The CVSA International Roadcheck 2022 is less than a month away. The Roadcheck will occur from May 17th – 19th through the United States, Mexico, and Canada this year. Each year, the CVSA has an area of focus. Last year’s focus was Hours of Service violations and lighting violations, this year, and the CVSA road inspectors will focus on wheel ends. Below you can find a quick “cheat sheet” on preparing yourself for the 2022 CVSA International Roadcheck.
Cheat Sheet for CVSA Roadcheck
When getting ready for the International Roadcheck, consider a few things before hitting the road. Ensuring the following is in good working order can help avoid any violations, downtime, and removal from the roadway.
Brakes
When inspecting your brakes check for any missing, loose, cracked, or non-functioning parts within the brake system. Below is a list for you to check
- Check the S-cam flip over, and any air leaks around the brake lines.
- Check the slack adjusters are the same length and the air chambers are the same size.
- The air system keeps air pressure between 90-100 psi.
- Check for any holes, rust holes, and broken springs in the brake housing section.
- Check the ABS malfunction lamp
- Check low air pressure devices
- Measure the pushrod travel
- Check the bleed back system, and the breakaway system is working properly
Fuel and Exhaust System
When checking the fuel system, check for any loose mounting, leaks, or missing caps, if there is any indication that fuel has been leaking below the tanks. For your exhaust system, check for unsecured mounting, components that come in contact with electrical wiring or brake lines and hoses, leaks underneath the cab, and any carbon deposits around clamps and seams.
Coupling Devices
On Full Trailers and Converter Dollies, check all safety devices to ensure they have the proper strength, any missing parts, if repairs are needed or if the device cannot secure attachments. When inspecting the lower fifth wheel – check for any unsecured mounting on the frame or any broken pieces. You will also need to ensure no space between the upper and lower fifth wheel plates. Be sure the locking jaws are around the shank instead of the head of the kingpin, and the release lever is placed properly. When checking the upper fifth wheel – check for any damage that has affected the weight-bearing plate, including loose, missing, or cracked bolts on the trailer. On a sliding fifth wheel – check to ensure the locking mechanism is working properly and any missing parts. Be sure to check the position and make sure the trailer frame rails that come in contact with the landing gear while turning.
Lights
Look over all lamps to ensure they have proper color, operate correctly, have the right visibility, and are mounted correctly.
Secure Cargo
It is important to ensure your cargo is secured correctly when carrying a load. Check the following
- Tailboard security
- End gates are secured in the stake pockets
- Cargo is protected from shifting or falling on both sides of the trailer
- Rear doors shut properly
- If the load is visible – check to make sure there is no blocking or bracing
You may also need to check the in inside the trailer to ensure your cargo is properly secured.
Steering
It is important for safety reasons your steering is working properly. Check the steering lash by turning the steering wheel in one direction. Then put a mark on the steering wheel and turn it in the opposite direction until the tires begin to move. Measure the distance between the two marks.
Suspension
To check your suspension – check the following
- Any signs of misaligned, shifted, cracked, or missing springs
- Loose shackles
- Missing bolts
- Unsecured spring hangers
- Cracked or loose U-bolts
- Unsecured axle positioning
- Signs of axle misalignment
Check for any cracks, welds, or obvious misalignment on your front axle.
Wheels, Rims, Tires, and Hubs
Check for proper inflation, bulges, cuts, regrooved tires on the steering axle, and tread wear when checking your tires. Another thing to inspect is the sidewalls for any repairs, exposed wires, or if it has come in contact with the truck. Check the wheels and rims for unseated locking rings, cracks, missing or broken lugs, clamps, or studs. You will also need to check the rims to ensure they are not bent or cracked, damaged or loose lug nuts, cracks in the spokes or web area, or if there are signs of slippage in the clamp areas. When inspecting the hubs, check for lubricant leaks, missing plugs, caps, misalignment, or positioning, or worn, damaged, or missing parts.
Following this cheat sheet can help you better prepare and understand what the CVSA inspectors are watching for. It is best to always inspect your truck before hitting the road for your safety and others. However, ensuring that you meet all safety requirements can help you avoid any violations and being removed from the road during this International Roadcheck.