How do you show the examiner that the engine oil level is acceptable?
- Read the dipstick with the engine off
- Watch the oil gauge with the engine idling
- Look for oil stains on the engine block
- Open the filler cap and look inside
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A. Read the dipstick with the engine off
You point out the dipstick and, with the engine off, show that the level is within the safe operating range, above the refill mark. The oil pressure gauge shows pressure while running, not how much oil is in the pan.
Reference: CDL Manual Section 11.1, All Vehicles (Internal Inspection)
When you check the alternator, water pump and air compressor belts, how much play is acceptable at the center of a belt?
- Up to 2 inches
- Up to 3 inches
- None at all
- Up to 3/4 inch
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D. Up to 3/4 inch
Belts are checked for snugness, with up to 3/4 inch of play at the center, and for cracks or frays. A belt that deflects a couple of inches is loose and will slip. If a component is gear driven, you say so and check its mounting and for leaks.
Reference: CDL Manual Section 11.1, All Vehicles (Internal Inspection)
What must you do before starting the engine for the in-cab part of the inspection?
- Release the parking brake and select the lowest gear
- Depress the clutch and put the gearshift in neutral
- Switch the headlights on and sound the horn twice
- Pump the brake pedal until the air gauges read zero
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B. Depress the clutch and put the gearshift in neutral
For a safe start the clutch is depressed and the gearshift placed in neutral (or park for an automatic) before the engine is started, then the clutch is released slowly. Starting in gear can make the vehicle lurch.
Reference: CDL Manual Section 11.1, All Vehicles (Internal Inspection)