CDL section 3

6. What is the minimum number of tiedowns for any flat bed load?

2. Cargo should have at least one tiedown for each ten feet of cargo. Make sure you have enough tiedowns to meet this need. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at least two tiedowns.

7. What is the minimum number of tiedowns for a 20-foot load?

2. Cargo should have at least one tiedown for each ten feet of cargo. Make sure you have enough tiedowns to meet this need. No matter how small the cargo, it should have at least two tiedowns.

4. Name two situations where legal maximum weights may not be safe.

During bad weather or in mountains, it may not be safe to operate at legal maximum weights.

3. How is Gross Combination Weight Rating different from Gross Combination Weight?

GCW is total weight. GCWR is total weight specified by manufacturer. Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW). The total weight of a single vehicle plus its load. Gross Combination Weight (GCW). The total weight of a powered unit, plus trailer(s), plus the cargo. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). The maximum GVW specified by the manufacturer for a single vehicle plus its load. Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR). The maximum GCW specified by the manufacturer for a specific combination of vehicles plus its load. Axle Weight. The weight transmitted to the ground by one axle or one set of axles. Tire Load. The maximum safe weight a tire can carry at a specified pressure. This rating is stated on the side of each tire.

2. How often must you stop while on the road to check your cargo?

Inspect the cargo and its securing devices again within the first 50 miles after beginning a trip. Re-check the cargo and securing devices as often as necessary during a trip to keep the load secure. You need to inspect again: After you have driven for 3 hours or 150 miles. After every break you take during driving.

8. Name the two basic reasons for covering cargo on an open bed.

On flatbed trailers or trailers without sides, cargo must be secured to keep it from shifting or falling off.

5. What can happen if you don't have enough weight on the front axle?

Under-loaded front axles (caused by shifting weight too far to the rear) can make the steering axle weight too light to steer safely. Too little weight on the driving axles can cause poor traction. The drive wheels may spin easily. During bad weather, the truck may not be able to keep going. Too much weight on the steering axle can cause hard steering. It can damage the steering axle and tires. Under-loaded front axles (caused by shifting weight too far to the rear) can make the steering axle weight too light to steer safely. Too little weight on the driving axles can cause poor traction. The drive wheels may spin easily. During bad weather, the truck may not be able to keep going. Weight that is loaded so there is a high center of gravity causes greater chance of rollover. On flat bed vehicles, there is also a greater chance that the load will shift to the side or fall off.

1. What four things related to cargo are drivers responsible for?

Whether or not you load and secure the cargo yourself, you are responsible for: 1. Inspecting your cargo. 2. Recognizing overloads and poorly balanced weight. 2. Knowing your cargo is properly secured and does not obscure your view ahead or to the sides. 4. Knowing your cargo does not restrict your access to emergency equipment.

9. What must you check before transporting a sealed load?

You cannot inspect sealed loads, but you should check that you don't exceed gross weight and axle weight limits.