SEPTA Bus Mechanic – Electrical, Mechanical, and Safety Practice Test

These questions are part of the practice quiz. Start practicing

• What is the purpose of a wiring diagram in bus troubleshooting?
• Which action would be considered the best practice during a heavy component lifting operation?
• What is the purpose of a catalytic converter?
• Which term is associated with the Electrical knowledge category?
• What is the passing score for 3rd Class Bus Mechanic?
• During a brake applications test, which item is not typically checked?
• What is the function of a dipstick in a transmission?
• Which maintenance check is essential to confirm cooling system operation beyond basic coolant level?
• When performing a voltage drop test on a headlight circuit, what indicates acceptable performance?
• What is the role of relays in electrical circuits?
• In tires, aspect ratio refers to the ratio of the height of the tire's sidewall to its width.
• Which component increases the force you apply to the brake pedal, aiding braking?
• Which tool is described as cutters used as side cutters to cut wire?
• The tire aspect ratio describes the relationship between which two measurements?
• What is a pipe wrench?
• Which ratio yields the highest output speed relative to input?
• What does the Mechanical Math category assess?
• What are the main topics covered in the Bus Mechanic test?
• Which of the following is NOT listed as a main topic for the Bus Mechanic test?
• Which item is NOT provided to candidates during the test?
• What is a utility knife?
• What is a diagonal cutter?
• Why is it important to differentiate between fuses and circuit breakers in a bus system?
• Which tool is primarily used for cutting purposes in various trades?
• What is the function of the alternator in a bus electrical system?
• Who should review and sign off on a DVIR after repairs are made?
• What is the function of a serpentine belt and why is proper tension important?
• What is a hot-work permit and why is it required in vehicle maintenance?
• What is the purpose of an Allen wrench?
• In mechanical terms, torque is best described as which of the following?
• What is the format of the Bus Mechanic test?
• Which statement about the main topics of the Bus Mechanic test is accurate?
• Which condition most directly indicates a cooling system leak?
• If the drive belt is slipping, which component is most likely failing?
• What gear lubricant designation is commonly used?
• How should you handle and dispose of used motor oil and other fluids from a bus?
• What is the significance of being punctual before the test?
• What is the purpose of a round punch?
• What are common signs of damaged wiring in a bus's electrical harness?
• Which combination of PPE is essential when handling used motor fluids?
• What safety practices are required when working on high-voltage components on a hybrid/electric bus?
• What does a head gasket do?
• What is the role of the Testing Coordinator/Proctor?
• Which elements are typically included in a hot-work permit program for vehicle maintenance?
• The Bus Mechanic test uses which assessment format?
• Which device uses exhaust energy to compress the intake air in an engine?
• Which tool is specifically designed to span wide work and hold pieces in place during assembly?
• What PPE is recommended when performing electrical diagnostics on a bus?
• Which tool is commonly used to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes from a bus's electronic control units?
• What is the function of a belt tensioner?
• When should Lockout/Tagout be used to protect workers?
• During a starter motor test, what indicates the starter is engaging properly?
• What is a recommended technique for managing time during the test?
• The Mechanical Math category focuses on which type of skills?
• What is the recommended practice for inspecting brake linings and shoes on a bus?
• How many questions are dedicated to the Electrical category?
• What is a sledgehammer?
• What is the function of needle nose pliers?
• Which device steps down the vehicle's main electrical supply to 12V for accessories?
• Which tool serves as a soft-faced hammer that minimizes denting on surfaces?
• Which statement describes a box end wrench?
• What is the correct sequence for disconnecting jump-start cables after the donor engine has started?
• What is an open end wrench?
• What is the main function of a rectifier?
• What is the primary purpose of a micrometer?
• What is the purpose of the Bus Mechanic job knowledge test?
• What is the primary purpose of a torque wrench?
• What is the correct progression of passing scores across the class levels?
• Is the exact number of Mechanical category questions specified?
• What is a proper action if you detect damp hoses indicating possible leaks?
• Which component protects circuits from overloads by interrupting current?
• What are the key safety steps when lifting a heavy engine or bus component with a jack and stands?
• If you observe signs of overcurrent, heat, or blown fuses while testing, what is the appropriate action?
• Which component controls when the air compressor starts and stops and maintains system pressure in an air-braked bus?
• What color are the orange disposable ear plugs provided?
• Which tool is designed for gripping pipes with an adjustable jaw?
• What is the purpose of an air dryer in an air brake system?
• Why is tire inflation critical for bus performance and safety?
• What is the function of a diesel particulate filter (DPF), and why is regeneration important?
• What is the passing score for 1st Class Bus Mechanic?
• What is the purpose of Lockout/Tagout in electrical maintenance on a bus?
• What is the correct sequence for replacing a battery to minimize risk of sparking or short-circuits?
• Which tool is used to notch and move stuck bolts with a flat tip?
• What is Ohm's Law?
• Which final output ratio will give the highest output speed?
• What is the typical starting battery voltage for a conventional SEPTA bus, and what reading indicates a healthy battery?
• What does emission control system refer to?
• What should you do if the engine overheats?
• Which signs indicate a problem with the exhaust aftertreatment system on a diesel bus?
• The test provides scrap paper for what purpose?
• What is the intended mindset when taking the test, according to the guide?
• In a diesel engine, ignition of fuel occurs due to
• What is a box end wrench used for?
• Which statement best describes a safe practice when lifting a heavy component with a jack and stands?
• Which of the following is NOT a typical indicator of suspension wear?
• Which statement best describes an open end wrench?
• What is the maximum number of questions in the Mechanical category?
• What should be done with a micro-adjusting torque wrench after use?
• Which quantities does Ohm's Law relate?
• What should you check first when diagnosing a transmission problem?
• Which of the following can be a result of excessive resistance in a circuit?
• What is the passing score for 2nd Class Bus Mechanic?
• What is a ratchet?
• When inspecting tires for safe operation on a SEPTA bus, which items should be checked?
• When verifying tire inflation, which source provides the recommended pressure?
• Which device increases engine performance by increasing the amount of air delivered to the engine?
• What are common causes of a hard-to-steer condition on a bus?
• What does ABS stand for in vehicle braking systems?
• What is a DVIR and who is responsible for completing it?
• What is a key reason to monitor temperature while charging a discharged battery?
• Which protective device is designed to interrupt current when a fault occurs and is typically replaceable after a fault?
• What is the significance of a dial indicator?
• What is the purpose of testing points on a wiring diagram during troubleshooting?
• What is the function of a suppression diode in a relay?
• Why is it important to read all instructions carefully?
• Which of the following best describes a key aspect of the Electrical knowledge category?
• What is scrap paper used for during the test?
• How many questions are on the Bus Mechanic test?
• What is the time limit for completing the Bus Mechanic test?
• What does a brake pad do?
• What is a typical method for testing the brake system for proper operation before road use?
• HOT and COLD markings on a transmission dipstick are used to indicate changes in what?
• Why is documentation of repairs and tests important for SEPTA maintenance?
• What is the purpose of a torque converter?
• Which terminal should be disconnected first when removing a 12-volt battery to minimize sparking?
• What is the importance of automatic adjustment in brake linings?
• Which tool is used to measure the outside dimensions of an object with high precision?
• What precautions should be taken when performing electrical work near passengers and live vehicle systems?
• What is a feeler gauge used for?
• What is a steel tape measure?
• What items are provided to candidates during the test?
• What component provides steering assist in most buses?
• How is fuel ignited in a Diesel engine?
• Which statement best describes the purpose of the brake test regarding safety?
• Which tool is identified as a line wrench?
• What should candidates do if they are unsure about an answer?
• If ground connections show corrosion, what is the recommended action?
• What is a rubber mallet used for?
• How do you differentiate between service brakes and the parking/emergency brake on an air-brake bus?
• What is the purpose of a pre-trip inspection and what mechanical items should be reviewed?
• What is the primary function of a turbocharger?
• How should you communicate repair findings to the operator and supervisor after completing a maintenance task?
• Which tool is best for precision work by reaching into tight spots?
• What is the role of a vacuum in an engine?
• Where are typical grounding points on a bus, and why is a solid ground important?
• What is a key strategy for test preparation mentioned in the guide?
• What voltage indicates a fully charged automotive battery?
• What is a common symptom of a blown head gasket?
• What is a micrometer?
• What is a combination wrench?
• What is a ball-peen hammer?
• What are linemen's pliers used for?
• Outline the basic steps for a safe jump-start of a bus with a discharged 12V battery.
• Mechanical mindedness in the context of pulleys refers to what?
• What is a cold chisel?
• Which category has the smallest number of questions according to the provided counts?
• How many questions are dedicated to the Pulleys category?
• What PPE is required when working on electrical components rated above 50 volts?
• What is Ohm's Law and how is it used in diagnosing bus electrical circuits?
• Which braking system helps prevent wheel lock during heavy braking?
• What is the purpose of a compression ring?
• Which tool is used for electrical work?
• Why is it important to wear PPE when working on HV components?
• When troubleshooting a nonfunctional lighting system, what sequence of checks should you perform?
• What is a bar clamp?
• What is a relay and why is it used in bus electrical circuits?
• What is the function of a brake booster?
• If a candidate uses non-SEPTA materials during the test, what happens?
• What does torque refer to in mechanical terms?
• What are combination slip joint pliers?
• How do you perform a voltage drop test on a branch circuit such as a headlight circuit?
• Which statement about the Electrical category count is true?
• Why is it essential to follow torque specifications when reassembling engine components?
• Which statement best describes the test's preparation guidance?
• How would you assess a battery's state of charge and health?
• How do you test a starter motor to determine if it is functioning properly?
• How do you verify a newly installed sensor is operating correctly in the bus's ECU?
• Which device converts exhaust pollutants into less harmful substances through chemical reactions?
• What is the policy on leaving the testing room during the exam?
• What is the purpose of a fuel pressure regulator?
• What materials are candidates prohibited from bringing into the testing area?
• How do you verify proper engine cooling system operation beyond coolant level?
• How would you diagnose a slipping automatic transmission?
• What is the function of a curved claw hammer?
• What is the first step to take when diagnosing any electrical issue on a SEPTA bus to ensure safety?
• What is a sign of a poor ground path when testing a bus electrical circuit?
• What is the significance of HOT and COLD markings on a transmission dipstick?
• A twisted or loose belt can contribute to which condition?
• What is Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and when should it be used?
• Which final output ratio will be used for stripping windup when calculating speed?
• How would you identify a faulty ground in a bus electrical circuit?
• How would you identify a short to ground in a bus electrical circuit?
• What should candidates do if they have questions about the test session?
• What precautions should you take when charging a discharged battery?
• What is the function of a circuit breaker?