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An extremely taxing life is led by a commercial truck. Once a job is finished, there is no respite. It’s back to work. To ensure that trucks stay serviceable, it is essential to follow an effective fleet maintenance program. The FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) is just one government agency that requires inspections on commercial trucks. This not only serves to help keep trucks running efficiently but installs confidence in employees that their equipment can be relied upon. An unreliable vehicle deters employees, costs a company money in repairs, and lets customers down. No business needs that. Here are some tips as to how to keep your vehicles roadworthy and “keep on truckin’”.
About Fleet Maintenance
Central to minimizing downtime is an effective maintenance schedule. The fact that the truck has received any attention necessary offers drivers assurance. Every time a driver takes the truck out, a good program will help to assure their safety and efficient operating conditions.
What’s involved in a typical maintenance schedule? Let’s refer to the maintenance program as A, B, and C services:
- A services – These services cover most major components and are the most frequent kind. These can apply to windows, brakes, the transmission, tires, etc.
- B services– On top of those previously listed, more components are added with B and C. B services will cover things like grease for running gear and new oil.
- C services – This includes checking axles and such.
So, when do you execute these services? Specific mileage intervals are used to determine when these services must be performed. Example: every 3,000 miles, one of the A services should be completed. Every 6000 miles, a B service. C services can be checked as needed. Though some trucks may vary, every 12,000 miles, suspension components should be checked. Your manual will give you a better idea of how many miles apply to your vehicle.
Naturally, regular cleaning also helps keep your truck in tip top condition.
Using Log Data for Fleet Maintenance
Keeping your fleet can be much simpler with a computerized fleet management system. This way, rather than information like operating hours and mileage recording relying on the memory of the driver, the data is tracked and submitted by an onboard computer. It automatically goes right to your management system. This will help reduce the chance that something will go wrong because no maintenance windows will be overlooked.
Tips for Before the Trip
It is important for drivers to have a pre-trip checklist. Things like wheel nuts and tire pressure before hitting the road should be checked. Before shutting off their engine, drivers should be well acquainted with how to listen to the engine and recognize a knock or other oddities.
Tires – Low Rolling-Resistance
Hundreds of thousands of dollars in fuel can be saved by using today’s low rolling-resistance designs. In fact, a shift is taking place among tire manufacturers to produce these types of tires almost exclusively. A shallower tread is used on this type of tire. Compared to traditional casings, there is a slightly higher initial price per tire. But for every truck in the fleet, with these tires, an approximate 3% fuel economy increase can be realized.
Mickey Genuine Parts can help with fleet maintenance. We have numerous certified service centers located throughout the United States for your convenience. Call one of our knowledgeable representatives today to schedule an appointment or discuss parts, accessories, equipment, or used equipment.
