ELDT - Entry Level Driver Training Coupling and Uncoupling Questions and Answers

Question 1

During the coupling process, what is the immediate danger if the trailer is too high when the driver backs the tractor under it?

Accepted Answer

The kingpin may travel over the top of the fifth wheel, resulting in a 'high hook'.

Answer

The air lines will not reach the trailer connections.

Answer

The tractor's suspension will be over-stressed.

Answer

The landing gear may be damaged by the tractor's frame.

Question 2

A driver is uncoupling a semi-trailer on what appears to be a solid asphalt surface on a hot day. Which of the following is a critical extra step to ensure the trailer remains stable after uncoupling?

Accepted Answer

Placing boards or pads under the landing gear.

Answer

Disconnecting the electrical line before the air lines.

Answer

Lowering the landing gear only halfway.

Answer

Chocking the tractor wheels instead of the trailer wheels.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of performing a 'tug test' after coupling?

Accepted Answer

To ensure the fifth wheel's locking jaws have securely engaged the trailer's kingpin.

Answer

To check if the trailer's service brakes are working.

Answer

To confirm that the air and electrical lines are properly connected.

Answer

To settle the cargo inside the trailer before departure.

Question 4

Which of the following describes the correct procedure for connecting the air lines to a trailer?

Accepted Answer

Connect the air lines (glad hands) by pressing them together and rotating them to a 90-degree angle to lock them in place.

Answer

Connect the green electrical line first, then the red and blue air lines in any order.

Answer

The red emergency line should always be connected last.

Answer

Connect the blue service line, then the red emergency line, and finally the electrical line.

Question 5

After successfully coupling, the driver raises the landing gear and performs a final visual inspection. What specific detail must the driver confirm by looking at the fifth wheel connection?

Accepted Answer

There is no space between the tractor's fifth wheel and the trailer apron, and the locking jaws are closed around the kingpin's shank.

Answer

The release handle is in the fully open position.

Answer

There is a slight gap between the top of the fifth wheel and the trailer apron for lubrication.

Answer

The kingpin is visible above the locking jaws.

Question 6

During uncoupling, after chocking the trailer wheels and lowering the landing gear, what is the correct sequence of the next major steps?

Accepted Answer

Disconnect air/electrical lines, pull the fifth wheel release, then pull the tractor partially clear of the trailer.

Answer

Pull the fifth wheel release, pull tractor completely clear, then disconnect lines.

Answer

Disconnect air/electrical lines, pull tractor completely clear, then pull the fifth wheel release.

Answer

Pull tractor partially clear, disconnect lines, then pull the fifth wheel release.