CDL Book Questions and Answers

What's your most important way to see the sides and rear of your vehicle?

"It's important to know what's going on behind and to the sides. Check your mirror regularly." (p.2-11) "You need to make regular checks of your mirrors to be aware of traffic and to check your vehicle." (p.2-11)

What is the emergency air line for?

(Also called the supply line) has two purposes, first it supplies air to the trailer air tanks. Second, the emergency line controls the emergency brakes on combination vehicles.

What are the two special conditions where you should downshift?

1. Before Starting Down a Hill. Slow down and shift down to a speed that you can control without using the brakes hard. 2. Before Entering a Curve. Slow down to a safe speed, and downshift to the right gear before entering the curve.

What three kinds of emergency equipment must you have?

1. Spare electrical fuses (unless vehicle has circuit breakers). 2. Three red reflective triangles, 6 fusees or 3 liquid burning flares. 3. Properly charged and rated fire extinguisher.

What are the two ways to know when to shift?

1. Use Engine Speed (rpm). Study the driver's manual for your vehicle and learn the operating rpm range. 2. Use Road Speed (mph). Learn what speeds each gear is good for. Then, by using the speedometer, you'll know when to shift up.

What is a dual air brake system?

A dual air brake system has 2 separate air brake systems, which use a single set of brake controls

How can you check that the spring brakes come on automatically?

Continue to fan off the air pressure by stepping on and off the brake pedal to reduce tank pressure The tractor protection valve and parking brake value should close (pop out) on a tractor trailer combination vehicle vehicle and the parking brake value should close (pop out) on other combination and single vehicle types when the air pressure falls to the manufacturer's specification (20-45 psi). This will cause the spring break to come on.

Why should you not use the trailer hand valve while driving?

DO NOT use it in driving because of the danger of making the trailer skid.

How often should you drain air tanks?

Drain your air tanks at the end of each working day to remove moisture and oil

What is an "escape ramp?"

Escape ramps have been built on many steep mountain downgrades. Escape ramps are made to stop runaway vehicles safely without injuring drivers and passengers. Escape ramps use a long bed of loose, soft material to slow a runaway vehicle, sometimes in combination with an upgrade.

If a tire blows out, you should put the brakes on hard to stop quickly. True or False?

False

Retarders keep you from skidding when the road is slippery. True or False?

False

You should decrease your following distance if somebody is following you too closely. True or False?

False

You should let air out of hot tires so the pressure goes back to normal. True or False?

False

You should use low beams whenever you can. True or False?

False

If you're away from your vehicle only a short time you DO NOT need to use the parking brake? True or False

False Anytime you park, use the parking brake unless otherwise

Empty trucks have the best braking. True or False?

False!

Coffee and a little fresh air will help a drinker sober up. True or False?

False. The liver can only process one-third an ounce of alcohol per hour, which is considerably less than the alcohol in a standard drink. This is a fixed rate, so only time, not black coffee or a cold shower, will sober you up.

What should you do when confronted with an aggressive driver?

First and foremost, make every attempt to get out of their way. Put your pride in the back seat. Do not challenge them by speeding up or attempting to hold-yourown in your travel lane. Avoid eye contact. Ignore gestures and refuse to react to them. Report aggressive drivers to the appropriate authorities by providing a vehicle description, license number, location and, if possible, direction of travel. If you have a cell phone, and can do it safely, call the police. If an aggressive driver is involved in a crash farther down the road, stop a safe distance from the crash scene, wait for the police to arrive, and report the driving behavior that you witnessed.

What things should you check during a trip?

For safety you should: Watch gauges for signs of trouble. Use your senses to check for problems (look, listen, smell, feel). Check critical items when you stop: • Tires, wheels and rims. • Brakes. • Lights and reflectors. • Brake and electrical connections to trailer. • Trailer coupling devices. • Cargo securement devices.

What factors can cause brakes to fade or fail?

From excessive heat caused (chemical changes in the brake lining, which reduce friction, and also causing expansion of the brake drums) by using them too much and not relying on the engine braking effect

If you are driving a 30-foot vehicle at 55 mph, how many seconds of following distance should you allow?

How much space should you keep in front of you? One good rule says you need at least one second for each 10 feet of vehicle length at speeds below 40 mph. At greater speeds, you must add 1 second for safety. For example, if you are driving a 40-foot vehicle, you should leave 4 seconds between you and the vehicle ahead. In a 60-foot rig, you'll need 6 seconds. Over 40 mph, you'd need 5 seconds for a 40-foot vehicle and 7 seconds for a 60-foot vehicle.

What are some advantages of going right instead of left around an obstacle?

If an oncoming driver has drifted into your lane, a move to your right is best. If that driver realizes what has happened, the natural response will be to return to his or her own lane. If the shoulder is clear, going right may be best. No one is likely to be driving on the shoulder but someone may be passing you on the left. You will know if you have been using your mirrors. If you are blocked on both sides, a move to the right may be best. At least you won't force anyone into an opposing traffic lane and a possible head-on collision.

Why should you use chocks when parking a trailer without spring brakes?

If the trailer does not have spring brakes, use wheel chocks to keep the trailer from moving

How do you test hydraulic brakes for leaks?

If the vehicle has hydraulic brakes, pump the brake pedal three times. Then apply firm pressure 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. If the vehicle has air brakes, do the checks described in Sections 5 and 6 of this manual.

What should you do before you drive if you are drowsy?

If you are drowsy, sleep before you drive! Even a nap can save your life or the lives of others.

What is "sleep debt"?

If you don't sleep enough, you "owe" more sleep to yourself. This debt can only be paid off by sleeping. You can't overcome it with willpower, and it won't go away by itself.

What are some things to do at an accident scene to prevent another accident?

If your vehicle is involved in the accident, try to get it to the side of the road. This will help prevent another accident and allow traffic to move. If you're stopping to help, park away from the accident. The area immediately around the accident will be needed for emergency vehicles. Put on your flashers. Set out reflective triangles to warn other traffic. Make sure other drivers can see them in time to avoid the accident.

What is hydroplaning?

It's like skiing--the tires lose their contact with the road and have little or no traction. You may not be able to steer or brake

What type of trailers can get stuck on railroad highway crossings?

Low -slung units (low boys, car carrier, moving van, possum belly livestock trailer) Single axle tractor pulling a long trailer with it's landing gear set accommodate a tandern-axle tractor.

What type of vehicles can get stuck on a railroad highway crossing?

Low slung units: Lowboy, car carrier, moving van, possum-belly livestock trailer. Single axle tractor pulling a long trailer with it's landing gear set to accommodate a tandem-axle trailer.

How can you check slack adjusters?

Park on level ground and chock the wheels to prevent the vehicle from moving Release the parking brakes so you can move the slack adjusters Use gloves and pull hard on each slack adjuster that you can reach If a slack adjuster moves more than about one inch where the push rod attaches to it, it probably needs adjustment

What is a hazardous materials placard?

Placards are signs put on the outside of a vehicle that identify the hazard class of the cargo. A placarded vehicle must have at least four identical placards. They are put on the front, rear, and both sides. Placards must be readable from all four directions.

Name some causes of vehicle fires.

The following are some causes of vehicle fires: After Accidents. Spilled fuel, improper use of flares. Tires. Under-inflated tires and duals that touch. Electrical System. Short circuits due to damaged insulation, loose connections. Fuel. Driver smoking, improper fueling, loose fuel connections. Cargo. Flammable cargo, improperly sealed or loaded cargo, poor ventilation.

Why are placards used?

The intent of the rules is to: Contain the product. Communicate the risk. Ensure safe drivers and equipment.

What is a supply pressure gauge used for?

These gauges tell you how much pressure is in the air tanks

What are spring brakes?

They must be held on by mechanical force because air pressure can eventually leak away.

How many red reflective triangles should you carry?

Three.

How do you find out how many seconds of following distance space you have?

To know how much space you have, wait until the vehicle ahead passes a shadow on the road, a pavement marking, or some other clear landmark.

What factors determine your selection of a "safe" speed when going down a long steep downgrade?

Total weight of the vehicle and cargo Length of the grade Steepness of the grade Road conditions Weather

How do you know if your vehicle has antilock brakes?

Tractors, trucks, and buses will have yellow ABS malfunction lamps on the instrument panel.

Front wheel brakes are good under all conditions. True or False?

True

If you swing wide to the left before turning right, another driver may try to pass you on the right. True or False?

True

Stopping is not always the safest thing to do in an emergency. True or False?

True

The use of brakes on a long, steep downgrade is only a supplement to the braking effect of the engine. True or False?

True

You can safely remove the radiator cap as long as the engine isn't overheated. True or False?

True

When you back a trailer, you should position your vehicle so you can back in a curved to the driver side. True or False?

True Try to position your vehicle so you can back in a straight line. If you must back on a curved path, back to the driver's side so you can see.

All vehicles with air brakes must have a low air pressure warning signal . True or False?

True A low air pressure warning signal is required on vehicles with air brakes

You still have normal brake functions if your ABS is not working. True or False?

True Without ABS, you still have normal brake functions

Common medicines for colds can make you sleepy. True or False?

True. Avoid Medication. Many medicines can make you sleepy. Those that do have a label warning against operating vehicles or machinery. The most common medicine of this type is an ordinary cold pill. If you have to drive with a cold, you are better off suffering from the cold than from the effects of the medicine.

Name two causes of tire fires.

Under-inflated tires and duals that touch.

When backing, why is it important to use a helper?

Use a helper when you can. There are blind spots you can't see. That's why a helper is important. The helper should stand near the back of your vehicle where you can see the helper.

How do you brake when you drive a tractor trailer combination with ABS?

Use only the braking force necessary to stop safely and stay in control Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have ABS on the tractor, the trailer, or both As you slow down, monitor your tractor and trailer and back off the brakes (if it is safe to do so) to stay in control

If you go twice as fast, will your stopping distance increase by two or four times?

When you double your speed from 20 to 40 mph the impact is 4 times greater.

Why make emergency plans when you see a hazard?

When you see a hazard, think about the emergencies that could develop and figure out what you would do. Always be prepared to take action based on your plans. In this way, you will be a prepared, defensive driver who will improve your own safety as well as the safety of all road users.

What kinds of fires is a B:C extinguisher not good for?

Wood, paper and cloth. The B:C type fire extinguisher is designed to work on electrical fires and burning liquids. The A:B:C type is designed to work on burning wood, paper, and cloth as well.

When should you downshift automatic transmissions?

You can select a low range to get greater engine braking when going down grades. The lower ranges prevent the transmission from shifting up beyond the selected gear (unless the governor rpm is exceeded). It is very important to use this braking effect when going down grades.

What three things add up to total stopping distance?

perception distance + reaction distance + braking distance = total stopping distance

What are the maximum leakage rates?

typically 125 psi

How far ahead does the manual say you should look?

Look 12-15 seconds ahead. City driving = one block; open highway 1/4 mile

What are two main things to look for ahead?

Look for vehicles and brake lights.

Where should your reflectors be placed when stopped on a divided highway?

10', 100', and 200' behind the vehicle

What is a hazard?

A hazard is any road condition or other road user (driver, bicyclist, pedestrian) that is a possible danger.

What is the difference between aggressive driving and road rage?

Aggressive driving is the act of operating a motor vehicle in a selfish, bold, or pushy manner, without regard for the rights or safety of others. Road rage is operating a motor vehicle with the intent of doing harm to others or physically assaulting a driver or their vehicle.

Why must air tanks be drained?

Compressed air usually has some water and some compressor oil in it, which is bad for the air brake system. The water and oil tend to collect in the bottom of the air tank

Name some things you should check on the front of your vehicle during the walk around inspection.

Condition of front axle. Condition of steering system. • No loose, worn, bent, damaged or missing parts. • Must grab steering mechanism to test for looseness. Condition of windshield. • Check for damage and clean if dirty. • Check windshield wiper arms for proper spring tension. • Check wiper blades for damage, "stiff" rubber, and securement. Lights and reflectors. • Parking, clearance, and identification lights clean, operating, and proper color (amber at front). • Reflectors clean and proper color (amber at front). • Right front turn signal light clean, operating, and proper color (amber or white on signals facing forward).

Describe the proper braking technique when going down a long steep downgrade?

Apply the brakes just hard enough to feel a definite slowdown. When your speed has been reduced to approximately 5 mph below your "safe" speed, release the brakes. (This brake application should last for about three seconds) When your speed has increased to your "safe" speed, repeat steps 1& 2

How long does it take for a typical tractor trailer unit to clear a double track?

At least 14 secs to clear a single track and more than 15 secs to clear a double track.

Why should you back toward the driver's side?

Back to the driver's side so you can see better. Backing toward the right side is very dangerous because you can't see as well. If you back and turn toward the driver's side, you can watch the rear of your vehicle by looking out the side window. Use driverside backing--even if it means going around the block to put your vehicle in this position. The added safety is worth it.

Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?

Because gravity can cause the speed of your vehicle to increase.

What's the most important hand signal that you and the helper should agree on?

Before you begin backing, work out a set of hand signals that you both understand. Agree on a signal for "stop."

What is "black ice"?

Black ice is a thin layer that is clear enough that you can see the road underneath it. It makes the road look wet.

How do antilock brakes help you?

Brake pressure is adjusted to provide the maximum braking without danger of lockup. ABS works far faster than the driver can respond to potential wheel lockup. At all other times the brake system will operate normally.

What is the proper braking technique when driving a vehicle with antilock brakes?

Brake the same way, regardless of whether you have ABS on the bus, tractor, the trailer, or both.

How do you know if your vehicle is equipped with anti lock brakes?

Check the certification label for the date of manufacture to determine if your vehicle is equipped with ABS

What should you do if you become sleepy while driving?

Keep Cool. A hot, poorly ventilated vehicle can make you sleepy. Keep the window or vent cracked open or use the air conditioner, if you have one. Stop to Sleep. When your body needs sleep, sleep is the only thing that will work. If you have to make a stop anyway, make it whenever you feel the first signs of sleepiness, even if it is earlier than you planned. By getting up a little earlier the next day, you can keep on schedule without the danger of driving while you are not alert. Take Breaks. Short breaks can keep you alert. But the time to take them is before you feel really drowsy or tired. Stop often. Walk around and inspect your vehicle. It may help to do some physical exercises. Take a Nap. If you can't stop for the night, at least pull off at a safe place, such as a rest area or truck stop, and take a nap. A nap as short as a half-hour will do more to overcome fatigue than a half-hour coffee stop. Be sure to take a mid-afternoon break and plan to sleep between midnight and 6 a.m. Recognize the Danger Signals of Drowsy Driving. Sleep is not voluntary. If you're drowsy, you can fall asleep and never even know it. If you are drowsy, you are likely to have "micro sleeps"- brief naps that last around four or five seconds. At 55 miles an hour, that's more than 100 yards, and plenty of time for a crash. Avoid Drugs. There are no drugs that can overcome being tired. While they may keep you awake for a while, they won't make you alert. And eventually, you'll be even more tired than if you hadn't taken them at all. Sleep is the only thing that can overcome fatigue. Do Not. Do not rely on coffee or another source of caffeine to keep you awake. Do not count on the radio, an open window, or other tricks to keep you awake.

What two things are important to prevent rollover?

Keep the cargo as close to the ground as possible Drive slowly around turns (curves)

When using your extinguisher, should you get as close as possible to the fire?

No. When using the extinguisher, stay as far away from the fire as possible. Aim at the source or base of the fire, not up in the flames.

If stopped on a hill, how can you start moving without rolling back?

Put on the parking brake whenever necessary to keep from rolling back. Release the parking brake only when you have applied enough engine power to keep from rolling back.

What are some things you can do to reduce your stress before and while you drive?

Reduce your stress before and while you drive. Listen to "easy listening"music. Give the drive your full attention. Don't allow yourself to become distracted by talking on your cell phone, eating, etc. Be realistic about your travel time. Expect delays because of traffic, construction, or bad weather and make allowances. If you're going to be later than you expected -deal with it. Take a deep breath and accept the delay. Give other drivers the benefit of the doubt. Try to imagine why he or she is driving that way. Whatever their reason, it has nothing to do with you. Slow down and keep your following distance reasonable. Don't drive slowly in the left lane of traffic. Avoid gestures. Keep you hands on the wheel. Avoid making any gestures that might anger another driver, even seemingly harmless expressions of irritation like shaking your head. Be a cautious and courteous driver. If another driver seems eager to get in front of you, say, "Be my guest." This response will soon become a habit and you won't be as offended by other drivers' actions.

What are some tips to follow so you won't become a distracted driver?

Review and be totally familiar with all safety and usage features on any in-vehicle electronics, including your wireless or cell phone, before you drive. Pre-program radio stations. Pre-load you favorite CDs or cassette tapes. Clear the vehicle of any unnecessary objects. Review maps and plan your route before you begin driving. Adjust all mirrors for best all-round visibility before you start your trip. Don't attempt to read or write while you drive. Avoid smoking, eating and drinking while you drive. Don't engage in complex or emotionally intense conversations with other occupants.

Name some key steering system parts.

Steering wheel, steering shaft, hydraulic fluid reservoir, gearbox, pitman arm, drag link, steering knuckle, spindle, steering arm, power steering cylinder, tie rod.

What is the most important reason for doing a vehicle inspection?

Safety for yourself and other road users

Why should you be in the proper gear before starting down a hill?

Shift the transmission to a low gear before starting down the grade. DO NOT try to downshift after your speed had already built up . You'll NOT be able to shift into a lower gear. You may NOT even be able to get back into any gear and all engine braking effect will be lost. Forcing an automatic transmission into a lower gear at high speed could damage the transmission and also lead to loss of all engine braking effect.

How can you test the low pressure warning signal?

Shut the engine off when you have enough air pressure so that the low pressure warning signal is not on Turn the electrical power on and step on and off the brake pedal to reduce air tank pressure

What does "communicating" mean in safe driving?

Signaling your intentions and communicating your presence

Why put the starter switch key in your pocket during the pre-trip inspection?

So someone else won't start it while you are doing the inspection

When you turn suddenly while pulling doubles, which trailer is most likely to turn over?

The rear trailer is twice as likely to turn over as the tractor

Describe what the service line is for?

The service line (also called the control line or signal line) carries air, which is controlled by the foot brake or the trailer hand brake.

What are the slack adjusters?

The slack adjuster is the part of an air-brake system that is used to adjust the brakes when needed

Name some suspension system defects.

The suspension system holds up the vehicle and its load. It keeps the axles in place. Therefore, broken suspension parts can be extremely dangerous. Look for: Spring hangers that allow movement of axle from proper position. See Figure 2.2. Cracked or broken spring hangers. Missing or broken leaves in any leaf spring. If one-fourth or more are missing, it will put the vehicle "out of service", but any defect could be dangerous. See Figure 2.3. Broken leaves in a multi-leaf spring or leaves that have shifted so they might hit a tire or other part. Leaking shock absorbers. Torque rod or arm, u-bolts, spring hangers, or other axle positioning parts that are cracked, damaged, or missing. Air suspension systems that are damaged and/or leaking. See Figure 2.4. Any loose, cracked, broken, or missing frame members.

How do you recognize a distracted driver?

Watch for: Vehicles that may drift over the lane divider lines or within their own lane. Vehicles traveling at inconsistent speeds. Drivers who are preoccupied with maps, food, cigarettes, cell phones, or other objects. Drivers who appear to be involved in conversations with their passengers.

What should wheel bearing seals be checked for?

Wheel bearing/seals not leaking.

What is offtracking?

When a vehicle goes around a corner, the rear wheels follow a different path than the front wheels. This is called "offtracking" or " Cheating" .

What effects can wet brakes cause? How can you avoid these problems?

When driving in heavy rain or deep standing water, your brakes will get wet. Water in the brakes can cause the brakes to be weak, to apply unevenly, or to grab. This can cause lack of braking power, wheel lockups, pulling to one side or the other, and jackknife if you pull a trailer. Avoid driving through deep puddles or flowing water if possible. If not, you should: Slow down and place transmission in a low gear. Gently put on the brakes. This presses linings against brake drums or discs and keeps mud, silt, sand, and water from getting in. Increase engine rpm and cross the water while keeping light pressure on the brakes. When out of the water, maintain light pressure on the brakes for a short distance to heat them up and dry them out. Make a test stop when safe to do so. Check behind to make sure no one is following, then apply the brakes to be sure they work well. If not, dry them out further as described above. (CAUTION: Do not apply too much brake pressure and accelerator at the same time, or you can overheat brake drums and linings.)

How do you use in-vehicle communications equipment cautiously?

When possible, pull off the road in a safe, legal place when making/ receiving a call on communication equipment. If possible, turn the cell phone off until your destination is reached. Position the cell phone within easy reach. Pre-program cell phones with commonly called numbers. If you have to place a call, find a safe place to pull off the road. Do not place a call while driving. Some jurisdictions require that only hands-free devices can be used while driving. Even these devices are unsafe to use when you are moving down the road. If you must use your cell phone, keep conversations short. Develop ways to get free of long-winded friends and associates while on the road. Never use the cell phone for social visiting. Hang up in tricky traffic situations. Do not use the equipment when approaching locations with heavy traffic, road construction, heavy pedestrian traffic, or severe weather conditions. Do not attempt to type or read messages on your satellite system while driving.

What is the minimum tread depth for front tires? For other tires?

You need at least 4/32-inch tread depth in every major groove on front tires. You need 2/32 inch on other tires. No fabric should show through the tread or sidewall.

Describe what the trailer air supply control does?

You push it in to supply the trailer with air, and pull it out to shut the air off, and put on the trailer emergency brakes

What are the danger signals of drowsy driving?

Your eyes close or go out of focus by themselves. You have trouble keeping your head up. You can't stop yawning. You have wandering, disconnected thoughts. You don't remember driving the last few miles. You drift between lanes, tailgate, or miss traffic signs. You keep jerking the truck back into the lane. You have drifted off the road and narrowly missed crashing.

Why should you not use the trailer hand brake to straighten out a jackknifing trailer?

Your trailer can swing out and strike other vehicles that will cause your tractor to jackknife very quickly