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2.1.5 – Seven-step Inspection Method (continued)

STEP 6: Check Signal Lights

Get In and Turn Off Lights:

• Turn off all lights.
• Turn on stop lights (apply trailer hand brake or have a helper put on the brake pedal).
• Turn on left turn signal lights.

Get Out and Check Lights:

• Left front turn signal light clean, operating and proper color (amber or white on signals facing the front).
• Left rear turn signal light and both stop lights clean, operating and proper color (red, yellow or amber).

Get In Vehicle:

• Turn off lights not needed for driving.
• Check for all required papers, trip manifests, permits, etc.
• Secure all loose articles in cab (they might interfere with operation of the controls or hit you in a crash).
• Start the engine.

STEP 7: Start the Engine and Check

Test for Hydraulic Leaks. If the vehicle has hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal three times. Then apply firm pres- sure to the pedal and hold for five seconds. The pedal should not move. If it does, there may be a leak or other problem. Get it fixed before driving.

Brake System

Test Parking Brake(s)

• Fasten safety belt.
• Set tractor parking brake (power unit only).
• Release trailer parking brake (if applicable).
• Place vehicle into a low gear.
• Gently pull forward against tractor parking brake to make sure the parking brake holds.
• Repeat the same steps for the trailer with trailer parking brake set and tractor parking brakes released (if appli- cable).
• If it does not hold vehicle, it is faulty; have it repaired.

Test Service Brake Stopping Action

• Go about 5 mph.
• Push brake pedal firmly.
• “Pulling” to one side or the other can mean brake trouble.
• Any unusual brake pedal “feel” or delayed stopping action can mean trouble.

If you find anything unsafe during the pre-trip inspection, have it repaired immediately. Federal and state laws forbid operating an unsafe vehicle.

Test Electric Trailer Brakes (if so equipped):

• Set electric brake on trailer.
• Release truck brake.
• Place vehicle into a low gear.
• Gently pull forward against electric brake to make sure the brake holds.

Test Surge Brakes (if so equipped — trailer only)

• Set power/pulling unit parking brake.
• Pull on surge brake cable to make sure the actuator arm moves.

For vehicles equipped with full air brakes or air-over-hydraulic brakes, see Sections 5 and 6.

2.1.6 – Inspection During a Trip

Check Vehicle Operation Regularly. You should check:

• Instruments.
• Air pressure gauge (if you have air brakes).
• Temperature gauges.
• Pressure gauges.
• Ammeter/voltmeter.
• Mirrors.
• Tires.
• Cargo, cargo covers.
• Lights.

If you see, hear, smell or feel anything that might mean trouble, check it out.

Safety Inspection. Drivers of trucks and truck tractors transporting cargo must inspect the securement of the cargo within the first 50 miles of a trip and every 150 miles or every three hours (whichever comes first) after.

2.1.7 – After-trip Inspection and Report

Drivers may have to make a written report each day on the condition of the vehicle(s) driven. Report anything affecting safety or possibly leading to mechanical breakdown.