ASE S1 Body Systems & Special Equipment (School Bus) flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Stop arm extension

The stop arm must extend at least 18 inches from the left side of the bus when deployed and retract fully when the door closes.

Seat padding thickness

School bus seat cushions and backs must have at least 1 inch of padding to meet FMVSS 222 occupant protection requirements.

Crossing gate operation

The crossing gate deploys with the stop arm to channel students and must retract without extending beyond the bus body width.

Luggage compartment latch

Luggage compartment doors must have positive latches that engage securely and seals that prevent water and dust intrusion.

Mirror adjustment

Crossover, side convex, and interior mirrors must be adjusted to provide required fields of view and be free of cracks or loose mounts.

Rear emergency door alarm

The rear emergency door must have an alarm that sounds when opened with the ignition on, alerting the driver to unauthorized opening.

Roof hatch opening force

Roof hatches must open at least 18 inches and require less than 20 pounds of force to operate the release mechanism.

Push-out window release

Push-out windows must have a clearly marked release handle that operates with one motion and holds the window open when released.

Emergency exit marking

Each emergency exit must have a legible sign with operating instructions, visible from inside the bus, and not faded or obscured.

Wheelchair lift inspection

Wheelchair lifts must be inspected for hydraulic leaks, secure mounting, and proper operation of the roll stop and platform.

Battery voltage test

A fully charged 12-volt battery should read about 12.6 volts with a DVOM; lower readings indicate discharge or a bad cell.

Charging system voltage

With the engine running, charging system output should be 13.5 to 14.5 volts at the battery; outside this range indicates a fault.

Fuse replacement rule

Always replace a blown fuse with one of the same rating; never substitute a higher-rated fuse or bypass it with wire.

Stop arm light sequence

Amber lights flash before the stop arm deploys; red lights flash when the stop arm is extended and the door is open.

Backup alarm check

The backup alarm must sound when the transmission is in reverse; verify operation with the engine running and the bus stationary.

Heater cold air cause

A heater blowing cold air may be caused by low coolant, a faulty blend door, or a clogged heater core restricting coolant flow.

Blower resistor fault

A blower motor that operates only on high speed often indicates a faulty blower resistor block; replace the resistor to restore speeds.

AC refrigerant charge

Low refrigerant charge can cause the compressor to cycle rapidly or not engage; check system pressures and recharge to specification.

Defroster function

The defroster must direct air to the windshield and be capable of clearing fog quickly to maintain driver visibility.

Cabin air filter

A clogged cabin air filter reduces airflow and can cause window fogging; replace it at manufacturer-specified intervals.

Body mount inspection

Check body mounts for cracks, looseness, or deterioration; secure body-to-chassis mounting is critical for structural integrity.

Windshield damage criteria

Windshields and windows with cracks, chips, or discoloration that obstruct the driver's view must be replaced.

Safety glass marking

Glass used in school buses must be safety glass (tempered or laminated) and marked with the appropriate DOT code.

Floor integrity check

The floor must be free of holes, soft spots, or delamination; soft floors can weaken seat anchorage and allow water or exhaust intrusion.

Fire extinguisher rating

School buses must carry a fire extinguisher rated at least 2A-10BC, mounted in a bracket, and inspected monthly for charge and condition.

First aid kit requirement

A first aid kit must be mounted in an accessible location and stocked according to state or local requirements; check for expired items.

Wheelchair tie-down points

Wheelchair securement systems must include four-point tie-downs and occupant restraint belts; check for fraying and proper latching.

Child check system

A child check reminder system alerts the driver to check for sleeping children; verify it operates when the ignition is turned off.

Pre-trip inspection scope

Pre-trip inspection includes checking all lights, mirrors, stop arm, crossing gate, emergency exits, and fluid levels; document defects.

Diagnostic sequence

Verify the complaint, gather information, inspect for obvious causes, test components, and confirm the repair before releasing the bus.

Electrical fault diagnosis

Use a wiring diagram and a DVOM to check for power, ground, and continuity at connectors when diagnosing electrical faults.

Post-repair verification

After any repair affecting emergency exits or safety equipment, verify proper operation and document the repair before returning to service.