Homepage Printable Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form in PDF

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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 essential for ensuring that vehicles are safe and ready for operation. However, it is often used in conjunction with several other forms and documents that help maintain safety and compliance in transportation. Below is a list of commonly used documents that complement the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist.

  • Driver's Daily Log: This document records a driver's hours of service, including driving time and rest periods. It helps ensure compliance with federal regulations regarding work hours.
  • Vehicle Maintenance Record: This record tracks all maintenance performed on a vehicle, including oil changes, tire rotations, and repairs. It ensures that the vehicle is kept in optimal condition.
  • Accident Report Form: In the event of an accident, this form is used to document the details of the incident. It captures information about the vehicles involved, damages, and any injuries sustained.
  • Fuel Purchase Receipt: This receipt serves as proof of fuel purchases made for the vehicle. It can be important for expense tracking and reimbursement purposes.
  • Power of Attorney Form: Understanding this form is essential for individuals looking to ensure their wishes are respected in crucial situations. For more information, visit nypdfforms.com/power-of-attorney-form/.
  • Inspection Report: This document outlines the results of any inspections conducted on the vehicle, including safety and emissions checks. It ensures that the vehicle meets regulatory standards.
  • Cargo Load Sheet: This sheet details the cargo being transported, including weight and dimensions. It helps ensure that the vehicle is loaded safely and within legal limits.
  • Emergency Contact List: This list contains contact information for emergency services, company personnel, and family members. It is crucial for quick communication in case of emergencies.
  • Route Plan: This document outlines the planned route for a trip, including stops and estimated travel times. It helps drivers navigate efficiently and safely.
  • Safety Training Record: This record tracks the safety training completed by drivers. It ensures that all personnel are knowledgeable about safety protocols and procedures.

Utilizing these forms and documents in conjunction with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist promotes a culture of safety and accountability. Together, they provide a comprehensive framework for managing vehicle operations effectively.

Similar forms

  • Vehicle Maintenance Log: This document tracks routine maintenance and repairs performed on a vehicle. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it ensures that the vehicle is safe and operational before use.
  • Daily Vehicle Inspection Report: Similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, this report is filled out daily to document the condition of the vehicle. It focuses on safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Divorce Settlement Agreement: To finalize your divorce, ensure you have the official Divorce Settlement Agreement form guidelines for a clear understanding of your legal rights and obligations.
  • Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR): This is a federal requirement for commercial drivers. It serves a similar purpose by documenting any defects or issues found during inspections, ensuring the vehicle is roadworthy.
  • Safety Inspection Checklist: This checklist outlines safety features and conditions that must be verified before operation. It parallels the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist in its focus on safety and compliance.
  • Fleet Inspection Report: Used for fleet management, this report assesses the overall condition of multiple vehicles. It shares the same goal of ensuring that all vehicles are safe and reliable for use.
  • Incident Report Form: While primarily used to document accidents or incidents, it includes vehicle condition assessments. This is similar to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, which emphasizes safety and operational readiness.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist can lead to improper vehicle maintenance and safety issues. Here are seven common misunderstandings:

  1. It is only necessary for commercial drivers.

    Many believe that only commercial drivers need to complete a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. In reality, all drivers should perform a pre-trip inspection to ensure their vehicle is safe and roadworthy, regardless of the vehicle type.

  2. It takes too much time.

    Some think that completing the checklist is time-consuming. However, a thorough inspection can often be done in a matter of minutes and can prevent much larger issues down the road.

  3. It is optional.

    Many assume that the checklist is optional. In fact, it is a crucial part of vehicle safety regulations and is often required by law for commercial vehicles.

  4. Only mechanical issues need to be checked.

    Some individuals focus solely on mechanical components. However, the checklist includes checking lights, mirrors, and other safety features that are just as important.

  5. It can be skipped if the driver is familiar with the vehicle.

    Familiarity with a vehicle does not eliminate the need for an inspection. Conditions can change, and new issues may arise that even a seasoned driver might not notice without a formal checklist.

  6. Once completed, it doesn't need to be repeated.

    Some believe that a single inspection is sufficient. In reality, the checklist should be completed before every trip to ensure ongoing safety and compliance.

  7. It is only for the driver’s benefit.

    Many think the checklist only protects the driver. In fact, it safeguards all road users by promoting vehicle safety and reducing the risk of accidents.

Understanding Pre Trip Inspection Checklist

  1. What is the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form?

    The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a document used by drivers to ensure that their vehicle is safe and ready for operation before starting a trip. It includes a series of checks on various vehicle components to identify any potential issues that could affect safety.

  2. Why is a Pre Trip Inspection important?

    Conducting a Pre Trip Inspection is crucial for ensuring the safety of both the driver and other road users. It helps in identifying mechanical issues that could lead to accidents or breakdowns. This proactive approach can save time, money, and lives.

  3. What should be included in the checklist?

    The checklist typically includes inspections of:

    • Tires and wheels
    • Brakes
    • Lights and signals
    • Fluid levels (oil, coolant, etc.)
    • Windshield wipers and mirrors
    • Emergency equipment (flares, first aid kit)
  4. How often should the checklist be completed?

    The checklist should be completed before every trip. This ensures that each vehicle is thoroughly inspected and any issues are addressed before hitting the road. Regular inspections contribute to overall vehicle maintenance and safety.

  5. Who is responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection?

    The driver is primarily responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. However, it is also important for fleet managers and maintenance personnel to review the checklist to ensure compliance and address any recurring issues.

  6. What happens if a vehicle fails the inspection?

    If a vehicle fails any part of the inspection, it should not be driven until the issues are resolved. The driver must report the findings to the appropriate personnel for repairs. Safety should always be the top priority.

  7. Is there a specific format for the checklist?

    While there is no one-size-fits-all format, the checklist should be clear and easy to understand. It should allow the driver to mark off completed inspections and note any issues found. Customizing the checklist for specific vehicle types can enhance its effectiveness.

  8. Can the checklist be completed digitally?

    Yes, many companies now offer digital versions of the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. These can be completed on tablets or smartphones, making it easier to document inspections and track maintenance history.

  9. What should be done with the completed checklist?

    Once the checklist is completed, it should be submitted to the appropriate supervisor or filed according to company policy. Keeping a record of inspections is important for compliance and for addressing any potential liability issues.