8 Maintenance Tips for Heavy-Duty Trucks: Keep Your Fleet Running Strong

Proper maintenance is the most important way of keeping your truck on the road and minimizing costs down the line. If you’re driving a Western Star, Ford, Isuzu, or any other heavy-duty truck, it is essential to perform regular maintenance to extend the life of your fleet and keep it performing optimally. Today, we’ll be discussing eight maintenance tips and how Transwest’s service team can support your maintenance needs.

1. Regular Oil Changes

Oil is the lifeline of any engine, and in heavy-duty trucks, it’s important to keep the engine lubricated. Over time, oil degrades and becomes less effective at protecting your engine. Regular oil changes are crucial for preventing wear-and-tear and maintaining fuel-efficiency. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations for how often oil should be changed based on your truck’s usage. 

Tip! Use high-quality oil designed for heavy-duty diesel engines to maximize performance.

2. Tire Maintenance

Tires play a huge role in keeping your truck safe and fuel-efficient. Uneven wear-and-tear can lead to poor handling and reduced fuel economy. Under-inflated tires can increase risk of blowouts. Make sure to routinely check your tire pressure, tread depth, and rotate your tires according to your truck manufacturer’s guidelines. 

Tip! Consider checking your tires seasonally, especially if your truck is operating in those extreme Midwest winters!

3. Inspect & Replace Filters

Air, fuel, and oil filters keep contaminants out of your system. Dirty and clogged filters can reduce engine performance, fuel economy, and even damage your engine. Make sure you’re regularly inspecting and replacing your filters to keep your truck running efficiently. 

Tip! Follow a strict schedule for filter replacements, especially for trucks operating in dusty environments.

4. Brake Maintenance

Heavy-duty trucks need powerful braking systems to safely stop while carrying heavy loads. Worn brake pads can seriously risk your safety and lead to expensive repairs. Conduct regular inspections of your brake system to ensure it’s functioning properly. 

Tip! Listen for unusual sounds when braking, such as squeaking or grinding. This may mean your brake pads are worn.

5. Check the Cooling System

A truck’s cooling system is extremely important as it prevents the engine from overheating, especially during long hauls or in hot climates. Inspect the coolant levels for any signs of wear or leaks. Flushing the cooling system removes build-up or debris that could cause overheating. 

Tip! Use a coolant recommended by your truck’s manufacturer to avoid damaging your vehicle.

6. Transmission & Drivetrain

Towing, hauling, and off-roading leads to a significant amount of stress on the transmission over time. Keeping the transmission fluid clean and at the proper level is needed for smooth gear shifts and contributes to the longevity of your drivetrain. 

Tip! Keep a consistent schedule for transmission fluid changes. Make sure to use the correct type of fluid for your truck model.

7. Battery Health

Heavy-duty truck batteries endure a lot. They power the truck’s electrical systems and work to start powerful engines in cold weather. Make sure to regularly test your battery voltage. A failing battery causes starting issues, especially in extreme weather conditions. 

Tip! Replace batteries every few years to avoid breakdowns.

8. Lights & Electrical System

A truck’s electrical system is responsible for lighting and engine management. Check your lights regularly, including your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to make sure they’re functioning properly. Faulty electrical systems can lead to serious issues with the engine, sensors, and on-board electronics. 

Tip! Before heading off on a long trip, check your vehicle for any malfunctioning lights.

Expert Maintenance at Transwest

At Transwest, we understand that maintaining a fleet of heavy-duty trucks can be overwhelming at times. That’s why we offer comprehensive maintenance services for brands such as Western Star, Ford, Isuzu, and more. Our certified technicians can handle anything - whether that be major repairs or a simple oil change. We want to make sure that your fleet stays on the road and operates smoothly. 

By receiving truck maintenance at Transwest, you’ll benefit from:

• Certified Technicians - Our experienced mechanics have extensive knowledge on repair techniques for all major truck brands.
• Quick & Efficient Service - Your time is valuable, that’s why we prioritize fast but efficient repairs and services.
• Comprehensive Services - We cover all aspects of heavy-duty truck maintenance.

Maintaining your heavy-duty trucks key for ensuring optimal performance and longevity of your fleet. By following these tips and going to a trusted service provider like Transwest, you can keep your trucks running efficiently and avoid large operating costs down the line. Contact any Transwest location today to learn more about how we can support your maintenance and repair needs.

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