As the temperatures drop and the end of 2013 nears, it is important to know proper truck maintenance in order to keep your fleet out of danger. By using proper prevention methods, you can save thousands of dollars on costly repairs that will affect your bottom line. Trucks can be very expensive to repair, but they will usually serve you well over time, as long as you take good care of them. With that in mind, here are some tips:
1) The Driver Log
To start off, your individual state’s CDL goes into great detail about what must be included in your driver log for every trip. Before every trip, be sure to check the log, follow instructions and keep everything up to date. If anything is marked for repair, double-check to verify that the repair was performed. If maintenance and repair steps are not up to date, you are responsible for making sure these steps are taken before heading out onto the highway.
2) Fluids
Check your fluid levels in all of your vehicles on a monthly basis. The best way to check transmission and power steering fluids is while the vehicle is running. This keeps the liquids at a hot enough temperature so you can be made aware of any problems during normal operation, such as leaks. Also make sure to change your oil regularly, along with your oil filter. The general rule is to replace your oil filter every 5,000 miles. But like all maintenance, it can vary depending on the use of your vehicles. If you know your fleet travels over rough terrain or is being used more than usual, be sure to perform routine maintenance more often.
3) Tires
Along with your oil filters, your tires should also be rotated every 5,000 miles. You can get much better vehicle efficiency this way – reducing the overall stress on your fleet’s engines. Be sure to also check the tire pressure on a monthly basis. Know that it is recommended that you go a little under the normal level psi during the warmer months and a little over during the winter.
4) Other
Whether you have a mechanic in-house or you outsource your repairs, make sure a proper worker looks at all of your vehicles at least once a year to check essential parts including the belts, hoses, battery, cables and wipers. It’s also a good idea that they check the radiators. Every 15,000 miles, the mechanic should look at things like brakes, suspension and steering alignment; at every 30,000 miles, they should check the cooling and computer systems. When 60,000 miles rolls around, the mechanic should go ahead and service the fuel injectors, and replace all of the belts, hoses and spark plugs. These are the big repairs that should be left to the professionals – so make sure a qualified individual is on it.
For more information about proper truck maintenance be sure to stay tuned to this blog, along with our Facebook page. If you are looking for insurance to protect your fleet from disaster, please visit the Jeffers Truck Insurance website.