CDL General Knowledge: Basic Controls
Master the essential vehicle controls tested on the CDL General Knowledge exam. These 25 flashcards cover steering, braking, acceleration, clutch use, and other fundamental operations required for safe commercial vehicle operation.
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Preview Questions
Question 1
What is the proper hand position recommended for steering a commercial vehicle?
Answer
Keep both hands on the steering wheel on opposite sides, typically at the 9 and 3 o'clock or 8 and 4 o'clock positions.
Question 2
What is 'off-tracking' in relation to large commercial vehicles?
Answer
Off-tracking is when the rear wheels of a vehicle follow a different (shorter) path than the front wheels during a turn, causing the rear to cut corners.
Question 3
Why must a CMV driver make a wider turn when turning right at an intersection?
Answer
Because the rear wheels off-track and cut the corner, swinging wide before completing the turn helps prevent the rear of the vehicle from hitting curbs, signs, or other objects.
Question 4
What is 'steer axle weight limit' and why does it matter for basic vehicle control?
Answer
It is the maximum legal weight that can be placed on the front (steer) axle. Overloading it can make steering heavy and difficult, reducing the driver's ability to control the vehicle.
Question 5
What technique should a driver use to recover from a front-wheel skid caused by over-steering?
Answer
Stop turning and/or braking so hard. Straighten the front wheels and allow traction to return; do not jerk the wheel in the opposite direction.
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