CDL · Air Brake Inspection

During the air brake inspection, what should air pressure build-up be?

  1. A From 50 to 90 psi within 3 minutes (typical truck)
  2. B From 50 to 90 psi within 30 seconds
  3. C From 0 to 150 psi within 1 minute
  4. D Build-up time does not matter as long as the brakes work

Why this is the answer

For a typical truck with a dual air brake system, air pressure should build from 50 psi to 90 psi within 3 minutes. Slow build-up suggests a compressor problem, a major leak, or other issues that need attention before driving. The exact specification varies by vehicle (some require build-up within 2 minutes, some allow more), but 50-to-90 in 3 minutes is the federal standard for most heavy vehicles. Check the test in your specific vehicle's documentation. Slow build-up means the compressor cannot keep up with normal brake demand, which is a serious safety problem on long descents or repeated stops.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 5.3.1 Air Pressure Build-up

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