Want to say think you for posting this. I just got my CDL for work I used this video to practice dot pre-trip even though I had a Chevrolet class a combination thank you so much for sharing
Thanks to this video, I passed my pre trip. I had form B. I followed this video part by part I live in Georgia. I also passed my skill test, I have to go back for road test because of some trailer malfunctions. None the less I probably wouldn’t have passed without this video!
Passed the test this weekend. What did i learn? 1. Watch their video and use their truck. You get used to seeing it and will get through the inspection more easily. 2. Know what to do for a RR crossing if you are carrying hazmat and how to do en emergency roadside stop. 3. If you need to forward for the dock test, pull as far forward as you have room for. This straightens the rig out and turns it into straight line backing. Pulling forward a little means you are still working at steep angles which is more difficult as i learned the hard way. Instructor won’t ask questions so let him know when you are done and ready to move on. Good luck.
Thank you for this informative video I failed my pre-trip first time then stubbled on this video studied about a hour a day and watched the video every day for a week and passed it I got form C first try form A second
This is just what I was looking for to perform my pre- trip inspection for a noncommercial Class A in California. Just recently found out that I needed the endorsement to haul my toy hauler that weights over 10,000 lbs.
For your toy hauler, you don't need a commercial DL in CA. If it is 10k-15k you only need the Rec Vehicle Endorsement, which is just a few written tests at the DMV= trailer test, non-commercial class A test, class c test (all written). If this were a horse trailer over 10k, you would need the Commercial Drivers license.
Thank you! you helped me pass my test today could not have done it with out you. not sure how many times I watched the video why I went over the pre-trip on my truck
Got my class a + combination this week. Great video with auto knowledge and your video I missed 1 on my pretrip. Thanks for helping me get a 5$ raise, beers on me. 🍻
Great video. Very informative. Bet the DOT doesn't pass that combination up when rolling down the highway only to have their hearts broken when it passes all their checks.
im here just to say thank you so much for youre videos , today i was able to pass my road test without any problems so far. my pretrip insp peace of cake just one point and thats becouse the instructor didt heard me when i was mention the cooling reseirver but thats alrigth becouse he was cool in the parallel backin i feel i got a brake of from him i didnt complete 100% in the box barelly passed with the maximun of the scores but i did! thanks again god bless my friend.
Very informative. I've watched this video, and some others, numerous times in preparation for my test w/o air brakes. This has been a big help, thank you.
Florida Class A Requirements: To operate trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs or more, and towing a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs, a Class A license is required.
Is there anyway you can make a video with the gooseneck or tell me in a comment how to do a pre-trip on a gooseneck coupling truck and trailer. The CDL handbook only mentions about fifth wheel coupling
You would inspect the ball and where it attaches to the vehicle, not bent, broke, security mounted. Check the receiver mechanism from trailer, not bent, broke or cracked and also the release lever for operation and that it's locking device is secured. Check the trailer gooseneck, not bent, broke or cracked and any adjustment bolts or pins. Safety devices-usually chains-are secure at vehicle and also trailer and are not stretched, cracked or broken. They should be criss crossed. Check electric plug at vehicle and trailer. Pins should be clean, plugged it all the way. Electric line should not be cut, mended or rubbing on anything.
Great video! Very detailed and illustrative! Quick question: for the in-cab inspection, how would you check the trailer brakes if they are hydraulic rather than electric (if you would need to do so)?
The surge brake operation would not be graded; however, you would need to check the trailer's brake system (no leaks, hydraulic fluid level, etc. -- during your CDL pre-trip test, you would identify the parts and tell the grader what you are checking the parts for).
@@smgtrucking Right. I had a feeling that was the case judging by some of the research I did, but thanks for clarifying! Btw, I passed my test thanks to this great video!
Thank you! I have a question on the lights. Do you need the amber mounted lights on the top of your truck? I do not have these on my truck or a side step.
Awesome video, i'll be watching this a few times to prepare. A few questions. How do I check the outside lights/hazards/brake lights during the test? Can I ask the tester to confirm the brake lights are working? Do I need to check all (4) corners of everything I am checking? For example, if I am checking tire pressure, do I check all of the tires or just the side I am telling the instructor for what I am checking?
Exterior light operation check is a bonus point on the score sheet. Applicant must inspect light themselves but can get help from tester for brake lights. Vehicle inspection will be on driver side only unless there is something unique to the passenger side. All items on exterior of vehicle you would only need to point to or touch and verbally tell the tester what you are checking the item for. Everything on the interior (in cab) you need to demonstrate for operation.
I want to take mine. I have a goose neck and auto truck. I already have class B with no restrictions. If I take it with this setup, am I ensured I will have a class A with no restrictions? I heard it has to be taken with a fifth wheel, is goose neck considered that since the connection is over the axle? Great video, great detail!!
When telling the instructor that you are checking the oil for full. Do you actually pull out the dip stick and check it? Do you actually test the tension on the pully straps? Or do you just point to a say what you said.
Travis, pointing to the items and explaining what must occur outside the cab is acceptable. During the Incab portion, those items would be demonstrated.
Just to verify, you need to physically measure the air pressure in the tires, correct? Based on the video, it appears you need to physically measure. I know you already mentioned this for things outside the truck, but should I remove the hub covers on the wheels prior to arriving at the DMV or is describing what I would check and why, enough? Thank you!
Everything on the exterior you name, point to or touch and also explain what you check the item for. You do not need to physically check tire pressure. Just say, “I WILL CHECK TIRE PRESSURE WITH A TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE.“
All cdl inspection videos need to have a disclaimer that states that this video may not be valid in all states. Requirements for inspections vary widely from state to state.
I leave in Massachusetts and I would like to take a cdl without airbrake to start a car hauler business I have all the endorsements because I was taking class in a driving school but they don’t do a test without air brake what can I do about it?
This is a Hotshot; no air brakes and they have a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, and towing anything over 10,000 pounds. Think about those trucks similar pulling a vehicle trailer with three of four vehicles strapped on. They require a Class A.
I wonder what would happen if some of the lights are not working and the windshield wiper fluid not working on the vehicle when you take the test? is that a fail?
During your test, you would demonstrate those in cab items; if they don't work, that would not effect your score. Not discussing/demonstrating those items would have an effect.
I just tried to pass my pre trip inspection and I failed because they said that I needed to make sure the key was in the on position to preform the hydraulic brake test!!! I had the engine running just like in the video and the DMV failed me. No where in the study manual does it say whether the engine should be running or not. Please someone help me I am trying to teach myself but its been hard to find the right answers.
It has been discussed, but it has not been implemented. No word if they ever will allow it. Currently, a checklist cannot be used during your testing for your CDL.
In Florida, you may ask the examiner to assist in checking the external lights for an extra point, but it is not required. You must tell the examiner exactly which lights they would check (headlight high and low beam; right and left turn signals; 4-Way flashers; Clearance Lights)
During the pretrip test to get your CDL, everything on the exterior you name, point to or touch, and also explain what you check the item for. For example, you do not need to physically check tire pressure. Just say, “I WILL CHECK TIRE PRESSURE WITH A TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE.“ For the in-cab portion of the test, you actually demonstrate the items; turn on windshield wipers, etc. When actually working after you receive your license, you would note the item's discrepancy and work to get it fixed.
Yes it is. And so is the basic backing skills video: th-cam.com/video/5C1HYKEBP1c/w-d-xo.html (Florida does not require parallel parking, but some states do)
If you need to tow a trailer or vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds, and the total weight of your vehicle and trailer is no more than 26,001 pounds, then a Class A license is needed.
Don’t forget to mention that when you do your hydraulic brake test, that your window must be down so that you can hear if it’s leaking. If you don’t do this at our testing location, it will be an automatic fail.
It is not an automatic fail for the hydraulic brake check. During the hydraulic brake check, having your windows open to listen for leaks is not required. It is only required during the air brake check -- hearing air escaping the system is a distinctive sound and, unlike a fluid leak, would be loud enough to actually hear.
Did your vehicle have air brakes, or did your vehicle have hydraulic brakes? For the air brake check; there is a point where your engine would be shut off.
Definition of a Class A: a combination of 2 or more vehicles, including a trailer(s) in excess of 10,000 lbs. The example in this video does not use air brakes. For the air brake example, I recommend viewing our CDL Class A With Air Brakes video.
![[Tutorial] CDL Class A Pre-Trip Inspection DEMO](/img/n.gif)
Passed my CDL test on 2/11/22. Used this video the whole time to study. Very relevant information. This guy deserves an award. 😆
Headed to him to test Monday and nervous!!!
Did you do no air brakes. And if so did it hinder you finding a job or a trucking program or the road test.
Passed my class A today with airbrakes! I can't tell you how many times I watched your video! So helpful, thank you so much!
Congratulations!!
@@smgtrucking how much does this video of pre trip differ from that of Georgia’s pre trip, or is this video a standard template for mostly all states
I take mine this Friday, I think I'm more nervous about the pre trip portion than I have been for any other test
@@codyhalbert524 how did it go
This video is EXTREMELY helpful and very very well done! Thanks for the under truck footage and pointing out specific parts!!!
Want to say think you for posting this. I just got my CDL for work I used this video to practice dot pre-trip even though I had a Chevrolet class a combination thank you so much for sharing
Thanks to this video I passed my test today.
Best pre-trip video.
Thank you.
Passed my class A test today, this video was very helpful! Thank you for posting it!!!!
Thanks to this video, I passed my pre trip. I had form B. I followed this video part by part I live in Georgia. I also passed my skill test, I have to go back for road test because of some trailer malfunctions. None the less I probably wouldn’t have passed without this video!
Congratulations, and good luck on the road test!
What was the malfunction? If you don't mind me asking.
So if you pass pre trip but fair on Road to you have to take pre trip the second time?
Thank you Mike, because of this video I was able to pass the class A CDL pre- trip with flying colors! Keep up the great work!
Just passed the DMV test Thank you for the your great instructions and your helpful information
Congratulations!
passed my test with flying colors after watching this video!!! 🎉🎉
Congratulations!
Passed the test this weekend. What did i learn? 1. Watch their video and use their truck. You get used to seeing it and will get through the inspection more easily. 2. Know what to do for a RR crossing if you are carrying hazmat and how to do en emergency roadside stop. 3. If you need to forward for the dock test, pull as far forward as you have room for. This straightens the rig out and turns it into straight line backing. Pulling forward a little means you are still working at steep angles which is more difficult as i learned the hard way. Instructor won’t ask questions so let him know when you are done and ready to move on. Good luck.
Thank you for this informative video I failed my pre-trip first time then stubbled on this video studied about a hour a day and watched the video every day for a week and passed it I got form C first try form A second
Thank you so much Mike I just passed my test here in missouri with your video as my guide happy thanksgiving
Congratulations!
That is about as professional as I've ever seen it done. Thank you sir for this. Take care!
Thank you!
Just got my license in october of 2022 thanks to this video thank you very much!
Thank you! And, Congratulations!!
Thank you for your complete and comprehensive knowledge. This video made it a passing class A licence for me. Much appreciation to you sir..
Thank you! I passed without a single issue!
Passed mine. This video was a valuable source of information
Congratulations!
Passed my class A today, thanks so much for posting this !!
Congratulations!!
Thanks for the video I have passed my Pre Trip on the road test .
Congratulations!
It was so difficult to find a guide for non-air brake vehicle, so thank you! I passed a few days ago and I’m happy!
Congratulations!!
@@smgtrucking Thanks!
I must say I am so thankful for your video. I was able to pass my cdl with flying colors. Again thank you so much
This is just what I was looking for to perform my pre- trip inspection for a noncommercial Class A in California. Just recently found out that I needed the endorsement to haul my toy hauler that weights over 10,000 lbs.
For your toy hauler, you don't need a commercial DL in CA. If it is 10k-15k you only need the Rec Vehicle Endorsement, which is just a few written tests at the DMV= trailer test, non-commercial class A test, class c test (all written). If this were a horse trailer over 10k, you would need the Commercial Drivers license.
If over 15k, you need a Class A Non commercial, which I don't think requires a pre-trip inspection.
I'm glad I found this video I just passed my CDL. Thanks for the video it helped alot.
Thank You!!! This is perfect for a person that is attempting to take the test with a combination trailer.
thank you so much for the video!!! great information and huge help!! I passed my CDL today first try!! Thanks again!!
Thank you! you helped me pass my test today could not have done it with out you. not sure how many times I watched the video why I went over the pre-trip on my truck
Congratulations!!
Got my class a + combination this week. Great video with auto knowledge and your video I missed 1 on my pretrip. Thanks for helping me get a 5$ raise, beers on me. 🍻
Memorized this video and aced the test! Thank you very much!
Was it hard I take mines September 2
Great video. Very informative.
Bet the DOT doesn't pass that combination up when rolling down the highway only to have their hearts broken when it passes all their checks.
Passed my cdl yesterday , great video much appreciated
Congratulations!!
Passed mine yesterday. Thx for the info. Keep it coming....🙏
Congratulations, and will do!
So far I've passed the written tests hope this gets me through the final one
Passed my test today thanks to this video 🙏🏼
Congratulations!!
Thank you! Just took my test today and passed like a breeze!
Where did you take your test at, and was it no air brakes?
This video helped me pass my cdl today. I highly recommend!
Great job!
im here just to say thank you so much for youre videos , today i was able to pass my road test without any problems so far. my pretrip insp peace of cake just one point and thats becouse the instructor didt heard me when i was mention the cooling reseirver but thats alrigth becouse he was cool in the parallel backin i feel i got a brake of from him i didnt complete 100% in the box barelly passed with the maximun of the scores but i did! thanks again god bless my friend.
Very informative. I've watched this video, and some others, numerous times in preparation for my test w/o air brakes. This has been a big help, thank you.
Just got mine 4 months ago but with air brakes.. making $1000 a week hauling machines for a landscaping company.
Was the pre inspection test hard?
Donavan Hargrove It was probably the easiest test fo all of them for me.
@@bullymaguire4457 Thats probably because you dont need a class a for anything under 26000lbs.
But they gladly separated him from his money.
Florida Class A Requirements: To operate trucks or truck combinations weighing 26,001 lbs or more, and towing a vehicle/unit over 10,000 lbs, a Class A license is required.
I been trying to get my CDL A but I don't have a bigrig truck so this is helpful
This video helped me pass my pre trip 😅 thanks 🙏
Just passed my cdl! Thank you!
Congratulations!
Thanks for making this video!
mike Rash this video was very helpful thank you for your time
If mike rash has time to call me it would be awesome
@Robbie Adams, call the office number and ask for Mike, or leave your contact information so he may be able to contact you. smgofcrystalriver.com/
Is there anyway you can make a video with the gooseneck or tell me in a comment how to do a pre-trip on a gooseneck coupling truck and trailer. The CDL handbook only mentions about fifth wheel coupling
You would inspect the ball and where it attaches to the vehicle, not bent, broke, security mounted.
Check the receiver mechanism from trailer, not bent, broke or cracked and also the release lever for operation and that it's locking device is secured.
Check the trailer gooseneck, not bent, broke or cracked and any adjustment bolts or pins.
Safety devices-usually chains-are secure at vehicle and also trailer and are not stretched, cracked or broken. They should be criss crossed.
Check electric plug at vehicle and trailer. Pins should be clean, plugged it all the way. Electric line should not be cut, mended or rubbing on anything.
Seems like the pre trip is more about memorizing certain phrases instead of actual knowledge of operating a commercial motor vehicle
He’s only demonstrating what should said and pointed out but during the actual test you actually check these things physically
Ofc, it’s the fed gov
Wish me luck!! Using this video
Good luck!!! You got this :)
Great video! Very detailed and illustrative! Quick question: for the in-cab inspection, how would you check the trailer brakes if they are hydraulic rather than electric (if you would need to do so)?
The surge brake operation would not be graded; however, you would need to check the trailer's brake system (no leaks, hydraulic fluid level, etc. -- during your CDL pre-trip test, you would identify the parts and tell the grader what you are checking the parts for).
@@smgtrucking Right. I had a feeling that was the case judging by some of the research I did, but thanks for clarifying! Btw, I passed my test thanks to this great video!
Congratulations!
@@smgtrucking Thanks! I pretty much followed this walkthrough all the way through (I had electric brakes).
Very very on point ,thank you sir for this video
You are very welcome!
Thank you! I have a question on the lights. Do you need the amber mounted lights on the top of your truck? I do not have these on my truck or a side step.
No, those clearance lights are not required to have. If they were there, you would have to include them in your checks.
Just noticed, you never checked if the lights were working from the outside. I failed my first walk around. Going to try again tomorrow morning.
Passed the pre-trip. Ended up that the examiner had me turn on the lights from the cab as he verified their operation
Awesome video, i'll be watching this a few times to prepare.
A few questions.
How do I check the outside lights/hazards/brake lights during the test? Can I ask the tester to confirm the brake lights are working?
Do I need to check all (4) corners of everything I am checking? For example, if I am checking tire pressure, do I check all of the tires or just the side I am telling the instructor for what I am checking?
Exterior light operation check is a bonus point on the score sheet. Applicant must inspect light themselves but can get help from tester for brake lights.
Vehicle inspection will be on driver side only unless there is something unique to the passenger side. All items on exterior of vehicle you would only need to point to or touch and verbally tell the tester what you are checking the item for. Everything on the interior (in cab) you need to demonstrate for operation.
Did you pass the pre inspection test ?
I want to take mine. I have a goose neck and auto truck. I already have class B with no restrictions. If I take it with this setup, am I ensured I will have a class A with no restrictions? I heard it has to be taken with a fifth wheel, is goose neck considered that since the connection is over the axle? Great video, great detail!!
Thank you sir great video
When telling the instructor that you are checking the oil for full. Do you actually pull out the dip stick and check it? Do you actually test the tension on the pully straps? Or do you just point to a say what you said.
Travis, pointing to the items and explaining what must occur outside the cab is acceptable. During the Incab portion, those items would be demonstrated.
Do I just have to say I'm checking or do I actually have to go and touch and feel for the certain stuff??
Pointing to the items and explaining what must occur outside the cab is acceptable. During the Incab portion, those items would be demonstrated.
no leaks on a7.3 is impressive
Mike rash is great tester. Passed my pre-trip and driving part. with him today
Congratulations!
Good job 👍💯 Love
What type of vehicles can you use for a cdl non-air brake test. Box truck, hotshot truck and trailer, work truck? (i.e garbage truck etc)
For Class A, you need a combination vehicle, GVW of 26001 lbs or over, that isn't equipped with air brakes.
Thanks bud
Just to verify, you need to physically measure the air pressure in the tires, correct? Based on the video, it appears you need to physically measure. I know you already mentioned this for things outside the truck, but should I remove the hub covers on the wheels prior to arriving at the DMV or is describing what I would check and why, enough? Thank you!
Everything on the exterior you name, point to or touch and also explain what you check the item for. You do not need to physically check tire pressure. Just say, “I WILL CHECK TIRE PRESSURE WITH A TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE.“
All cdl inspection videos need to have a disclaimer that states that this video may not be valid in all states. Requirements for inspections vary widely from state to state.
I leave in Massachusetts and I would like to take a cdl without airbrake to start a car hauler business I have all the endorsements because I was taking class in a driving school but they don’t do a test without air brake what can I do about it?
I would like to know how this truck is a class A. My semi is a class A. Looks more like a class B
This is a Hotshot; no air brakes and they have a gross combination weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more, and towing anything over 10,000 pounds. Think about those trucks similar pulling a vehicle trailer with three of four vehicles strapped on. They require a Class A.
I wonder what would happen if some of the lights are not working and the windshield wiper fluid not working on the vehicle when you take the test? is that a fail?
During your test, you would demonstrate those in cab items; if they don't work, that would not effect your score. Not discussing/demonstrating those items would have an effect.
I just tried to pass my pre trip inspection and I failed because they said that I needed to make sure the key was in the on position to preform the hydraulic brake test!!! I had the engine running just like in the video and the DMV failed me. No where in the study manual does it say whether the engine should be running or not. Please someone help me I am trying to teach myself but its been hard to find the right answers.
Followed this video to a T and failed twice. Not sure what I am doing wrong?
The instructors will not tell me why I failed so I cannot correct my mistakes. Pretty frustrating there is no feedback.
Probably because you are watching videos on TH-cam instead of studying the CDL drivers manual.
Dumb question, but I gotta ask. Are you allowed to have a check list while doing the pre trip?
It has been discussed, but it has not been implemented. No word if they ever will allow it. Currently, a checklist cannot be used during your testing for your CDL.
@@smgtrucking okay, thank you for the quick response
I think you forgot something when are you supposed to check your headlights taillights blinkers and 4-way flashers on the outside
In Florida, you may ask the examiner to assist in checking the external lights for an extra point, but it is not required. You must tell the examiner exactly which lights they would check (headlight high and low beam; right and left turn signals; 4-Way flashers; Clearance Lights)
I’m trying to drive trucks not be a mechanic one hell of a video tho!
What if you do have some of these issues? Frayed belt, Crack in landing gear , kinks or swolen hose etc?
During the pretrip test to get your CDL, everything on the exterior you name, point to or touch, and also explain what you check the item for. For example, you do not need to physically check tire pressure. Just say, “I WILL CHECK TIRE PRESSURE WITH A TIRE PRESSURE GAUGE.“ For the in-cab portion of the test, you actually demonstrate the items; turn on windshield wipers, etc.
When actually working after you receive your license, you would note the item's discrepancy and work to get it fixed.
@@smgtrucking thx .
Passed ... 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏 I can't thank you enough....
Congratulations!
Is this the only thing I have to do to get my CDL without airbrakes? Do I have to drive?
I am curious to know too
Yes a road test is mandatory
Can i use this method for a class C comercial pre trip with out air brakes… is it similar??
Yes it is.
And so is the basic backing skills video: th-cam.com/video/5C1HYKEBP1c/w-d-xo.html
(Florida does not require parallel parking, but some states do)
Little quick on the oil leak check. That's a 7.3 power stroke we all know it's leaking somewhere
:)
Are you still a 3rd party tester, and if so what is the cost for non- air brake test?
Yes, of course. You can find current prices on our Website, here: smgofcrystalriver.com/cdl-testing.html
Is this for hot shot driving?
Yes, this video would benefit Hotshot drivers.
hey José this is what weight have to be the truck and trailer to have cdl class a
26000 in mn. I dont know about Florida.
Can I take the class A road test with a bumper pull trailer ?
Yes, as long as the vehicle GVW is 26001LBS or more.
Do you use wheel chocks during the pre trip inspection?
You would use chocks if on uneven ground. Our facility is entirely flat.
Failed my pre trip after following this lol
👍👍👍
" its not rusted " aha that shit a rust bucket
Class A with a F 450? 26001?
If you need to tow a trailer or vehicle that weighs more than 10,000 pounds, and the total weight of your vehicle and trailer is no more than 26,001 pounds, then a Class A license is needed.
Rear brake line does not pass inspection. .
Good video but should have done whit out the back ground music
Yes you still have to do a road test
Is this a pretest you can use in Texas
@@johnnymorales5640 yes
Don’t forget to mention that when you do your hydraulic brake test, that your window must be down so that you can hear if it’s leaking. If you don’t do this at our testing location, it will be an automatic fail.
It is not an automatic fail for the hydraulic brake check. During the hydraulic brake check, having your windows open to listen for leaks is not required. It is only required during the air brake check -- hearing air escaping the system is a distinctive sound and, unlike a fluid leak, would be loud enough to actually hear.
What state is that Will? I know it's not Indiana.
Do the break check as on this video with the car running, you will fail .
@Hendic Rivas, you are not correct. I assume you have this confused with the air brake check. The brake system in this vehicle is hydraulic.
@@smgtrucking so the evaluator I had was wrong or didnt know, She told me it had to be with the truck off.
Did your vehicle have air brakes, or did your vehicle have hydraulic brakes? For the air brake check; there is a point where your engine would be shut off.
“This” is an “A” class vehicle, more like a rinky dink pick-up
Definition of a Class A: a combination of 2 or more vehicles, including a trailer(s) in excess of 10,000 lbs. The example in this video does not use air brakes. For the air brake example, I recommend viewing our CDL Class A With Air Brakes video.
@@smgtrucking Maybe in Florida.
Federal DOT is anything over 26,000 lbs is considered class A.