Four Quick Tips to Keep You on the Road
When it comes to maintenance, being proactive goes a long way. Nothing can replace a good maintenance schedule and professionally executed preventive maintenance, but there are things you can do to help improve the lifespan of your truck.
Check Your Fuel Cap
If you look at the underside of the fuel caps on most trucks, there will be a rubber o-ring or seal. If that seal goes bad, you could not only lose fuel but also allow contaminants into your fuel that can cause damage to the fuel lines and even the engine. It's also a good idea to check and make sure all the threads on the cap are undamaged and any retaining equipment, such as a chain, are in good working order. If the seal is damaged, even if you're not experiencing any loss, it's still time to replace it before it costs you fuel and money. It only takes a few moments and should be done anytime you remove the fuel caps.
Drain Your Air Tanks
This used to be standard practice, but most modern trucks come equipped with an air dryer, which prevents water from collecting in your air system. However, regularly draining your air tanks can help prolong the life of your air dryer, and if you drain your tanks and water comes out, it can be an early warning that your air dryer may not be functioning correctly. It's much easier and cheaper to have your air dryer serviced before your air system fills with water. This is especially important in humid and cold climates. Draining your air tanks at every break will ensure your tanks remain water free.
Ether Injection System
If your truck is equipped with an Ether Injection System, use it sparingly, if at all. The addition of ether for cold weather starts will start the truck quicker, but it also puts considerably more strain on your truck and can even lead to a blown engine as it's put under more stress than it usually would be while it's cold and oil hasn't properly circulated.
Idling
Letting your truck idle puts a lot of extra hours on the engine. These are hours that could be used on the road but are going to put just as much wear on the engine off the road. Idling is not only unnecessary, but it's also a time when the engine's oil and coolant aren't circulating at their most efficient which increases wear. In addition, you're still burning fuel while at idle, increasing your fuel costs.
A little proactive work on your part can keep your truck up and running more and down for maintenance less. For all your maintenance questions, don't hesitate to contact us.
