CDL Air Brakes TestInspecting Air Brake SystemsMedium

During a pre-trip inspection, a driver performs a static air leak test (engine off, parking brake applied). After the initial pressure drop, the air pressure should not drop more than what amount in one minute for a straight truck or bus?

  1. A3 psi
  2. B1 psi
  3. C2 psi
  4. D4 psi
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C. 2 psi

For a straight truck or bus, during a static air leak test (engine off, parking brake applied), the air pressure should not drop more than 2 psi in one minute after the initial pressure drop from applying the parking brake.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. 3 psi is the maximum allowed for a straight truck/bus during the applied service brake test, not the static test.
  • B. 1 psi is too strict; 2 psi is the standard limit for a straight truck/bus in this test.
  • D. 4 psi is the maximum allowed for a combination vehicle during the applied service brake test, not a straight truck/bus static test.

Static Air Leak Test (Straight Truck/Bus)

A test performed with the engine off and parking brake applied to check for air leaks in the primary air system of a straight truck or bus.

  • Max 2 psi drop in 1 minute (after initial parking brake drop).
  • Engine off, parking brake applied.
  • Checks for leaks in lines, tanks, and components not under service brake pressure.
  • For combination vehicles, this limit is also 3 psi.

Memory trick: Static truck, two psi luck!

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