CDL · Inspecting Tank Vehicles

Which of the following is a sign of a tank leak found during inspection?

Correct answer

Liquid pooling under the tank, wet streaks on the side, or product visible at valve fittings

  1. A A noisy engine
  2. B Liquid pooling under the tank, wet streaks on the side, or product visible at valve fittings
  3. C A dirty windshield
  4. D A worn tire

Why this is the answer

Tank leak signs during inspection include: visible product on the outside of the tank (wet streaks running down from a manhole, valve, or fitting); pooling liquid underneath the vehicle that is not just rainwater; chemical smell consistent with the cargo; corrosion stains around fittings (indicating slow chronic leaks); pressure indicators showing unusual readings; and damage that breaches the tank shell. A tank that fails inspection cannot be driven — the load must be transferred to a sound tank, and the leaking tank repaired and tested before returning to service. Many leaks are at valve and fitting connections rather than the tank shell itself, which is why these get specific attention in pre-trip inspection.
Source: FMCSA CDL Manual 8.1.3 Leak Detection

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