Maintaining trucks, including dispatching trucks, is a critical process that is essential to ensuring they remain reliable and perform properly. With proper maintenance, a truck can last for years, while ignoring it can lead to unforeseen problems. Here are 20 tips and tricks to ensure trucks are maintained regularly.
Conduct Pre-Trip Inspections
Pre-trip inspections are the best way to assess any potential problems before the truck leaves the lot. Check fluid levels, tire pressure, brakes, and anything else that could lead to problems down the road.
Clean & Maintain Regularly
Cleaning the truck’s exterior and doing regular maintenance can help it stay in top condition. This also helps you spot small issues before they become bigger ones.
Change the Oil
Never forget to change the oil in a truck. This helps reduce engine wear, increase performance, and improve longevity.
Replace Filters
Replacing filters on a regular basis helps ensure the engine is clean and running smoothly.
Look for Leaks
The check engine, oil, and other parts for any potential leaks which could have damaging long-term effects if not addressed.
Check Belts & Hoses
The Check to make sure belts and hoses are in good condition, as they can bust or be damaged over time.
Change Spark Plugs
Spark plugs are essential to making a spark, so replace them when needed to avoid damage to the engine.
Maintain Tires
Check the tread and pressure of the tires regularly to ensure they are safe and in good condition.
Check Brakes
Brakes are essential, so check them often and make sure they are in good condition.
Recharge Battery
Recharge the battery every couple of months to increase its performance and lifespan.
Monitor Fluids
Keeping an eye on fluid levels is important for the life and performance of the truck engine.
Check Lights & Wipers
Make sure all external and internal lights are in good condition and wiper blades are replaced when necessary.
Watch for Exhaust Problems
Make sure exhaust system is working properly with no signs of smoke or noise.
Maintain Steering
Steering is an integral part of a truck, so check it regularly to make sure it is functioning properly.
Look Into Structural Integrity
Inspect the structural integrity of the cab, chassis, and frame, to ensure nothing will fail during use.
Maintain Comfort Settings
Check that the comfort settings of the truck are in good working order, including the air conditioner and heater.
Check Suspension System
It is important to inspect the suspension of the truck, to make sure it is able to cope with its job.
Monitor Fuel System
Monitor fuel system to ensure it is providing the correct amount of power and running efficiently.
Check Differentials
Differentials need to be checked to ensure they are not leaking or in need of repair.
Have a Maintenance Schedule
Keeping track of when maintenance was performed most recently and when it is next due can assist prevent potentially significant problems.
Making sure a truck is properly maintained is essential to avoid problems that can arise down the road. Following these 20 tips and sticking to a maintenance schedule will help keep the truck running in peak condition.
