Peterbilt Truck Pre-Trip Inspection Checklist

Comprehensive inspection procedures for Peterbilt Class 8 trucks to ensure safety, compliance, and reliability.

Peterbilt Pre-Trip Inspection Overview

Peterbilt trucks are known for their quality, reliability, and distinctive styling. A thorough pre-trip inspection is essential for ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and preventing costly roadside breakdowns. This checklist covers key inspection points for all Peterbilt models including the 389, 579, 567, 520, and others. Following these procedures will help operators meet DOT requirements while maintaining the performance and longevity that Peterbilt trucks are known for.

Essential Pre-Trip Inspection Procedures

Follow these structured procedures before operating your Peterbilt truck.

Engine Compartment Inspection

  • Ensure truck is parked on level surface with engine off
  • Check engine oil level using dipstick
  • Inspect coolant level in reservoir
  • Check power steering fluid level
  • Verify windshield washer fluid level
  • Inspect belts for fraying, cracks, or looseness
  • Check hoses for leaks, cracks, or bulges
  • Inspect wiring for loose connections or fraying

Air Brake Check (7-Step Method)

  • With air tanks fully charged, shut off engine
  • Release parking brakes, apply foot brake
  • Hold for 1 minute, check air gauge (≤3 PSI drop)
  • Start fanning brake pedal, note pressure drop
  • Verify low air warning activates by 60 PSI
  • Continue fanning until spring brakes activate (20-40 PSI)
  • Start engine, build pressure to operating range
  • Verify automatic air tank drains function

In-Cab Safety Checks

  • Verify parking brake and service brake operation
  • Check steering wheel for excessive play (≤10°)
  • Test horn operation (air and electric)
  • Verify windshield wiper and washer function
  • Check heater and defroster operation
  • Test all indicator lights on dashboard
  • Ensure mirrors are properly adjusted
  • Verify seat belt function and condition

External Light Verification

  • Test headlights (high and low beam)
  • Check turn signals (front and sides)
  • Verify 4-way hazard lights function
  • Test clearance and marker lights
  • Check brake lights and tail lights
  • Verify license plate light works
  • Test reverse lights (if equipped)
  • Check all reflectors are present and clean

Peterbilt Component Inspection Checklist

Verify these critical components on your Peterbilt truck.

Engine & Powertrain

  • Inspect for fluid leaks under vehicle
  • Check engine mounts for security
  • Verify air intake system connections
  • Inspect exhaust system for leaks and security
  • Check DEF level (for SCR-equipped engines)
  • Verify DPF status indicator (if equipped)
  • Inspect fuel system for leaks
  • Check transmission for leaks and proper fluid level

Brake System

  • Inspect brake chambers for damage or leaks
  • Check slack adjusters and push rods (stroke measurement)
  • Inspect brake drums/rotors for cracks or wear
  • Verify brake linings/pads thickness (minimum 1/4")
  • Check air lines for leaks or damage
  • Inspect brake hoses for chafing or wear
  • Verify ABS malfunction lamp cycles on startup
  • Check parking brake operation and holding ability

Steering & Suspension

  • Inspect steering box mounting and operation
  • Check steering linkage for wear or damage
  • Verify power steering hoses for leaks
  • Inspect front springs for cracks or shifted leaves
  • Check U-bolts and mounting brackets
  • Inspect shock absorbers for leaks or damage
  • Check air ride suspension and height control valves
  • Verify air bags for leaks or damage (if equipped)

Wheels & Tires

  • Check tire pressure on all positions (including spare)
  • Inspect tread depth (4/32" front, 2/32" drive/trailer)
  • Look for cuts, bulges, or sidewall damage
  • Check for proper dual tire spacing (no debris)
  • Verify all lug nuts are tight with no rust trails
  • Inspect rims for cracks, dents, or welding repairs
  • Check valve stems and caps for damage
  • Verify hub oil seals are not leaking

Coupling Systems

  • Inspect fifth wheel for proper mounting
  • Check fifth wheel jaws and locking mechanism
  • Verify kingpin engagement and release lever position
  • Ensure proper gap between trailer and fifth wheel
  • Check air and electrical lines for damage
  • Verify gladhands are connected and not leaking
  • Inspect safety chains or cables
  • Check landing gear operation and security

Cab & Body

  • Inspect cab air suspension system (if equipped)
  • Check cab mounting and locks
  • Verify door operation and weatherstripping
  • Inspect steps and grab handles for security
  • Check windshield for cracks or improper tinting
  • Verify hood latches and supports function properly
  • Inspect fuel tank mounting and cap seals
  • Check DEF tank cap and fill area for crystallization

Electrical System

  • Inspect battery box and hold-downs
  • Check battery connections for corrosion
  • Verify alternator mounting and belt tension
  • Inspect visible wiring for damage
  • Check all exterior lights function
  • Verify all gauges and warning indicators work
  • Test starter operation
  • Check trailer electrical connection

Safety Equipment

  • Verify fire extinguisher is charged and secured
  • Check emergency reflectors are present (3 triangles)
  • Ensure spare fuses are available
  • Verify first aid kit is complete (if carried)
  • Check wheel chocks are present and accessible
  • Inspect required warning devices
  • Verify accident report kit is in vehicle
  • Check tire chains (if required for conditions)

Peterbilt Model-Specific Checks

Address these model-specific inspection points for your Peterbilt truck.

Model 579 Ultra Loft

  • Check TPMS system function (if equipped)
  • Verify advanced driver assistance systems
  • Test collision mitigation system (if equipped)
  • Check SmartNav system function
  • Inspect sleeper amenities and connections
  • Verify digital dash display operation
  • Test SmartAir system and auto-start function
  • Check adaptive cruise control system

Model 389/388 Traditional

  • Inspect extended hood and butterfly hood latches
  • Check traditional stainless steel brightwork
  • Verify dual exhaust stacks and mounting
  • Inspect air cleaner housings security
  • Check headlight adjustment and chrome trim
  • Verify custom dash gauge operation
  • Inspect separate sleeper connections (389 only)
  • Check air suspension ride height (proper setting)

Model 567 & 520 Vocational

  • Inspect sloped hood and access points
  • Check vocational specific components
  • Verify PTO operation and engagement
  • Inspect hydraulic system components (if equipped)
  • Check body builder connections
  • Verify specialized control systems
  • Test dump body operations (if equipped)
  • Inspect frame reinforcements and body mounts

Natural Gas Models

  • Check CNG or LNG fuel system for leaks
  • Verify fuel tank integrity and mounting
  • Inspect pressure relief devices
  • Check natural gas detector function
  • Verify fuel gauge accuracy
  • Inspect specialized fuel connections
  • Check spark ignition system components
  • Verify specialized exhaust system

Documentation and Regulatory Compliance

Ensure all required documentation is present and valid before operation.

Required Documentation

  • Verify current vehicle registration
  • Check proof of annual inspection
  • Confirm insurance documentation is current
  • Verify IFTA credentials (if applicable)
  • Check for current UCR registration
  • Verify permits for oversized/overweight loads
  • Ensure valid medical card is on person
  • Check current CDL with proper endorsements

Electronic Logging & Telematics

  • Verify ELD is powered and functioning
  • Check ELD display for malfunctions
  • Ensure ELD data transfer capability works
  • Verify hours of service records are current
  • Check telematics system connection
  • Verify DVIR is complete from previous driver
  • Ensure blank DVIR forms are available
  • Check dash camera operation (if equipped)

Load Securement

  • Inspect cargo securement devices
  • Verify proper number of tie-downs for load
  • Check working load limit meets requirements
  • Verify cargo is properly distributed
  • Check proper blocking and bracing
  • Ensure securement meets cargo-specific rules
  • Verify tailgate, doors, and tarps are secure
  • Check height and width meet legal requirements

Hazardous Materials (If Applicable)

  • Verify proper shipping papers
  • Check hazmat placards are correct and visible
  • Ensure emergency response information
  • Verify segregation of incompatible materials
  • Check HazMat endorsement on CDL
  • Ensure proper package labeling
  • Verify load securement meets HazMat requirements
  • Check route restrictions for HazMat cargo
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