shared data remains confidential and secure. For more details, you can visit https://georgiapdf.com.
  • Emergency Contact List: This list contains contact information for key personnel, emergency services, and roadside assistance. It ensures that drivers have access to help when needed.

Using these documents in conjunction with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist fosters a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety and compliance. Together, they help ensure that drivers are prepared and that vehicles are roadworthy, contributing to safer travel for everyone.

Similar forms

The Vehicle Inspection Report serves a similar purpose to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. Both documents are designed to ensure that vehicles are in safe operating condition before they are used. The Vehicle Inspection Report typically includes a comprehensive list of components that need to be checked, such as brakes, lights, and tires. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it emphasizes the importance of identifying any potential issues that could lead to safety hazards during operation. Regular completion of this report helps maintain vehicle safety standards and compliance with regulatory requirements.

The North Carolina Motor Vehicle Bill of Sale form is a crucial document in the vehicle transfer process that ensures proper registration and titling within the state. It captures essential details such as the make, model, year, and VIN of the vehicle, as well as the sale price and date of transaction. For more information on this important form, visit autobillofsaleform.com/north-carolina-motor-vehicle-bill-of-sale-form/.

The Daily Vehicle Inspection Log is another document that parallels the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. This log is used by drivers to record their observations and findings regarding the vehicle’s condition each day. Similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it focuses on key areas such as fluid levels, tire pressure, and functionality of safety equipment. The Daily Vehicle Inspection Log provides a systematic approach to monitoring vehicle health, ensuring that any problems are documented and addressed promptly, thereby enhancing overall safety and reliability.

The Maintenance Work Order is also comparable to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, albeit with a different focus. This document outlines the necessary repairs or maintenance tasks identified during inspections. While the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is proactive, aimed at preventing issues before they arise, the Maintenance Work Order is reactive, detailing actions taken to rectify problems. Both documents play a critical role in vehicle upkeep, ensuring that any issues discovered during inspections are formally addressed and tracked for future reference.

The Safety Inspection Checklist shares similarities with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in that both are utilized to evaluate safety measures. The Safety Inspection Checklist may cover a broader range of safety protocols, including equipment and workplace conditions, but the fundamental goal remains the same: to identify and mitigate risks. By systematically reviewing safety features and compliance with regulations, both documents contribute to a culture of safety and accountability within transportation operations.

Lastly, the Driver's Daily Log is akin to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in that it serves as a record-keeping tool for drivers. While the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist focuses on vehicle condition before operation, the Driver's Daily Log tracks hours of service, rest breaks, and driving conditions throughout the day. Both documents are essential for ensuring compliance with transportation regulations and promoting safe driving practices. Together, they provide a comprehensive overview of a driver’s responsibilities and the vehicle’s readiness for operation.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form, attention to detail is crucial. Below are five important dos and don’ts to keep in mind.

  • Do review the entire checklist thoroughly before starting your inspection.
  • Do ensure that all sections are completed accurately and legibly.
  • Do use a pen or pencil that is easy to read; avoid using colors that may fade.
  • Don't rush through the inspection; take your time to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  • Don't leave any section blank; if something doesn’t apply, indicate that clearly.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is filled out correctly and efficiently.

Key takeaways

Filling out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is crucial for ensuring safety and compliance. Here are five key takeaways to keep in mind:

  1. Thoroughness is essential. Every item on the checklist must be inspected carefully. Skipping steps can lead to serious safety issues.
  2. Document everything. Accurate records help in maintaining accountability. If an issue arises, having a detailed checklist can protect you legally.
  3. Timing matters. Complete the inspection before each trip. This proactive approach can prevent breakdowns and accidents.
  4. Be aware of your responsibilities. As the driver, you are responsible for the vehicle’s condition. Take this duty seriously.
  5. Report any issues immediately. If you find a problem during the inspection, address it right away. Delaying repairs can lead to bigger problems down the road.

Utilizing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist effectively can enhance safety for everyone on the road.

How to Use Pre Trip Inspection Checklist

Completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is essential for ensuring that a vehicle is safe and ready for operation. Following these steps will help you fill out the form accurately and efficiently.

  1. Begin by gathering all necessary materials, including the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form and a pen or pencil.
  2. Write the date at the top of the form to indicate when the inspection is taking place.
  3. Identify the vehicle by entering its make, model, and identification number.
  4. Check each section of the checklist thoroughly. This includes areas such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
  5. For each item inspected, mark it as “satisfactory” or “unsatisfactory” based on your findings.
  6. If any issues are found, provide a brief description in the comments section next to the relevant item.
  7. After completing the checklist, sign and date the form at the bottom to certify that the inspection has been conducted.
  8. Submit the completed form to the appropriate authority or keep it for your records as required.