Air Brakes

This endorsement is required for driving a vehicle with air brakes. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written test. The test consists of 25 multiple choice.. Read More

This endorsement is required for driving a vehicle with air brakes. To receive this endorsement, applicants must pass a written test. The test consists of 25 multiple choice questions. Each question has three answer choices. To pass, the applicant must answer at least 20 questions correctly. Test questions come from the Hawaii Commercial Driver License Manual. Questions come from the chapter covering: Air Brakes. The Air Brakes endorsement may be used with the Class A, B or C CDL.

Number of Question
Passing Score

7. The ____ between an air compressor and reservoir tank prevents air from escaping if the air compressor has a leak.

Explanation
A one-way check valve is required to be between an air compressor and the first main reservoir. This valve prevents air from escaping the system if the air compressor develops a leak.

8. An application pressure gauge shows:

Explanation
If a vehicle is equipped, an application pressure gauge shows how much air pressure is being applied to the brakes. This gauge can help a driver identify if their brakes are beginning to fade.

9. Air tank drains:

Explanation
Compressed air in an air brake system usually has a certain amount of water and oil in it. This can harm the system if allowed to accumulate. Air tanks have drain valves to aid in removing water and oil from the compressed air.

10. Brakes can get out of adjustment quickly, especially:

Explanation
Brakes are particularly prone to getting out of adjustment if they are hot. Be sure to routinely check the adjustment of your brakes. For a vehicle to be safely controlled, all brakes must be properly functioning and adjusted.

11. Friction in an S-cam brake is caused when the brake shoes and linings:

Explanation
Friction inside a brake drum is caused when the brake shoes and linings push against the inside of the drum. The friction in the drums will slow and stop the vehicle.

12. A wig wag is:

Explanation
Vehicles with air brakes are required to be equipped with a low pressure warning device. A wig wag is a type of low air pressure warning device. This device drops a mechanical arm into the driver's view if the pressure in the tanks drops to a level between 55 and 75 psi.
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