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They require maintenance to keep working at their best.
Unfortunately, with the hectic schedule many drivers have, maintaining used trucks often gets overlooked.
Taking care of your used heavy trucks is critical for good performance, however, so be sure you are following these most basic of guidelines.
Check Your Fluid Levels Sure, used heavy trucks are a lot tougher than cars or pickup trucks.
That doesn't mean that they can run on fumes or that having only a few drops of oil left is good for the engine.
Whether used trucks belong to the company you work for or you're the independent owner, standard fluids checks are essential.
If you're about to take a long haul trip it is even more essential that you know your fluid levels are good.
Check the oil, brake fluid, coolant, and gas levels in used heavy trucks often.
If you notice unusual drops in fluid levels, take the used truck in question down to your mechanic as soon as possible.
This is a sign of a potential leak that could cause serious damage down the road if left unrepaired.
Maintain the Maintenance Schedule Not having preventive maintenance is the number one cause of problems for used trucks.
Just because a belt looked fine six months ago, doesn't mean it is fine now.
Even if other drivers tell you they are "sure it's fine," the used trucks you drive are your responsibility, and if you've noticed any warning signs, it's always better to get it checked out.
Regular inspections will help used trucks last longer, perform better, and sell for a better price when the time comes.
All heavy trucks should have maintenance manuals just like brand new trucks would.
Keep these manuals in a safe place that is easily accessible.
The maintenance needed for used heavy trucks depends on driving distance, wear and tear, the age of the trucks, and driving speeds, so make sure you know this information and follow the preventive maintenance schedule.
If you ever plan on selling it again, prospective owners will want to see this record, so keep it up to date.
Examine Engine Belts The engines of most used heavy trucks have a lot of rubber belts.
These belts make everything from compressors to alternators run properly, so over time they wear out and must be replaced.
If you operate your used trucks in extreme heat or cold on a regular basis, these belts will deteriorate even faster.
If a belt breaks while a truck is running, it can cause severe harm to the engine.
Some of its parts may even sustain permanent damage.
Replacing engines in used heavy trucks is very expensive and time-consuming, so to keep your machine in good order, inspect your trucks' belts on a weekly basis for damage.
Look for small cracks or tears in the rubber: if you find any, replace the belts right away.
Owning and operating used heavy trucks can be both challenging and profitable.
Remember that they need regular upkeep to stay in good condition and that inspections and maintenance for existing trucks are far less costly than purchasing replacements for your irreversibly damaged used heavy trucks.
By checking for early signs of deterioration, parts can be replaced before serious harm occurs that would make a truck inoperable.
Used trucks are an investment: treat them well and you will reap the rewards.
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