Continued preventative maintenance on diesel trucks, buses and heavy equipment extends the life of the vehicles while improving fuel economy. Diesel engines that undergo careful maintenance procedures can improve fuel efficiency up to 10% on the open road.
Good continued maintenance will give trucks, buses and other equipment longer life spans and may also help them sustain their value in resale. The buyer of a used truck will usually want to see the vehicle’s complete maintenance record.
Preventative maintenance on truck engines, buses, tractor trailers and other heavy diesel equipment is very similar to basic diesel automobile engine maintenance. Frequent lubrication, oil changes and fuel filter replacements are very important to conserve fuel and keep engines running smoothly. The cooling system must be checked on a regular basis. Heating, air conditioning and the overall electrical system need a regular maintenance check-up.
Aerodynamic devices and air compressors should also be checked regularly along with suspension systems. This is important for vehicles used at construction sites, for snow removal and heavy lifting equipment.
Truck diesel engines may have different maintenance requirements, based on the manufacturer’s recommendations. The exhaust systems on all diesel trucks should be examined to stay in compliance with clean air regulations. This includes changing the diesel particulate filters when they are dirty. A clean and clear exhaust system contributes to better mileage in trucks of all sizes.
Wheels must be check and tires rotated or replaced when needed, based on the tire manufacturer’s requirements. This is a necessary safety measure. Good tires with good traction add to fuel economy on the road in all size vehicles.
Obviously, good preventative maintenance will lessen the chances of a breakdown. This is important for long-haul vehicles and other equipment. But many organizations, including truck fleets, consider maintenance time to be non-productive down time. It is worth the time and cost to keep all diesel equipment in good condition to prolong usage and optimize fuel economy. This saves money in the long-run.
Good diesel mechanics and tools can perform the necessary checks and repairs for continued maintenance to keep truck fleets and other equipment operating at peak efficiency. This assures reliable equipment to sustain and support any business using diesel-powered equipment.
