Pre-Trip Inspection: Exhaust

2 questions in the bank cover this topic. Everything below is drawn from the sources those questions cite.

Sources: 49 CFR 396 Appendix A

What you need to know

Forward of or under the cab, because that is where the fumes reach you.

Carbon monoxide has no smell and its first symptom is the judgment you would need to notice it.

Any exhaust system determined to be leaking at a point forward of or directly below the driver/sleeper compartment.

49 CFR 396 Appendix A

Position, not just integrity.

An intact pipe routed against a fuel line is a vehicle fire waiting for a long enough hill. Any combustible part counts.

No part of the exhaust system of any motor vehicle shall be so located as would be likely to result in burning, charring, or damaging the electrical wiring, the fuel supply, or any combustible part

49 CFR 396 Appendix A

Check yourself

• Where does an exhaust leak put your vehicle out of service?

• Besides leaking, what is the other thing that makes an exhaust system a defect?

Answers are in the practice test for this topic.