What should be checked about the air lines during a pre-trip inspection?

During a pre-trip inspection, it is crucial to ensure that the air lines are in good condition to maintain the safety and functionality of the vehicle's braking system. The correct focus is on checking for leaks, signs of wear, such as cuts or fraying, and ensuring that the air lines are not rubbing against any other components, which could lead to damage over time.

No leaks indicate that the air system can maintain pressure effectively, which is vital for reliable braking. Cuts and fraying can expose the inner parts of the air lines to wear and failure, potentially causing air loss and compromising the braking system. Additionally, ensuring that the air lines are not rubbing against other parts helps prevent premature wear and potential failure during operation.

The other choices present misunderstandings regarding the condition and management of air lines. Monitoring for change and flexibility in connections would not address the fundamental requirement that air lines must be securely connected and undamaged. Painting air lines for visibility is not a standard practice nor an effective method of inspection; visible damage or potential issues should always be identified without the distraction of paint.