Trucks are the best vehicles for moving heavy loads and equipment any long distance on land. That’s why so many truck drivers constantly cross the country delivering items. However, trucks are delicate machines that require prep to be fully functional. That’s why you need to know the proper maintenance you should perform as a truck driver.
Check Your Brakes
Before any drive, you should always ensure your brakes are in working order. Even a small problem can become a major issue when traveling down a highway at 70 mph. You should also run a suspension check simultaneously because both are quick and easy.
Maintain Your Tires
Trucks drive thousands of miles a year, carrying hundreds to thousands of pounds every trip. You may be okay on the first few trips, but this weight and the length of the trips can stress your tires. Checking them frequently for wear and tear can prevent slipping and popped tires during your regular use.
Replace the Filters
There are filters in a vehicle that need regular replacement for the safety of the vehicle and its efficiency. Each truck is a bit different and can use different technologies, so look in your diver’s manual for the exact schedule. For example, you need to clean a diesel particulate filter regularly according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. You should also attend to it whenever the corresponding light for it activates on your dashboard.
Care for Your Alignment and Steering
Another common cause for worry when driving is the steering and wheel alignment. Over time, driving can shake up the interior mechanisms and misalign the steering so that it’s not where it needs to be. This can be a problem for the driver. Fortunately, you only need regular tune-ups to fix this.
Refill the Truck’s Fluids
Another type of maintenance you should perform as a truck driver before every trip is looking at all the fuel levels in your truck, such as motor oil and the gas meter. These fluids are necessary for your vehicle and can prevent lots of wear when driving. That’s why topping off these fluids when you get the chance and before every trip is smart.
These are the steps you should take for your truck to maintain its condition and increase your safety as you drive. Additionally, these maintenance tips help extend your vehicle’s lifespan and can help it run more efficiently over time.
