Man-01 Nas B SG v1.7

North AmeRICAN STANDARD
part b
Student Guide
Version 1.7 June 2017
Course Objective: Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to
apply the appropriate FMCSR and procedures to successfully conduct a Level I Inspection.
Module Hours Instructional Goal
Introduction 1.0 Provide a general introduction and overview of the
schedule.
Introduction to the Inspection 1.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to able to apply the FMCSR to successfully
complete a Level I Inspection.
Initial Tractor Inspection 2.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to successfully complete a Level I
Inspection.
Mid-Section Inspection 7.0 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to successfully initiate a Mid-Section
Inspection.
Trailer Wheel Inspection 3.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to properly inspect the trailer sides and
wheels.
Subsequent Tractor 7.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
Inspection be able to properly inspect the tractor sides and
wheels.
Axle Inspection 6.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to properly inspect the axles of a CMV.
Brake Adjustment 2.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to properly inspect the brakes of a CMV.
Tractor Interior Inspection 2.5 Upon completion of this module, students should be
able to properly inspect the interior of a CMV.
Fifth Wheel Movement 1.0 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to properly inspect the fifth wheel
movement of a CMV.
Complete the Inspection 4.5 Upon completion of this module, students should
be able to document all violations.
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Version 1.7 North American Standard (NAS B)
June 2017 Introduction
Slide 1
Content
N/A
Personal Notes
For Official Use Only

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North American Standard (NAS B) Version 1.7
Introduction June 2017
Slide 2
Content
The NAS B classroom material and exercises are designed to ensure you can apply your
knowledge of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) in determining carrier
compliance during an inspection.
This introduction will provide an overview of the conduct expected in this course and how to
navigate the materials, along with guidelines for your participation and how your performance
will be measured. It also includes a general workplace safety message that applies to all your
work-related activities as either a federal employee or one of our state partners.
Personal Notes

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Slide 3
Content
During this course, we will be covering the following modules:
• Introduction to the Inspection
• Initial Tractor Inspection
• Mid-Section Inspection
• Trailer and Wheel Inspection
• Subsequent Tractor Inspection
• Axle Inspection
• Brake Inspection
• Tractor Interior Inspection
• Fifth Wheel Movement
• Completing the Inspection
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Slide 4
Content
The student guide contains the slide number, the slide shown, and the content for each slide. Use
your student guide to follow along with the slideshow presentation. It also provides a space for
taking notes.
Personal Notes

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Slide 5
Content
The instructor may have you access the FMCSR to view information or answer questions about
what it says.
Expect to actively participate by answering any questions that the instructor may ask you, or by
accessing any information or content that the instructor asks you to view.
It is recommended that you keep the latest version of the FMCSR, in print or digital format, open
during the course delivery as you will be frequently asked to view, verify, and respond to
information contained in these references.
You will also be accessing the North American Standard Out-of-Service Criteria (OOSC).
Personal Notes

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Slide 6
Content
CVSA Operational Policies and Inspection Bulletins are to be followed when conducting
the NAS Level I Inspection.
Personal Notes

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Slide 7
Content
When you see a toolbox icon in the lower left hand corner of a screen, this indicates that there is
an example document or an exercise to access using your toolbox. The toolbox is available to
you in print. At the instructor’s request, you will open the given module’s toolbox and select the
appropriate document as an example or for review.
Accessing these toolbox items is part of the course flow, and you are expected to fully participate
by opening documents and by asking or answering questions. Because your field or region
influences how you understand and perform various job tasks, your participation is an important
part of the dynamic, planned classroom-learning process and allows you to share critical
information with other students and the instructor.
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Slide 8
Content
At the end of the course, there will be a written exam covering all the course objectives. There
will be at least one question per objective. You will need a score of at least 80% to pass.
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Slide 9
Content
After successfully passing both tests (NAS A and B) with an 80% or higher score, you will be
required to complete 32 Level I inspections with a certified Level I inspector as soon as possible;
these inspections must be completed no later than six months after the completion of the NAS
course. Following these guidelines as outlined completes the Commercial Vehicle Safety
Alliance (CVSA) Level I inspector certification process. Once you are certified, you are required
to maintain certification. Refer to jurisdictional policy for requirements.
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Slide 10
Content
Prior to conducting NAS B vehicle inspections, each student must complete North American
Standard (NAS) Part A.
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Slide 11
Content
Employee Safety
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Slide 12
Content
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) may include:
• Eye protection
• Clothing
• Footwear
• Hand protection
• Respiratory protection
o Training and fitting will be required for respirators
• Hearing protection
If it is posted, you must wear it. Use appropriate eye protection that meets American National
Standards Institute (ANSI) standards, including safety glasses, safety goggles, and a face mask.
Ensure that you use proper filter lenses for UV shade protection from gas or electric arc welding
operations. Employees should develop a personal safety culture at work and at home. Use of eye
wear, gloves, and safety shoes should be practiced. After all, we only get one pair of eyes, it is

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harder to perform daily functions if you are missing digits, and foot injuries almost guarantee lost
work time.
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Slide 13
Content
Adhere to the following in terms of personal safety:
• Wash hands upon completion of activities
• Promptly launder inspection clothing
• Don’t eat, drink, or smoke
• Avoid wearing contact lenses
• Avoid wearing loose clothing
• Avoid wearing skirts or open-toed shoes
• Restrain long hair with bands and caps
• Avoid setting work equipment on floors
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Slide 14
Content
Be aware of the following with respect to fire protection:
• Emergency response/evacuation procedures
• Locations of fire suppression/safety devices
• Locations of egress routes and exits
• Ignition sources
• Proper and compatible storage of flammables and other materials
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Slide 15
Content
Summary
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Slide 16
Content
In this introductory module, we have discussed the structure and requirements of this course,
how to access course materials and regulatory documents, and essential safety information.
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June 2017 Introduction to the Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Introduction to the Inspection
Personal Notes

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Introduction to the Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to apply the FMCSR to successfully
complete a Level I Inspection.
Personal Notes

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Slide 3
Content
• Identify Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (FMCSR) and North American Standard
Out-Of-Service Criteria (OOSC)
• Recognize North American Standard (NAS) Inspection Procedures
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Slide 4
Content
This module covers the following information:
• Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
• Out-Of-Service Criteria
• NAS Inspection Procedures
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Slide 5
Content
Why We Do What We Do? (Video)
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Slide 6
Content
When used in a safety inspection, the FMCSR and OOSC help answer four questions:
1. Is the driver in violation?

Allow the driver to proceed, noting the violations on the inspection report. Violations must
be corrected and certified proof must be sent to the inspecting agency within 15 days.
2. Is the driver out of service?
Declare the driver out of service until the violations are corrected.
3. Is the transportation vehicle in violation?
Allow the vehicle to proceed, noting the violations on the inspection report. The vehicle may
complete this trip only; it may not be re-dispatched until all noted violations are corrected.
The carrier must correct the violations and send certified proof to the inspecting agency
within 15 days.
4. Is the transportation vehicle out of service?

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Declare the vehicle out of service until the violations are corrected.
NAS A focused on the first two (driver-related) questions. This course, NAS B, will focus on the
last two (vehicle-related) questions.
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Slide 7
Content
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations
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Slide 8
Content
The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) is a publication of the general rules of the federal
government. The CFR is divided into 50 titles that represent broad areas subject to federal
regulation. Each title is divided into subtitles that usually bear the name of the issuing agency.
Title 49 CFR provides regulations relating to transportation.
All roadside safety inspectors use Chapter III of Title 49 of the FMCSR for information.
However, sometimes an inspector may need to research an issue in the field that is not found in
the FMCSR. The information below summarizes where to go in Title 49 for information:
1. Subtitle A: Office of the Secretary of Transportation (Parts 1–99)
2. Subtitle B: Other Regulations Relating to Transportation
I. Research and Special Programs Administration, Department of Transportation (Parts
100–199)
II. Federal Railroad Administration, Department of Transportation (Parts 200–299)
III. Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Department of Transportation (Parts
300–399)
IV. Coast Guard, Department of Transportation (Parts 400–499)

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V. National Highway Safety Administration, Department of Transportation (Parts 500–

599)
VI. Federal Transit Administration, Department of Transportation (Parts 600–699)
VII. National Railroad Passenger Corporation (AMTRAK) (Parts 700–799)
VIII. National Transportation Safety Board (Parts 800–899)
IX. Interstate Commerce Commission (Parts 1000–1399)
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Slide 9
Content
Finding references in the FMCSR may seem a little difficult at first. However, with practice and
an understanding of the organization of the FMCSR, the references will be easy to locate. The
list below summarizes the organization of the FMCSR:
1. Part 350; Commercial Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program

2. Part 382; Controlled Substance and Alcohol Use and Testing
3. Part 383; Commercial Driver’s License Standards; Requirements and Penalties
4. Part 385; Safety Fitness Procedures
5. Part 386; Rules of Practice for Motor Carrier Safety and Hazardous Material Proceedings
6. Part 387; Minimum Levels of Financial Responsibility for Motor Carriers
7. Part 390; General
8. Part 391; Qualifications of Drivers
9. Part 392; Driving of Motor Vehicles
10. Part 393; Parts and Accessories Necessary for Safe Operation
11. Part 394; [Reserved]
12. Part 395; Hours of Service of Drivers

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13. Part 396; Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

14. Part 397; Transportation of Hazardous Materials; Driving and Parking Rules
15. Part 398; Transportation of Migrant Workers
16. Part 399; Employee Safety and Health Standards
17. Part 40; Procedure for Transportation Workplace Drug and Alcohol Testing Programs
1. Appendix A; [Removed and Reserved]

2. Appendix B; Special Agents
3. Appendix C; [Removed and Reserved]
4. Appendix D; [Removed and Reserved]
5. Appendix E; [Removed and Reserved]
6. Appendix F; Commercial Zones
7. Appendix G; Minimum Periodic Inspection Standards
8. Appendix H; Enforcement and Liens
1. DOT Interpretations
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Slide 10
Content
There are four possible outcomes of a Level I inspection:
1. Violations are not found, and the vehicle is in complete compliance. Issue a Commercial
Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) decal (to be discussed).
2. Violations are found, but the violations are not Critical Vehicle Inspection Items. Issue a
CVSA decal.
3. Critical Vehicle Inspection Item violations are found, but the violations do not require the
vehicle to be declared out of service. Do not issue a CVSA decal.
4. Violations are found that require the vehicle to be declared out of service. Do not issue a
CVSA decal.
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Slide 11
Content
Out-of-Service Criteria.
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Slide 12
Content
• Any violations discovered during the inspection process may result in an OOS action. During
a Level I Inspection, OOS means the driver cannot continue to operate a CMV until the
violation is corrected and he/she is in compliance with the FMCSR.
• The policy statement in Part II provides guidance on various vehicle components and
procedures.
• The NAS OOSC are developed and implemented by the CVSA and its members. OOSC are
used to determine if violations found during routine inspections will result in an OOS
condition. There are four parts of the NAS OOSC:
o Part I—Driver
o Part II—Vehicle
o Part III—HM
o Part IV—Administrative (operating authority and federal OOS orders)
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Slide 13
Content
1. Applying the OOSC to violations found during a NAS Level I inspection is a four-step
process: Identify the violation in the OOSC
2. Identify the specific requirements for that category
3. Read the OOSC
4. If the OOSC apply, declare the driver/vehicle OOS until the violation is corrected
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Slide 14
Content
NAS Inspection
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Slide 15
Content
To standardize safety inspections across North America, the CVSA recommends a procedure to
follow for each safety inspection performed on a commercial motor vehicle in North America.
This course follows the procedure recommended by CVSA. A safety inspection may be one of
the following types:
1. North American Standard Driver/Vehicle Inspection
2. Walk-Around Driver/Vehicle Inspection
3. Driver-Only Inspection
4. Special Inspection
5. Vehicle-Only Inspection
6. Enhanced Radioactive Inspection
Part B of this course teaches the NAS procedure for performing a Level I safety inspection.
Level I inspections focus on the vehicle.
There are additional inspection levels that may be conducted at the direction of our department.

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Personal Notes

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Slide 16
Content
The CVSA has suggested the following procedure for conducting safety inspections. As detailed
in Part A of the course, the Level III inspection consists of the first 12 steps. This portion of the
course focuses on the vehicle inspection, or steps 13 to 37, outlined on Slides 16 and 17. The
complete procedure is located in the toolbox.
13. Prepare driver for vehicle inspection
14. Inspect front of tractor
15. Inspect left front side of tractor
16. Inspect left saddle tank area
17. Inspect trailer front
18. Check left rear tractor area
19. Inspect left side of trailer
20. Inspect left rear trailer wheels
21. Inspect rear of the trailer
22. Inspect double and triple trailers
23. Inspect right rear trailer wheels

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24. Inspect right side of trailer

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Slide 17
Content
25. Inspect right rear tractor area
26. Inspect right saddle tank area
27. Inspect right front side of tractor
28. Inspect steering axle
29. Inspect axle(s) 2 and/or 3
30. Inspect axle(s) 4 and/or 5
31. Check brake adjustment
32. Inspect tractor protection system
33. Inspect brake system warning devices
34. Test air loss rate
35. Check steering wheel lash
36. Check fifth wheel movement
37. Complete the inspection

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For steps involving “under the vehicle” procedures, inspectors will learn to check specific parts.
Some of these parts may be visible and accessible from outside the vehicle, and should be
inspected throughout the walk-around inspection.
Some examples include:

• Fluid leaks
• Accessories mounted on the frame
• Steering parts
• Suspension parts
• Parts that can fall off on the roadway
• Hoses (chafed, etc.)
• Wiring
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Slide 18
Content
What are the key FMCSR Part numbers used during a NAS Level I inspection?
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Slide 19
Content
What is the 21st step of the NAS Level I inspection procedure?
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Slide 20
Content
Summary
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Slide 21
Content
Students should be able to:
• Identify Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations and North American Standard OOSC
• Recognize North American Standard Inspection Procedures
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June 2017 Initial Tractor Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Initial Tractor Inspection
Personal Notes

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Initial Tractor Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students must successfully initiate a NAS Level I Inspection.
Personal Notes

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Slide 3
Content
• Prepare the driver for vehicle inspection
• Inspect the front of the tractor
• Inspect the left front side of the tractor
• Inspect the left saddle tank area
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Slide 4
Content
• Step 13: Prepare the driver for vehicle inspection
• Step 14: Inspect the front of the tractor
• Step 15: Inspect the left front side of the tractor
• Step 16: Inspect the left saddle tank area
Personal Notes

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Slide 5
Content
Step 13: Prepare Driver for Vehicle Inspection
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Slide 6
Content
Once the driver portion of the inspection is complete, it is time to prepare the driver for the
vehicle portion of the safety inspection.
Personal Notes

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Slide 7
Content
The first thing the inspector should do is explain the procedure to the driver. The inspector
should explain to the driver that the inspection will start at the front of the vehicle and proceed
counter-clockwise down the left side of the vehicle on the driver’s side, facing traffic. The
inspector continues, going completely around the vehicle and up the right side.
The inspector should instruct the driver to remain at the controls and only do what he or she is
told. Explain that it will be necessary to turn the key off and on during the inspection process.
“CVSA Operational Policy 5” is located in the toolbox and contains inspector safety
considerations.
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Slide 8
Content
The inspector should teach the driver the hand signals that will be used during the inspection,
ensuring communication during the inspection. This is especially important when inspecting
lamps, turn signals, and brakes at the rear of the vehicle.
Hand signals are more effective than verbal commands. It is important that the driver understand
this to avoid confusion with other nearby inspectors and drivers. Shouting or yelling at the driver
can cause confusion and is hazardous for the driver and other nearby inspectors.
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Slide 9
Content
Chock blocks must be placed in front of and behind the driver’s side drive axle. Always inform
the driver that this has been done, and explain the inspection procedure.
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Slide 10
Content
After placing the chock blocks and explaining the procedure, instruct the driver to prepare the
vehicle as follows:
1. Place the vehicle transmission out of gear.
2. Release all brakes. (Remind the driver that chock blocks have been placed)
3. Make sure air pressure is at the maximum.
4. Turn off the engine.
5. Turn key to “on” position.
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Slide 11
Content
Step 14: Inspect Front of Tractor
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Slide 12
Content
Once preparation for the vehicle inspection is complete, the next step is to inspect the front of the
tractor.
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Slide 13
Content
There are two major inspection points at the front of the tractor:
1. Head Lamps and Turn Signals
2. Windshield Wipers/Washers
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Slide 14
Content
While standing in front of the tractor, inspect the head lamps and turn signals. Table 1 in §393.11
sets forth the required lighting devices by type of commercial motor vehicle. Diagrams
illustrating the locations of lighting devices and reflectors, by type and size of commercial motor
vehicle, are shown immediately following Table 1.
All lamps are inspected for possible defects, which include missing lamps, inoperative lamps,
improper color, and unsecured mounting.
Section 393.9 must be used for inoperative required lamps, and §393.11 must be used for
missing required lamps.
There are requirements for all reflectors with respect to:
• Mounting
• Specifications
• Certification and markings
• Retro-reflective surfaces
Personal Notes
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Slide 15
Content
A single combination light can be used to meet the requirements of a clearance and marker light.
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Slide 16
Content
You are inspecting the front of this tractor. Do the turn signals comply with regulations?
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Slide 17
Content
It is important to ask the driver to operate the windshield wipers and washers during the safety
inspection, allowing the inspector to ensure that the wiping system functions properly.
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Slide 18
Content
• There are three conditions under which windshield damage is allowed.
• There are exemptions for windshield mounted safety technology (i.e. video event recorders
and lane departure warning devices) to be placed on various locations of the windshield.
These exemptions can be found in the Federal Register or at www.CVSA.org
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Slide 19
Content
Check for:
• Cracked or damaged areas (does not include a single crack)
• Required decals, stickers, and labels that extend upward more than 4 ½” from the bottom of
the windshield
• Defects found in the following areas do not apply:
o Area below the top-most portion of the steering wheel
o The 2” border at the top of the windshield
o The 1” border at each side of the windshield
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Slide 20
Content
Windshield Condition/Prohibitions
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Slide 21
Content
Windshield Obstructions
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Slide 22
Content
In addition to the two major NAS inspection points at the front of the tractor, the inspector
should also check the following:
• Rear-vision mirrors
• Horn
• Body securement
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Slide 23
Content
Step 15: Inspect Left Front Side of Tractor
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Slide 24
Content
After inspecting the front of the tractor, the NAS Level I Inspection procedure indicates that the
inspector moves to the left front side of the tractor.
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Slide 25
Content
There are two major inspection points at the left front side of the tractor:
1. Left Front Wheel, Rim, and Hub
2. Left Front Tire
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Slide 26
Content
While standing on the left front side of the tractor, inspect the left front wheel and rim. Most
wheels on commercial motor vehicles are either disc or spoke. Quite often the two are together
on the same vehicle. The images on the slide represent two common types of wheels.
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Slide 27
Content
The wheel should be inspected for the following:
• Cracks and broken or missing lugs, studs, or clamps
• Loose or damaged lug nuts and elongated stud holes
• Cracks across spokes and in the web area
• Slippage in the clamp areas
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Slide 28
Content
Bearing Cap
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Slide 29
Content
While standing on the left front side of the tractor, inspect the rim. The rim supports the tire.
There are single-piece rims and multi-piece rims. On most inspections, it will be difficult to
determine which you are looking at.
Regardless of type, the rim should be inspected for the following defects:
• Cracked rims
• Unseated, mismatched, bent, or cracked locking rings
Safety Tip: When locking rings are mismatched, bent, or cracked, USE CAUTION!
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Slide 30
Content
While standing on the left front side of the tractor and inspecting the left front wheel and rim,
also inspect the left front tire.
Specifically, the tire should be examined for:
• Tire condition
• Tire pressure
• Tread groove depth
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Slide 31
Content
The overall condition of the tire is a very important inspection item. When inspecting the tire as a
whole check for:
• Bulges
• Leaks
• Sidewall separation
• Cuts on the sidewall
• Worn spots
• Exposed fabric/steel belt material
• Tire contact with any part of the vehicle, including its mate in a dual set, at the time of
inspection
• A blowout patch, boot, sidewall plugs, or other ply repair
• Markings that would exclude use on the steering axle
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Slide 32
Content
When inspecting tires, only measure tire pressure if there is evidence the tire is under-inflated.
The OOSC states that a tire with 50% or less air pressure will result in the vehicle being declared
out of service (OOS). The picture shows proper inflation and the problems under- or over-
inflation can cause.
The tire inflation guidance found in CVSA Operational Policy 15 must be followed when citing
flat tires.
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Slide 33
Content
Tire Inflation
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Slide 34
Content
Major tread grooves are molded through the complete thickness of the tread rubber and are the
deepest tread grooves made by the manufacturer (any groove containing a tread wear indicator).
They may run around or across the tire surface.
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Slide 35
Content
• The major tread groove on steering axle tires must be at least 4/32” deep. In other words, if a
measurement of tread depth (taken at any point on a steering axle tire) is less than 4/32”,
there is a violation.
• Measurements of tread should be taken on a major tread groove (do not measure at tie-bars,
wear-bars or water sipes). Water sipes are the small, designed lines on a tire tread that allow
water to flow away from the tread grooves.
• The inspector should concentrate on worn areas of each tire measured.
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Slide 36
Content
A regrooved tire is one that has new grooves cut into it. As stated in §393.75(e), certain trucks or
truck-tractors may not use regrooved tires on the steering axle. The inspector should not assume
a tire marked “regroovable” has been regrooved. Manufacturers use this marking to indicate
when a tire may be regrooved.
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Slide 37
Content
Re-grooved Tire
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Slide 38
Content
A recapped tire is made by bonding new tread rubber to a used tire. Buses are not allowed to
have regrooved, recapped, or retread tires on steering axles.
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Slide 39
Content
Step 16: Inspect Left Saddle Tank Area
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Slide 40
Content
The NAS inspection procedure directs the inspector to move to the left saddle tank area after
inspecting the left front side of the tractor.
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Slide 41
Content
There are two major inspection points at the left saddle tank area:
1. Left Fuel Tank(s)
2. Exhaust System
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Slide 42
Content
While standing at the left saddle tank area, inspect the left fuel tank. Diesel is the most
commonly used fuel in commercial motor vehicles; however, other types of fuel may be used
(e.g., gasoline, propane, and compressed natural gas). When inspecting a fuel tank, check the
following:
• General condition of the tank. Check for loose mounting, leaks, or other damage. Check for
loose or missing caps.
• Leakage. Check for signs of leaking fuel on the ground below the tank. In addition, ensure
that the fill pipe is located so that fuel may not spill onto the exhaust during filling.
• Placement of the tank. The tank cannot be forward of the front axle. In addition, the fuel tank
or fill pipe cannot extend beyond the widest part of the vehicle. Finally, the fill pipe cannot
be located inside the passenger compartment.
These inspection items are most common to vehicles equipped with diesel and gasoline fuel
systems.
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Slide 43
Content
Left Fuel Tank
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Slide 44
Content
Suspected leaking alternative fuel systems must be verified before an OOS condition exists. For
CNG, LPG, or LNG, a bubble test using a non-ammonia, non-corrosive soap solution or a
flammable gas detection meter must be used.
Characteristics of alternative fuel systems:
• Very high pressure leaks blow bubbles away.
• Ice may form on connections, fittings, and the regulator for reasons other than leaks.
• Some brief fuel leakage or decompression may occur during refueling, causing temporary
frosting of CNG or LPG system parts.
• Knowledge of the fuel system may be necessary to differentiate between leaking gases from
exhaust or venting. The magnitude and location of the leak is important.
• LNG evaporates very quickly.
• A white fog coming from a vehicle with an alternative fuel system indicates a liquid leak; it
will cause a freeze burn and should be immediately declared OOS, with all sources of
ignition shut down.

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Personal Notes

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Slide 45
Content
Vehicles with leaking gaseous fuel systems must be parked safely. Gases escaping from
Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) systems are lighter than air
and will rise. If the vehicle is parked inside a building or under a canopy, roof, or similar cover,
combustible gases can collect beneath the ceiling. Escaping Liquefied Petroleum Gas/Propane
(LPG) is heavier than air and will form a pool of combustible gas near the ground and displace
oxygen.
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Slide 46
Content
While standing at the left saddle tank area, the exhaust system should be inspected. The exhaust
system must not allow fumes to leak into the cab. When inspecting the exhaust system, look for
the following:
• Leaks (carbon deposits are indicators)
• Unsecured mounting of the exhaust pipe
• Discharge location
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Slide 47
Content
Exhaust System
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Slide 48
Content
EPA regulations require all heavy-duty diesel engines manufactured on or after January 1, 2007
to reduce nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. To comply with this regulation, manufacturers
have installed diesel particulate filters that substantially increase exhaust system temperatures.
Some of these systems will inject fuel into the particulate filters to aid in the regeneration
process.
To help reduce exhaust gas discharge temperatures, some manufacturers are installing Venturi-
based heat diffusers in exhaust systems.
There are Venturi intakes located forward of the point at which exhaust is discharged. The nature
of the Venturi design prohibits the exhaust gases from escaping out of the Venturi intakes. The
Venturi intake openings should not be considered exhaust leaks or discharge points.
These exhaust systems operate at extreme temperatures and retain heat for a longer period of
time than conventional exhaust systems.
Personal Notes

49
Slide 49
Content
Inspector Safety Note: Be aware of the high temperatures of exhaust systems.
Personal Notes

50
Slide 50
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

51
Slide 51
Content
• Prepare the driver for vehicle inspection
• Inspect the front of the tractor
• Inspect the left front side of the tractor
• Inspect the left saddle tank area
Personal Notes

52
Slide 52
Content
Inspection Task Scenario
Personal Notes

53
Slide 53
Content
The FMCSR are used to determine vehicle violations, the OOS Criteria is used to determine
inoperable vehicle conditions, and the CVSA Critical Vehicle Inspection Items List is used to
determine whether or not the vehicle should have a CVSA decal applied at the end of the
inspection.
This Inspection Task requires that you apply each of the three sources to identify safety
violations described in a roadside inspection scenario. This Inspection Task Scenario is
continued at the end of each section throughout the course. Record all of your violations on the
worksheet provided on the following page.
You are inspecting a 1995 Peterbuilt tractor with a 1995 Strick semi-trailer at a rest area on an
interstate highway. It is 10:30am on a clear day. You check all the driver’s paperwork and find
everything in order except her log book. You determine that the log book is not current to the
last change of duty status.
Personal Notes

54
Slide 54
Content
You inform the driver that you are going to perform a Level I inspection on the vehicles. When
preparing the vehicle, number the procedures below in the order that you would implement them:
Key must be in the “on” position.
Place the vehicle transmission out of gear (neutral).
Make sure the air pressure is at maximum.
Turn engine off.
Release all brakes.
Place the wheel chocks.
Personal Notes

55
Slide 55
Content
During your inspection at the front of the vehicle, you discover the following possible defects:
1. Left headlight does not work on low or high beam.
2. Left fog light does not work.
3. The air horn does not work but the electric horn works and is loud.
Personal Notes

56
Slide 56
Content
As you proceed to the left front of the tractor, you inspect the tire, rim, hub, and notice:
1. The tire has lettering on the side wall that says (REGROOVABLE).
Personal Notes

57
Slide 57
Content
When checking the tread depth on the steer axle you find that one major tread groove measures
3/32.
Personal Notes

58
Slide 58
Content
The rim is a disc style and you find a crack at one of the stud holes about 1 ½” long.
Personal Notes

59
Slide 59
Content
As you proceed to the left saddle tank area, you notice:
An exhaust leak located under the driver compartment with no evidence that it is leaking inside
the cab.
Personal Notes

60
June 2017 Mid-Section Inspection
Slide 1
Content
U
Mid-Section Inspection
Personal Notes
U

1
Mid-Section Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
U
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to successfully initiate a mid-section
inspection.
Personal Notes
U

2
Slide 3
Content
U
• Inspect the trailer front

• Check the left rear tractor area
Personal Notes
U

3
Slide 4
Content
U

• Step 17: Inspect Trailer Front
• Step 18: Check Left Rear Tractor Area
Personal Notes
U

4
Slide 5
Content
U
Step 17: Inspect Trailer Front

Personal Notes
U

5
Slide 6
Content
U
Following the inspection of the left saddle tank area, inspect the trailer front.
Personal Notes
U

6
Slide 7
Content
Air and electrical lines should be inspected for the following:
• Check that lines between the tractor and trailer are not chafing, against any part of the
vehicle.
• Check that lines have sufficient slack to allow the vehicle to turn.
• Inspect the connections for proper seating. (Hose coupling)
• Check for crimped or improperly spliced lines
• Check for air leaks
• Lines, fittings, and splices must meet requirements
• Check electrical wiring for damage, cuts, bare wires, protection from weather, and proper
connections
Some other inspection items would include the frame, the frame cross member, mounting
brackets, bolts, etc.

7
Note: Air line chafing is only a violation if there is a reduction in the diameter of the hose or
other damage is evident. Simply making contact with another component does not constitute
chafing (CVSA Ops Policy 15).
Personal Notes

8
Slide 8
Content
Red lines are usually the emergency/supply line (driver’s side). *
Blue lines are usually service lines (curb side). *
Green or orange lines are usually electrical lines. *
*This is not in the regulations, this is industry practice.
Personal Notes

9
Slide 9
Content
Two types of approved fittings are pictured on the slide. These two are just examples and don’t
represent all available types.
Personal Notes
U

10
Slide 10
Content
U
Step 18: Check Left Rear Tractor Area
Personal Notes
U

11
Slide 11
Content
U
After inspecting the trailer front, move to the left rear tractor area.
Personal Notes
U

12
Slide 12
Content
U
There are five major inspection points at the left rear of the tractor:
1. Wheels, Rims, Hubs, and Tires
2. Lower Fifth Wheel
3. Upper Fifth Wheel
4. Sliding Fifth Wheel
5. Lamps
Personal Notes
U

13
Slide 13
Content
U
While standing at the rear of the tractor, inspect the wheels, rims, hubs, and tires as described in
Step 15 (in the previous module); however, as opposed to the measurement of steering axle tires,
the major tread groove on other than steering axle tires must be at least 2/32” deep. If it is less
than 2/32”, there is a violation.
Check for debris between tires and the general condition of wheels, rims, hubs, and tires. Check
tires for touching one another or vehicle.
For your own safety, never place yourself between tires of tandem axles.
Personal Notes
UPer

14
Slide 14
Content
The fifth wheel is the coupling device between the tractor and the trailer. There are two kinds of
fifth wheels:
• Fixed
• Sliding
Fifth wheels are divided into two halves:
• Upper coupler assembly
• Lower coupler assembly
The fifth wheel is easily connected and disconnected from a kingpin, and allows free rotation
between the upper and lower halves.
The fifth wheel is composed of the following parts:
• Coupler jaws
• Fore and aft stops
• Air release

15
• Release handles
• Cross members
• Pivot pin
• Pivot bracket
• Slider base
• Securement bolts lower flange
• Enclosed slider
Personal Notes
U

16
Slide 15
Content
U
Fifth Wheel Types
Personal Notes
U

17
Slide 16
Content
U
The fifth wheel (lower coupler assembly) must be securely mounted to the frame of the tractor. It
should be inspected for the following criteria:
• Unsecured mounting to the frame; i.e., loose or missing fasteners or any missing or damaged
parts.
• Damaged pivot pin or pivot-pin bracket (pin missing or not secured). Check for fore and aft
stops, if required.
• For any visible space between the upper and lower fifth wheel plates.
• Verify that the locking jaws are around the shank and not the head of the kingpin.
• Verify that the release lever is seated properly and that the safety latch is engaged.
Personal Note
U

18
Slide 17
Content
U
The fifth wheel (upper coupler assembly) is attached to the trailer. The upper coupler plate may
be welded or bolted to trailers or semi-trailers. Cargo tanks are usually bolted. It should be
inspected for the following criteria:
• Any damage to the weight-bearing plate (and its supports), such as cracks, loose or missing
fasteners, and a warped or worn upper plate.
• The condition of the kingpin.
NOTE: Trailers are not unhooked to check the kingpin at roadside.
Personal Notes
U

19
Slide 18
Content
U
The sliding fifth wheel has a locking mechanism that must operate properly.
The sliding fifth wheel should be inspected for the following:
• Proper engagement of the locking mechanism (the teeth should be fully engaged on the rail)
• Worn or missing parts
• Damaged or missing fore and aft stops
Personal Notes
U

20
Slide 19
Content
U
There are required lamps on the rear of the tractor that must be operable and the correct color.
The table the Instructor will show on the slide outlines the requirements for lamps on the rear of
the tractor.
Use §393.9 for inoperative required lamps and use §393.11 for missing required lamps.
Personal Notes
U

21
Slide 20
Content
U
Summary
Personal Notes
U

22
Slide 21
Content
• Inspect the trailer front
• Check the left rear tractor area
Personal Notes
U

23
Slide 22
Content
U

Personal Notes
U

24
Slide 23
Content
U
As you begin to move around the tractor you notice:
The driver has a cable attached to the wiper to actuate the wipers (it is a sunny day).
Personal Notes

25
Slide 24
Content
U
When you reach the front of the trailer you notice:
The supply hose going from the tractor to the trailer has a splice consisting of a piece of pipe and
two hose clamps.
Personal Notes

26
Slide 25
Content
U
One of the four latching fasteners is not engaged on the sliding fifth wheel (two on each side).
Personal Notes

27
June 2017 Trailer and Wheel Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Trailer and Wheel Inspection
Personal Notes

1
Trailer and Wheel Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to properly inspect trailer sides and
wheels.
Personal Notes

2
Slide 3
Content
• Inspect the left side of the trailer
• Inspect the left rear trailer wheels
• Inspect the rear of the trailer
• Inspect double and triple trailers
• Inspect the right rear trailer wheels
• Inspect the right side of the trailer
• Ensure cargo securement
Personal Notes

3
Slide 4
Content
• Step 19: Inspect the left side of the trailer
• Step 20: Inspect the left rear trailer wheels
• Step 21: Inspect the rear of the trailer
• Step 22: Inspect double and triple trailers
• Step 23: Inspect the right rear trailer wheels
• Step 24: Inspect the right side of the trailer
Personal Notes

4
Slide 5
Content
Step 19: Inspect Left Side of Trailer
Personal Notes

5
Slide 6
Content
After inspecting the rear tractor area, move to the left side of the trailer.
Personal Notes

6
Slide 7
Content
There are four major inspection points on the left side of the trailer:
1. Frame and body
2. Condition of hoses
3. Van and open-top trailer bodies
4. Cargo securement (detailed in Step 24)
Personal Notes

7
Slide 8
Content
The frame and body are the foundation of the trailer. Integral components of the trailer are
mounted on the frame. It is very important that the frame be in compliance in order to hold
components and to carry the load. Basic frame components include the flange, the frame web,
and the radius. The illustration on the slide shows these components.
Personal Notes

8
Slide 9
Content
Cross-members hold the frame rails the proper distance apart and control rotational and
longitudinal motion. They provide protection and support for wires and air lines that cross the
vehicle from one side to the other. The illustration on the slide shows the cross-members on a
trailer frame.
Personal Notes

9
Slide 10
Content
Check trailer frame and body for:
• Cracked, loose, sagging, or broken parts
• Corrosion
• Broken or loose bolts or brackets
• Accessories loosely bolted to the frame
Personal Notes

10
Slide 11
Content
While on the left side of the trailer, inspect the condition of hoses to ensure that they are
supported to prevent them from making contact with the roadway.
Personal Notes

11
Slide 12
Content
Van and open-top trailer bodies have an upper rail, a lower rail, floor cross-members, and side
panels that should be inspected on the left side of the trailer. Specifically, they should be
inspected for the following:
Lower Rail: Breaks accompanied by a sagging floor, rail, or cross-members, or broken with
loose or missing fasteners at a side post adjacent to the crack.
Floor Cross-members: Breaks, detached from and sagging below the lower rail; a broken floor
with protruding freight.
Upper Rail: Roof bows and side posts for buckling, cracks, or ineffective fasteners.
Side Panels: Damage in bay area that penetrates through the fiberglass, resulting in a sagging
rail.
Personal Notes

12
Slide 13
Content
Upper/Lower Rail & Side Panels
Personal Notes

13
Slide 14
Content
All trailers manufactured prior to Dec 1, 1993 that have a GVWR greater than 10,000 lbs., and
are 80 inches or more in overall width, must have retro-reflective sheeting in compliance with
§393.13.
All trailers manufactured on or after Dec 1, 1993, that have a GVWR greater 10,000 lbs., and are
80 inches or more in overall width, must have retro-reflective sheeting in compliance with 49
CFR 571.108 (S6.1.1.1 and S8.2).
49 CFR 571.108 is incorporated into the safety regulation through §393.11.
The requirements of 393.13 and FMVSS 571.108 are the same except for the rear end protection.
571.108 requires reflective tape across the entire width of the horizontal member of the rear end
protection.
Personal Notes

14
Slide 15
Content
A trailer equipped with a conspicuity treatment in conformance with S8.2 of this standard need
not be equipped with reflex reflectors if the conspicuity material is placed at the locations of the
required reflex reflectors.
Personal Notes

15
Slide 16
Content
Step 20: Inspect Left Rear Wheels
Personal Notes

16
Slide 17
Content
After inspecting the left side of the trailer, move to the left rear trailer wheels.
Personal Notes

17
Slide 18
Content
There are two major inspection points while at the left rear trailer wheels:
1. Wheels, rims, hubs, and tires
2. Sliding sub frame (tandem)
As described previously (Step 18), check the left rear trailer wheels, rims, hubs, and tires.
Personal Notes

18
Slide 19
Content
The adjustable axle (sliding sub frame) is used to reposition the rear axles. This is usually done
to adjust the weight of the load on the vehicle so the vehicle will be in compliance with axle
weight regulations.
Personal Notes

19
Slide 20
Content
The adjustable axle should be checked carefully for:
• Misalignment and position
• Fully engaged locking pins
• Damaged, worn, or missing parts
• Cracked or loose frame members
• Cracks in attachment welds and cracks in the undercarriage body rail (not a violation until
the OOSC are met)
Personal Notes

20
Slide 21
Content
Step 21: Inspect Rear of Trailer
Personal Notes

21
Slide 22
Content
After inspecting the left rear trailer wheels, move to the rear of the trailer.
Personal Notes

22
Slide 23
Content
While standing at the rear of the trailer, it is important to use the hand signals discussed earlier
while communicating with the driver. Be sure to inspect required lighting, retro-reflective
sheeting and reflex reflectors, and cargo securement.
Personal Notes

23
Slide 24
Content
While standing at the rear of the trailer, check the tail, stop, and turn signals. All of these should
be inspected for possible defects, which include missing lamps, inoperative lamps, improper
color, unsecure mounting, and poor electrical connection (flickering, etc.).
Table 1 in §393.11 sets forth the required lighting devices by type of commercial motor vehicle.
Diagrams illustrating the locations of lighting devices and reflectors, by type and size of
commercial motor vehicle, are shown immediately following Table 1.
Personal Notes

24
Slide 25
Content
Required Lighting
Personal Notes

25
Slide 26
Content
Projecting loads are loads with objects extending more than four feet beyond the rear of the
vehicle, or more than four inches beyond the width of the vehicle. These loads have special
requirements to ensure that the projecting load is seen by others.
When lamps are required to be illuminated, the load must have at least one operating red lamp on
each side of the projecting load. One red or orange flag, 18 inches square, must be placed in
accordance with the requirements of §393.87.
Personal Notes

26
Slide 27
Content
Projecting load requirements
Personal Notes

27
Slide 28
Content
In addition to the two major CVSA inspection points at the rear of the trailer, the inspector
should ensure that the rear end protection on the vehicle is in compliance. See §393.86, rear
impact guards and rear end protection.
Personal Notes

28
Slide 29
Content
Wheels Back Vehicle
Personal Notes

29
Slide 30
Content
Step 22: Inspect Double/Triple Trailers
Personal Notes

30
Slide 31
Content
The next step in the procedure is to inspect double and triple trailers.
Sometimes tractors will pull more than one trailer. When two trailers are attached, this is referred
to as a “double.” When three trailers are attached, this is referred to as a “triple.” Local
jurisdictions sometimes do not allow double and triple trailers.
Personal Notes

31
Slide 32
Content
If a second and/or third trailer is attached, repeat all the applicable inspection items in the
previous steps. Check the fifth wheel as in previous inspection steps. It is very important that you
communicate with the driver using hand signals. In addition, check the safety devices (chains,
wire, rope) to see if they are sufficient in number, or if there are missing components, improper
repairs, or devices that cannot be attached securely.
Personal Notes

32
Slide 33
Content
Inspect the pintle hook, eye, drawbar, and mounting for cracks, excessive movement, and
improper repairs. These items are also to be inspected on trucks and full trailers using a drawbar.
Check the fifth wheel as in previous inspection steps. The table below summarizes the inspection
points for coupling devices:
• Pintle Hooks:
o Cracks on pintle hook
o Cracks on mounting surface
o Missing fasteners
o Insufficient attachment
o Welds on any surface
o Worn hook or eye beyond 20% of original cross-section thickness
o Unsecure latch
• Drawbar:
o Insecurely attached to towed vehicle
o Cracks on bar

33
o Cracks on mounting surface

o Welds on drawbar eye
o Missing fasteners
• Safety Chains:
o Unnecessary slack
o Missing
o Inadequate to hold weight of towed vehicle
o Improperly attached to either vehicle
o Improper clamping of cables
o Any welds, bolts, rope, or wire used for repair
• Saddle Mounts:
o More than three saddle mounts in one combination
o Unsecure attachment
o Missing or ineffective fasteners
o Cracks or breaks in load-bearing members
Personal Notes

34
Slide 34
Content
Inspection Points
Personal Notes

35
Slide 35
Content
Drive-Away/Tow-Away
Personal Notes

36
Slide 36
Content
Step 23: Right Rear Trailer Wheels
Personal Notes

37
Slide 37
Content
After inspecting the rear of the trailer, move to the right rear trailer wheels.
Personal Notes

38
Slide 38
Content
As discussed previously with the left rear trailer wheels, there are two major inspection points
while at the right rear trailer wheels:
1. Wheels, rims, hubs, and tires
2. Adjustable axle (sliding sub frame)
Personal Notes

39
Slide 39
Content
Step 24: Inspect Right Side of Trailer
Personal Notes

40
Slide 40
Content
After inspecting the right rear trailer wheels, move to the right side of the trailer.
Personal Notes

41
Slide 41
Content
As with the left side of the trailer, there are four major inspection points on the right side of the
trailer:
1. Frame and body
2. Condition of hoses
3. Van and open-top trailer bodies
4. Cargo securement
Also, check for unsecured spare tires and dunnage.
Personal Notes

42
Slide 42
Content
Cargo Securement
Personal Notes

43
Slide 43
Content
There are many ways a particular load can be secured. Here are the most common:
• Sideboards, header boards, end boards, and stakes:
o These devices must be securely attached to the vehicle. They must be strong and large
enough to prevent the load from falling. In addition, they must be positioned close
enough together to prevent cargo from slipping through.
• Straps, chains, cordage, and cables:
o These devices must be of adequate strength and in good condition (i.e., not frayed or
broken) and shall not be loose or improperly attached.
• Blocks:
o Blocks with accompanying tie-downs are often used to secure coils.
• Friction Mats:
o These mats are used in conjunction with other securement devices to secure loads.
Other securing devices and methods may be used, provided they meet the requirements of
§§393.100–393.136.

44
Personal Notes

45
Slide 44
Content
Section 393.100 is the applicability section for general load securement (§393.100–§393.114).
Commodity-specific securement requirements are located in §393.116–§393.136, which will be
covered later in the module. Section 393.100 requires loads on commercial motor vehicles to be
secured against leaking, spilling, blowing, or falling from the vehicle. It also requires that loads
be prevented from shifting upon or within the vehicle to such an extent that the vehicle's stability
or maneuverability is adversely affected.
“CVSA Operational Policy 12, Cargo Seal Guidelines” is located in the toolbox. This should be
used in addition to departmental policies for opening sealed trailers and intermodal containers.
Personal Notes

46
Slide 45
Content
Section 393.102 sets the performance criteria for cargo securement devices and systems:
1. Breaking strength
2. Working load limit
3. Loads not contained within vehicle structure
4. Equivalent means of securement
Personal Notes

47
Slide 46
Content
Section 393.104 sets the requirements for securement devices, systems, anchor points, and
dunnage. Securement devices, systems, anchor points, and dunnage shall contain no damage that
will adversely affect performance.
Securement devices shall not contain knots. They must be repaired to manufacturer’s standards,
and protected by edge protection whenever a tie-down would be subject to abrasion or cutting at
the point where it touches an article of cargo. See the OOSC for approved tie-down repairs.
Note: Only tie-downs with damage that meets the criteria listed in the Tie-Down Defect Table in
the OOSC are to be recorded as violations.
Personal Notes

48
Slide 47
Content
• Unless marked by the manufacturer, the working load limit (WLL) of a tie-down is
determined by using the table in §393.108. The tie-downs, load binders and hardware,
anchor-point wenches, and other fasteners must all be considered when determining
securement strength.
• The weakest point (lowest working load limit) dictates the strength of the tie-down assembly.
Personal Notes

49
Slide 48
Content
Friction mats not marked or rated by their manufacturer are considered to provide horizontal
resistance equal to 50% of the weight placed upon them.
Personal Notes

50
Slide 49
Content
The number of tie-downs to be used is determined by two requirements:
• WLL
• The load length
Personal Notes

51
Slide 50
Content
The aggregate working load limit is the sum of:
• 1/2 the working load limit (50% of assigned WLL value) of each tie-down that goes from an
anchor point on the vehicle to an attachment point on an article of cargo; and/or
• 1/2 the working load limit (50% of assigned WLL value) of each tie-down that attaches to an
anchor point on the vehicle; passes through, over, or around the article of cargo; and then
attaches to an anchor point on the same side of the vehicle.
Personal Notes

52
Slide 51
Content
The aggregate WLL is the working load limit (100% of assigned WLL value) for each tie-down
that goes from an anchor point on the vehicle; through, over, or around the cargo; and then
attaches to another anchor point on the other side of the vehicle.
Personal Notes

53
Slide 52
Content
At roadside, to determine the weight of the material, look at the shipping papers that accompany
the shipment. To determine the working load limit of the tie-down, always look at the rating that
is marked on the tie-down. If a rating is not available, use the WLL Table in §393.108(b).
For example, the aggregate WLL required to secure 20,000 lbs. of shingles would be 10,000 lbs.
Personal Notes

54
Slide 53
Content
In general, a tie-down is required for each 10 feet of load, or fraction of the load (§393.110), for
loads against a front-end structure or similar device. If not against a front-end structure or similar
device, one additional tie-down would be required within the first 10 feet.
The number of tie-downs required per article of cargo must satisfy both §393.106(d) and
§393.110, whichever requires the greater number of tie-downs.
Personal Notes

55
Slide 54
Content
An inspector stops a vehicle with a load that is 40’ long and weighs 30,000 lbs. The load is
secured with five 3” synthetic web straps; it is/is not against a header board.
1. What is the fewest number of tie-downs needed to satisfy §393.110?
2. What is the working load limit?
3. What is the working load limit of the tie-downs?
4. How many tie-downs are needed to meet §393.106(d)?
Personal Notes

56
Slide 55
Content
Due to their size and shape, certain special purpose vehicles are exempt from the length
requirements of 393.110(b) or (c). However, the aggregate WLL must still equal ½ the weight of
the article being secured.
Personal Notes

57
Slide 56
Content
The rules in this section (§393.114) are applicable to commercial motor vehicles transporting
articles of cargo that are in contact with a front-end structure. If a vehicle does not have a front-
end structure or substitute, or is not using a front-end structure for cargo securement, then
§393.114 is not applicable.
Personal Notes

58
Slide 57
Content
• Commodity-specific cargo securement regulations are in 393.116 to 393.136.
• These regulations are in addition to the load securement regulations in 393.106.
Personal Notes

59
Slide 58
Content
Commodity-Specific Cargo:
1. Logs—§393.116
2. Dressed Lumber & Building Products—§393.118
3. Metal Coils—§393.120
4. Paper Rolls—§393.122
5. Concrete Pipe—§393.124
6. IM Containers—§393.126
7. Automobiles, Light Trucks and Vans—§393.128
8. Heavy Vehicles and Machinery—§393.130
9. Crushed Vehicles—§393.132
10. Roll-On/Roll-Off or Hook-Lift Containers—§393.134
11. Large Boulders—§393.136
Vehicles that are secured on a roll back/platform wrecker by chains on the rear and then winched
tight from the front will be in violation of §393.112 (adjustability) as long as none of the

60
securement devices are loose, and will not be declared OOS. If securement devices are loose, the
vehicle is to be declared OOS.
Remember, at the time of transportation these vehicles may be relieved from Regulations as
provided in §390.23.
Personal Notes

61
Slide 59
Content
While inspecting an IM container for securement requirements, consider two things:
• How is the IM container being transported?
• Is it on a container chassis or on a flatbed trailer?
If the container is being transported on a flatbed trailer, you’ll have to determine if it is loaded or
unloaded. The inspector will need to know this information to correctly apply the rules in
§393.126. The cargo loaded within the container needs to be secured in accordance with the
general securement rules (§§393.100–393.114), or any product-specific rule that may apply.
Personal Notes

62
Slide 60
Content
Refer to §393.130 for commodity-specific cargo regulations for heavy machinery. These
regulations require a minimum of four securement devices attached to the equipment anchor
points or near each corner. There are further requirements for equipment that can articulate, and
for accessory equipment.
Check additional requirements for:
• Articulated vehicles
• Accessory equipment
Personal Notes

63
Slide 61
Content
Refer to §393.134 for commodity-specific cargo regulations for roll-on/roll-off containers. These
regulations require roll-on/roll-off containers to be secured in the front and rear. The contents of
the container are subject to the general securement rules (§§393.100–393.114).
Personal Notes

64
Slide 62
Content
CVSA Operational Policy 15 provides additional guidance on Cargo Securement.
Personal Notes

65
Slide 63
Content
Knowledge Checks
Personal Notes

66
Slide 64
Content
The vehicle pictured above is stopped for inspection. The load is measured at 30’ long and is
against the headerboard. The shipping papers reveal a weight of 30,000 pounds. There are six 3”
synthetic-webbing tie-downs used to secure the load. Upon inspection, you discover that one of
the tie-downs has a 5/8” cut on one side. Another tie-down is found to have a ½” cut on one side
and a ¼’” cut on the opposite side.
1. Is there a violation for defective tie-downs? If so, what section would you cite?
2. What is the aggregate working load limit of the non-defective tie-downs used to secure the
load?
3. Considering both the length and weight securement requirements of the FMCSR, is this
vehicle in violation with respect to the number and the condition of the tie-downs used?
4. If this vehicle is in violation of the length and/or weight requirements, is it OOS? If so, what
section(s) would be cited for the OOS violation?
Personal Notes

67
Slide 65
Content
The vehicle pictured above is stopped for inspection. The load is measured at 40’ long, and is
against the headerboard. The shipping papers reveal a weight of 45,000 pounds. There are two
3/8” G43 chains, two 3” webbing tie-downs, and one ½” wire-rope tie-down used to secure the
load. Upon inspection, you discover that one of the 3/8” G43-chain tie-downs is knotted, and one
of the 3”-webbing tie-downs is loose.
load?
Personal Notes

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Slide 66
Content
The vehicle pictured above is stopped for inspection. The load is measured at 40’ long, and is
against the headerboard. The shipping papers reveal a weight of 40,000 pounds. There are three
¾” wire-rope tie-downs used to secure the load. Upon inspection, you discover that one of the
tie-downs has 13 broken wires in one five-inch section. The other two tie-downs are found to be
free of defects.
load?
Personal Notes

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Slide 67
Content
The vehicle pictured above is stopped for inspection. The load is measured at 33’ long, and is not
against the headerboard. The shipping papers reveal a weight of 5,000 pounds. There are three
1/4” unmarked chain tie-downs used to secure the load. Upon inspection, you discover that one
chain is repaired by using a cold-shut repair link.
1. Is there a violation for defective tie-downs? If so what section would you cite?
load?
Personal Notes

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Slide 68
Content
The vehicle pictured above is stopped for inspection. The load is broken into three separate
sections: two are 12’ long, and one is 10’ long. The first section is against the headerboard, and
there is a two-foot gap between sections one and two, and two and three. The shipping papers
reveal a weight of 10,000 lbs., 8,000 lbs., and 15,000 lbs., respectively. On the first section, there
are two 2”, synthetic-webbing tie-downs. One has a manufacturer’s tag showing a WLL of 3,300
lbs. The second section is secured with two 3/8” G43-chain tie-downs, with no visual defects.
The third section is secured with two 4” synthetic-webbing tie-downs with no visual defects, and
a manufacturer’s tag showing a WLL of 5,000 lbs. each.
load?
portion(s) of the load is in violation, and what section(s) would be cited for the OOS
violation?
71
Personal Notes

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Slide 69
Content
The vehicle pictured above is stopped for inspection. The load is part of a cooling-tower unit and
measures 6 feet by 20 feet. The load weighs 30,000 lbs.; it is secured with four 7/16, G7 chains
attached to each corner of the load, and to the vehicle with four load binders, each with a WLL
of 5,000 lbs. Upon inspection, you find the securement devices to be free of defects.
load?
section would be cited for the OOS violation?
Personal Notes

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Slide 70
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

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Slide 71
Content
• Inspect left side of trailer
• Inspect left rear trailer wheels
• Inspect rear of trailer
• Inspect double and triple trailers
• Inspect right rear trailer wheels
• Inspect right side of trailer
• Ensure cargo securement
Personal Notes

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Slide 72
Content
Personal Notes

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Slide 73
Content
As you proceed down the left side of the trailer, you inspect cargo securement. The load consists
of mats which are 40’ long and weigh 44,000 lbs. The load is secured with six 4” wide synthetic
webbing devices with a WLL of 4,000 lbs., which are properly located. All of the tie-downs on
this side are in good condition. You notice some problems in other inspection areas:
Based on this information, is the cargo properly secured?
Personal Notes

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Slide 74
Content
There is a crack in the frame of the trailer that is 3” long that is directed toward the bottom
flange.
Personal Notes

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Slide 75
Content
At the rear of the trailer there are two brake lights and two turn signals on each side. On the left
side, the inside brake light and turn signal do not work.
Personal Notes

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Slide 76
Content
As you proceed to the right rear side of the trailer:
You measure two adjacent major tread grooves at three separate locations on the radial tires. On
the fifth axle, you determine that the inside radial tire has two plies exposed in the tread area
exceeding 2 square inches and the outside tire is worn down to no tread at 2 adjacent groves at 3
locations on the tire that are 9 inches apart.
Personal Notes

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Slide 77
Content
The full trailer has a solid tongue equipped with one safety chain on the center line of trailer
tongue.
Personal Notes

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Slide 78
Content
The pintle hook is missing the safety device that keeps the securement latch in the closed
position.
Personal Notes

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June 2017 Subsequent Tractor Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Subsequent Tractor Inspection
Personal Notes

1
Subsequent Tractor Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to properly inspect the tractor sides and
wheels.
Personal Notes

2
Slide 3
Content
• Inspect the right rear tractor area
• Inspect the right saddle tank area
• Inspect the right front side of the tractor For Official Use Only
Personal Notes

3
Slide 4
Content
• Step 25: Inspect the right rear tractor area
• Step 26: Inspect the right saddle tank area
• Step 27: Inspect the right front side of the tractor
Personal Notes

4
Slide 5
Content
Step 25: Inspect Right Rear Tractor Area
Personal Notes

5
Slide 6
Content
After inspecting the right side of the trailer, move up to the right rear tractor area. The same
inspection points that apply to the left rear tractor area apply to the right rear tractor area.
Personal Notes

6
Slide 7
Content
After inspecting the right side of the trailer, move up to the right rear tractor area. The same
inspection points that apply at the left rear tractor area apply at the right rear tractor area.
1. Wheels, Rims, Hubs and Tires
2. Upper, Lower, and Sliding Fifth Wheel
Personal Notes

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Slide 8
Content
Step 26: Right Saddle Tank Area
Personal Notes

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Slide 9
Content
After inspecting the right rear tractor area, move to the right saddle tank area. The same
inspection points that apply to the left saddle tank area apply to the right saddle tank area.
Personal Notes

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Slide 10
Content
Inspect the following items in the right saddle tank area:
1. Right fuel tank(s)
2. Exhaust system
Each component mentioned above should be inspected as described previously.
Personal Notes

10
Slide 11
Content
Step 27: Right Front Side of Tractor
Personal Notes

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Slide 12
Content
After inspecting the right saddle tank area, move to the right front side of the tractor. The same
inspection points that apply to the left front side of the tractor apply to the right front side of the
tractor.
Personal Notes

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Slide 13
Content
Inspect the following items in the right front side of the tractor:
• Wheels
• Rims
• Hubs
• Tires
Each component mentioned above should be inspected as described previously.
Personal Notes

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Slide 14
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

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Slide 15
Content
• Inspect right rear tractor area
• Inspect right saddle tank area
• Inspect right front side of tractor
Personal Notes

15
Slide 16
Content
Personal Notes

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Slide 17
Content
Now you proceed forward to the right rear side of the tractor:
While inspecting the fifth wheel you find 2 loose mounting bolts out of a total of 10 bolts on that
side. These mounting bolts are securing the fifth wheel to the frame.
Personal Notes

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Slide 18
Content
You are now at the right saddle tank area of the tractor:
You find that one of the straps securing the fuel tank is loose and the fuel tank is not secure.
Personal Notes

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Slide 19
Content
Now you move to the right front side of the tractor. You measure the tire tread depth and find
that in 2 adjacent major tread grooves all around the tire, the minimum measurement is 1/32.
Personal Notes

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Slide 20
Content
Several of the bolts securing the mirror to the door are missing and the mirror is loose.
Personal Notes

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June 2017 Axle Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Axle Inspection
Personal Notes

1
Axle Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to properly inspect the axles of a CMV.
Personal Notes

2
Slide 3
Content
• Inspect the steering axle
• Inspect axle(s) 2 and/or 3
Personal Notes

3
Slide 4
Content
• Step 28: Inspect the steering axle

• Step 29: Inspect axle(s) 2 and/or 3
• Step 30: Inspect axle(s) 4 and/or 5
Personal Notes

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Slide 5
Content
Step 28: Inspect Steering Axle
Personal Notes

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Slide 6
Content
After inspecting the right front side of the tractor, move on to inspecting the steering axle.
Personal Notes

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Slide 7
Content
Before continuing the inspection with Step 28, inform the driver that parts of the inspection will
now be conducted under the vehicle. Instruct the driver not to start the vehicle engine unless told
to do so. Then inform the driver to be alert for instructions. So, that the vehicle will not be
accidentally started, ask the driver to drop the keys on the floor of the vehicle during this part of
the inspection process.
Personal Notes

7
Slide 8
Content
Always have the driver:
• Open the hood, trailer doors, or any other vehicle compartment

• Connect/disconnect air lines
• Operate all other vehicle components
Personal Notes

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Slide 9
Content
There are five major inspection steps included in Step 28, Inspecting the Steering Axle. These
steps are checking the following:
1. Steering system (both sides)

2. Front suspension (both sides)
3. Steering axle
4. Frame and frame assembly
5. Front brakes (both sides)
Personal Notes

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Slide 10
Content
There are three basic steering systems:
• Manual:
This system relies solely on driver strength to turn the wheels.
• Air-Assisted Power Steering:
This system uses compressed air in an assist (slave) cylinder that is connected to the steering
drag link or tie rod bar. This assists the driver in turning the wheels.
• Hydraulic Power Steering:
This system is the most commonly used steering system today. It uses pressurized fluid from the
power steering pump. The pump is connected to either a slave cylinder or the steering gear box.
Either of these devices produces the force to assist the driver.

10
Note: Some trucks (i.e., concrete, heavy dump trucks, trash trucks) may have dual-steering
systems for right side and left side mounting. These systems often have a steering gear box, a
pitman arm, and drag links connected to the steering arm on both sides.
Personal Notes

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Slide 11
Content
Steering components:
1. Tilt/telescope steering column

2. Intermediate column
3. Power steering gear
4. Pitman arm
5. Ball socket
6. Drag link
7. Tie rod
8. Power steering pump
9. Reservoir
10. Suction line
11. Supply line
12. Return line
13. Steering arm
14. Steering knuckle

12
15. Ackerman arm

16. Steering wheel
Personal Notes

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Slide 12
Content
There are seven basic steering components:
• Steering wheel:
Transfers rotational movement to the gear box.
• Steering shaft:
A shaft with universal joints that connects the steering wheel to the gear box.
• Gear box:
Changes rotational movement of the steering wheel into linear movement. This causes the
steering tires to turn from left to right. The gear box is normally mounted to the frame at the left
front.
• Pitman arm:

14
Transfers steering motion from the gear box to the steering linkage. It connects to one end of the
drag link. It is mounted on the sector shaft (splined output shaft) of the steering box and is
normally secured with a nut.
• Drag link:
Connects the pitman arm to the steering or spindle arm. Incorporates internal ball socket joints or
adjustable ball socket points at each end. Each end is connected to its respective part by a nut.
• Tie rod bar:
Runs parallel with the steering axle, connecting both steering arms.
• Tie rod ends:
The connecting point between the tie rod bar and the steering arm located at each end of the tie
rod bar. They are threaded into the tie rod bar and secured at the steering arm by a nut. Each end
incorporates an internal ball socket joint. The combination of the tie rod bar and ends transfers
movement between the tires and keeps them parallel to each other.
Personal Notes

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Slide 13
Content
The lightweight vehicle steering system is illustrated on the slide.
Personal Notes

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Slide 14
Content
• When inspecting the steering system (on both sides of the vehicle), the inspector should:
o Instruct the driver to rock the steering wheel back and forth while the weight of the
vehicle remains on the tires. While the steering wheel is being rocked, the inspector
should visually inspect key components for looseness, missing fasteners, and
unacceptable clearances. (If possible, the inspector should have the driver open the hood
so the steering components may be viewed more easily).
o Check for loose, worn, bent, damaged, or missing parts (e.g., belts).
o Check the steering gear box for looseness and for missing or loose bolts.
o Check for any movement of the pitman arm on the steering gear box output shaft.
o Check for loose stud bolts and loose nuts.
o Check for any welded repairs to any steering components.
o Check ball socket joints for movement.
o Check for fluid leaks and proper fluid levels.
o Check auxiliary power assist for looseness.
• Ball and socket movement is not a violation until the measurements found in the OOSC are
met or exceeded.

17
Note: The video shows a pitman arm inspection with the engine running. In order to find worn
parts, the engine should not be running.
Personal Notes

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Slide 15
Content
This system is now being used on some heavy CMVs and should be inspected in the same way
as other steering systems.
Personal Notes

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Slide 16
Content
Depending on the purpose and construction of the vehicle, various suspension components are
combined on different axles to provide the most efficient cushioning.
Personal Notes

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Slide 17
Content
• A leaf spring is the suspension system most commonly found on steering axles. When used
in steering axle suspension systems, the leaf springs are attached to the axle by U-bolts, and
the frame by front and rear spring hangers.
• The blow-up diagram for the Leaf Spring Assembly is displayed in your student toolbox.
Personal Notes

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Slide 18
Content
When inspecting the front axle (on both sides of the vehicle), the inspector should also:
• Check for cracks, welds, and obvious misalignment.

• Check the front axle beam for cracks, welds, or bent or loose positioning parts (e.g., U-bolts,
spring hangers, etc.)
• Check the frame and frame assembly for cracks, bends, sagging, loose fasteners, or any
defect that might lead to the collapse of the frame.
• Be aware that the frame and frame assembly are more visible from this view than from the
walkaround.
Personal Notes

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Slide 19
Content
Steering Axle Inspection
Personal Notes

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Slide 20
Content
Take a Brake
Personal Notes

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Slide 21
Content
At this point in the course, we are going to take a break from the inspection procedure and focus
on brakes. All commercial motor vehicles must be equipped with brakes acting on all wheels.
These brakes must be adequate to control the movement of the vehicle, as well as to stop and
hold the vehicle or combination. Of course, with any regulation there will be exceptions, which
will be discussed later.
Personal Notes

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Slide 22
Content
• Brakes are required on all CMVs
• All CMVs must be equipped with brakes acting on all wheels
• Brakes must be capable of operating at all times
Personal Notes

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Slide 23
Content
Exceptions to the requirement that all wheels must be equipped with adequate brakes:
• Trucks or truck-tractors equipped with three or more axles manufactured before July 25,
1980
• Drive-away/Tow-away operations:
o Vehicles being towed in a drive-away/tow-away operation, including the last truck of
triple saddle-mount operation, are not required to have operative brakes on all wheels
(any saddle mount that has any vehicle full mounted on it must have operative brakes on
all wheels in contact with the roadway)
Personal Notes

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Slide 24
Content
• Full trailers, semi-trailers, and pole trailers weighing 3,000 pounds or less (Interpretation
§393.42 Question 3)
• Vehicles using two saddle mounts with a full mount on one of the saddle mounts
(§393.71(c)(4))
Personal Notes

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Slide 25
Content
Raised lift axles are to be inspected to ensure all components are secure and for conditions that
adversely affect vehicle operation (i.e., air leaks, etc.).
If a critical vehicle inspection item defect is discovered on the raised axle, the vehicle is not
eligible to receive a CVSA decal and the defect should be documented in the notes section of the
inspection report. (Ref. CVSA Ops Policy 5)
Personal Notes

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Slide 26
Content
Converter Dolly – does not apply to converter dollies manufactured on or after March 1, 1998,
shall be equipped with anti-lock brakes.
Personal Notes

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Slide 27
Content
Specific brakes required on CMVs are:
• Service Brake
• Parking Brake
• Emergency Brake
Personal Notes

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Slide 28
Content
The service brake is used for normal stopping. The driver actuates this brake by depressing the
treadle valve (or foot pedal), applying brakes on all tractor and trailer wheels.
Personal Notes

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Slide 29
Content
The driver-actuated parking brake holds the vehicle after it has stopped. It must be adequate to
hold on any grade on which the vehicle is operated. The parking brake system should be held in
the applied position by energy other than fluid pressure, air pressure, or electric energy. For air
systems, the parking brake usually uses the same components as the emergency brake.
Personal Notes

33
Slide 30
Content
The emergency brake uses a source of energy independent of the service brake. It applies
automatically when the service brake energy source drops below a certain level.
Personal Notes

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Slide 31
Content
There are four major types of braking systems:
• Air brake systems

• Hydraulic brake systems
• Electric brake systems
• Vacuum brake systems (rare)
Personal Notes

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Slide 32
Content
Air brake systems are the most commonly used truck braking system. An air brake system is
complex. The air brake system parts are interrelated and interact to stop the vehicle.
Personal Notes

36
Slide 33
Content
In general, components of an air brake system are activated in the following sequence:
1. Air compressor
2. Governor
3. Wet tank
4. Dry tank
5. Hoses
6. Brake chamber
7. Diaphragm
8. Pushrod
9. Slack adjuster
10. Camshaft
11. “S” cam
12. Rollers
13. Shoes
14. Brake lining

37
15. Brake drum
Personal Notes

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Slide 34
Content
NAS inspection procedures instruct the inspector to check for missing, nonfunctioning, loose,
contaminated, or cracked parts on the brake system. There are numerous parts to check on an air
brake system.
Personal Notes

39
Slide 35
Content
The air compressor should be inspected for:
• Loose compressor mounting bolts
• Cracked, broken, or loose pulley
• Cracked or broken mounting brackets, braces, or adapters.
Personal Notes

40
Slide 36
Content
Reservoirs should be inspected for:
• Secure mounting
• Leaks
Air Dryer:
An air brake system that is not equipped with an air dryer system must have automatic drain
valves.
Personal Notes

41
Slide 37
Content
A brake chamber is mounted at each wheel in an air brake system to convert the energy of
compressed air into the mechanical energy required for braking. The most common air chambers
found on commercial motor vehicles are service brake chambers (single function) and spring
brake chambers (multi-function).
Personal Notes

42
Slide 38
Content
• Leaks
• Loose mounting
• Bent or damaged chambers, especially the spring-side housing
Personal Notes

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Slide 39
Content
The service-brake chamber provides the mechanical force for braking the vehicle under normal
operating conditions. This is referred to as service braking. The spring-brake chamber is always
combined with a service-brake chamber (except on some wedge brakes). This combined unit
(illustrated below) provides braking force for service, parking, and emergency brakes.
Personal Notes

44
Slide 40
Content
Use caution when you are underneath the truck and around the brake chambers, due to the high-
pressure air being used to operate the chamber. If damage is discovered in the spring-brake
housing, the vehicle is declared OOS and the brake inspection stops.
Personal Notes

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Slide 41
Content
There are three types of Air Brakes:
• “S” cam brakes

• Wedge brakes
• Disc brakes
Personal Notes

46
Slide 42
Content
The “S” Cam brakes (illustrated below) use an “S”-shaped cam to expand the brake shoes
against the drum.
Personal Notes

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Slide 43
Content
The NAS inspection procedure focuses on an air brake system with “S” cam brakes:
• Brake linings may not be cracked, loose, or missing, and must meet specific thickness
requirements
• There should be no evidence of oil contamination
• Check for missing, non-functioning, loose, or cracked parts on the brake system
• Check for “S” cam flip-over
• Be alert for audible air leaks
Personal Notes

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Slide 44
Content
According to the NAS inspection procedure, when inspecting air brakes (on both sides of the
vehicle), check that:
• Brake components are constructed, installed, and maintained to prevent excessive fading and
grabbing
• Brake chambers on each end of an axle are the same size
• The effective length of the slack adjuster on each end of an axle is the same
Personal Notes

49
Slide 45
Content
“S” Cam Brakes:
• In violation if not equipped with self-adjusting brake adjusters when required; however, they
would not be considered defective with respect to OOSC
• See 393.53(b) ABA required on air braked CMVs manufactured on or after 10/20/1994
Personal Notes

50
Slide 46
Content
Wedge brakes use a wedge that is forced between two brake shoes to expand the shoes against
the drum. Wedge brakes have a dust cover, so roadside inspection of these brakes is limited to
the parts that inspectors can see.
Personal Notes

51
Slide 47
Content
When inspecting wedge brakes (on both sides of the vehicle), the inspector should:
• Inspect air chamber for leaks, defects, and mounting

• Locate inspection holes on top/bottom and remove plugs
• Check brake lining for wear and/or oil and grease contamination with covers removed
• Check each wheel visually, or by using a feeler gauge
• Inspect distance from drum to brake shoe (lining surface) with brakes fully released
• Verify distance does not exceed 1/16 of an inch or .0625 when using a feeler gauge
Personal Notes

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Slide 48
Content
If the edge of the lining is not visible, mark the lining and then apply the brakes. When the brake
shoe moves, watch the mark or measure the movement with a gauging device. Any brake shoe
travel beyond 1/16 (.0625) of an inch is excessive. Failure of the brake shoes to move is a
condition of improper maintenance.
If there are no inspection holes in the dust cover, the following procedure can be used: Brake
shoe contact or non-contact is also indicated by striking the drum with a metal tool. The drum
will echo or ring if the shoes are NOT contacting; if the shoes ARE contacting the drum, a dull
sound will result. This would indicate that the brake pad is touching the drum.
Personal Notes

53
Slide 49
Content
If there are no inspection holes in the dust cover, the following procedure can be used:
• Striking the drum with a metal tool to indicate brake shoe contact or non-contact
• The drum will echo or ring if the shoes are NOT contacting
• If the shoes ARE contacting the drum will have a dull sound indicating the brake pad is
touching the drum
Personal Notes

54
Slide 50
Content
Disc brakes use two brake pads pinched against a rotating disc or rotor.
Personal Notes

55
Slide 51
Content
The design of disc brakes makes some items difficult to inspect at roadside. There are currently
two types of air disc brakes: direct coupled and exposed pushrod.
Personal Notes

56
Slide 52
Content
When inspecting disc brakes (on both sides of the vehicle), the inspector should:
• Check for pushrod travel just as you would check an “S” cam brake for same.
• For direct coupled air disc brakes, there is no visible pushrod to measure for adjustment; they
can only be inspected for air chamber, linings and friction surface condition
Personal Notes

57
Slide 53
Content
• Inspect the air chamber for leaks, defects, and mounting.
• Visually inspect brake pads, if possible. Ensure the pads are not worn excessively.
• Check both sides of the disc itself to ensure that there is no metal-to-metal contact, no severe
rusting, no contamination by grease or oil, and no cracks
Personal Notes

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Slide 54
Content
NOTE: There are several new designs of disc brake being installed on CMVs that do not allow
inspectors to measure the push rods. Inspect all other items on these brakes.
Personal Notes

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Slide 55
Content
Brake System Parts
Personal Notes

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Slide 56
Content
• Air drum brake requirements:
o NOT LESS THAN 4.8mm (3/16 inch) at shoe center for a shoe with a continuous strip of
lining.
o LESS THAN 6.4mm (1/4 inch) at the shoe center for a shoe with two pads or worn to the
wear indicator if the lining is so marked
• Air disc brake requirements:
o LESS THAN 3.2 mm (1/8 inch)
• Hydraulic disc, drum and electric brake requirements:
o 1.6 mm (1/16 inch) OR LESS
Personal Notes

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Slide 57
Content
• Air drum brake requirements:
o NOT LESS THAN 6.4 mm (1/4 inch) (measured at the shoe center for drum brakes) or
worn to the wear indicator if the lining is so marked
• Air disc brake requirements:
• Hydraulic and electric brake requirements:
Personal Notes

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Slide 58
Content
Inspection points are:
• Thickness
• Attachment
• Contamination
o Friction surface contamination is a defect and is considered one defective brake per the
20 percent criterion.
o Friction surface contamination with a leaking wheel seal on a single wheel end
constitutes two violations:
 Surface contamination counts toward the 20 percent criterion
 A stand-alone OOS condition for the leaking wheel seal
Personal Notes

63
Slide 59
Content
Brake Inspection Items
Personal Note

64
Slide 60
Content
According to the FMCSR, nylon tubing, flexible hose, and a variety of different fittings are used
to connect the various components of the brake system. They all are made from materials
designed to resist corrosion and high pressure.
Hoses and tubing must not leak, bulge, restrict air flow, or be improperly spliced. In addition,
hoses and tubing must not have damage to the outer ply. Hoses and tubing must be properly
installed and supported to prevent chafing with other parts of the vehicle.
Personal Notes

65
Slide 61
Content
In case the trailer should break away from the towing vehicle, the trailer must be equipped with
brakes that are applied automatically and promptly upon breakaway. In addition, the FMCSR
states that the breakaway brake must provide a means to maintain application of the brakes on
the trailer for at least 15 minutes.
The inspector should ensure that the CMV is equipped with breakaway brakes. This does not
apply to driveaway/towaway operations; however, it does apply to trailers with electric brakes.
Personal Notes

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Slide 62
Content
Back to Step 28: Inspect Steering Axle
Personal Notes

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Slide 63
Content
Before leaving the steering axle, information needs to be collected and action taken to measure
pushrod stroke on each chamber. This information is collected now and used later in the
inspection process.
Information needs to include:
• Type of chamber
• Size of chamber
Personal Notes

68
Slide 64
Content
There are three basic types of brake chamber:
• Bolt chamber
• Rotochamber
• Clamp chamber
These types of brake chamber are illustrated on the following screens.
Personal Notes

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Slide 65
Content
Bolt Type Brake Chambers
Personal Notes

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Slide 66
Content
Rotochamber Type Brake Chamber
Personal Notes

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Slide 67
Content
Clamp Type Brake Chamber
Personal Notes

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Slide 68
Content
In addition to regular brake chambers, there are also long brake chambers. These chambers may
sometimes, but not always, be identified by the following characteristics:
• Square Ports
• Markings on chamber
• Trapezoidal Tag
Personal Notes

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Slide 69
Content
The chamber size is usually visible on the brake chamber. If it is not visible, use some type of
measuring device (e.g., caliper, chamber tech tool/chamber mate, etc.) to determine the chamber
size.
Personal Notes

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Slide 70
Content
While at each chamber, with all brakes released, place a mark on the pushrod as close to the
chamber face as possible.
The mark should be sharp for ease of measurement.
Some pushrods have rubber jackets that may prohibit marking the pushrod. Additionally, some
clevis pins may have excessive grease, which prevents marking with chalk. Therefore, there are
alternative ways to measure pushrod travel (to be discussed).
Personal Notes

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Slide 71
Content
If pushrods are not markable, do one of the following:
• Measure from face of air chamber to center of clevis pin with brakes released
• Measure from face of brake chamber to nut on pushrod with brakes released
• Record measurements for later use on the inspection report
Personal Notes

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Slide 72
Content
Step 29: Inspect Axle(s) 2 and/or 3
Personal Notes

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Slide 73
Content
After inspecting the steering axle, move to axles 2 and/or 3.
Personal Notes

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Slide 74
Content
There are six major inspection points for axles 2 and/or 3:
1. Suspension (both sides)

2. Brakes (both sides)
3. Frame and frame assembly
4. Air lines and fittings
5. Reservoirs
6. Driveline/driveshaft
Personal Notes

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Slide 75
Content
• At axles 2 and/or 3, several different types of suspension are used. These types are
summarized below:
• The leaf spring consists of several steel strips or leaves of different lengths fastened together
by a bolt through the center. Leaf springs are suspended lengthwise or parallel to the side
rails of the frame. Normally, U-bolts attach the leaf spring to the axle at the center, and link
shackles attach the ends of the spring to the frame.
• Coil springs are used in the independent front suspension of lightweight trucks. A spring seat
and hanger hold the spring in place. The spring is located between the frame and the axle.
• Torsion bars are used in some suspension systems instead of coil or leaf springs. They act as
springs by twisting a bar upon compression and returning to a neutral position on rebound.
• An air suspension system uses an air bag or bladder in place of a spring or torsion bar. The
leveling of this system is regulated by adjusting the air pressure in the bag.
• The equalizer (walking) beam suspension is used mainly in the construction and logging
industries. It allows two axles to equalize the load by sharing the same spring. The equalizer
beam stretches from one axle to the other.

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Personal Notes

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Slide 76
Content
There are various configurations of leaf spring assemblies. A main leaf is any leaf or leaf spring
assembly that extends at both ends to or beyond:
• The load bearing surface of a spring hanger or equalizer

• The spring end cap or insulator box mounted on the axle
• A spring eye, further: any leaf or a helper spring assembly is a helper main leaf if it extends,
at both ends, to or beyond the load-bearing surface of its contact pad, hanger, or equalizer
Personal Notes

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Slide 77
Content
To inspect leaf springs, check for:
• Cracks in main springs. If there are cracks in the main springs, the vehicle must be declared
OOS.
• If one-fourth or more of the leaves in any spring assembly are broken, the vehicle must be
declared OOS.
• If any leaf or portion of a leaf in any spring assembly is missing or separated, the vehicle
must be declared OOS.
Personal Notes

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Slide 78
Content
Coil springs are used in the independent front suspension of lightweight trucks. A spring seat and
hanger hold the spring in place. The spring is located between the frame and the axles.
Personal Notes

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Slide 79
Content
The picture shows a longitudinal torsion bar mounted along the chassis.
Torsion bars are used in several suspension systems instead of coil or leaf springs. They act as a
spring by twisting a bar upon compression and returning to a neutral position on rebound.
A longitudinal torsion bar mounted along the chassis. No torsion bar or torsion bar suspension
shall be cracked or broken.
Personal Notes

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Slide 80
Content
An air suspension system uses an air bag or bladder in place of a spring or torsion bar. The
leveling of this system is regulated by adjusting the air pressure in the bag. Some air suspensions
use air bags only, while others use a combination of leaf springs and air bags.
Personal Notes

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Slide 81
Content
In equalizer (walking) beam suspension, the equalizer beam is usually positioned below the
centerline of the axles. This lower center of gravity adds leverage to permit torque rods to ease
road shock.
Springs are mounted above the equalizer beam and are attached by U-bolts. The springs, in turn,
are attached to the frame by brackets. The springs take the initial load support followed by the
equalizer beam.
Some spring assemblies contain suspension connecting rods or tracking component assemblies
(including spring leaves used as a suspension connecting rod). These components are to be
inspected, and if found to be cracked or broken, they should be declared OOS.
Personal Notes

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Slide 82
Content
• As described previously, inspect the brakes. With the brakes released, mark the pushrods.
Remember: when you exit from beneath the vehicle, always do so in view of the driver.
• Check the frame and frame assembly for cracks, bends, sagging, loose fasteners, or any
defect that might lead to the collapse of the frame. Take your time and look closely!
• The frame and frame assembly will be more visible from this view than from the walk-
around.
Personal Notes

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Slide 83
Content
As described previously, all air lines and fittings should be inspected for:
• Leaks and bulges

• Air flow restrictions
• Improper splices
• Improper installation and supports to prevent chafing
• Damage to the outer ply
As described previously, reservoirs should be inspected for:
• Secure mounting
• Leaks
Personal Notes

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Slide 84
Content
The Driveline/Driveshaft Inspection Points are listed below.
Yoke ends (including slip yoke, yoke shaft, tube yoke, and end fitting yoke):
• Any visible crack in a yoke end

• Any yoke mounting hardware that is loose (with hand pressure only), broken, or missing
• Any horizontal or vertical movement of slip joint yoke shaft greater than ½ inch (12.8 mm),
with hand pressure only
• Any loose, broken, or missing end fitting fastener
Universal joint:
• Any independent vertical movement between opposing yoke ends greater than 1/8 inch (3.2
mm), with hand pressure only
• Any missing universal joint bearing cap
• Any missing, broken, or loose (with hand pressure only) universal joint bearing cap bolt

90
Center bearing (carrier bearing):
• Any broken or loose center-bearing bracket, bracket bolts, or mounting hardware

• Any center-bearing bracket crack equaling 50 percent or more of the original bracket width
• More than 1/2 inch (12.8 mm) vertical movement (with hand pressure only) of the shaft in
the center-bearing carrier
Driveshaft Tube
• Any original metal crack in the shaft tube greater than ¼ inch (6.4 mm) in length
• Obvious cracked weld at shaft tube end
• Any shaft tube with obvious twist
All of the above items are not a violation until the requirements of the OOSC are met. Section
396.3(a)(1) should be cited.
Personal Notes

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Slide 85
Content
Step 30: Inspect Axle(s) 4 and/or 5
Personal Notes

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Slide 86
Content
After inspecting axles 2 and/or 3, the inspection moves to axles 4 and/or 5.
Personal Notes

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Slide 87
Content
There are six major inspection points while inspecting axles 4 and/or 5:
• Suspension (both sides)
• Brakes (both sides)
• Frame and Frame Assembly
• Air Lines and Fittings
• Reservoirs
• Adjustable Axle (sliding sub frame)
Personal Note

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Slide 88
Content
As described previously, check the suspension for:
1. Cracked/broken leaves
2. Leaking or deflated air bags
3. Axle displacement
Personal Notes

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Slide 89
Content
As described previously, inspect the brakes. With the brakes released, mark the pushrods.
Remember: when you exit from beneath the vehicle, always do so in view of the driver.
Personal Notes

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Slide 90
Content
As described previously, check the frame and frame assembly for cracks, bends, sagging, loose
fasteners, or any defect that might lead to the collapse of the frame. Take your time and look
closely!
The frame and frame assembly will be more visible from this view than from the walk around.
Personal Notes

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Slide 91
Content
As described previously, all air lines and fittings should be inspected for:
• Leaks and bulges

• Air flow restrictions
• Improper splices
• Improper installation and supports to prevent chafing
• Damage to the outer ply
• As described previously, reservoirs should be inspected for:
• Secure mounting
• Leaks
Personal Notes

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Slide 92
Content
The adjustable axle (sliding tandem) is used to reposition the rear axles. The adjustable axle
should be checked carefully for misalignment and position. Look for damaged, worn, or missing
parts. Check the locking mechanism to see that the pins are fully engaged. Finally, make sure
that the handle is in the locked position and secured.
Personal Notes

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Slide 93
Content
In the hydraulic system, pressure applied to the brake application pedal forces fluid from the
master cylinder through distribution lines to the individual wheel cylinders. Pistons in the wheel
cylinders apply mechanical leverage to force the brake shoes or pads against the drum or disc,
respectively.
CVSA Hydraulic Brake System Inspection Procedures Bulletin is located in the toolbox. This
should be used as a reference during inspections of hydraulic brakes.
Personal Notes

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Slide 94
Content
Inspecting Hydraulic Brake Adjustment:
1. If possible, check the master cylinder for the fluid level limits indicated in the OOSC (only if
visible from outside the master cylinder).
2. Inspect all lines, hoses, and wheel areas for visual leaks, worn brake hoses, crimped or
restricted lines, etc.
3. Depress the foot pedal and see how far it descends. The further it descends, the greater the
clearance between the shoe and the drum. If the pedal descends to the floor upon first
application, the brakes are out of adjustment or leaking and the vehicle should be declared
OOS.
4. Metal-to-metal contact between shoe and drum or pad and rotor is not allowed.
Personal Notes

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Slide 95
Content
Surge Brake Weight Formula:
1. A trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 12,000 lbs. or less provided its
GVWR does not exceed 1.75 times the GVWR of the towing vehicle; or
2. A trailer with a GVWR greater than 12,000 lbs., but less than 20,001 lbs., provided the
GVWR does not exceed 1.25 times the GVWR of the towing vehicle.
Personal Notes

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Slide 96
Content
Vacuum brakes are seldom seen on CMVs. This brake system uses vacuum lines to transfer
power to the brakes.
Personal Notes

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Slide 97
Content
• Electric brakes are normally used on small trailers, mobile homes, and recreational vehicles.
They use electric power supplied by the towing vehicle to apply the brakes, so they must
work in conjunction with the towing vehicle’s service brakes.
• Electric brakes can be checked for operation by activating a manual control in the cab
without activating the towing vehicle’s service brakes, and attempting to move the vehicle
while the brakes are applied.
• A visual inspection is difficult without disassembly because the parts are not exposed. A
functioning system is verified by brake application. Wheel lockup is NOT required.
Personal Notes

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Slide 98
Content
Refer to departmental policy when testing emergency breakaway system activation
Electric Brake System (Other than one-time use devices):
• Have driver disconnect power supply from towing vehicle

• Verify breakaway power source (battery and electrical connections)
• Verify breakaway attachment to towing vehicle
• Following agency and/or manufacturer’s guidelines, have driver activate breakaway device
• Trailer service brakes should apply (wheel lockup is NOT required)
Personal Notes

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Slide 99
Content
Hydraulic Brake Systems:
• Verify breakaway attachment to towing vehicle.

• Following agency and/or manufacturer’s guidelines, have driver activate breakaway device.
• Trailer service brakes should apply (wheel lockup is NOT required)
Personal Notes

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Slide 100
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

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Slide 101
Content
• Inspect steering axle

Personal Notes

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Slide 102
Content
Personal Notes

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Slide 103
Content
Before going to the next step, you inform the driver that you will be under the vehicle and that
the vehicle’s engine should not be started unless told to do so by you.
Personal Notes

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Slide 104
Content
As you are inspecting the steering system, you notice some movement of the ball and socket
joint on the left tie-rod end. You have the driver move the steering wheel back and forth. You
move the joint with hand pressure and measure the movement. The measured amount of
movement is 1/8”.
Personal Notes

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Slide 105
Content
You inspect all the required items on the steering axle and find no obvious defects (you mark the
pushrods on both sides and record brake chamber size and type).
Personal Notes

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Slide 106
Content
On axle 2, you find three hoses that are rubbing together through the reinforcement ply.
Personal Notes

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Slide 107
Content
On axle 3, you observe one of twelve leaf springs is broken on the left side. The spring is not a
main spring and it has not separated or shifted out of position (you mark all pushrods on axles 2
and 3; you also record brake chamber sizes and types).
Personal Notes

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Slide 108
Content
You proceed to the trailer axles.
As you move toward the rear of the trailer, you observe all the required inspection items under
the trailer. You notice no obvious defects. When you inspect the brake parts, you notice that the
riveted block-type brake lining on the 4th axle, left side, is worn to ¼”. No other defects are
discovered (you mark all pushrods on axles 4 and 5; you also record brake chamber sizes and
types.
Personal Notes

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June 2017 Brake Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Brake Inspection
Personal Notes

1
Brake Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to properly inspect the brakes of a
CMV.
Personal Notes

2
Slide 3
Content
At the end of this module, students should be able to check brake adjustment.
Personal Notes

3
Slide 4
Content
Step 31: Check Brake Adjustment
Personal Notes

4
Slide 5
Content
Step 31: Check Brake Adjustment
Personal Notes

5
Slide 6
Content
Step 31 of the North American Standard Inspection is to measure the pushrod travel on all brakes
with exposed pushrods.
Personal Notes

6
Slide 7
Content
• Always use caution when measuring pushrod travel.
• Be mindful that faulty brake chambers may explode. Always maintain a safe distance. Never
position yourself behind chamber when driver applies brake.
• When going under the vehicle, the inspector should always enter and exit the vehicle in view
of the driver.
Personal Notes

7
Slide 8
Content
To begin Step 31, make sure all brakes are released, and then ensure the system air pressure is
between 90 and 100 psi. It may be necessary to start the engine to build up air pressure. After the
system has reached the appropriate air pressure, have the driver turn off the engine and place the
keys back on the floorboard. Instruct the driver to apply the service brakes and hold them in the
applied position.
Personal Notes

8
Slide 9
Content
Measuring pushrod travel is basically a four-step process:
1. Identify type and size of brake chamber (already done)

2. Mark pushrod with all brakes released (already done)
3. Measure distance of pushrod travel (stroke) with service brakes applied
4. Compare measurement to the table in 393.47(e)
Personal Note

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Slide 10
Content
Some pushrods have rubber jackets that may prohibit marking the pushrod. Additionally, some
clevis pins may show excessive grease which prohibits marking with chalk. In this instance,
there are alternative ways to measure pushrod travel that must be considered.
One alternative is to follow the four steps below:
1. Measure from face of air chamber to center of clevis pin with brakes released (already done).
(Or measure from the face of the brake chamber to the nut on push rod)
2. Apply service brake
3. Measure the same distance measured in #1 (above)
4. Subtract the first measurement taken from the second measurement taken. The result is the
distance of pushrod travel for that brake chamber.
Personal Notes

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Slide 11
Content
Because the first two steps have already been done, we will begin with step three, measuring the
distance of pushrod travel (stroke) with the service brakes applied.
The type and size of a brake chamber determines the allowable pushrod travel specification.
Larger chambers result in more allowable pushrod travel.
Use the tables in §393.47(e) and OOSC to determine the readjustment limits for the type and size
of chamber inspected. Compare the numbers in the tables with your measurement to determine
violations.
A brake is considered out of adjustment when it exceeds the pushrod travel limit.
Personal Notes

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Slide 12
Content
The inspection advisory is as follows:
“This vehicle has been identified to have brake adjustment violations. 49 CFR Section 393.53
requires that a self-adjusting brake system be equipped on this vehicle. A qualified service
technician needs to determine why the defective brake has excessive stroke and make the
appropriate repairs. Simply readjusting a self-adjusting brake adjuster, or replacing it, does not
guarantee that the problem is corrected. The problem may exist in the foundation brake system.
By certifying this inspection report you have indicated that this vehicle now has a properly
functioning self-adjusting brake adjustment system.”
Personal Notes

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Slide 13
Content
Not all brake violations are considered when applying the 20% criteria.
A brake that is out of adjustment is considered a violation and included when determining the
20% criteria. (393.47(e)).
If the number of defective brakes on the vehicle or combination is equal to or greater than 20%,
an OOS condition exists.
Personal Notes

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Slide 14
Content
The CVSA 20% Defective Brake Chart must be used to assist in determining when a
vehicle/combination is to be declared OOS.
Determine the number of defective brakes required to declare a vehicle or combination OOS by
using 20% of the total number of brakes on the vehicle or combination (e.g., 24 x .20 = 4.8
brakes). Round all fractions up to the next whole number (e.g., 4.8 brakes = 5 required defective
brakes).
When determining the number of defective brakes, round all fractions down to the next whole
number (e.g., 4.5 brake violations = 4 defective brakes).
NOTE: When the vehicle, or combination of vehicles, is declared OOS for 20% brake violations,
all brakes found beyond the brake-adjustment limit must be repaired.
A special note on brake-adjustment limits: bring the reservoir pressure to between 90 and 100 psi
(620-690 kPa), turn the engine off, and then fully apply the brakes. All brake measurements shall
be made in 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) increments.
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One brake at ¼ inch (6.5 mm) or more beyond the adjustment limit.
(For example, a type 30 clamp type air chamber pushrod measured at 2 ¼ inches (57.15 mm)
would be one defective brake.)
A brake found at 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) beyond the brake-adjustment limit shall be considered .5
(1/2), a defective brake for determining the number of defective brakes per the 20% defective
brake criterion. (For example, if two type 30 clamp type brake chamber pushrods measure at 2 1/8
inches (54 mm) each, they equal 1 defective brake.)
Operations Policy 5
NOTE: If more than 20% of pushrod travel on exposed pushrods cannot be measured, then the
inspection would not be considered a Level I inspection and shall be identified as a Level II
inspection.
NOTE: A 5-axle vehicle combination with one axle that is not measured will still require two
defective brakes to be placed OOS at 20%.
Personal Notes

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Slide 15
Content
Practical Exercise
Personal Notes

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Slide 16
Content
• This exercise is not designed to provide practice measuring pushrod travel (that will be done
later, on a commercial motor vehicle). Rather, this exercise provides the pushrod travel
measurements and asks you to identify if the measurements indicate violations. You will also
determine if the vehicle must be declared OOS.
• Referencing the OOSC and the Brake Adjustment Charts, determine if the examples
provided are in violation; if so, state the number of brakes that are in violation as per the
OOSC. On this basis, determine if the vehicle(s) should be declared OOS.
• The toolbox contains the Brake Adjustment Exercise Worksheets.
Personal Notes

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Slide 17
Content
1. List all the brakes in violation
2. List the number of defective brakes per the 20% CVSA OOSC:
3. What should the inspector do?
a. Place the truck tractor OOS
b. Place the trailer OOS
c. Place the truck tractor and trailer OOS
d. None of the above
Personal Notes

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Slide 18
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 19
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 20
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 21
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 22
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 23
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 24
Content
1. List all defects
d. None of the above.
Personal Notes

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Slide 25
Content
1. List all defects
Personal Notes

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Slide 26
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

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Slide 27
Content
Students should be able to check the brake adjustment.
Personal Notes

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Slide 28
Content
Personal Notes

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Slide 29
Content
You exit out the rear of the trailer and proceed back up front to the driver’s door. You first make
sure the air pressure is between 90 and 100 pounds and record the pressure. You tell the driver
that you will require her to apply the service brakes with a full brake application. Also, you tell
the driver that the brake application must be held until you inform the driver that you have
completed all brake measurements.
Personal Notes

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Slide 30
Content
The brake measurements are recorded as outlined in the slide. All chambers are clamps type and
are identified in parenthesis.
1st Axle – L/S – 1 ¾” (24)

1st Axle – R/S – Inop (24)
2nd Axle – L/S – 2” (30)
2nd Axle – R/S – 2” (30)
3rd Axle – L/S – 2” (30)
3rd Axle – R/S – 2 1/8” (30)
4th Axle – L/S – 1 7/8” (30)
4th Axle – R/S – 1 7/8” (30)
5th Axle – L/S – 1 ½” (30)
5th Axle – R/S – 2” (30)
Personal Notes

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June 2017 Tractor Interior Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Tractor Interior Inspection
Personal Notes

1
Tractor Interior Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to properly inspect the interior of a
CMV.
Personal Notes

2
Slide 3
Content
• Inspect Tractor Protection System
• Inspect Brake Warning Devices
• Test Air Loss Rate
• Check Steering Wheel Lash
Personal Notes

3
Slide 4
Content
• Step 32: Inspect Tractor Protection System
• Step 33: Inspect Brake Warning Devices
• Step 34: Test Air Loss Rate
• Step 35: Check Steering Wheel Lash
Personal Notes

4
Slide 5
Content
Step 32: Tractor Protection System
Personal Notes

5
Slide 6
Content
After checking the brake adjustment, move to the cab to inspect the tractor protection system.
Personal Notes

6
Slide 7
Content
The tractor protection system must be inspected during every Level 1 inspection:
• Always have the driver remove and reconnect glad hands

• Check for air escaping from glad hands
• Valve must close before pressure drops below 20 psi
• Trailer spring brakes must apply automatically
• Check glad hand coupler on trailer for air bleed back
• Have driver apply brakes; air should not escape from either glad hand
See CVSA inspection bulletin 2010-01(Tractor Protection Systems) found in toolbox
Personal Notes

7
Slide 8
Content
Step 33: Brake System Warning Devices
Personal Notes

8
Slide 9
Content
It is now time to open the driver’s door and look in the cab. Make certain that the driver
understands that the door is being opened, or ask the driver to open the door for the inspection.
As discussed in Part A of this course, keep an eye on everything in the driver’s cab.
Personal Notes

9
Slide 10
Content
1. Ask the driver to turn the key to the “on” position.
2. Observe the dash panel area when the key is turned on to verify the function test of the anti-
lock brake system (ABS) malfunction lamp(s).
The ABS requirements found in §393.55 are only enforceable on truck tractors manufactured on
or after 3/1/1997, and on all other CMVs with air brakes manufactured on or after 3/1/1998.
Refer to the CVSA ABS Inspection Bulletin for guidance on inspecting ABS systems.
Personal Notes

10
Slide 11
Content
To check the low air pressure warning device, do the following:
1. Ask the driver to turn the key to the “on” position (if not already in the “on” position)
2. Instruct the driver to deplete the air supply until the low air pressure warning device activates
3. Observe the gauges on the dash. The low air pressure warning must activate at a minimum of
half the governor cutout pressure, i.e., normally 55 psi or above.
Personal Notes

11
Slide 12
Content
Section 393.51(c) requires trucks, truck tractors, and buses manufactured on or after March 1,
1975 to meet the requirements of FMVSS 121 S5.1.5:
• Must have visible warning signal

• May also have audible warning signal
Warning signal: a signal, other than the required functioning pressure gauge, that gives a
continuous warning to a person in the normal driving position when the ignition is in the “on”
(“run”) position, and the air pressure in the service reservoir system is 55 psi and below or one-
half of the compressor governor cutout pressure. The signal shall be visible within the driver’s
field of vision or both audible and visible.
Section 393.51(c)(1)(2) requires that power units to which FMVSS §571.121 was not applicable
on the date of manufacture be equipped with:
• Pressure gauge

12
• Audible or visible warning signal
Personal Notes

13
Slide 13
Content
Step 34: Test Air Loss Rate
Personal Notes

14
Slide 14
Content
If an air leak is detected at any point in the inspection process, check the vehicle’s air loss rate.
Personal Notes

15
Slide 15
Content
Follow these procedures to test the air loss rate:
1. Instruct the driver to run the engine at idle with brakes released.
2. Have the driver pump pressure down to 80 psi.
3. With the engine idling and air pressure between 80 and 90 psi, instruct the driver to apply
brakes (full application).
4. Check the air pressure gauge after initial application for air loss.
5. The air pressure should maintain or increase.
6. A drop, in pressure, when the service brakes are either fully applied or released indicates a
serious air leak in the brake system.
Personal Notes

16
Slide 16
Content
Step 35: Check Steering Wheel Lash
Personal Notes

17
Slide 17
Content
The next step in the inspection process is to check the steering wheel lash.
Personal Notes

18
Slide 18
Content
The steering wheel lash is the amount of “free play” in the steering wheel. The degree of lash is
not a precise indicator of the condition of the steering system; however, it will signal major
problems and is, therefore, a valuable test.
The steps to follow in checking steering wheel lash are:
1. If the vehicle has power steering, the engine must be running

2. Turn the steering wheel in one direction until the tires just begin to pivot
3. Place a mark on the steering wheel at a fixed reference point
4. Turn the wheel in the opposite direction until the tires again start to move and mark the
steering wheel at the same fixed reference point used above
5. Measure the distance between the two marks, then measure the diameter of the steering
wheel.
The amount of allowable lash varies with the diameter of the steering wheel.

19
Use the table in 393.209 to determine if there is a violation. If a violation is discovered, use the
table in the OOSC to determine if the vehicle should be declared OOS.
Personal Notes

20
Slide 19
Content
In addition to the NAS inspection steps included in this module, there are other inspection items
that should be checked while the inspector is in, or near, the driver’s cab. Specifically, check the
following:
Using the FMCSRs, find the appropriate regulation for:
• Fire extinguisher/emergency triangles

• Speedometer (ask the driver if it works)
• Defroster
• Seat belt
• Driver door and handle
• Flooring
Personal Notes

21
Slide 20
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

22
Slide 21
Content
• Inspect Tractor Protection System

• Inspect Brake Warning Devices
• Test Air Loss Rate
• Check Steering Wheel Lash
Personal Notes

23
Slide 22
Content
Personal Notes

24
Slide 23
Content
Now you return to the driver’s door and ask the driver to open the door so you can check
inspection items in the cab. The vehicle has an operating pressure of 100 psi.
Personal Notes

25
Slide 24
Content
You ask the driver to exit the vehicle and disconnect the glad hands so you can check the tractor
protection valve. You follow the proper inspection procedure. There is air coming through the
service air line when the driver applies the service brake.
Personal Notes

26
Slide 25
Content
You check the operation of the low air warning device. A light and a buzzer come on when the
air gauge reads approximately 55psi or ½ the governor cut out.
Personal Notes

27
Slide 26
Content
Following the proper procedure, you check the steering wheel lash (free-play). The vehicle has
power steering and is equipped with a 22” diameter steering wheel. You measure the lash at 8
5/8.
Personal Notes

28
Slide 27
Content
You notice that there are holes in the floor of the cab and you can smell exhaust
fumes. (Remember, in a previous step, an exhaust leak under the cab was discovered).
Personal Notes

29
June 2017 Fifth Wheel Movement
Slide 1
Content
Fifth Wheel Movement
Personal Notes

1
Fifth Wheel Movement June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students will properly inspect the fifth wheel movement of a
CMV.
Personal Notes

2
Slide 3
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to check fifth wheel movement of a
CMV.
Personal Notes

3
Slide 4
Content
Step 36: Check the fifth wheel movement.
Personal Notes

4
Slide 5
Content
Step 36: Check Fifth Wheel Movement
Personal Notes

5
Slide 6
Content
The next-to-last step in the inspection process is to check the fifth wheel movement.
Personal Notes

6
Slide 7
Content
• USE CAUTION! If conducted improperly, the method of checking for fifth wheel movement
presented in this module can result in serious damage to the vehicle. Use caution and instruct
the driver carefully!
• If fifth wheel defects were discovered in Step 18 (previously discussed), DO NOT proceed
with this portion of the inspection.
• Should serious defects exist, rocking the vehicle could cause serious damage to the vehicle,
or put the driver and inspector at risk
Personal Notes

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Slide 8
Content
Remember: if conducted improperly, the method of checking fifth wheel movement described in
this module can result in serious damage to the vehicle. Begin the procedure by preparing the
driver and the vehicle.
The inspector should prepare the driver by explaining that this procedure will check the fifth
wheel for excessive play with the wheel chocks removed and the brakes set. The full procedure
should be briefly explained to the driver (you should be able to do this by the end of this
module!). Finally, careful and precise directions should be given to the driver throughout the
procedure.
Personal Notes

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Slide 9
Content
Prepare the vehicle by following these two steps (in order):
1. Instruct the driver to set the trailer brakes

2. Remove all wheel chocks
Confirm that the trailer brakes have been set and that all wheel chocks have been removed.
Personal Notes

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Slide 10
Content
After confirming that the trailer brakes have been set and all wheel chocks have been removed,
follow the five steps as outlined in the table to check the fifth wheel for excessive movement (the
last two steps are on the following pages):
1. Watch for movement

2. Place pressure on the kingpin
3. Mark
Personal Notes

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Slide 11
Content
After confirming that the trailer brakes have been set and all wheel chocks have been removed,
follow the five steps as outlined in the table to check the fifth wheel for excessive movement:
4. Place pressure on the front of the kingpin

5. Measure
Personal Notes

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Slide 12
Content
Summary
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Slide 13
Content
Students should be able to check the fifth wheel movement.
Personal Notes

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Slide 14
Content
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Slide 15
Content
Now you inform the driver that you are going to inspect the fifth wheel for play at three
inspection areas. You follow all required steps to inspect these three areas.
Personal Notes

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Slide 16
Content
You record the following measurements:
• More than ½” movement is measured between the upper and lower halves of the fifth wheel
• 3/8” movement between the pivot pin and pivot bracket
• More than 3/8” movement on the slider
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Slide 17
Content
In addition, the operating handle (release handle) is not in the locked position.
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June 2017 Completing the Inspection
Slide 1
Content
Completing the Inspection
Personal Notes

1
Completing the Inspection June 2017
Slide 2
Content
Upon completion of this module, students should be able to successfully document all violations.
Personal Notes

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Slide 3
Content
• Complete an inspection report form to document and communicate the results of a Level 1
inspection
• Determine if a CMV qualifies for a Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) decal
Personal Notes

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Slide 4
Content
Step 37: Complete the Inspection
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Slide 5
Content
Step 37: Complete the Inspection
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Slide 6
Content
The last step in the inspection process is to complete the inspection.
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Slide 7
Content
There are four possible outcomes of a Level 1 Inspection:
1. Violations are not found; the vehicle is in complete compliance. CVSA decal (to be
discussed) issued.
2. Violations are found; however, the violations are not Critical Vehicle Inspection Items.
CVSA decal issued.
3. Critical Vehicle Inspection Items violation(s) are found; however, the violations do not
require the vehicle to be declared OOS. No CVSA decal issued.
4. Violations are found that require the vehicle to be declared OOS. No CVSA decal issued.
Personal Notes

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Slide 8
Content
When violations are found during a vehicle inspection, there are actions that MUST be taken and
actions that MAY be taken:
• All violations discovered MUST be noted on the inspection report. Violation descriptions
MUST be accurate and specific.
• When the violation is listed in the OOSC, the vehicle MUST be declared OOS and cannot be
driven, even to a repair facility.
• When the violation does not meet the Out-of-Service criteria, the vehicle MAY remain in
service for the duration of that trip. Upon completion of the trip the violation MUST be
corrected prior to the vehicle being re-dispatched.
• The motor carrier shall sign and return the completed roadside inspection form, to the issuing
agency, within 15 days following the date of the inspection.
Personal Notes

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Slide 9
Content
When violations are found and the vehicle is not in complete compliance, the inspector must do
two things (in addition to noting the violations on the inspection report):
1. Consult the Critical Vehicle Inspection Items to determine if any of the noted violations
prohibit the issuance of a CVSA decal, and
2. Consult the OOSC to determine if any of the violations require the vehicle to be declared Out
of Service.
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Slide 10
Content
The table on the slide summarizes what inspectors should do when vehicle violations are not
found:
1. Fill in all identifying information on the inspection report (i.e., carrier name, date, time, etc.)
2. Sign the inspection report
3. Obtain the driver’s signature (not required, but suggested)
4. Give a copy of the report to the driver
5. Issue CVSA decal
Personal Note

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Slide 11
Content
Members of the CVSA issue decals to commercial motor vehicles as proof of passing a Level I
or Level V inspection. The North American Standard Level I and Level V are the only types of
inspections that will result in the issuance of a CVSA decal.
To qualify for a CVSA decal, each vehicle must “pass inspection,” which means that no
violations/defects are found with respect to the Critical Vehicle Inspection Items as defined in
CVSA Operational Policy 5.
The decal criteria apply only to the condition of the vehicle, not the driver. It is possible for a
driver to be declared OOS, while the vehicle(s) qualifies for a CVSA decal.
Note: For the purpose of a CVSA decal issuance, if no violation is detected during a North
American Standard Level I or Level V Inspection due to a hidden part, other than pushrod stroke
measurements, of the listed Critical Vehicle Inspection Items, then a CVSA decal shall be
applied. However, if more than 20 percent of pushrod travel on exposed pushrods cannot be
measured, then a CVSA decal shall not be applied.

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Personal Notes

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Slide 12
Content
The inspection items that prohibit the issuance of a CVSA decal are often referred to as Critical
Vehicle Inspection Items. These items include the following:
• Brake Systems
• Cargo Securement
• Coupling Devices
• Driveline/Driveshaft
• Exhaust Systems
• Frame
• Fuel Systems
• Lighting Devices/Flags (turn signals, brake lamps, tail lamps, and head lamps)
• Steering Mechanism
• Suspension
• Tires
• Van and Open-Top Trailer Bodies

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• Wheels, Rims, Hubs

• Windshield Wipers
• Emergency Exits/Electrical (Passenger)
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Slide 13
Content
The quarter of the calendar year in which an inspection is performed is indicated by the color of
the decal issued.
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Slide 14
Content
The exact month that the decal is issued is determined by the upper corners of the decal. A decal
affixed on the first month of a calendar quarter must have both upper corners removed. A decal
affixed on the second month of a calendar quarter must have its upper right corner removed. A
decal affixed on the third month of a calendar quarter will have no corners removed.
Personal Notes

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Slide 15
Content
In general, a vehicle displaying a current CVSA decal would not be subject to re-inspection.
However, if a Critical Vehicle Inspection Items violation is detected on a vehicle with a current
CVSA decal, nothing prohibits inspection of the vehicle. Should inspection of a vehicle
displaying a valid CVSA decal disclose vehicle maintenance inconsistent with the minimum
inspection criteria, the CVSA decal must be removed. However, if the Critical Vehicle
Inspection Item(s) found are repaired at the scene, the CVSA decal would not have to be
removed. In those instances, where a complete re-inspection is performed and no Critical
Vehicle Inspection Item(s) are detected, or if the item(s) are corrected at the scene, a new decal
should be affixed.
Personal Notes

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Slide 16
Content
Any previous CVSA decals that have been placed on the vehicle must be removed or covered
before a new decal may be placed on the vehicle.
Personal Notes

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Slide 17
Content
N/A
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Slide 18
Content
A violation not properly documented may result in a DataQ (a challenge to recorded violations
on inspection reports). For example, using FMCSR 396.3(a)(1) Inspection, Repair, and
Maintenance for a cracked frame should be recorded as 393.201.
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Slide 19
Content
In the event that you identify repeated violations that may be due to a safety related design or
manufacturing defect, you can contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s
(NHTSA) Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) at 202-366-6938 and provide the information.
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Slide 20
Content
The exercise below lists discovered vehicle inspection items. Answer “Yes” or “No” to indicate
if a CVSA decal should be issued to the vehicle. Assume no other violations were noted.
1. An air leak is heard somewhere on the firewall of the tractor. The vehicle passes an air loss
rate test.
2. A one-inch crack (no missing material and the crack has not separated) is found in a trailer
brake spider.
3. Grease is found only on the edge of a brake lining. The grease appears to have been there for
some time. There is no evidence that any repairs have been made, and fresh grease is not
detected.
4. A trailer’s only lift axle is suspended. You detect an audible air leak at a fitting on the right
brake chamber. The trailer is not overloaded.
5. The horizontal movement between the upper and lower fifth wheel is 3/8 inch. The inspector
knows the manufacturer recommends repairs at ¼ inch.
6. A high-beam headlight is not working at night.

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7. A front leaf spring hanger is missing two of eight hanger-to-frame rivets. The hanger is not
loose, nor has the suspension shifted.
8. Windshield washers do not operate.
9. A loose battery is discovered and in danger of falling out.
10. The tractor-to-trailer air line is chafed. Would the trailer receive a decal?
Personal Notes

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Slide 21
Content
Common violations found during a vehicle inspection are described below. For each violation,
identify the FMCSR reference that should be noted on the inspection report. Include a violation
description that will assist the motor carrier and compliance investigation officials in
understanding clearly what the violations are. Finally, in the last column, indicate if the tractor,
trailer, or combination should be declared OOS. Record your answers on the worksheet in the
toolbox.
1. A CMV transporting steel has the required five tie downs for length, but the fourth tie down
is loose and improperly secured.
2. A CMV’s windshield has a fine crack from top to bottom in front of the driver.
3. A dump truck is pulling a full trailer with a pintle hook connection. The pintle hook is
missing a safety latch.
4. A CMV’s left front steering axle tire has a 1/32” tread depth at two adjacent major tread
grooves.
5. A CMV (manufactured in 1980) has an audible low air warning device; however, the visual
low air warning device is not working.

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6. Three of eight lug nuts are missing on axle #5 on the left side of the vehicle.
7. A main leaf spring is broken on axle #4 on the left side of the vehicle.
8. On axle #3, the right outside tire has less than 1/32” tread depth at four locations. All other
tires have at least 6/32” tread.
Personal Notes

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Slide 22
Content
Summary
Personal Notes

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Slide 23
Content
• Complete the Inspection

• Complete Inspection Reports
Personal Notes

27

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North AmeRICAN STANDARD

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1. Is the driver in violation?

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V. National Highway Safety Administration, Department of Transportation (Parts 500–

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1. Part 350; Commercial Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program

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13. Part 396; Inspection, Repair, and Maintenance

1. Appendix A; [Removed and Reserved]

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24. Inspect right side of trailer

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Some examples include:

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