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Blank Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form is a vital document designed to ensure that vehicles are safe and roadworthy before embarking on a journey. This checklist helps drivers identify any potential issues and maintain compliance with safety regulations. To streamline your pre-trip preparations, fill out the form by clicking the button below.

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Blank Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Form

Table of Contents

Before hitting the road, ensuring that a vehicle is in optimal condition is crucial for safety and efficiency. The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form serves as an essential tool for drivers and fleet managers alike. This checklist covers various components of the vehicle, including the engine, brakes, lights, tires, and safety equipment. By systematically reviewing these elements, drivers can identify potential issues that might compromise safety or lead to costly repairs down the line. Additionally, the form often includes sections for documenting any defects found during the inspection, which aids in maintaining a comprehensive maintenance record. Using this checklist not only promotes accountability but also fosters a culture of safety within the transportation industry. Ultimately, a thorough pre-trip inspection can make the difference between a smooth journey and unexpected challenges on the road.

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Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist form, attention to detail is crucial for safety and compliance. Here are five important do's and don'ts to consider:

Do: Ensure that all sections of the checklist are completed thoroughly.
Do: Double-check the vehicle's critical systems, such as brakes and lights, before submitting the form.
Do: Report any issues or concerns immediately to your supervisor.
Do: Use clear and legible handwriting to avoid misinterpretation of your notes.
Do: Keep a copy of the completed checklist for your records.

Don't: Rush through the inspection; take your time to ensure accuracy.
Don't: Ignore minor issues; they could lead to bigger problems later.
Don't: Leave any sections blank; every part of the checklist is important.
Don't: Use abbreviations or shorthand that may confuse others reviewing the form.
Don't: Forget to sign and date the form after completion.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a safe and compliant vehicle operation. Your diligence in this process is vital for both your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Pre Trip Inspection Checklist Sample

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Proper Color

o Working

o Not Broken o Not cracked

LEAKS

o Check for puddles

o Check for drips under engine

Lights

License Plate

Leaks

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - PASSENGER SIDE

WATER PUMP o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts o Hoses attached securely

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

o Belts not cracked, frayed, or damaged

ALTERNATOR

o Mounted Securely

o No missing bolts or parts

oWires good connections, not frayed

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not frayed or cracked

OIL LEVEL

oCheck for level and condition

PLUS ALL OTHER HOSES & WIRING

oNot cracked, frayed, or broken

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

Engine Air Duct Work

Oil Dip Stick

Oil Fill

	Accessory Drive
	Belts
	Water Pump
Turbo Charger	Alternator

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE

COOLANT

oCheck for level and condition

oHoses attached and not leaking

POWER STEERING RESERVOIR

oMounted properly

oHoses attached and not leaking

oCheck for level and condition

AIR COMPRESSOR

oMounted Securely

oNo missing bolts or parts

oNo air leaks at lines

oCheck if gear or belt driven

oBelt no more than ¾ inch of play

oBelts not cracked or frayed

STEERING GEAR BOX

oMounted properly

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

	Engine Coolant
	Reservoir
	Windsheild
	Washer Fluid
	Reservoir
Engine Air Duct
Work
Power Steering
Reservoir	Radiator Brace
	Radiator Brace
Steering Gear
Box
Pitman Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR	ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T
 POWER STEERING RESERVOIR
o Mounted properly
o Hoses attached and not leaking
o Check for level and condition
 AIR COMPRESSOR
o Mounted Securely	Power Steering
o No missing bolts or parts	Power Steering
o No missing bolts or parts	Reservoir
o No air leaks at lines
o Check if gear or belt driven
o Belt no more than ¾ inch of play
o Belts not cracked or frayed
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Steering Gear
 STEERING GEAR BOX	Box
o Mounted properly
o No missing parts, nuts or bolts
o Lines and hoses not leaking or	Pitman Arm
broken	Pitman Arm
broken
 STEERING LINKAGE
o Pitman arm, Drag link, Steering
knuckle, Tie rods and tie rod ends
o Not cracked, bent or broken	Spring Mount	Drag Link	Leaf Spring
o Castle nuts and cotter pins
o Not missing and in place

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Governor

Air Compressor

Engine Oil Pan

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

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

o Check if gear or belt driven

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

STEERING GEAR BOX

o Mounted properly

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

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - DRIVER SIDE CON’T

Engine Air Duct

Work

Fan Belts

Gear Driven Air

Compressor

Steering U-Joints

Steering Column

Additional Hoses & Wiring

Shock Absorber

Steering Gear Box	Frame Rail	Fuel Filter
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items		Reference Items

ENGINE COMPARTMENT - AIR COMPRESSOR

AIR COMPRESSOR o Mounted Securely

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

o Check if gear or belt driven

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

Air Governor

Gear Driven Air Compressor

Hoses

Fuel Pump

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT SUSPENSION

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

Shock Absorber

Leaf Spring

Tie Rod

Air Hose

Air LIne

Tie Rod End

U-Bolts

Axle

Service Brake

Chamber

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

LEAF SPRINGS

o Not shifted or out of place

oNot cracked, broken or missing

SPRING MOUNTS

oMounted securely- front, back, and U-blots

oNot cracked or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

oMounted Securely

oNot bent or dented o Not leaking

FRONT SUSPENSION CON’T

Frame Rail

U-Bolt

Leaf Spring

Air Dryer location varies depending on model.

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Spring Mount

Air Dryer

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

 HOSES AND LINES			FRONT BRAKES
 HOSES AND LINES
o Mounted securely		Service Brake
o	Not leaking	Service Brake
o	Not cracked or frayed	Chamber
o	Not cracked or frayed		Tire
			Tire
 CHAMBER		Push Rod
o Mounted securely
o Not dented or damaged			Wheel
o	Not leaking
 SLACK ADJUSTER			Slack Adjuster
o	No more than 1 inch of free play at	Castle Nut
the push rod with the brakes released.		Cotter Pin	Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing		Adjustment Nut
o	Not bent, broken, loose, or missing
parts		Steering
		Knuckle	Brake Drum
 DRUMS			Brake Drum
 DRUMS
o	Not cracked, broken or dented
o	No oil leaking from inner oil seal,	Snap Ring
free of debris			Brake Lining
 LININGS

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

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

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

oNot bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

FRONT BRAKES CON’T

Service Brake

Chamber

Push Rod

Clevis Pin &

Cotter Pin

Slack Adjuster

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Air Hose

Shock Absorber

U-Bolt

Spring

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

FRONT WHEEL

TIRES

oProper inflation – company or manufacturer specification

o No bulges, cuts, or retreads

o Minimum tread depth of 4/32”

RIMS

oNot bent, cracked, No welding repairs.

LUG NUTS

oNone are missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER HUB OIL SEALS

oNot leaking, no missing bolts o Proper oil level

	Tire	Wheel
	Hub Oil	Lug Nut
	Reservior	Lug Nut
	Reservior
	Outer Hub	Valve Cap
	Oil Seal

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVER FUEL AREA

DRIVER’S DOOR

oDoor opens and closes properly

oSeal is in good condition

DRIVER’S MIRRORS

oClean and free of obstruction

oNot cracked, broken, or damaged

oMounted securely

FUEL TANK

oMounted securely

o Not leaking

o Seal in cap OK

Mirror

Storage

Compartment

Door

Cap & Seal

Battery Box &

Cover

Saddle Mounts	Leaks
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

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

BEHIND THE CAB

BATTERY BOX & BATTERIES o Box is mounted properly

o Batteries are secure in the box o Lid secure

o Connections not corroded

CATWALK

o Mounted properly

oNot, missing, or damaged

oFree of obstructions

DRIVE SHAFT

oNot bent, or damaged

oCoupling, U-joints appear secure

EXHAUST SYSTEM

oSecurely mounted

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

FRAME

oNot cracked, or damaged

oNo missing bolts

oNo illegal welds

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oClean and working

Lights &
Reflectors
Electrical Line	Exhaust
Glad Hand
Service &
Emergency
Airlines	Drive Shaft
	Drive Shaft
Battery Box &
Batteries
Frame	Catwalk

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

FRONT OF TRAILER

HEADER BOARD

oNo holes or missing rivets

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS

oNone broken, cracked, or missing

oWorking and proper color of amber

Lights

Header Board

Height Sticker

Electric Hookup

Air Line

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Spring Brake	Torsion Bar
Spring Brake
Chamber	Control Arm
	Control Arm
Spring Brake
Chamber	Air Bag
	Air Bag
	Control Arm
	Mount
Control Arm

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

DRIVE AXLE SUSPENSION CON’T & FIFTH WHEEL

CONTROL ARM MOUNT o Mounted securely

o Not bent, broken or damaged

CONTROLARM

oMounted securely – front, back, and

U-bolts

o Not cracked, or broken

SHOCK ABSORBER

o Mounted Securely

oNot bent, dented or leaking

TORSION BAR

oMounted Securely

oNot bent, broken or damaged

AIR BAGS

oMounted Securely

o Not leaking

Skid Plate
	Shock Absorber
Mounting
Bolts
Locking	Spring
Locking
Pins
Control Arm	Air Bag
Control Arm
Mount
	Tire
Control Arm
	Space

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

HOSES AND LINES o Mounted securely o Not leaking

o Not cracked or frayed

CHAMBER

o Mounted securely

oNot dented or damaged

oNot leaking

SLACK ADJUSTER

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

oNo bent, broken, loose, or missing parts

DRUMS

oNot cracked, broken or dented

oNo oil leaking from inner oil seal, free of debris

LININGS

oNo cracked, broken or missing parts

oNot less than ¼ inch in thickness

DRIVE BRAKES & DRIVE SHAFT

Drive Shaft

Universal Joint

Differential

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

Air Line

Service Brake Chamber

Frame

Brake Chamber Mount

Slack Adjuster

TIRES

oProper inflation - company or manufacturer specification.

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

RIMS

oNot bent or cracked

oNo welding repairs

LUG NUTS

oNone missing

oTight – no shinny threads, or rust trails

OUTER AXLE SEAL

oNot leaking, no missing bolts

SPACE OR SPACER

oCheck for objects between wheels

oCheck for proper spacing

Lug Nuts

Outer Axle Seal

DRIVE WHEELS

Tire

Bud Rim

Dayton Rim	Spacer
Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items

Class A CDL Pre-Trip Inspection Tractor Trailer

REAR OF TRACTOR

LIGHTS & REFLECTORS o Not cracked, or broken

o Working and proper color

SPLASH GUARDS

oNot missing or torn and properly mounted

Locking Jaws
	Reflectors
	Lights
Splash Guard	Air Bags

Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items

Reference Items

MOUNTING BOLTS

oNone missing or broken

RELEASE ARM

oNot bent, broken, or damaged

oEngaged in the lock position

LOCKING PINS

oNo missing or broken parts

oEngaged and locked

PLATFORM

oSecurely holds skid plate

oNot cracked, or broken

SKID PLATE

oMounted properly on the platform

oProperly greased

oTilting freely

Mounting Bolts

Slide Stops (all 4 corners)

COUPLING SYSTEM

Skid Plate

Pivot Pin

Release Arm

Platform

 KING PIN

Welds

oNot broken, bent, or damaged

APRON

oNo bends or damage to visible portions

GAP

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

Frame

Slide Locking Pin

Spring Mount

 JAWS	Pre-Trip Inspection Test Items	Reference Items
 JAWS
o Check that the locking jaws are fully
closed around the shank of the king pin	10

Listed Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of the Pre Trip Inspection Checklist?
The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that all vehicles are in safe and proper working condition before they are used. It helps identify any potential issues that could affect safety or performance during operation.
Who is responsible for completing the checklist?
The driver or operator of the vehicle is responsible for completing the checklist. It is important for them to thoroughly inspect the vehicle to ensure it meets safety standards before starting their trip.
What items are typically included in the checklist?
The checklist usually includes items such as:
- Tires (condition and pressure)
- Brakes (functionality and fluid levels)
- Lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals)
- Windshield wipers (condition and fluid)
- Fluid levels (oil, coolant, transmission fluid)
- Safety equipment (fire extinguisher, first aid kit)
Each item is critical for ensuring the vehicle operates safely.
How often should the checklist be completed?
The checklist should be completed before every trip. Regular inspections help catch issues early and maintain the vehicle’s reliability and safety.
What should be done if an issue is found during the inspection?
If any issues are identified, they must be addressed before the vehicle is used. This may involve repairing the problem or reporting it to a supervisor or maintenance team for further action.
Is there a specific format for the checklist?
The checklist can vary by organization but should be clear and easy to follow. It should include checkboxes or spaces for notes to document the condition of each item inspected.
What happens if the checklist is not completed?
Failing to complete the checklist can lead to unsafe driving conditions. It may result in disciplinary actions as well, depending on company policy. Ensuring the checklist is completed is essential for safety and compliance.

Form Overview

Fact Name	Description
Purpose	The Pre Trip Inspection Checklist is designed to ensure that vehicles are safe and roadworthy before operation.
Components	The checklist typically includes items such as brakes, lights, tires, and fluid levels.
Frequency	Drivers are required to complete the inspection before each trip to comply with safety regulations.
Governing Law	In the United States, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) mandates the use of a Pre Trip Inspection Checklist under 49 CFR Part 396.