Ah, the trucking business! It definitely has its ups and downs. Are you in it for the long haul? Well, you’d definitely need a few solid maintenance tips up your sleeve if you want to keep your truck and its driver safe on longer routes.
As a truck owner, you might often struggle to choose between the steps that are a must and the ones that are simply add-ons that, if left out, won’t really impact the truck’s performance. Luckily for you, that is exactly what we discuss in the following sections.
Keep reading to learn more about heavy duty truck maintenance and a few key steps you can take to ensure consistent truck performance.
In This Article:
1. Preventative Maintenance and Regular Inspection
The longevity as well as functionality of any heavy-duty truck in a long-haul fleet ultimately boils down to how frequently you maintain your vehicle and get it inspected. Routine checks should be scheduled at regular intervals as recommended by the truck’s manufacturer.
Don’t forget to invest in your engine’s health through frequent oil changes. Keep an eye on that engine coolant as well as filter replacements. Since engine oil provides lubrication for moving parts, neglect can lead to early wear and tear.
It is also essential for all truck owners to regularly inspect the brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid within the vehicle. Low or dirty fluid leads to mechanical failure and, sooner or later, it will cause the truck to shut down in the middle of the road!
Consider scheduling regular maintenance and inspections if you want to solve minor issues before they snowball into bigger problems and much more expensive repairs.
2. Caring for the Tires and Brake System
The tire and brake systems are one of the most critical components of long-haul trucks. It is important for you to ensure both the systems work well so that you can ensure both the truck and the driver’s safety on the road.
If your tires are in good working condition, everything else eventually falls into place. That is because they act as a foundation for your truck. Without optimal tire pressure, you may experience poor fuel economy and premature wear and tear. Check tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips, to be on the safe side!
You must also rotate those tires regularly to ensure they wear out evenly. This helps you avoid costly replacements and improves the vehicle’s handling as well as fuel efficiency.
We’d recommend getting those brakes checked too while you’re at it! The brake system is a truck’s most important safety component. The more frequently you get those brake pads, discs, and brake fluid systems checked, the easier it is to avoid accidents down the line.
3. The Battery, Electrical System, and Cooling Upkeep
A truck’s electrical system is responsible for starting that engine and running various vital systems. Similarly, the cooling system ensures the engine doesn’t overheat during long runs. Overlooking their importance can lead to costly breakdowns and potential road accidents.
Don’t forget to regularly inspect your truck’s battery. Keep checking for corrosion on terminals and ensure the connections are tight. In colder climates, truck batteries are known to lose power fast. That’s why it is extremely important to keep them in good working condition.
The alternator, fuses, and cables should also be inspected from time to time. Electrical issues can manifest in a variety of ways which include flickering lights, failure of essential systems like the air-conditioning, or overall faults in the engine management system.
Finally, pay special attention to the engine’s cooling system. This includes the radiator, hoses, and coolant which work together to prevent overheating. If you find your truck constantly overheating, drive it in for inspection to avoid severe engine damage.
Bonus Tips: Driver Education and Best Practice
Drivers are a pretty important component of a truck. Yes, you read that right! They are just as much a part of the truck as the engine, the cooling system, and the brakes. That’s because a truck driver educated on safety and best practices avoids actions that may harm the internal mechanisms of the truck, leading to longer engine life.
Here are some tips drivers can keep in mind to avoid excessive wear and tear;
- Avoid rapid acceleration or heavy braking which can strain the engine and brakes. The smoother the driving, the longer the life of the truck’s components.
- Always inspect the truck before taking it out on a long trip. Check the tires, fluid levels, lights, and brakes to spot any signs of wear or issues that can be addressed before you head out.
- If you notice an issue, take the truck in for inspection so that the issue can be addressed before it gets worse.
Your Truck’s Performance Depends on You
How well your truck performs or how long it lasts depends entirely on how you maintain it. If you are diligently keeping up with the maintenance schedule and ensuring you replace the parts when needed, your truck will surely last you a lifetime!It’s time to set that schedule and to start monitoring your truck for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any worrying signs, don’t hesitate. Drive your truck over to Point Spring. Our experts can have that truck ready for you in no time and replace any damaged parts with original highest quality parts available in the region!
