Normal Maintenance Will Help Truck Radiators And Other Parts Function Longer And Better

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Most truckers understand the unwritten rule about repair work; work done far from your local shop is typically much more expensive. That is the main reason that owners are so adamant about regularly scheduled maintenance. Making sure the simple items like truck radiators, belts, hoses and fluids are all at proper levels can help avoid some serious repair bills. Here is a checklist of items to cover during a pre-trip and post-trip inspection to get a better life out of the truck.

Radiators

One problem for radiators is the buildup of debris or dirt on the fins. As the foreign objects continue to accumulate truck radiators lose their ability to keep the engine cool. During the summer months there are more opportunities for buildup since there are more insects and pollen in the air.

Cleaning out the truck radiators can eliminate this problem. Simply spray water from the engine area and through the radiator to get rid of all the debris. This should also be done for the condenser to keep it clean.

Brakes

Normally ...
... the trailer brakes engage before the tractor brakes, followed by the steering brakes. If malfunction causes this sequence to change the steer brakes or the drive brakes will wear out much sooner than the trailer brakes. It is possible to check the brakes on the trailer rather easily.

After completing a run move around the truck holding a hand approximately 6 inches from the axel near the wheel. If there is no heat then the brakes are not working.

Always check brakes on both the pre-trip inspection and the post-trip inspection. Address any leaks right away. Also make sure that the compressor and the alarm for low pressure are all working properly.

Batteries

Operating electrical appliances as well as lights when the truck is not running will deplete the power in batteries. Too much of this activity will lead to dead batteries. The volt meter on the dash can help prevent this problem. As long as the meter indicates a charge of 12 to 14.5 meters then the batteries should be holding a good charge.

During inspections always look for corrosion on the batteries. A bit of grease and cleaner will remove corrosion on the cables and posts in just a matter of minutes.

Water Getting Into the Fuel Tank

If water gets to the fuel tank it is only a matter of time before the water moves through the fuel system and in to the engine, causing problems. Biological organisms can also grow in the water and lead to even bigger repair bills.

Fortunately, this problem has a known remedy. Get the water drained from the tank at 30,000 miles when it is time for service. It is also possible to do it on your own. Unscrew the plug located at the bottom of the fuel tank. Since the water will drain first, simply watch the draining liquid. Water will be clear while fuel will be amber colored.

Larry Chandler is a freelance writer for Radiator Pros the experts in truck radiators. For all your radiator and international turbocharger repair needs, check out their website at Radiatorpros.com.