Roadcheck 2022: What truckers should focus on

There is only a month left until International Roadcheck 2022. The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) made a checklist for drivers to help them prepare as best as possible for the inspection.

This year’s Roadcheck will take place in Canada, the United States and Mexico from May 17 to 19 and will be located at weighing stations, mobile posts and special areas reserved for commercial vehicle checks.

A year ago, the priority area for inspection was operating and lighting disturbances. This year attention is focused on the wheels.

Below you can find the points related to the wheels. During the check-up, the inspector will pay attention to them.

Brake systems. Check the parts of the brake system for dirt and serviceability. Check for a sound that indicates an air leak. Be sure the lash adjusters are the same length and the airbags on each axle are also the same size.

Check the spring brake carcass for rust holes or faulty springs.

The air pressure in the air system must be maintained between 90-100 psi. inch (620-690 kPa).

Measure the stroke of the pusher. Inspect the anti-lock brake warning lights and low air pressure warning devices. Check the truck protection system.

Trailer’s emergency switch should work properly.

Exhaust system. Check tanks for loose or leaking, unfastened or missing caps.

Make sure the exhaust system is secure and there is no possibility of a leak under the cab.

Clutch. Check chains and cables for strength, missing parts, loose devices.

Check the upper fifth wheel for damage to the base plate.

See if the locking mechanism on the adjustable fifth wheel is properly engaged. Check front and rear stops for damage.

Fuel. Check fuel tanks for loose, leaking, unfastened or missing caps. Ensure exhaust systems have firm fixation, check under cab leaks and exhaust system components.

Van, open-top trailer. Check for corrosion, cracks, defects. Assess the condition of the hoses, check the suspension of the air hoses.

Check the frame for cracks, sags, fasteners and defects. Look at the axles. Check the lower beam for kinks, floor sagging.

Lights. Check if all lamps shine with the appropriate light and brightness. Also check if they are properly secured.

Cargo safety. Check the safety of the load as well as the body pillars. Also make sure the load is properly secured to prevent it from moving or falling.

Make sure the rear doors are securely closed. Check the size and condition of the load securing devices.

Suspension. Check suspension for signs of misalignment, cracked springs, missing bolts and inspect U-bolts. Important! Make sure they aren’t damaged. Check for any loose parts and signs of axle misalignment.

Tires,  alloy wheels and wheels.

Check if the tires are inflated, inspect them for cuts, bulges, tread wear.

Inspect the rims for cracks, misalignment of retaining rings. Also look for cracks in the spokes, signs of slippage in the clamp area.

Check if there is any contact with any part of the vehicle. Check the marking excluding use on a steered axle.

Inspect wheels for cracks, misaligned circlips, broken or missing lugs, studs or clips. Check the rims for cracks or bends, loose or damaged nuts, cracked spokes.

Check the hubs for grease leaks, missing caps and plugs.