How To Tell If Your Heavy-Duty Truck Needs Repair Work
Posted on: 7 June 2017
If you recently started driving a heavy-duty truck, it is likely you are trying to get used to the vehicle as you take it out on the open road to make your hauls. Many drivers find they learn the feel of their vehicle, making it easier to notice any problems when they occur if they have spent time using the vehicle for a number of months or years. Until you have this experience on your own, it is necessary to be on the lookout for potential problems. Here are some indications you will need to get your heavy-duty vehicle to a repair shop like Color Country Diesel Inc promptly.
Look For Drive Shaft Troubles
When you drive a rig regularly, the drive shaft is at risk for deterioration due to the number of miles you rack up on the highway. This is a bit difficult to pinpoint if you just started driving for a living, as you haven't had a chance to get used to the way the truck runs on a daily basis. Drive shaft troubles are subtle and require a replacement as soon as they are noticed. If your vehicle feels as if it is hesitating slightly when you try to bring it to a stop or if you hear a slight squealing sound when you gain speed, the drive shaft may be causing these occurrences.
Be On The Lookout For Transmission Problems
A truck transmission problem will be similar to what you would notice in a standard vehicle. If your vehicle has difficulty shifting from one gear to another or if it bucks or jerks while doing so, the transmission is likely to be having trouble. This could get worse over time, making it necessary to get the truck to a repair shop as soon as possible to remedy the situation effectively. Make sure you check your fluids on a regular basis to keep the components in your rig lubricated so transmission problems are less likely to occur.
Know The Signs Of Brake Wear
Many truckers will use a brake wear gauge to determine when to bring their rig in for servicing. This is a chart that will show the thickness of the specific brake pads being used on the vehicle. When the pads appear to have worn to about half of their thickness, it is best to get to a mechanic for a swap-out so incidents do not occur on the roadway. Brake pads can be seen easily and can be measured with a small ruler to determine the remaining thickness at any given time. Make it a habit to do routine checks when refueling or washing your vehicle.
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