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When should the air tanks be drained if they have a manual drain valve?

  1. At the beginning of each day

  2. Before refueling

  3. At the end of each day of driving

  4. Every week

The correct answer is: At the end of each day of driving

Draining the air tanks at the end of each day of driving is essential for maintaining the air brake system's performance and safety. Over time, moisture can accumulate in the air tanks due to condensation, especially in varying temperature conditions. This moisture can cause rust and corrosion in the tanks and affect the functionality of the braking system. By draining the air tanks daily, drivers ensure that any accumulated water is removed, preventing potential issues that can arise from moisture build-up. Draining the air tanks only at the beginning of the day or before refueling does not adequately address moisture accumulation that may occur during operation. Additionally, draining every week might not be frequent enough to manage the moisture levels effectively, especially for those who drive frequently or under humid conditions. Therefore, draining at the end of each driving day ensures that the air brake system remains in optimal condition for safety and reliability.