Lesson 1Tyre and Wheel Inspection: Tread, Pressure Ranges, Lug Nuts, and Sidewall Damage IndicatorsDiscover how to check tyres and wheels for safe running, covering tread depth, inflation levels, matching, sidewall and bead damage, valve stems, rims, and lug nuts to identify faults before they lead to breakdowns on Botswana highways.
Measuring tread depth and wear patternsCorrect tyre pressure ranges and checksSidewall, bead, and valve stem damage signsRim, wheel, and hub inspection proceduresLug nut torque, looseness, and rust trailsLesson 2Cab Checks: Instruments, Gauges, Seat Belts, Steering, Horn, HVAC, Mirrors, and Visibility DevicesGrasp how to examine all cab systems before setting off, including gauges, warning lights, steering play, pedals, seat belts, mirrors, HVAC, and visibility aids, ensuring the cab is safe, legal, and comfortable for Botswana drives.
Instrument panel and warning light checksAir, oil pressure, and temperature gaugesSteering free play and pedal operationSeat belt condition and proper adjustmentMirror, camera, and visibility device setupHVAC, wipers, washers, and horn testsLesson 3Lights and Electrical: Headlights, Taillights, Turn Signals, Marker Lights and Wiring ChecksInvestigate inspecting lighting and electrical systems, such as headlights, turn signals, brake and marker lights, reflectors, wiring, and connectors, to guarantee visibility, road user communication, and compliance on Botswana paths.
Headlight, high beam, and fog light checksBrake, turn signal, and hazard lightsMarker, clearance, and identification lightsReflectors, conspicuity tape, and platesWiring harness routing and chafing pointsConnectors, corrosion, and ground issuesLesson 4Air Brake System Fundamentals: Reservoirs, Compressor, Governor, Lines, Glad Hands, and Warning SignsAcquire practical knowledge of tractor-trailer air brake systems, including compressor, reservoirs, governor, lines, valves, and chambers, and learn to conduct applied, leakage, and low-air warning tests during pre-trip in Botswana settings.
Air compressor, drive, and mounting checksReservoirs, drains, and moisture controlGovernor cut-in and cut-out verificationService, parking, and emergency brake testsAir lines, hoses, and glad hand inspectionLow-air warning and spring brake activationLesson 5Document Verification: Licence, Medical Certificate, Permits, Logbook/ELD, Insurance, and Shipping PapersLearn to confirm all necessary driver and vehicle documents before departure, including CDL, medical card, permits, registration, insurance, and logbook or ELD records, to avoid citations, delays, and out-of-service orders in Botswana.
CDL class, endorsements, and restrictionsMedical certificate validity and copiesVehicle registration and licence platesPermits, oversize, and fuel tax documentsInsurance cards and proof of coverageLogbook or ELD status and supporting docsLesson 6Systematic Exterior Walkaround: Chassis, Suspension, Frame, Landing Gear, and Coupling ComponentsMaster a methodical exterior walkaround covering frame, suspension, axles, landing gear, coupling components, fuel system, and body panels, ensuring no major defect is overlooked before hitting Botswana's public roads.
Front of tractor: bumper, grille, and hoodSide checks: doors, steps, and fuel tanksFrame, crossmembers, and exhaust systemSuspension, springs, airbags, and shocksAxles, hubs, and visible leak detectionTrailer body, doors, and roof conditionLesson 7Coupling System Checks: Kingpin, Fifth Wheel Locking, Safety Catches, and Trailer Landing GearUnderstand inspecting the coupling system between tractor and trailer, including kingpin, fifth wheel, locking jaws, release handle, safety devices, and landing gear, to avoid trailer separation and unsafe driving in Botswana.
Kingpin wear, damage, and alignmentFifth wheel mounting, tilt, and conditionLocking jaws, pins, and safety latchRelease handle position and securityAir and electrical line support and slackLanding gear structure and crank operation
