California CDL Tanker Vehicles Endorsement Test flashcards

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

Cargo tank test date

Check the test date plate or markings; the leakage test is annual and the pressure test is at least every five years, or every two years for certain high-pressure tanks such as MC 331.

Dome cover gasket

The gasket seals the manhole or dome cover; inspect for cracks, flattening, or missing material. A bad gasket allows liquid or vapor to escape during transport.

Emergency shutoff valve

A valve that stops product flow in an emergency; test remote and manual controls during pre-trip. It must operate freely and be clearly marked.

Baffle inspection

Internal partitions reduce liquid surge. Through inspection openings, check for cracks, missing bolts, or holes; damaged baffles make surge worse and increase rollover risk.

Grounding and bonding

Grounding connects the tank to earth; bonding connects the tank to the loading source. Both prevent static sparks when loading flammable liquids.

Vent and relief valve

The vent equalizes pressure, and the relief valve opens if pressure is too high. Keep them unobstructed; never plug or restrict a vent.

Hose and coupling check

Inspect hoses for soft spots, bulges, cracks, and leaks; check couplings for tightness and worn threads. Cap unused outlets before moving.

Leak check on tank shell

Look for wet spots, drips, stains, corrosion, dents, and cracks on the tank shell, piping, and valves; a leaking tank must not be loaded.

Liquid surge

Movement of liquid inside a partly filled tank when speeding up, braking, or turning. Surge pushes the vehicle and increases stopping distance and rollover risk.

Outage (ullage)

The empty space above the liquid in a tank. It allows for thermal expansion; filling beyond the outage level can cause overflow through vents.

High center of gravity

A tank's weight sits higher than a dry van's, so the vehicle rolls over at lower cornering force. Slow down before curves.

Baffled tank

A tank divided by internal plates. Baffles reduce but do not eliminate surge; drivers still need smooth starts, stops, and longer following distance.

Weight per gallon

Formula: liquid weight = gallons × weight per gallon. Gasoline is about 6.3 lb/gal, diesel about 7.1, and water 8.34; add tank and vehicle weight.

Axle weight distribution

Place liquid weight so each axle stays within its rating. Overloading the steer, drive, or trailer axle reduces steering and braking control.

Braking a loaded tanker

Loaded tankers need longer stopping distances. Brake early, use engine braking on grades, and avoid sudden stops that cause forward surge.

Smooth start and stop

Accelerate and brake gradually so liquid moves slowly. Sudden changes create surge that can push the vehicle through an intersection or off the road.

Safe curve speed

Slow down before the curve, hold a steady speed through it, and accelerate gently after. Braking hard in a curve can cause a rollover.

Following distance rule

Below 40 mph, allow at least one second per 10 feet of vehicle length; above 40 mph, add one extra second.

Escape ramp use

If brakes fail on a downgrade, steer into the escape ramp, keep wheels straight, and stay in the vehicle. The ramp's gravel or sand stops you.

Skid recovery

Release the brakes to restore rolling traction, steer where you want to go, and avoid overcorrecting. Hard braking makes a skid worse.

Railroad crossing stop

Stop before the tracks when carrying hazardous materials or when required, look both ways, and cross without shifting gears.

Hydroplaning response

If steering feels light on wet pavement, ease off the accelerator, avoid hard braking, and hold the wheel steady until traction returns.

Right-turn off-tracking

Rear wheels follow a shorter path than the front. Swing wide enough to clear the curb but check mirrors so the trailer does not hit another lane.

Downgrade braking

Select a lower gear before the grade, use engine braking, and apply brakes in short snubs rather than continuous pressure to avoid fade.

Table 1 placards

Table 1 materials require placards for any amount. Examples include Division 2.3, 4.3, 6.1 PG I, and radioactive materials.

Table 2 threshold

Table 2 materials need placards when the aggregate gross weight is 1,001 pounds or more. Examples include gasoline and diesel fuel.

Shipping papers

Papers must be within the driver's reach, kept in a pouch, and show proper shipping name, hazard class, ID number, and quantity.

Emergency Response Guidebook

Use the 4-digit ID number to find the ERG guide page. The page lists isolation distances, protective clothing, and fire or spill response.

Bonding before loading

Connect the bonding cable between the tank and loading rack before opening valves. Bonding prevents static sparks that can ignite flammable vapors.

Hazard class 3

Flammable and combustible liquids, such as gasoline and diesel. They give off vapors that ignite easily, so keep ignition sources away.

Cargo securement

Portable tanks, cylinders, and drums must be blocked, braced, or tied down so they cannot shift. Close valves and cap outlets before moving.

Tanker endorsement threshold

A tanker endorsement is required for tank vehicles with a capacity of 1,000 gallons or more; check the license and vehicle rating before driving.