Heavy-duty trucks can be a huge asset to any business. They give you the freedom and flexibility in your transport needs so that it’s easier for everyone involved.
So, the last thing you need is for your truck to break down on the side of a highway, yes? You can definitely reduce your truck repair cost by as much as 50% and avoid breakdowns if you stay on top of your preventive maintenance.
Now, without further ado, here are helpful tips to avoid the most common trucking mistakes that will cost you time and money.
Know the Most Common Truck Issues
There are a number of reasons why you might need to take your vehicle into a heavy truck repair shop. The most common reasons for a truck repair are worn-down tires, faulty brakes and damaged fuel or cooling systems, according to mechanics.
Know Your Truck
The type and condition of your trucks can have a significant impact on their longevity. If you want to ensure that they will last for years, it’s important not only to know what kind but also when these vehicles were manufactured. Doing so can help you determine any necessary repairs or service needs in advance.
Use an Appropriate Vehicle for the Job
Knowing your fleet also warrants knowing your vehicles’ intricacies. This is important for a number of reasons, including knowing how much weight or cargo space they have and their load capacity. You can also minimise repair needs by making sure you have the right vehicle for each job, and that it’s operated by someone who knows what they’re doing.
Check and Compare Repair Prices
Heavy trucks are not immune to damage, and overtime, they may require professional repair. It’s important to get multiple quotes and compare prices when choosing a repair service. You’ll want the best service for your money, so make sure that you take into account the pros and cons.
Inspect Everything Before Hitting the Road
It’s always best to do a full inspection of your tires before going on any trip. You might find an issue that could cause problems and end up costing you more in repairs. Be sure to check behind the tires and under your vehicle for any fluids that may have leaked out of the engine or brake line.
- Engine
Your engines need to have regular compression tests. This will show the status of your engine’s valves, together with its piston rings and seats. Knowing the condition of your engine can also help you determine how long it will last.
Moreover, monitoring your engine coolant, exhaust temperature and oil pressures will ensure that everything is running smoothly.
- Tires
Tire pressure is something you should check before every trip. One of the most common reasons for low tire pressures is alignment issues, which can arise from wear-and-tear or poor maintenance.
When your tire is overinflated, it puts more stress on the rubber lining, which can lead to a blowout or premature wear.
- Brakes
The failure of your brakes in the middle of a highway could cause an accident that leads to lawsuits and vehicle damage. And this is something you ought to avoid at all costs.
You can extend the life of your vehicle’s brakes by having regular brake tests. This will allow you to drive more carefully and increase its lifespan.
- Storage and Fuel Tank
Your engine is what makes your car go, but it needs some care and attention. Keeping the fuel tanks free from decay will help keep you on the road for years to come.
You should always make sure that your engine’s fuel contains no water because it can cause severe damage. To prevent this from happening follow the manufacturer’s specifications for the moisture control treatment.
- Oil Change
If your engine is not getting enough oil, its efficiency will dwindle and eventually fail. The lack of lubrication on an automotive component causes it to wear out faster than usual. This can be very dangerous for your truck if left unchecked.
Changing your car’s oil is an important part of overall vehicle maintenance. It helps keep everything running smoothly and efficiently, which means less time waiting around for repairs and fewer expenses.
Replace Air Filters Based on How Much You Drive
If you’re driving a lot of miles, make sure you replace your air filters at the right intervals. When they get dirty, they prevent outside airflow from entering into your vehicle, which can lead to overheating problems.
Do Regular Inspection of Your Clutch and Gearbox
When you hit the road, your gearbox and clutch have to work hard. This is because of high-torque engines combined with heavy loads. Be sure to inspect your gearbox regularly and take note of any issues. This way they can be fixed immediately before it’s too late.
Also, it’s important to make sure your clutch isn’t slipping, as this can lead not only to reduced reliability and fuel economy but also to an increased risk for stall outs.
Have a Better Maintenance Practices
Maintenance is the single most important thing for any fleet, as it can help avoid many pitfalls that will lead to downtime. In order to reduce the amount of time your trucks are in for maintenance, it’s important to know what preventive measures you need to take.
Keeping records and maintaining an accurate log will ensure they are not in the repair shop often.
File Your Truck Repair Costs as Tax Deductions
One way of enhancing your bottom line when running a business is by claiming all tax deductions you are eligible to.
For truck owners like you, you can deduct repairs and maintenance expenses from taxes payable, which can help lower your overall tax burden. Make sure to bring an authentic copy of your documents with you, just in case something goes wrong.
Key Takeaway
Even if you take all of the necessary precautions, sometimes truck repair is unavoidable. But that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank when your vehicle needs some TLC. By following these simple tips, you can minimise the chances of having to call a tow truck and increase the likelihood that your truck will be up and running again as soon as possible.