60 EXCAVATOR – CENTRAL TRAINING ACADEMY
MULTIPLE CHOICE PRACTICE EXAM 2026
QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS
Instructions: This exam contains multiple-choice questions covering the core
content tested on Central Training Academy's 360 Excavator theory assessment.
Topics include pre-operational checks, safe operation, lifting procedures,
trenching, quick-hitch systems, and legislation.
1. When making frequent turns in soft material during the operation of
a track-mounted excavator, travel in a straight direction occasionally to:
A. Self-lubricate the tracks
B. Allow the tracks to cool
C. Allow the track tensioners to activate
D. Clean the tracks
Correct Answer: D — Clean the tracks
Rationale: When frequent turns are made in soft material, spoil can
build up between the track links. Travelling in a straight direction
occasionally helps to clean the tracks and prevent material buildup that
could cause damage or affect operation .
,2. A daily inspection of an excavator should be made:
A. Before starting the engine
B. Once the equipment is in the shop
C. After the engine reaches normal operating temperature
D. Only when a problem is suspected
Correct Answer: A — Before starting the engine
Rationale: Daily walk-around inspections must be performed before
starting the engine to identify any defects, leaks, or hazards before the
machine is put into operation. This is a legal requirement under PUWER
.
3. Before any type of preventative maintenance is performed on an
excavator, be sure to move the hydraulic activation control lever to the:
A. Release position
B. Unlocked position
,C. Locked position
D. Travel position
Correct Answer: C — Locked position
Rationale: The hydraulic activation control lever must be in the locked
position before any maintenance. This isolates the hydraulic functions
and prevents accidental movement that could cause serious injury .
4. The minimum safe working distance between the excavator and
electrical power lines is determined by:
A. The equipment operation team
B. The engineer in charge of the project
C. A One Call Center dispatcher
D. Local codes and working conditions
Correct Answer: D — Local codes and working conditions
Rationale: While the voltage of the line is the primary factor, the actual
safe working distance is determined by local codes, site conditions, and
, the voltage involved. The operator must follow site-specific rules and
the voltage-based clearance requirements .
5. What is the track sag in the Caterpillar excavator?
A. 1–3 cm
B. 2–5 cm
C. 4–6 cm
D. 3–6 cm
Correct Answer: C — 4–6 cm
Rationale: Proper track sag for a Caterpillar excavator is typically in the
range of 4–6 cm. Incorrect tension can cause premature wear or track
derailment .
6. What number should you call before you dig?
A. 911
B. 811
MULTIPLE CHOICE PRACTICE EXAM 2026
QUESTIONS WITH SOLUTIONS
Instructions: This exam contains multiple-choice questions covering the core
content tested on Central Training Academy's 360 Excavator theory assessment.
Topics include pre-operational checks, safe operation, lifting procedures,
trenching, quick-hitch systems, and legislation.
1. When making frequent turns in soft material during the operation of
a track-mounted excavator, travel in a straight direction occasionally to:
A. Self-lubricate the tracks
B. Allow the tracks to cool
C. Allow the track tensioners to activate
D. Clean the tracks
Correct Answer: D — Clean the tracks
Rationale: When frequent turns are made in soft material, spoil can
build up between the track links. Travelling in a straight direction
occasionally helps to clean the tracks and prevent material buildup that
could cause damage or affect operation .
,2. A daily inspection of an excavator should be made:
A. Before starting the engine
B. Once the equipment is in the shop
C. After the engine reaches normal operating temperature
D. Only when a problem is suspected
Correct Answer: A — Before starting the engine
Rationale: Daily walk-around inspections must be performed before
starting the engine to identify any defects, leaks, or hazards before the
machine is put into operation. This is a legal requirement under PUWER
.
3. Before any type of preventative maintenance is performed on an
excavator, be sure to move the hydraulic activation control lever to the:
A. Release position
B. Unlocked position
,C. Locked position
D. Travel position
Correct Answer: C — Locked position
Rationale: The hydraulic activation control lever must be in the locked
position before any maintenance. This isolates the hydraulic functions
and prevents accidental movement that could cause serious injury .
4. The minimum safe working distance between the excavator and
electrical power lines is determined by:
A. The equipment operation team
B. The engineer in charge of the project
C. A One Call Center dispatcher
D. Local codes and working conditions
Correct Answer: D — Local codes and working conditions
Rationale: While the voltage of the line is the primary factor, the actual
safe working distance is determined by local codes, site conditions, and
, the voltage involved. The operator must follow site-specific rules and
the voltage-based clearance requirements .
5. What is the track sag in the Caterpillar excavator?
A. 1–3 cm
B. 2–5 cm
C. 4–6 cm
D. 3–6 cm
Correct Answer: C — 4–6 cm
Rationale: Proper track sag for a Caterpillar excavator is typically in the
range of 4–6 cm. Incorrect tension can cause premature wear or track
derailment .
6. What number should you call before you dig?
A. 911
B. 811
