Free Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Template in PDF Get Your Form

Free Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Template in PDF

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a vital tool used by drivers to ensure that their vehicles are safe and roadworthy before embarking on a journey. This checklist helps identify any potential issues that could lead to accidents or breakdowns, promoting safety for both the driver and other road users. To enhance your driving experience and safety, consider filling out the form by clicking the button below.

Get Your Form

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist can lead to misunderstandings regarding its importance and usage. Here are four common misconceptions:

  • It is optional for drivers. Many believe that completing the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is not mandatory. In reality, it is a legal requirement for commercial drivers to perform this inspection before operating a vehicle.
  • It only focuses on the exterior of the vehicle. Some assume that the checklist only covers visible parts of the vehicle. However, it includes checks on critical internal systems, such as brakes and lights, ensuring overall safety.
  • It takes too much time to complete. While some drivers may think the checklist is time-consuming, it is designed to be efficient. A thorough inspection can often be completed in a short amount of time, ensuring safety without significant delays.
  • It is only necessary for long-haul trips. Some individuals believe that the checklist is only important for long journeys. In truth, every trip, regardless of distance, requires a pre-trip inspection to ensure safety on the road.

Documents used along the form

When preparing for a trip, especially in a transportation context, several forms and documents work in tandem with the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist. Each of these documents serves a specific purpose, ensuring safety, compliance, and accountability. Below are five key documents that are often used alongside the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist.

  • Driver's Log Book: This document records the hours of service for the driver. It helps ensure compliance with regulations regarding driving time, rest periods, and overall work hours.
  • EDD DE 2501 Form: A crucial document for individuals applying for disability benefits, necessary to initiate your claim; for more information, visit smarttemplates.net/fillable-edd-de-2501/.
  • Maintenance Records: These documents provide a history of all maintenance performed on the vehicle. They are essential for tracking repairs and ensuring that the vehicle is in optimal condition for safe operation.
  • Vehicle Registration: This document proves that the vehicle is legally registered with the state. It contains important information such as the vehicle identification number (VIN) and the owner's details.
  • Insurance Certificate: This document confirms that the vehicle is insured. It outlines the coverage details and is crucial for protecting both the driver and the vehicle in case of an accident.
  • Trip Plan: This document outlines the intended route, stops, and estimated arrival times. It is important for planning fuel stops, rest breaks, and ensuring that the trip adheres to safety regulations.

Utilizing these documents alongside the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist enhances safety and compliance during travel. Each form plays a vital role in ensuring that both the vehicle and the driver are prepared for the journey ahead.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a crucial step in ensuring vehicle safety and compliance. However, individuals often make several common mistakes that can lead to oversight and potential hazards. One frequent error is failing to complete the checklist in its entirety. Each section is designed to address specific vehicle components, and skipping any part can result in undetected issues.

Another mistake involves not being thorough in the inspection process. Rushing through the checklist can lead to superficial evaluations. For instance, merely glancing at tire pressure without checking for tread depth or sidewall damage can overlook critical safety concerns. A careful, methodical approach is essential.

Some individuals may also neglect to document their findings accurately. When filling out the form, it is important to note any issues clearly and concisely. Using vague language or abbreviations can create confusion later. Instead, clear descriptions ensure that anyone reviewing the checklist understands the vehicle's condition.

In addition, people often forget to date and sign the checklist. This step is not just a formality; it provides a record of accountability. Without a date and signature, it can be challenging to trace back to who conducted the inspection and when it occurred.

Another common error is failing to report previous issues that may still be relevant. If a vehicle had a known problem during the last inspection, it should be noted on the current checklist. This continuity helps in tracking the vehicle's maintenance history and addressing recurring issues.

Moreover, some individuals may not familiarize themselves with the specific requirements of their vehicle type. Different vehicles have different inspection needs. Not understanding these differences can lead to inadequate inspections and increased risk on the road.

Additionally, distractions during the inspection can lead to mistakes. Whether it’s a phone call, conversation, or environmental noise, distractions can cause individuals to overlook important details. A focused environment is essential for conducting a thorough inspection.

People may also underestimate the importance of using the correct tools and equipment during the inspection. Relying on inadequate tools can lead to inaccurate assessments. Having the right equipment ensures that each component is evaluated properly and safely.

Lastly, individuals sometimes fail to follow up on any issues identified during the inspection. Simply noting a problem is not enough; it is vital to take action to resolve these issues promptly. Ignoring identified problems can lead to serious safety risks and potential legal liabilities.

Sample - Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

FRONT OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Proper Color

o Working

o Not Broken o Not cracked

LEAKS

o Check for puddles

o Check for drips under engine

Lights

License Plate

Leaks

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - PASSENGER SIDE

WATER PUMP o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o Hoses attached securely

o No leaking hoses or water pump o Belts no more than ¾ inch of play

o Belts not cracked, frayed, or damaged

ALTERNATOR

o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts

oWires good connections, not frayed

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not frayed or cracked

OIL LEVEL

oCheck for level and condition

PLUS ALL OTHER HOSES & WIRING

oNot cracked, frayed, or broken

oBelts no more than ¾ inch of play o Hoses not leaking

Engine Air Duct Work

Engine Air Duct Work

Oil Dip Stick

Oil Fill

 

Accessory Drive

 

Belts

 

Water Pump

Turbo Charger

Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

1

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE

COOLANT

oCheck for level and condition

oHoses attached and not leaking

POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

oMounted properly

oHoses attached and not leaking

oCheck for level and condition

AIR COMPRESSOR

oMounted Securely

oNo missing bolts or parts

oNo air leaks at lines

oCheck if gear or belt driven

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

oMounted properly

oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken

 

Engine Coolant

 

Reservoir

 

Windsheild

 

Washer Fluid

 

Reservoir

Engine Air Duct

 

Work

 

Power Steering

 

Reservoir

Radiator Brace

 

Steering Gear

 

Box

 

Pitman Arm

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

 

 

 

o Mounted properly

 

 

 

o Hoses attached and not leaking

 

 

 

o Check for level and condition

 

 

 

 AIR COMPRESSOR

 

 

 

o Mounted Securely

Power Steering

 

 

o No missing bolts or parts

 

 

Reservoir

 

 

o No air leaks at lines

 

 

 

o Check if gear or belt driven

 

 

 

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play

 

 

 

o Belts not cracked or frayed

 

 

 

 STEERING GEAR BOX

Steering Gear

 

 

Box

 

 

o Mounted properly

 

 

 

o No missing parts, nuts or bolts

 

 

 

o Lines and hoses not leaking or

Pitman Arm

 

 

broken

 

 

 

 

 

 STEERING LINKAGE

 

 

 

o Pitman arm, Drag link, Steering

 

 

 

knuckle, Tie rods and tie rod ends

 

 

 

o Not cracked, bent or broken

Spring Mount

Drag Link

Leaf Spring

o Castle nuts and cotter pins

 

 

 

o Not missing and in place

 

 

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Governor

Air Compressor

Engine Oil Pan

2

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines

o Check if gear or belt driven

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

o Mounted properly

oNo missing parts, nuts or bolts o Lines and hoses not leaking or broken

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

Engine Air Duct

Work

Fan Belts

Gear Driven Air

Compressor

Steering U-Joints

Steering Column

Additional Hoses & Wiring

Shock Absorber

Steering Gear Box

Frame Rail

Fuel Filter

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - AIR COMPRESSOR

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o No air leaks at lines

o Check if gear or belt driven

o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play o Belts not cracked or frayed

Air Governor

Gear Driven Air Compressor

Hoses

Fuel Pump

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

3

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

FRONT SUSPENSION

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

Shock Absorber

Leaf Spring

Tie Rod

Air Hose

Air LIne

Tie Rod End

U-Bolts

Axle

Service Brake

Chamber

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

FRONT SUSPENSION CON’T

Frame Rail

U-Bolt

Leaf Spring

Air Dryer location varies depending on model.

Located either behind the front bumper or behind the fuel tank.

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

4

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

 HOSES AND LINES

 

FRONT BRAKES

 

 

o Mounted securely

Service Brake

 

o

Not leaking

 

o

Not cracked or frayed

Chamber

 

 

Tire

 

 

 

 CHAMBER

Push Rod

 

o Mounted securely

 

 

o Not dented or damaged

 

Wheel

o

Not leaking

 

 

 SLACK ADJUSTER

 

Slack Adjuster

o

No more than 1 inch of free play at

Castle Nut

 

the push rod with the brakes released.

Cotter Pin

Adjustment Nut

o

Not bent, broken, loose, or missing

 

 

 

parts

Steering

 

 

 

Knuckle

Brake Drum

 DRUMS

 

 

 

o

Not cracked, broken or dented

 

 

o

No oil leaking from inner oil seal,

Snap Ring

 

free of debris

 

Brake Lining

 LININGS

 

 

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts o Not less than ¼ inch in thickness

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.

oNot bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

FRONT BRAKES CON’T

Service Brake

Chamber

Push Rod

Clevis Pin &

Cotter Pin

Slack Adjuster

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Air Hose

Shock Absorber

U-Bolt

Spring

5

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

FRONT WHEEL

TIRES

oProper inflation – company or manufacturer specification

o No bulges, cuts, or retreads

o Minimum tread depth of 4/32”

RIMS

oNot bent, cracked, No welding repairs.

LUG NUTS

oNone are missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER HUB OIL SEALS

oNot leaking, no missing bolts o Proper oil level

Tire

Wheel

Hub Oil

Lug Nut

Reservior

 

Outer Hub

Valve Cap

Oil Seal

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVER FUEL AREA

DRIVER’S DOOR

oDoor opens and closes properly

oSeal is in good condition

DRIVER’S MIRRORS

oClean and free of obstruction

oNot cracked, broken, or damaged

oMounted securely

FUEL TANK

oMounted securely

o Not leaking

o Seal in cap OK

Mirror

Storage

Compartment

Door

Cap & Seal

Battery Box &

Cover

Saddle Mounts

Leaks

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

6

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

AIR LINES & ELECTRIC LINE o Not cracked, frayed, cut, or kinked o Mounted securely at the glad hands o Not leaking

BEHIND THE CAB

BATTERY BOX & BATTERIES o Box is mounted properly

o Batteries are secure in the box o Lid secure

o Connections not corroded

CATWALK

o Mounted properly

oNot, missing, or damaged

oFree of obstructions

DRIVE SHAFT

oNot bent, or damaged

oCoupling, U-joints appear secure

EXHAUST SYSTEM

oSecurely mounted

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

FRAME

oNot cracked, or damaged

oNo missing bolts

oNo illegal welds

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oClean and working

Lights &

 

Reflectors

 

Electrical Line

Exhaust

Glad Hand

 

Service &

 

Emergency

 

Airlines

Drive Shaft

 

Battery Box &

 

Batteries

 

Frame

Catwalk

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

FRONT OF TRAILER

HEADER BOARD

oNo holes or missing rivets

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oNone broken, cracked, or missing

oWorking and proper color of amber

Lights

Header Board

Height Sticker

Electric Hookup

Air Line

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

7

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Spring Brake

Torsion Bar

 

Chamber

Control Arm

 

Spring Brake

 

Chamber

Air Bag

 

 

Control Arm

 

Mount

Control Arm

 

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION CON’T & FIFTH WHEEL

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Skid Plate

 

 

Shock Absorber

Mounting

 

Bolts

 

Locking

Spring

 

Pins

 

Control Arm

Air Bag

 

Mount

 

 

Tire

Control Arm

 

 

Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

8

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

oNo more than 1 inch of free play at the push rod with the brakes released.

oNo bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

DRIVE BRAKES & DRIVE SHAFT

Drive Shaft

Universal Joint

Differential

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Service Brake Chamber

Frame

Brake Chamber Mount

Slack Adjuster

TIRES

oProper inflation - company or manufacturer specification.

o No bulges or cuts, can have retreads o Minimum tread depth of 2/32”

RIMS

oNot bent or cracked

oNo welding repairs

LUG NUTS

oNone missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER AXLE SEAL

oNot leaking, no missing bolts

SPACE OR SPACER

oCheck for objects between wheels

oCheck for proper spacing

Lug Nuts

Outer Axle Seal

DRIVE WHEELS

Tire

Bud Rim

Dayton Rim

Spacer

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

9

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

®

REAR OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Not cracked, or broken

o Working and proper color

SPLASH GUARDS

oNot missing or torn and properly mounted

Locking Jaws

 

 

Reflectors

 

Lights

Splash Guard

Air Bags

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

MOUNTING BOLTS

oNone missing or broken

RELEASE ARM

oNot bent, broken, or damaged

oEngaged in the lock position

LOCKING PINS

oNo missing or broken parts

oEngaged and locked

PLATFORM

oSecurely holds skid plate

oNot cracked, or broken

SKID PLATE

oMounted properly on the platform

oProperly greased

oTilting freely

Mounting Bolts

Slide Stops (all 4 corners)

COUPLING SYSTEM

Skid Plate

Pivot Pin

Release Arm

Platform

 KING PIN

Welds

oNot broken, bent, or damaged

APRON

oNo bends or damage to visible portions

GAP

oCheck that the trailer apron is lying flat on the fifth wheel skid plate

Frame

Slide Locking Pin

Spring Mount

 JAWS

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 

 

o Check that the locking jaws are fully

 

 

closed around the shank of the king pin

10