Trucking Glossary

Learn what a slack adjuster is, how it works, why it’s important, and what CDL drivers should inspect before every trip.

Learn what a brake chamber is, how it works, why it’s essential for air brakes, and what every CDL driver should inspect before every trip.

Learn what a pushrod is on a semi truck, how it works with air brakes, why it matters, and what CDL drivers should inspect before every trip.

Learn what a brake drum is on a semi truck, how it works with air brakes, and what CDL drivers should inspect before every trip.

Learn what brake shoes are on a semi truck, how they work with drum brakes, and why they’re one of the most important parts of your air brake system.

Learn what a pigtail is on a semi truck, what it does, why it’s important, and how to inspect it before every trip.

Learn what air lines are on a semi truck, how they work, why there are two of them, and what CDL drivers should inspect before every trip.

Learn what a trailer ABS light means, why it comes on, common causes, and what CDL drivers should do if it stays illuminated.

Learn what a catwalk is on a semi truck, what it’s used for, why drivers use it, and how to stay safe while working behind the cab.

Learn what a dry van trailer is, what it hauls, why it’s the most common trailer in trucking, and how it compares to reefer and flatbed trailers.