Trucking is a business that runs all year round, which means good maintenance upkeep is a must. You need to make sure your fleet is prepared for the changing seasons, or else automotive issues can arise. When it comes to extreme weather during winter and summer, your trucks can take a beating, inside and out. As the summer season approaches, make sure you know all the important tips for preparing your truck fleet for summer.

Tires and Brakes

The summer heat can be tough on your tires, so you have to make sure your tires are healthy and functional when summer arrives. The cold winter weather can take a toll on your tires, which is why you probably have winter tires on your trucks. First, remove those for the summer season. With new tires, you can have more consistent air pressure as well as tread depth. Plus, you’ll be able to monitor your tires during summer to ensure even wear and tear. When checking your tires, check your brakes as well, because they too will need to be replaced after a while.

Oil/Filter

Driving your truck during winter can hurt the quality of your oil over time. In fact, extreme temperatures during both winter and summer can do this, so starting out the summer with weak oil can hinder your truck pretty quickly. Additionally, if you travel along dirt roads frequently, it can also negatively affect your oil quality. When it comes time to prepare for summer, make sure to change your oil and filter to ensure your truck runs smoothly during trips.

Important Fluids

All your fluids for your coolant system, radiator, transmission, brakes, and even windshield wipers need to be checked and topped off before your fleet drives during the summer. Just like your everyday car or truck at home, your truck fleet will need these fluids to make sure they operate properly and avoid overheating or malfunctioning in the hot weather.

Hoses/Belts

As mentioned above, keeping on top of your oil and other fluids is important. However, you also have to keep an eye on the hoses and belts that carry those fluids. You can use the eye test with them by looking for any tension, misalignment, leaks, or dirt build-up. However, timing belts and V-belts should be replaced after a certain number of miles, just to be safe. For instance, timing belts should be changed every 60,000 to 100,000 miles.

If you follow these tips for preparing your truck fleet for summer, your crew will be perfectly outfitted for the upcoming summer heat. At BIG Machine Parts, we can help you obtain the right tools of the trade. If you’re looking for gear for specific brands including but not limited to Freightliner truck parts, we’ve got you covered.