CDL Vehicle Combination Practice Test

What maintenance can speed up the process of rolling up the landing gear?

1. Applying oil to the gears

2. Greasing the landing gear

3. Cleaning the landing gear thoroughly

4. Replacing old parts with new

The correct answer is: Greasing the landing gear

Greasing the landing gear is the most effective maintenance practice for speeding up the process of rolling up the landing gear. This is because lubrication reduces friction and wear between moving parts. When properly greased, the components of the landing gear can move more freely, allowing for smoother and quicker operation when raising or lowering the landing gear. Applying oil to the gears, while beneficial, might not provide the same level of long-lasting protection and smoothness as appropriate grease specifically designed for heavy-duty applications. Greasing creates a thicker protective barrier that is resistant to dirt and moisture, which is essential for maintaining optimal function in the demanding environment of a vehicle combination. Cleaning the landing gear thoroughly is an important maintenance step but does not directly speed up gear operation. A clean surface can help the gear function better, but if the gear is dry, the cleanliness alone won’t facilitate rapid movement. Replacing old parts with new can enhance performance, but it is a more complex and time-intensive process than regular greasing. It is typically reserved for when parts are worn out or damaged rather than a routine maintenance measure to improve the speed of raising and lowering the gear. Thus, regular greasing remains the most effective solution for maintaining the efficiency of landing gear operation.