Vehicle Emission Control Information Label
Model year 2013 and later vehicles meet additional requirements as specified by federal greenhouse gas and fuel efficiency regulations (GHG14). These vehicles are equipped with components that increase fuel efficiency and reduce GHG emissions. Components may include, but are not limited to, low-rolling resistance tires; aerodynamic devices such as hood, cab side extenders, and fuel tank fairings; vehicle speed limiters; and idle shutdown timers.
A Vehicle Emission Control Information Label is located on the driver-side door. See Fig. 1.9. It is the owner’s responsibility to maintain the vehicle so that it conforms to EPA and NHTSA regulations.
Certified Clean Idle Label
The California Air Resources Board (CARB) requires model year 2008 and newer heavy-duty diesel engines to be equipped with a non-programmable engine shutdown system that automatically shuts down the engine after five minutes of idling in order to limit emissions of particulate matter and NOx. Certified vehicles are equipped with a label placed near the bottom edge of the driver-side door. See Fig. 1.10.
Hazard Warning Lights
The hazard warning light flasher (Fig. 24.1) is part of the multifunction turn signal switch. It is a red rocker switch located on the top of the multifunction switch module. To activate the hazard warning lights, press down on the upper part of the rocker (pushing towards the dash). To deactivate the hazard warning lights, press down on the lower part of the rocker (towards the steering wheel).
Fifth Wheel Slide
On sliding fifth wheel assemblies, the fifth wheel plate is attached to rails that allow forward and rearward movement of the fifth wheel in order to optimally distribute the load across the axles. Slots are evenly spaced along the slide rails, and retractable wedges are positioned through the slots to hold the fifth wheel in the desired position.
The amount of load distribution on the front steering axle and rear drive axle(s) will have a direct effect on the steering control of the vehicle. Determine the front and rear axle weights by weighing the vehicle on scales designed for this purpose.
The maximum axle weight ratings are shown on the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) label or Canadian Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (CMVSS) label attached to the left rear door post of the vehicle. The desired load on the axle is no less than 80 percent of the maximum axle weight rating, but in no instances should the axle load exceed the maximum axle weight rating given on the FMVSS or CMVSS label.
Preparing the Trailer for Uncoupling
Before using the air valve to unlock a fifth wheel kingpin, prepare the trailer as follows.
- Apply the vehicle and trailer parking brakes.
- Chock the rear trailer tires.
- Lower the trailer landing gear until the weight is removed from the fifth wheel.
- Disconnect the tractor-to-trailer air lines and electrical cable. Plug the air lines to prevent dirt or foreign material from entering the lines.
Air-Suspension Dump Valve
The air-suspension dump valve may be used to adjust the vehicle height in order to aid with coupling to or uncoupling from a trailer. See Fig. 17.1. When the switch is set to LOWER, the air-suspension dump valve deflates the air springs to lower the rear of the vehicle. In the AUTO position, the automatic ridecontrol valves operate for normal driving.
Fifth Wheel Lubrication
The standard fifth wheel plate must be kept well lubricated with chassis grease to prevent friction and binding between the vehicle fifth wheel plate and the trailer. For a low-lube fifth wheel plate, inspect the condition of the low-lube pads. There should be no damaged or missing pieces. Slight puckering at the outside edges is normal.