System partsQuestion 1 of 116

What drives the air compressor on most engines?

  1. The internal gearing of the engine
  2. A separate electric motor
  3. The rear wheels
  4. The air dryer
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Correct answer: The internal gearing of the engine

The air compressor is driven directly from the internal gearing of the engine.

Source: Air Brake Manual: A Guide for Instructors (Government of Alberta, Alberta Transportation, March/April 2012), Module 3: Supply circuit, page 39

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026