Unpredictable weather, as we have seen over the last few years, requires preparedness for maximum fleet efficiency. As they say in Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming.”
The fleet manager and drivers that maintain the following systems are always ready for whatever weather condition comes up.
#1: Batteries & Electrical Systems
The most vital component of your vehicle’s electrical system is the batteries. Without proper maintenance, your driver could find themselves without power to the reefer or sleeper and all its conveniences.
#2: Tires & Tire Pressure
The wise fleet manager pushes tire pressure checks to maintain fuel efficiency. The wise driver knows optimal tire pressure is critical to the top performance of their rigs.
Yes, it takes a long time to check 18 tires individually. Drivers must do these checks as part of the daily vehicle inspection report (DVIR), but it’s crucial to partner with Ultimate Fleet Repair.
Regular preventative maintenance by trained professionals will ensure complete inspection for correct pressure, tread depth, and tire rotation to boost fuel efficiency.
#3: Brake & Air Compression Systems
Another essential system on your vehicle is the braking system. Every fall, replace the truck’s air compressor dryer cartridge. This replacement will benefit your brake system and other automated functions. It will prevent the deterioration of the cartridge seals, especially when you replace them with oil-coalescing cartridges for better performance.
All drivers and fleet mechanics know they must drain the air tanks periodically due to water, salt, sand and road chemical build-up. This vital step will help your vehicle stop.
#4: Check the Cooling System
Drivers know there’s much more to checking the cooling system than topping off the anti-freeze. First, the hoses and belts must be checked for wear and tear and replaced when necessary.
With the engine running, do a pressure test of the coolant and radiator cap to ensure it meets the manufacturer’s PSI recommendation.
#5: Replace the Water Separators & Fuel Filters
When the temperatures drop below freezing, water in the fuel lines can freeze and cause severe chaos to your truck’s injectors and pumps. Therefore, frequently drain the separators and replace the water-absorbing fuel filters.
#6: Check Fluid Levels Before You Hit the Road
Topping off all fluid levels before every trip is wise, but regular filter and oil changes are integral to successful preventative maintenance programs.
Call the Professional PM Mechanics at UFR
Call UFR and set up a complete winter PM of your fleet vehicles to prevent costly roadside repairs this winter. Call us at (651) 454-8775, or use our handy contact form to get in touch.
