Summer Truck Fleet Maintenance Tips

We’ve gathered some quick fleet maintenance tips for key commercial truck systems to make sure they are primed for summer heat:

Tires
It’s important to check tires often during the hot summer months. Tire pressure and treads take a beating with hot road surfaces and can wear quicker in the heat which can cause damage and even blowouts. Check your air pressure and do visual checks for uneven wear and cracks in sidewalls.

Brakes 
Stopping power relies on friction whether you have disc or drum brake systems. Pay attention to squeaking, vibrations and even slipping while driving. If you notice anything, give your brakes a full inspection and replace brake pads sooner than later to prevent damage to the rotors. Summer months are busy travel months, so you many encounter heavier stop-and-go traffic on your routes. Stay alert and know your stopping distances.

Oil/Lubrication
Oil and other lubrications in your commercial truck can break down quicker with excessive heat, causing them to become less effective at protecting all the moving parts of your rig. Minimize overheating and eventual parts damage by not only checking fluid levels but keeping them clean and at proper viscosity levels. Easy maintenance now can prevent costly repairs and downtime.

Anti-freeze and Air Filters
Combustion engine cooling systems rely on clean air and proper temperature control. It may sound strange to talk anti-freeze in the heat of summer, but the correct antifreeze to water ratio will keep systems clean and clear of debris. Air flow should also be kept free from debris and contaminates.

Hoses and Belts
Keep all moving parts operating at optimal levels by checking the softer components such as belts and hoses. High temperatures can change the structural integrity of these items over time. If they are feeling spongey or soft, there could be breakdown issues with them. Also look for external cracks or punctures or other damage and replace now before they cause bigger problems.

Batteries
Heat can cause battery corrosion quicker than normal and when it gets built up, it weakens the voltage. Use battery cleaner to neutralize acids that cause damage. For electric vehicles (EVs), extreme ambient temperatures can cause a breakdown of the chemical compounds inside the battery and reduce performance and range capacity so pay attention, so you don’t get stranded needing a charge.

Air Conditioning
Don’t forget your most important asset – your drivers! They are in and out of the truck, hot and cold. Be sure to check air conditioning hoses, fittings, and blowers, looking for any damaging component tears or leaks. While driving, listen for any strange sounds. Keep in mind with EVs, running A/C can draw more energy from the lithium-ion powered trucks and lower its expected range.