Prevention is better than the cure: Five reasons to get regular truck services

Prevention is better than the cure: Five reasons to get regular truck services

With e-commerce spreading its full-fledged wings, we are more dependent on truck transportation. Delivering goods on time has become important for business growth. However, a lot may happen while the goods are en route. Traffic, accidents, and sudden breakdowns are some major challenges truck drivers face. While the first two fall in the category of uncontrollable events, we do have a say in preventing truck breakdowns.

The importance of truck maintenance:

• Maintenance is cheaper:

A common rule about automobiles is that maintenance is cheaper than repair. Maintenance costs are predictable. If the truck engine is damaged due to negligence, you might have to shell out huge amounts for engine and gearbox repair. This can eat away all your profits earned from the transportation business.

• Enhanced performance and lifespan:

Expenditure after maintenance services is a wise investment. It can keep the truck running smoothly for a long time while lowering its operating cost. When it comes to business, every penny counts. Regular truck service improves fuel efficiency and makes the company more profitable.

When should you get the truck serviced?

Experts suggest the truck owner consider servicing the vehicle every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. In any case, it should not exceed 30,000 miles. There are three types of services: basic, intermediate, and detailed. Most basic services involve quick truck inspection followed by oil and lubricant refilling. The ideal service time is also mentioned in the owner’s manual. Consider taking your truck to the service centre if you encounter any problems between the services.

What is covered in the service?

Preventive maintenance services will comprise the checkpoints mentioned below.

• Refilling fluids:

Fluids and oils like engine oil, transmission, coolant, brake, and power steering oil play a vital role in keeping the vehicle running smoothly. Regularly refilling these fluids can easily avoid major problems. If you see their levels depleting between services, there are high chances of fluid leakage problems. Take the truck to the service centre immediately.

• Changing fluids:

Generally, fluids last as long as the owner’s manual mentions. However, several aspects affect their consumption, such as miles, the weight of the loads, road types, etc. Trucks running essentially on highways will last longer than those running on dusty roads and in city traffic. Changing fuels might look like an expense in the short term, but it will save you from huge repair and breakdown costs.

• Maintaining tyre health:

Tyres are the vehicle’s only contact point with the road. It is crucial to check tyre health regularly to ensure the car runs smoothly. Especially in the case of a large truck or tractor-trailer, tyres have become more critical than ever. Get them inflated regularly to avoid-

1. Uneven wear
2. Maximise fuel economy
3. Improve braking and load-carrying ability

• Get brakes checked:

Imagine if you could not stop the vehicle safely while carrying a full load. No truck driver wants this nightmare to come true. Regular brake inspection is essential to ensure that your brakes are constantly working perfectly well. During the inspection, the mechanic will balance the brake system and adjust or repair it if necessary.

• Inspect air filters:

Can a clean air filter enhance the vehicle’s fuel efficiency? A clogged air filter prevents the air from entering the engine. Therefore, it reduces its power and brings down fuel economy. Thus, regularly checking and cleaning air filters is the best way to maintain fuel economy. Follow this regime more rigorously if you drive on dirty, dusty roads.

• Check battery:

Long-distance travel can damage the vehicle’s electrical system. Therefore, ensure that the battery, alternator, and electrical systems are regularly checked as part of preventive maintenance. Check the battery before the climate turns cold. Otherwise, it may cause charging problems.

• Pay attention to the clutch and gearbox:

High-torque engines and heavy loads wear down the gearbox and clutch. Therefore, engine and gearbox repair service is vital for the truck. The service ensures that the clutch does not slip and stays erect. An optimally functioning clutch and gearbox will also improve fuel economy.

Trucks run day and night to chase delivery targets. Therefore, they might require repair and maintenance assistance around the clock. Leo’s Truck and Trailer Repair provides 24/7 truck servicing in Sydney to ensure the truck reaches its destination on time. Visit https://leostruckrepair.com.au/ to check out all the services we provide. You can also call us on 0414 899 877 for more information about their services.