Many truckers perform an inspection prior to their trip prior to putting their feet on the road. Of course, this CDL obligation is required by law and these easy guidelines will help you keep your truck running and also put money into your pocket.
The reason why having lights is an CDL Requirement
In the event that your lights are not working, it is a simple ticket. Particularly if you’re going to an inspector’s station DOT can issue an order to have it repaired. In determining the severity of the issue, they might close you down until you can fix it. If that happens , you’ll have to get a repair truck to help you truck lights.
Once I was taken to the scales as I drove through Indiana. The reason was that my tail lights weren’t functioning. DOT told me they wouldn’t allow me to go until the issue was fixed.
Luckily, I had learned certain things about the trucking. I went to the front of my trailer and discovered the plug in the pig’s tail was pulling loose because the female end of the trailer was wearing. The only thing I had to do was to open the prongs of the plug, which resulted in it a snug fit for my pig-tail.
The requirement to have lights is an CDL requirement that is vitally crucial. It allows people to are able to see you and be able to see the lights. If you’re at the point where you will not repair them, consider this trick… Write down on your journal that the looked over the truck and discovered the following issues and plan to repair it at your nearest repair station.
The reason you should do this is that the moment DOT stops you to check for a light out One of the things he’s likely to request is an account book. The officer will be unable to issue an entry because you’ve recorded the problem and have been performing a pre-trip inspection. This will protect your back from being issued tickets.
Some Tips for Fixing Your Lighting
- The first step is to check the pig tail.It is the cable of wires which connects the truck and connects to the trailer, giving the trailer’s lights power. There are two ends to the pig-tail. One end is attached to the tractor and the other one to the trailer. The majority of the time, the plug will rust due to all the salt, and the pins become worn. Sometimes, the lights turn intermittently when the tail bobs and down when you’re driving along the road.
- In the second case, if the pins on the pig tail are loose, you can bend them slowly with a screwdriver , spreading the pins apart. This helps in ensuring a tight fitting.I also have a can of spray lube to use for electrical connections.
- Thirdly, I look at the fuses and breakers.
- Fourth, if it’s only one bulb, it’s the bulb that needs replacing.Maybe a few wires have been damaged.
- Also, don’t forget to put your ground in place.One useful tool is a light tester that can check if power is entering.
Understanding how to solve electrical issues is vital. It will help you stay in compliance in compliance with all CDL regulations enforced by DOT and, in turn, you’ll keep your vehicle running and earning money.