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2: Control systems and Dashboard

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    Basic Operations: Section 3: Control Systems/Dashboard

    Introduction

    Understanding vehicle control systems and the dashboard is fundamental for any commercial motor vehicle (CMV) operator. This section, A1.1.2, introduces driver-trainees to vehicle instruments, controls, and safety components.

    By the end of this unit, trainees will be able to:

    1. Correctly read and interpret vehicle gauges and instruments.

    2. Properly use vehicle safety components such as safety belts and mirrors.

    3. Identify, locate, and explain the function of primary and secondary vehicle controls

    Key Concepts

    The key concepts in this section include the use of vehicle instruments, controls, and safety components to ensure safe and efficient CMV operation.

    Relevant Regulations

    Both state and federal regulations emphasize the importance of understanding vehicle control systems for CMV operators to ensure road safety. These regulations include:

    • FMCSA regulations on the proper use and maintenance of vehicle safety components.
    • California Code of Regulations Title 13, Section 1213, which details requirements for vehicle equipment and safety components.

    Detailed Content

    Driver-trainees must become proficient in reading vehicle gauges and instruments. These include the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, oil pressure gauge, temperature gauge, and air pressure gauges, among others. Accurate reading of these instruments is crucial for maintaining vehicle performance and safety.

    Safety components such as safety belts and mirrors are essential for driver and passenger protection. Trainees must understand how to properly adjust and use these components to ensure maximum safety.

    • 2.1: Primary Controls
      This page details engine and transmission controls for trucks, including key components like the key switch, starter button, accelerator pedal, and clutch pedal. It discusses transmission controls such as the shifter and range selector, and brake systems including trailer and parking brake controls. The importance of antilock brakes and auxiliary braking systems for safety and control is emphasized, along with the role of differential locks in enhancing power distribution.
    • 2.2: Secondary Vehicle Controls
      This page details crucial vehicle components for safe operation, such as lights, turn signals, and mirrors. It stresses the significance of light controls and lamp check features in the 2023 International LTD. Proper mirror adjustment is advised, along with heating options for cold weather.
    • 2.3: Instruments
      This page details the various gauges in commercial trucks, including their functions and importance. It highlights gauges such as the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, and more, emphasizing their roles in monitoring vehicle performance, safety, and engine maintenance during operation.
    • 2.4: Practical Application and Testing
      This page discusses vehicle operation training for trainees, focusing on practical skills such as reading gauges, adjusting safety equipment, and using vehicle controls. The training includes hands-on activities like simulated driving, identifying functions of commercial motor vehicles, and role-playing for proper use of turn signals and headlights, all aimed at improving safety and visibility while driving.
    • 2.5: Summary
      This page emphasizes the importance of proper training in vehicle control systems and dashboards for the safe operation of commercial motor vehicles (CMVs). It covers essential skills such as reading gauges, using safety components, and managing both primary and secondary controls, which are vital for driver-trainees to handle various driving conditions safely.


    2: Control systems and Dashboard is shared under a CC BY-NC 4.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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