How many of you have been driving your semis down the highway and had a tire go out? Yeah, it’s not a good time to be on the road. But let’s face it, we all know that there is potential for this to happen, and we need to be prepared. So here is the Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Semi Trucks so you can avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere with a flat tire!
1. Air Filter
Replace or clean your air filter at least once a year or every 20,000 miles, whichever comes first. A clogged or dirty air filter reduces airflow resulting in higher fuel consumption and reduced power. Dirty engine oil affects the performance of the vehicle. An engine requires a minimum supply of clean air to operate efficiently, and if this is not provided, the vehicle will not perform as it should.
2. Inspect Gauges
If you’re not sure of the current levels of fluids in your truck, it is wise to have them inspected. Fluid levels vary depending on how much cargo is being transported, weather conditions, the number of miles driven, etc., so it’s important to check each fluid level regularly so that you can address any problems before they become worse.
3. Replace Wiper Blades
Wiper Blades should be replaced every 6 months to ensure visibility while driving. If you’ve ever tried to drive in heavy rain or snow without wipers, then you must know how to replace wiper baldes as it is important for your truck’s windshield to be clear at all times.
4. Check Brake Pads and Rotors
Brake pads and rotors should be inspected regularly. If they are too thin, you may need to replace them. If the brake pedal feels mushy when you apply pressure, then it is time to get your brakes checked. It is important for semi-trucks to have properly functioning brakes at all times in case of emergencies or unexpected events.
5. Check and Adjust Tire Pressure in Spare Tires
Make sure to check the air pressure in your spare tires regularly and ensure that they are properly inflated and ready to be put on the truck if needed at any time. Drivers who take good care of their tires can change a flat tire quickly without having to deal with issues such as inadvertently driving on a deflated tire.
6. Check Framing of Truck Bed
The framing near the back of your truck bed should be checked regularly to ensure that it is secure and sturdy enough for cargo. If any bolts or screws are loose, they need to be tightened right away. It’s better to tighten nuts and bolts before they come loose and fall off completely.
We hope this list has been helpful to you! The best time for preventive maintenance is before it’s needed or when something isn’t working properly. If nothing, just visit a nearby semi-truck repair in Gainesville to have regular maintenance done.
