With several states expecting record heat this summer, it’s more important than ever for commercial truck drivers to address potential issues that might arise during these warmer months. By getting ahead of any problems before they occur on the open road, you can focus more on your podcast selection and less on potential repairs. Here are the top maintenance issues to look out for in the summer.
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Overheating
Engines generate large amounts of heat regardless of the time of year, but during the summer months, this is compounded by the combination of internal and external temperatures. Due to the high ambient temperatures, the generated heat has nowhere to go, so an engine can easily overheat. By checking for leaks, ensuring your coolant is at maximum fill, and replacing your oil, oil filter, and air filter before you begin your summer journeys, you can avoid overheating your engine while also keeping metal parts lubricated and reducing friction. These preventative steps will minimize the risk of needing to replace your truck’s engine completely, which is a very expensive fix.
Air Conditioner
The way you’d have your home’s HVAC system inspected between seasons to avoid pricey repairs later, ensuring that your truck’s thermostat is in good working condition will save you a lot of headaches in the long run. An air conditioner that is not functioning properly can make summer driving not only uncomfortable but also unsafe. A few quick steps will keep your A/C running in tip-top shape during your summer drives: Check the refrigerant pressure and top up if necessary, clean or replace your cabin air filter, and clean and inspect your fans to ensure that they’re working. A cool, air-conditioned cabin is not only comfortable but will keep you safe by preventing heat exhaustion.
Fluid Leaks
A fluid leak can spell disaster during a cross-country drive through Texas in the heat of July. The three main areas where you may experience a fluid leak are the engine, transmission, and coolant system. Additionally, make sure all fluids are circulating through the engine properly. Fluid leaks can not only impact your truck’s temperature but also its safe operation. High heat can affect fluid levels by causing them to partially evaporate, so it is important to keep an eye on them. When left unaddressed, low fluid levels can affect everything from your transmission fluid to your fuel economy. Keeping up with your fluid levels could save you some gas money.
Tire Blowouts
Just as your Honda gives you tire pressure warnings in cold weather, heat can have an even greater impact on your tire pressure. Summer temperatures create ideal conditions for a tire blowout. The risk of a blowout is exacerbated by braking and driving at higher speeds due to the greater friction between the tires and the road. Note that underinflating your tires is not the solution, as underinflated tires deform more under load and heat up more quickly. Always inflate your tires to the specified pressure for your truck. By checking your tire tread and pressure more frequently during the summer months, you can greatly decrease your chances of experiencing a potentially dangerous blowout.
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Windshield Wipers
Sunny conditions can quickly dry out your windshield wipers, and summer storms in the Midwest can be extreme. Making sure that you have a new set of sturdy windshield wipers will keep your visibility in check through heavy wind and rain. Windshield wipers crack and disintegrate more quickly during hot, dry summers, which will both scrape up windows and do nothing to help with your visibility. They are inexpensive compared to other truck parts for a reason: they need to be replaced regularly. Having a spare set can save you money and time and ensure that you never need to worry about poor visibility because of damaged wipers.
Nothing can ever be guaranteed, but being proactive and taking steps to prevent minor problems from becoming major issues. Start shopping today for your next new or used truck on Commercial Truck Trader.
Article Featured on Commercial Truck Trader, June18, 2024:
https://www.commercialtrucktrader.com/blog/2024/06/18/top-maintenance-issues-to-look-out-for-during-the-summer/
