Page 102 - Draft 2023 2024 CDL Manual w Modernization Info
P. 102
Fluid and Air Leaks Inspection: The following items must be inspected
on each tire:
Description: Fluid leaks from engine and other vehicle • Tire inflation: Inspect for proper inflation using a
systems; and air leaks, if applicable. tire gauge. Make sure all valve stems are
Why Inspect: Fluid loss could indicate component accessible.
failure in areas where levels might not be readily • Tire condition: Inspect for cuts and damage that
inspected (e.g., transmission or fuel systems). Air expose body plies to the tire in the tread and
leaks could indicate component failure in areas that sidewall. Make sure that valve caps are not
may not be readily inspected (e.g., air compressor and missing, and valve stems are not damaged or
other air components). broken. Look for bumps and bulges in the
sidewall and mismatched diameters in dual tires.
Inspection: • Tread depth: Inspect for minimum tread depth
• Look for puddles on the ground. with a tread depth gauge on all major tread
• Look for dripping fluids around and on underside grooves containing wear bars (4/32 on steering
of engine and transmission. axle tires, 2/32 on all other tires).
• Inspect hoses and air lines, if applicable, for
condition and leaks. Note: You will not get credit if you simply kick the
tires or use a mallet to inspect for proper inflation.
Steering System You must mention the use of a tire gauge.
Description: Mechanisms that transform steering Note: If the tires are equipped with an automatic tire
column action into wheel turning action. inflation system (ATIS) or tire pressure monitoring
Why Inspect: Worn, cracked, loose or broken steering system (TPMS) that has hoses connected to the tire
parts could result in loss of steering. Movement in the valve stems, you need only mention that tire pressure
linkage can cause the vehicle to wander or experience is monitored and adjusted by an automatic system
other serious control problems. and inspect that it is working properly.
Inspection: Rims/Wheels
• Inspect that the power steering box is securely Description: The metal rims/wheels which tires are
mounted and not leaking. mounted on.
• Inspect that all steering hoses and connections
are not cracked, worn or leaking. Why Inspect: Damaged rims can result in loss of a tire
• Inspect that the steering system has no missing from the rim, loss of a wheel from an axle, loss of air
nuts, bolts, or cotter keys. pressure in a tire, a wheel rolling off a rim due to
• Inspect that visible connecting links, arms, and damage to flange, or split rim. A damaged wheel can
rods from the steering box to the wheel are not result in loss of vehicle control, leading to a crash.
worn or cracked and that joints and sockets are Wheels and rims should be inspected for conditions
not worn or loose. that could result in a complete or partial wheel
separation or air loss in the tire.
11 M.5.2 - Axle Components/Steering
Axle Inspection:
•
Inspect for damaged, cracked or bent rims. Rims
Note: Be prepared to perform the same cannot have welding repairs. Inspect for rust
inspection, described in this section (11 M.5.2) on trails that may indicate rim is loose on a wedge
any of the vehicle axles. wheel, if applicable.
• Inspect studs and bolt holes to make sure they
Tires are not elongated (out of round) and there are no
Description: Tire/wheel assemblies in contact with the missing or loose nuts or bolts.
pavement. Wheel Fasteners (Lug Nuts)
Why Inspect: Underinflation increases the chance of Description: Holds wheel on axle.
blowout from excessive heat buildup due to increased
flexing of the tire. Low tread depth increases the effect Why Inspect: Loose or missing lug nuts could result in
of hydroplaning, reduces traction and increases the loss of a wheel and lead to a crash.
stopping distance. Inspection:
Overinflation increases the chances of damage to the • Inspect that all lug nuts are present.
tire from curbs and potholes and loss of traction due to • Inspect that lug nuts are not loose and there are
less tread in contact with the road. Cuts and bulges no signs of rust trails or shiny threads that may
may cause tire failure, blowouts, and sudden loss of show looseness.
control. • Inspect that there are no broken studs.
Section 11 M - Vehicle Inspection
Version: September 9, 2022 103
