You can begin your pre-trip as you approach your vehicle.  Look for any obvious problems; fluid on the ground, any damage to body, a slight lean indicating a flat tire or suspension problem.

Also, check for the following:

Fuel Tank

  • Secured to frame with at least 2 metal bands with rubber backing.
  • Ensure no visible damage and not cracked or leaking.

Catwalk and Steps

  • No visible damage.
  • Properly secured.

Air and Electrical Lines

  • Airlines – No visible damage or leaking.
  • Lines are not dragging on the catwalk.
  • Glad Hands – Check seals are in good condition. Ensure they are properly hooked up and won’t disconnect.
  • Electrical line – No visible damage. Locked and secured into trailer outlet.

Brakes on Tractor & Trailer

  • Brake Shoes – No visible damage or debris.
  • Brake Drum – No cracks or visible damage.
  • Air Lines – Secure to frame and brake chamber, not cracked or leaking.
  • Brake Chamber – No visible damage.
  • Push Rod & Slack Adjuster – No visible damage.
  • S-cam shaft to S-cam roller – No damage.

Tires & Rims on Tractor & Trailer

  • Check for unusual wear and damage.
  • Tread depth should be at least 4/32 inch.
  • Valve Stem – Secure, straight, not cracked, bent, broken or leaking. All valve caps are present and tight.
  • A good rule of thumb is tire pressure should be between 100 and 110 psi at 70 degrees F.
  • Rim – Not cracked or broken.
  • Lug Nuts – All there and no visible cracks or damage.
  • Hub – No visible damage or leaks. Ensure lube is at the proper level.
  • No separation cuts, cupping or bulging.

Tractor

  • Bumper – Secure, not broken.
  • Grill – Secure, not cracked broken.
  • Headlights – Secure, clean, and not cracked or broken.
  • Steps – Secure, not cracked, bent or broken. No sign of excessive wear, free of oil, grease, and debris

Lights

  • Low beams – Physically get out and check to ensure lights are working.
  • Running lights – Physically get out and check to ensure lights are working on tractor & trailer.
  • Turn signals – Physically get out and check to ensure lights are working on tractor & trailer for both left and right signal.
  • Hazards (4 way) – Physically get out and check to ensure lights are working on tractor & trailer.
  • Brake lights – Pull spike (trailer hand brake) and physically get out and check to ensure lights are working on tractor & trailer.
  • High beams – Physically get out and check to ensure lights are working.

Battery Box

  • Batteries – Secured with no visible damage or signs of leaking.
  • Wires and Connectors – not corroded or damaged.

Drive Shaft

  • Secure, straight, no visible damage
  • U-joints – Secure with no visible damage

Suspension on Tractor & Trailer

  • U-bolts – Secured & no visible damage
  • Shocks – No visible damage.
  • Air bags – No damage or leaks. Ensure they are inflated.
  • Springs – No cracks, broken bolts, or other damage.
  • Spring hangers – Secure, not cracked, bent or broken.
  • Shocks – Secure, not cracked or broken.

Trailer

  • Landing Gear & Pads – No visible damage.

  • Handle is secured.

  • Cross Members – No visible damage.

  • Marking Lamps – None missing, broken or burnt out.

  • Doors – No excessive damage. Check hinges and seals are in good condition. Handles are secured.

  • D.O.T. Bumper – No excessive damage or wear. Check reflective tape is in good condition.

  • License Plate – Secured and not obstructed. Clean enough to read.
  • License Plate Light – In working condition.

Mud Flaps

  • No damage or tares.
  • None are missing.

Remember, by completing proper pre-trip inspections on your equipment, you can avoid costly fines and roadside repairs.