North Dakota CDL DMV Endorsement Double 1

When inspecting your vehicle's engine, check the belts for tightness and excessive wear. The amount of "give" that is safe for each belt in a given engine will vary, so learn what is appropriate for your vehicle.

The weight of cargo in a vehicle needs to be balanced appropriately so that it does not interfere with the vehicle's safe handling. For example, if cargo is placed too far to the rear of a vehicle, the front axle will be under-weighted and the front wheels may not have enough traction for the driver to steer safely.

It is important to observe other drivers' actions and identify clues that a person could be driving impaired. Drivers who have had too much to drink, are sleepy, are on drugs, or are ill can present hazards to other drivers. One sign that a driver may be impaired is that they stop in inappropriate places, such as at green traffic lights.

The Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is the total weight of a single vehicle plus its load. The Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is the maximum combined weight of a vehicle and its cargo that is permitted and specified by the manufacturer.

The emergency air line (also known as the supply line) has two functions. The first is to supply air to the trailer air tanks on a combination vehicle, and the second is to control the emergency brakes.

When driving down a steep grade, you should rely primarily on the braking effect of the engine to slow down. To prevent overheating, use your brakes only as a supplement to this slowing technique.

Parking brakes should not be used in very wet weather when temperatures are below freezing. The brakes could become frozen in place, making it impossible to move the vehicle.

In an air brake system, the air storage tanks are equipped with drains to allow water and compressor oil to be removed. The water and oil can damage the brakes if left to accumulate in the system.

Always change lanes slowly and smoothly. If you did not see drivers who are already using the lane you wish to occupy, this will give them a chance to get out of your way or honk their horns to alert you. Always signal before changing lanes.

In the event of tire failure, hold the steering wheel firmly. Stay off the brakes and let the vehicle slow down on its own. Once the vehicle has slowed considerably, you should brake very gently, pull off the road, and stop.

Cargo covers should not flap in the wind. A flapping cover could tear loose entirely, exposing the cargo, and potentially blocking your view or the view of other drivers.

Tractor protection controls in older vehicles may be operated by levers instead of knobs. If an air supply control is set in its "normal" position, it is properly set for you to pull a trailer.

If someone is tailgating you, it is a good idea to open up the space ahead of your vehicle to make it easier for the driver to pass you. Increasing your speed is not a good idea because the driver may continue to tailgate you at the higher speed, only increasing the danger.

When backing up, it is always a good idea for a driver to use a helper who can watch the vehicle's blind spots. The helper should stand near the back of the vehicle in a location where they are visible to the driver.

When inspecting a vehicle that is equipped with power steering, check the hoses, pumps, and fluid level. In particular, you should look for leaks in the hoses.

Possible warning signs of fatigue include trouble focusing, frequent blinking, or eyelids that feel heavy; repeated yawning; rubbing your eyes; daydreaming, or having wandering or disconnected thoughts; trouble remembering the last few miles; missing exits or traffic signs; trouble keeping your head up; drifting from your lane, following too closely, or hitting a rumble strip; and feeling restless or irritable.

The trailer hand valve, also called the trolley valve or Johnson bar, is used to work the trailer brakes. It should be used only to test the brakes.

After an engine is started, the warning lights and buzzers for oil, coolant, charging circuits, and the Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) should go out right away.

The "crack-the-whip" effect can cause a trailer to turn over during a lane change. To avoid this phenomenon, drivers should make lane changes at slow, safe speeds.

When uncoupling a triple trailer rig, it is important to uncouple the third trailer first. Uncouple the remaining trailers as you would normally uncouple a double.