How to Keep your Truck in Tip-Top Shape
Being a trucker is a demanding job. In a previous blog post, we gave you tips on how to stay fit while on the road. But just as keeping yourself in shape is important, you also have to see to the maintenance and upkeep of your trusty partner: your truck. Truck maintenance and care pays dividends for you because keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently means less money spent on service and parts, less fuel consumed going to and from repair shops, and less stress for you. Here are some things that you should do to keep your truck in perfect working condition.
- Check your Brakes – Have your brakes professionally inspected and maintained after every oil change. Brake shoe indicators should be checked for possible replacement. If you can, replace the bushings, pins, and brake springs, and brake drums as well.
- Check your Engine – do complete checks for engine coolant, oil pressure, boost pressure, and exhaust temperature. Do frequent engine compression tests and check all of the rubber parts under the hood.
- Check your wheels – Check your wheel alignment and keep your tires properly inflated. Check the manual for the proper tire pressure. You may also find this information as markings/numbers along the rim of the tires themselves.
- Check you Tanks – Your fuel and storage tanks, that is. Make sure to have them inspected and kept free from contamination. You don’t need engine malfunctions arising from water contamination in your fuel.
- Check your Belts – Stop looking at your waist, we’re talking about your truck’s engine belts; which run your AC and alternator. Any mechanic worth his toolbox will tell you to check these belts every 25,000 miles and to replace them at around every 50,000 miles. You can also check the belts for small cracks and tears.
- Check the Lube – Proper lubrication is important for your truck’s steering, suspension system, and drivetrain. Use high-quality grease, and check for any lube leaks after every haul.
- Check (and Change) your Oil – Your truck’s engine needs oil to prevent friction between parts. Make sure you check for oil leaks, and change your oil frequently; especially if you and your truck are on the road a lot.
- Check your Filter – If you drive a diesel truck, make sure that your diesel particulate filter is in properly maintained. Aside from risking non-compliance of federal regulations, you also run the risk of engine breakdowns, and the risk of voiding your truck’s warranty.
- Check the Body – Check your truck’s body and undercarriage. Look for things like rust, chipping paint, and corrosion. Spray door locks with lubricant, and make sure to wash your truck every 10 days, or after exposure to rain, sleet, hail and snow. Repair all damage, no matter how small.
- Check your Electrical System – Unfortunately, the sophisticated electronic engine monitoring systems and sensors require professional maintenance. Find a qualified mechanic who can check your truck’s electronic systems and diagnose potential problems.
Now that you’re done checking and maintaining your truck, keep on trucking by having the proper documents and permits for your hauls and deliveries. Reliable Permit Solutions can help you with the procurement and preparation of Overweight/Oversize Load Permits, Route Consultation, Trip and Fuel Permits, and more! Contact us today and check out our complete line of permits and services!