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 New Mexico 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. 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.

8. If air pressure drops to a level between ____, a visual low pressure warning signal should have already activated.

Explanation
A visual low pressure warning signal should activate before air pressure drops to a level between 55 and 75 psi. This signal could be a light, a buzzer, or a wig wag.

9. Air tank drains should:

Explanation
In an air brake system, air tank drains are used to remove water and compressor oil from the air tanks. When operating a drain, be sure to drain the tank completely.

10. The rods in S-cam brakes move the slack adjusters when air pressure is added to the brake chambers. This air pressure is added to the chambers when the driver:

Explanation
When pressing the brake pedal in a vehicle with S-cam brakes, air will enter the brake chambers. The added air pressure will push out the rods and move slack adjusters, twisting the brake camshafts.

11. A low air pressure warning signal:

Explanation
A vehicle with air brakes must be equipped with a low air pressure warning signal. If the warning signal goes off while a vehicle is being driven, the driver should bring the vehicle to a complete stop and have the system repaired.

12. Brake fade is a result of:

Explanation
If brakes are overused, they can become too hot. This overheating causes them to fade, making them less effective at slowing the vehicle.
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