Peterbilt Medium Duty Trucks Operator's Manual after 1-07

Operating Instructions
1. Lights—do headlights, turn signals, emergency flashers,
and exterior lamps function and are they clean and
adjusted properly?
2. Windows and Mirrors—are they clean and adjusted
properly?
3. Tires and Wheels—are they inflated properly? Are all
wheel cap nuts in place and torqued properly—tighten if
necessary. Check front wheel bearing oil levels. Inspect
all tires and wheels for damage—correct if found.
4. Suspension—check for loose or missing fasteners.
Check damage to springs or other suspension parts.
5. Brake Components—check lines, linkages, chambers,
and brake operation.
6. If your truck has hydraulic brakes, check:
• the brake system for leaks
• hydraulic lines for cracks or kinks
• calipers for leaks
7. Air System—are there leaks?
• Air Tanks—drain water from all air tanks. Make sure
the drain cocks are closed. This procedure is also
required for air suspension tanks equipped with
automatic drain valves.
• See page 72 for further details on “Using the Brake
System.”
Start–Up
8. Steps and Handholds—check for worn surfaces and
loose or missing fasteners.
9. Fluid Tanks—check underneath the vehicle for signs of
fluid leaks. If any are found, correct before operating the
vehicle.
10. Fuel Tank Caps—are they secure?
WARNING! Diesel fuel in the presence of an ignition
source (such as a cigarette) could cause an
explosion. You could be seriously injured. A
mixture of gasoline or alcohol with diesel fuel
increases this risk of explosion.
•Do not remove a fuel tank cap near an open
flame.
•Use only the fuel and/or additives recommended
for your engine.
• See page 114 for more information.
11. Trailer Connections (Tractor)—are they secure and the
lines clear? If they are not being used, are they stored
properly?
• Is the trailer spare wheel secure and inflated?
• Is the landing gear up and the handle secured?
12. Check the fifth wheel. Is the kingpin locked?
• Is the sliding fifth wheel locked?
Medium Duty (R10/06) Y53-6008 – 15 –