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Fill a Valid Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a vital tool used by drivers to ensure that their vehicles are safe and roadworthy before embarking on a trip. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could affect vehicle performance or safety, promoting responsible driving practices. To enhance your safety and compliance, consider filling out the form by clicking the button below.

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Contents

Before embarking on any journey, especially in the realm of commercial driving, a thorough examination of the vehicle is not just advisable; it is essential. The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist serves as a critical tool for ensuring safety and compliance on the road. This checklist encompasses various aspects of vehicle readiness, including an assessment of the exterior, interior, and mechanical components. Drivers are prompted to check the tires for proper inflation and tread depth, ensuring optimal traction and stability. The lights, signals, and brakes must be inspected to confirm they are functioning correctly, as these elements are vital for safe navigation. Additionally, the checklist encourages a review of the fluid levels, such as oil and coolant, to prevent any potential breakdowns during transit. By systematically addressing these areas, drivers not only safeguard their own well-being but also contribute to the safety of others on the road. This proactive approach fosters a culture of responsibility and diligence, underscoring the importance of preparation in the transportation industry.

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Safety Inspection Report: Conducted periodically, this report assesses a vehicle's compliance with safety regulations. It shares a common goal with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist: to ensure that the vehicle is safe for operation.
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Vehicle Registration Document: While primarily a legal document, it includes essential information about the vehicle. Like the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, it is crucial for ensuring that the vehicle is authorized for use on public roads.
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Document Example

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

Oil Dip Stick

Oil Fill

	Accessory Drive
	Belts
	Water Pump
Turbo Charger	Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

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
	Radiator Brace
Steering Gear
Box
Pitman Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR	ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T
 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
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	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
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Box
o Mounted properly
o No missing parts, nuts or bolts
o Lines and hoses not leaking or	Pitman Arm
broken	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

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

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

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

 HOSES AND LINES			FRONT BRAKES
 HOSES AND LINES
o Mounted securely		Service Brake
o	Not leaking	Service Brake
o	Not cracked or frayed	Chamber
o	Not cracked or frayed		Tire
			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		Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing
parts		Steering
		Knuckle	Brake Drum
 DRUMS			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

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	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

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
	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

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
Spring Brake
Chamber	Control Arm
	Control Arm
Spring Brake
Chamber	Air Bag
	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
Locking
Pins
Control Arm	Air Bag
Control Arm
Mount
	Tire
Control Arm
	Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

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

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
 JAWS
o Check that the locking jaws are fully
closed around the shank of the king pin	10

Form Specs

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that vehicles are safe and roadworthy before they are operated. It helps identify potential issues that could lead to accidents or breakdowns.
Components	The checklist typically includes items such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels. Each component must be thoroughly inspected to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Frequency	Drivers are required to complete the checklist before each trip. This routine helps maintain vehicle safety and performance over time.
Governing Laws	In many states, including California and Texas, the use of a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is mandated by state transportation regulations, which align with federal safety requirements.

Crucial Questions on This Form

What is the purpose of the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that a vehicle is safe and ready for operation before it hits the road. By completing this checklist, drivers can identify any potential issues that may affect the safety and performance of the vehicle. This proactive approach helps prevent accidents and breakdowns, contributing to the safety of both the driver and others on the road.

Who is responsible for completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

It is the responsibility of the driver to complete the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. Drivers should take the time to thoroughly inspect their vehicle before starting their journey. This responsibility is crucial for ensuring the vehicle's safety and compliance with regulations.

What items should be included in the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

The checklist typically includes various items that need to be inspected. Common categories include:

Exterior: Check for any visible damage, fluid leaks, or tire condition.
Interior: Ensure that all controls are functioning properly and that the seatbelt is operational.
Under the Hood: Inspect fluid levels, belts, and hoses for wear or damage.
Brakes and Lights: Test the brakes and check all lights, including turn signals and hazard lights.

By covering these areas, drivers can identify issues that may require attention.

How often should the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist be completed?

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist should be completed before every trip. This routine practice ensures that any changes or new issues are identified before the vehicle is used. Consistency in this process promotes safety and reliability.

What should a driver do if they find a problem during the inspection?

If a driver discovers a problem during the inspection, they should not operate the vehicle until the issue is resolved. It is essential to report the problem to a supervisor or a qualified mechanic. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent accidents and ensure the vehicle remains safe for use.

Is there a specific format for the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist can vary by organization or regulatory requirements. However, it should be clear and easy to understand. Many organizations provide a standardized form to ensure that all necessary items are covered. Drivers should use the format provided by their employer or regulatory body.

What are the consequences of not completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?

Failing to complete the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist can lead to serious consequences. These may include:

Increased risk of accidents due to undetected vehicle issues.
Legal repercussions for not adhering to safety regulations.
Financial costs associated with accidents or breakdowns.

Ultimately, neglecting this important step can jeopardize the safety of the driver and others on the road.

Documents used along the form

When preparing for a trip, especially in a commercial or fleet context, several documents complement the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. These documents ensure that all safety and operational aspects are covered, providing peace of mind to drivers and fleet managers alike. Below are some commonly used forms that work in conjunction with the checklist.

Driver's Daily Log: This form records the hours of service for drivers, ensuring compliance with regulations regarding driving time and rest periods. It helps monitor fatigue levels and promotes safety on the road.
Medical Power of Attorney Form: This form is essential for appointing someone to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so yourself. Understanding its importance in health care planning is crucial for Ohio residents. For more details, refer to All Ohio Forms.
Vehicle Maintenance Record: This document tracks all maintenance and repair activities performed on the vehicle. Keeping this record updated helps identify recurring issues and ensures that the vehicle remains in optimal working condition.
Accident Report Form: In the event of an incident, this form is crucial for documenting details such as the time, location, and circumstances of the accident. Accurate reporting aids in insurance claims and legal matters.
Fuel Purchase Log: This log records fuel purchases, including dates, amounts, and costs. It assists in tracking fuel expenses and analyzing fuel efficiency, which can help in budgeting and operational planning.

These documents, when used alongside the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, create a comprehensive approach to vehicle safety and compliance. By maintaining these records, drivers and fleet operators can ensure that they are well-prepared for their journeys, ultimately enhancing safety and efficiency on the road.

Misconceptions

When it comes to the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist, many people have misunderstandings that can lead to confusion or improper use. Here are ten common misconceptions:

It’s optional for drivers. Many believe that completing the checklist is not mandatory. However, it is a crucial step for safety and compliance.
Only new drivers need to use it. Some think that experienced drivers can skip the checklist. In reality, every driver should perform this inspection, regardless of experience.
It only covers the exterior of the vehicle. While the exterior is important, the checklist also includes interior checks, such as the functionality of lights and signals.
It takes too much time. Many drivers feel that the inspection is time-consuming. However, a thorough check can often be completed in a reasonable amount of time and can prevent major issues later.
It’s just a formality. Some view the checklist as a mere formality. In fact, it serves a vital purpose in ensuring vehicle safety and compliance with regulations.
Once completed, it doesn’t need to be revisited. Some drivers think that once they fill out the checklist, it’s done for the day. Regular inspections should be part of every trip.
It only needs to be done at the start of a trip. Many believe inspections are only necessary before starting a journey. However, checks should also be done during breaks and at the end of the trip.
All vehicles have the same checklist. Some think that one standard checklist applies to all vehicles. In reality, checklists can vary based on vehicle type and size.
It’s only for commercial drivers. While commercial drivers are required to use it, personal vehicle owners can also benefit from regular inspections.
If nothing seems wrong, the checklist isn’t necessary. Many assume that if the vehicle appears fine, an inspection isn’t needed. However, hidden issues can exist that only a thorough check will reveal.

Understanding these misconceptions can help improve safety and compliance for all drivers. Regularly using the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is a proactive step toward ensuring a safe driving experience.