Michigan CDL - Air Brakes Practice Exam

What should you do if you identify a crack on a brake drum that exceeds the acceptable length?

1. Continue driving with caution

2. Schedule immediate repairs

3. Ignore it if it's small

4. Report to a supervisor

The correct answer is: Schedule immediate repairs

When a crack on a brake drum exceeds the acceptable length, the best course of action is to schedule immediate repairs. Brake drums are critical components of a vehicle's braking system, and even small imperfections can compromise their integrity and performance. A crack that is beyond the acceptable length indicates a significant risk of failure, which could lead to brake malfunction and result in a serious accident. Addressing the issue proactively by scheduling repairs ensures the safety of both the driver and others on the road. Driving with caution in such a situation is not advisable because the vehicle’s braking ability could be impaired, leading to potential failure during operation. Ignoring the crack, even if perceived as small, is dangerous since even minor defects can worsen over time, leading to more severe issues. Reporting to a supervisor is a necessary step in many situations, but it should be coupled with prompt actions for repair. In essence, immediate repair is crucial to maintain safety and vehicle reliability.