Driving any vehicle for a long time comes with its challenges. Parts wear down over time, break, and have to be replaced regularly. The same holds for semi-trucks. As one of the biggest vehicles on the road, it is especially important to have your rig in ship shape. If you are the owner of a semi-truck, it is your responsibility to make regular maintenance checks and keep your vehicle in good condition. When it comes to moving heavy machinery on the road, it is always better to be safe than sorry. To stay on the safe side, you must make regular vehicle maintenance a priority. If you need semi-truck repair, use this guide to help you avoid some of the challenges that come with maintaining a big rig.
Preventative Maintenance
According to the FMCSA Regulations, “Every motor carrier and intermodal equipment provider must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain, or cause to be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained, all motor vehicles and intermodal equipment subject to its control.”
That’s why it is up to you as the owner to set up a maintenance schedule that will keep your truck in running condition. A properly maintained vehicle is more fuel efficient, profitable, and reliable. Just like you would with your vehicle, it is important to take care of parts and replace them before they break on the road. Worn down or deflated tires are a leading cause for heavy haulers getting written up, so be sure to keep an eye on both the internal and external parts of your truck. Before you head out on your next haul, use this preventative maintenance checklist to ensure a safe trip;
- Parking brake
- Steering mechanism
- reflectors
- Tires
- Windshield wipers
- Rear vision mirrors
- Wheels and rims
- Emergency equipment
- Engine oil and filter changes
- Oil pressure
- Transmission fluid
- The fuel filter and system check
- Cooling system
- Engine and transmission mounts
- Driveshafts or CV joints
- Belts and hoses
- Electrical system components
- Braking system
- Steering and suspension system
- Tires
- Exhaust system
- Undercarriage and frame
- Exterior and interior lights
- Body, glass, and mirrors
- Windshield wipers
- Horn
- Seat belts
- Fluid leak
- Auxiliary systems
Simple Vs. Expert level repairs
Being able to do repairs on your own is an important skill to have. Whether or not you can do your repairs usually depends on whether you are the owner of the rig or a company driver, and the difficulty level of the repair. Replacing headlamps, mudflaps, or installing lights is simple enough for even a novice trucker, but other repairs are better left to the experts.
Semi-Truck Repair Tips
In the case of a breakdown, it is important to have the materials you need to stay safe. Hazard triangles, flashers, warning devices, and towing services are important forms of insurance in case you need to do repairs on the road. When you are replacing parts on your rig, it is important to consider the quality, warranty, and vitality of the part. Buying an aftermarket part is not always a bad thing, but purchasing quality parts can be worth the extra buck in the long run.
Diesel Truck Repair in Dallas TX
At Massey Towing and Truck Repair, our team of mechanics is certified and trained to offer fast and accurate service for all types of truck repairs. Our team of mechanics specializes in heavy-duty preventative maintenance, emergency towing, electronic diagnosis, and part replacement service. No job is big or too small. We service anything from oil changes to engine rebuilds. If you would like to learn more about our services, contact us today.
