How to Prepare Your Semi Truck for Roadside Inspection

Regardless of experience, every trucker will eventually face a roadside inspection. Knowing what inspectors prioritize can help you prepare effectively, ensuring a smoother process and minimizing downtime. Here’s a detailed guide based on expert insights from a seasoned trucker.

Understanding Inspection Levels

The depth of an inspection varies depending on which level of inspection you are subjected to. Each level dictates how thorough the inspection will be, ranging from a quick walk-around to an in-depth examination of the vehicle and documentation.

Level 1 Inspection

This is the most comprehensive inspection, where the officer will.

• Check the driver’s credentials (license, medical certificate, etc.)
• Perform a walk-around inspection of the vehicle
• Check the vehicle’s lights, tires, and frame for any defects
• Crawl underneath the vehicle to inspect the steering system, fuel system, springs, and suspension system
• Check for any leaks or broken components

Level 2 Inspection

This inspection includes everything from Level 1, plus.

• A walk-around inspection of the vehicle to check for any defects or violations

Level 3 Inspection

This is a basic credential check, where the officer will.

• Check the driver’s license and medical certificate
• Verify the vehicle’s registration and annual inspection
• Review the driver’s logs and shipping papers
• Check for any hazardous materials or special permits required

What You Should Prepare

Roadside inspection is important for commercial vehicles, which typically use air brakes, to ensure they are in good working condition and safe to operate. Here are the components that should be checked.

• Air brakes. Check that the truck’s air brakes are working correctly. Release the parking brake and listen for any audible air leaks when applying the foot brake.
• Brake hoses and tubing. Inspect the brake hoses and tubing for signs of wear, damage, or leaks. Make sure they are properly routed and do not chafe against any part of the vehicle.
• Brake drums and shoes. Check the thickness of the brake pads and the smoothness of the brake drums. Look for any signs of cracking, damage, or oil soakage on the brake shoes.
• Compressor. Ensure the compressor is securely mounted, not loose, and not leaking oil.
• ABS faults, low-pressure warning system, and tractor protection valve. Check for any ABS faults, ensure the low-pressure warning system is working, and verify that the tractor protection valve pops out when pressure is lost.
• Slack adjusters. Measure the brake stroke to ensure it is within the maximum distance allowed for the specific brake chamber.
• Coupling device (fifth wheel). Check for loose bolts, rust bleeding, or excessive movement around the fifth wheel.
• Exhaust system. Inspect the exhaust system for leaks or signs of soot and ensure nothing is resting on it that could cause a fire.
• Fuel system. Look for fuel leaks, missing fuel caps, or any other issues with the fuel system.
• Lighting system. Verify that all lights, including headlights, blinkers, clearance lights, and tail lights, are working correctly.
• Steering components. Check for excessive play in the steering shaft, pitman’s arm, and drag link. Look for rust bleeding or movement in the gearbox, axle beam, and tie rod ends.
• Rear suspension. Inspect the torque arms, bushings, leaf springs, u-bolts, and hangers for any signs of wear, damage, or excessive movement.
• Rims. Ensure there are no cracks, welding repairs, or damage between the fasteners or openings on the rims.
• Frame. Inspect the frame for any welding repairs, major components, or rust bleeding.
• Tires. Check tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition of the tires. Look for any signs of dry rot, uneven wear, or damage.
• Inside cab. Verify the presence of a fire extinguisher, check the windshield for cracks or damage, ensure windshield wipers and washers are working, and check the driver’s seat belt for proper operation.

General Tips for a Smooth Inspection

Here are some useful tips that will help you make the inspection process smoother and easier for you.

• Patience and politeness. Approach the inspection with a calm and respectful demeanor. Inspectors have a job to do, and being cooperative can expedite the process.
• Documentation readiness. Organize and make all necessary documents easily accessible. This includes your driver’s license, registration, insurance, and logbooks.
• Vehicle cleanliness. A clean and well-maintained truck can create a positive impression and potentially lead to a quicker inspection.
• Pre-trip inspections. Conduct thorough pre-trip inspections to catch any issues before they become problems during a roadside check.

By understanding what inspectors look for and preparing accordingly, you can make roadside inspections less daunting. Stay compliant with regulations, maintain your vehicle well, and handle inspections with professionalism. This proactive approach will help ensure that you get back on the road swiftly and safely.