Note: Your are not logged in. We can not keep your scores or track your progress unless you Register and Log In
External Inspection (All Vehicles)
Steering
Steering Box/Hoses
- Check that the steering box is securely mounted and not leaking. Look for any missing nuts, bolts and cotter keys.
- Check for power steering fluid leaks or damage to power steering hoses.
Steering Linkage
- See that connecting links, arms and rods from the steering box to the wheel are not worn or cracked.
- Check that joints and sockets are not worn or loose and that there are no missing nuts, bolts or cotter keys.
Suspension
Suspension Springs/Air/Torque
- Look for missing, shifted, cracked or broken leaf springs.
- Look for broken or distorted coil springs.
- If vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, torque arms or other types of suspension components, check that they are not damaged and are mounted securely.
- Air ride suspension should be checked for damage and leaks.
Mounts
- Look for cracked or broken spring hangers; missing or damaged bushings; and broken, loose or missing bolts, u-bolts or other axle mounting parts. (The mounts should be checked at each point where they are secured to the vehicle frame and axle[s]).
Shock Absorbers
- See that shock absorbers are secure and that there are no leaks.
Note: Be prepared to perform the same suspension components inspection on every axle (power unit and trailer, if equipped).
Multiple-Choice Questions:
When checking the steering box components under the hood, what should you check for?
- Look for any missing nuts, bolts and cotter keys
- Check that the steering box is securely mounted and not leaking
- Check for power steering fluid leaks or damage to power steering hoses
- All these are correct
Steering Box/Hoses
- Check that the steering box is securely mounted and not leaking. Look for any missing nuts, bolts and cotter keys.
- Check for power steering fluid leaks or damage to power steering hoses.
When checking the suspension components, what should you check for?
- All these are correct
- Look for missing, shifted, cracked or broken leaf springs.
- Air ride suspension should be checked for damage and leaks.
- Look for broken or distorted coil springs.
Suspension Springs/Air/Torque
- Look for missing, shifted, cracked or broken leaf springs.
- Look for broken or distorted coil springs.
- If vehicle is equipped with torsion bars, torque arms or other types of suspension components, check that they are not damaged and are mounted securely.
- Air ride suspension should be checked for damage and leaks.
Complete!
You can Return To The Table Of Contents
Why Join Trucking Truth?
- The High Road Training Program
- The High Road Article Series
- The Friendliest Trucker's Forum Ever!
- Email Updates When New Articles Are Posted
Apply For Paid CDL Training Through TruckingTruth
Did you know you can fill out one quick form here on TruckingTruth and apply to several companies at once for paid CDL training? Seriously! The application only takes one minute. You will speak with recruiters today. There is no obligation whatsoever. Learn more and apply here:
TT On Facebook