Cab and Hood
Cab and hood inspection covers the operator environment and the structures and systems under the hood that support safe driving. In the cab, verify seat mounting and adjustment, seat belts (fraying, retractor function, latch), steering column tilt/telescope lock, horn, wipers/washers, defroster, mirrors and their brackets, door hinges and latches, and gauge/warning lamp operation at key-on. Check for air leaks audible in the cab and confirm the parking brake holds. Understand that a worn cab mount or broken hood latch is a safety item, not cosmetic.
Under the hood, inspect belts for glazing, cracking, and correct tension (automatic tensioners should be within indicator range), hoses for chafing and soft spots, coolant level and condition, and the charge-air piping for loose clamps and cracks. Check engine mounts, fan blades for cracks, and the fan shroud for clearance. Verify hood hold-open and safety latch function-never work under an unlatched hood.
Traps include assuming a serpentine belt with no visible cracks is serviceable (check the ribs and tensioner indicator), overlooking a coolant leak at the water pump weep hole, and confusing a hood that "latches" with one whose secondary/safety latch works. Another trap is judging belt tension by feel on a system with an automatic tensioner-use the indicator.
Rule of thumb: any belt or hose showing glazing, softness, or cracking is replaced, not tightened. Worked example: a belt squeals cold. Check tensioner indicator; if out of range, replace the tensioner and belt together rather than over-tightening, then verify alignment and recheck for squeal.