ELDT ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Shifting and Vehicle Control Questions and Answers 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is engine braking and when should it be used?
- Using the service brakes to slow the engine
- Using a lower gear to use engine compression as a retarding force (Correct answer)
- Cutting fuel to the engine at highway speed
- Applying the exhaust brake at stop signs only
Correct answer: Using a lower gear to use engine compression as a retarding force
Engine braking uses gear reduction to create compression resistance, slowing the vehicle without relying on service brakes — especially useful on long downgrades.
Question 2: What is the purpose of a Jake Brake (engine retarder)?
- To boost engine power on steep climbs
- To convert the engine into an air compressor to slow the vehicle (Correct answer)
- To lock the rear axles during braking
- To control trailer sway
Correct answer: To convert the engine into an air compressor to slow the vehicle
A Jake Brake (compression release engine brake) opens exhaust valves at the top of the compression stroke, turning the engine into a retarding device.
Question 3: When backing a tractor-trailer, which direction does the trailer go when the driver turns the steering wheel to the left?
- The trailer moves left
- The trailer moves right (Correct answer)
- The trailer moves straight back
- The trailer pivots away from the cab
Correct answer: The trailer moves right
When backing, turning the steering wheel left moves the front of the tractor left, which pushes the trailer to the right.
Question 4: What is the correct procedure for making a right turn with a long combination vehicle?
- Turn sharply from the far right lane
- Swing wide to the left first to allow the rear axles to clear the curb
- Slow to 5 mph and make the turn normally
- Use the button hook method from the right lane (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Use the button hook method from the right lane
The button hook (or jug handle) method involves pulling forward past the turn point before swinging right so rear axles track closer to the curb.
Question 5: What is 'off-tracking' in a tractor-trailer?
- When the trailer drifts out of its lane on a highway
- The tendency of rear axles to follow a tighter path than the front axles in a turn (Correct answer)
- When the kingpin disengages during a sharp turn
- The lateral sway of the trailer at highway speed
Correct answer: The tendency of rear axles to follow a tighter path than the front axles in a turn
Off-tracking occurs because the rear axles of a long vehicle follow a shorter arc than the front axles, causing them to cut inside on turns.
Question 6: What should a CMV driver do if the vehicle begins to hydroplane?
- Apply full brakes immediately
- Accelerate to push through the water
- Ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden steering corrections (Correct answer)
- Engage the Jake Brake
Correct answer: Ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden steering corrections
When hydroplaning, gently release the accelerator and hold a steady steering course — sudden inputs can cause loss of control.
ELDT ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Shifting and Vehicle Control Questions and Answers 2
What is engine braking and when should it be used?