What does Section II of DD Form 626 require to be inspected on vehicles transporting ammunition?

Section II of DD Form 626 outlines the necessary inspections for vehicles transporting ammunition to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. The requirement to inspect the steering, brake, and exhaust systems is essential because these components are critical for the safe operation of any vehicle, especially when transporting hazardous materials like ammunition. Properly functioning steering and brake systems are vital for maintaining control and stopping distance, which directly impacts the safety of the transport operation. The exhaust system is also important for preventing the buildup of hazardous fumes inside the vehicle, which can pose a risk to personnel and the cargo.

In contrast, while inspecting the tires and lights, the battery and fuel system, and the cargo area and safety equipment are certainly important in vehicle maintenance and safety, they do not encompass the same level of criticality related to the operational control and immediate safety needed specifically for ammunition transportation as the steering, brake, and exhaust systems do. Thus, the emphasis on the latter in the inspection requirements reflects their higher stakes in maintaining safe transport of potentially dangerous cargo.