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CDL · Inspecting Combination Vehicles

During a combination vehicle inspection, what should you check on the trailer's landing gear?

Correct answer

That it is fully raised (crank handle secured), not bent or damaged, and the crank handle is in place — landing gear that is not fully raised can catch on the road or railroad crossings

  1. A Only that it is painted
  2. B That it is fully raised (crank handle secured), not bent or damaged, and the crank handle is in place — landing gear that is not fully raised can catch on the road or railroad crossings
  3. C Nothing — landing gear needs no inspection
  4. D Only that it is lowered

Why this is the answer

LANDING GEAR INSPECTION: Check that the landing gear (the support legs that hold up the front of a parked trailer) is: FULLY RAISED when traveling (landing gear left partially down can strike the road, railroad crossings, or other obstacles, causing damage or accidents); not bent, damaged, or missing parts; the CRANK HANDLE is secured in its holder (a loose crank handle can swing out); legs and support structure intact; LANDING GEAR FUNCTION: Supports the trailer when uncoupled; must be raised before traveling; OTHER COMBINATION INSPECTION ITEMS: fifth wheel (secure mounting, proper lubrication, locking jaws, no gaps or cracks); kingpin and apron (not bent/cracked); air and electrical lines (not damaged, properly connected, not dragging or tangled); the gap between tractor and trailer; sliding fifth wheel locked; trailer frame; combination vehicle inspection includes all the standard items PLUS the coupling system and trailer-specific components; landing gear position is a commonly tested and commonly missed item.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual — Combination Inspection, Landing Gear

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