BUMPER TO BUMPER(R), The Diesel Mechanics Student's Guide to Tractor-Trailer Operations, reaches the forgotten commercial motor vehicle drivers-diesel mechanics who often find themselves behind the wheel of the tractors they fix. It bridges the gap between the mechanic and the truck driver by providing a driver's perspective of the tractor-trailer.Written to give the diesel mechanics student a thorough understanding of how the total unit of a tractor and trailer operates when connected, The Diesel Mechanics Student's Guide shows how and why trucks are to be inspected, maintained, and operated to promote safety and cost effective maintenance programs. It also teaches the safety aspects of driving, working around, and operating a tractor-trailer and includes information about the commercial driver's licensing and testing program, tractor-trailer equipment, industry regulations, and standards. It is designed to meet industry standards for training set by the Department of Transportation and national accrediting bodies. Easy to read, The Diesel Mechanics Student's Guide to Tractor-Trailer Operations begins with an introduction to diesel mechanics careers available in the motor transport industry. The next 11 chapters introduce heavy diesel tractors and trailers and their components. Four more chapters explain the handling of tractor-trailer combinations. This is followed by chapters covering vehicle inspections, preventive maintenance, air conditioning systems, and emissions. Over a hundred original illustrations enhance and support the text. End-of-chapter tests and an extensive index are also included.