Spring Vehicle Maintenance Tips for Truckers

Trucker Spring Cleaning Tips

Ah, Spring, the moment we've all been waiting for since first spotting frost on our windshields. The snowy days may be behind us, but that doesn't mean truckers are in the clear for caring for their vehicles. In fact, there is more to do this season for upkeep of big rigs as we trade snowfall for rain.

Inspecting heavy-duty vehicles for possible winter damage is a must this season. Keep reading to learn spring care tips that should be conducted now before hitting the road.

Undercarriage and Suspension

Your undercarriage went through a lot in winter, and it's time to make undercarriage care a priority. More than just looking shiny, your truck will need a proper bath to remove the salt and grime build-up from roadways. Ignoring the removal of these harmful contaminants can lead to undercarriage corrosion and potentially lead to costly complications.

Additionally, commercial vehicles were partially to blame for creating potholes during the winter months. When the water froze over then thawed over time, the pavement became brittle and cracked causing massive holes when large vehicles' weight was put to the test on roads. Unfortunately, going over these bumps throughout the season led to strain on suspension system parts such as shock absorbers. Drivers noticing alignment issues, excessive vibrations, and road instabilities may need to replace semi-truck shocks sooner than later.

Air Brake Care

You probably used the brakes more during winter to keep a safer distance from other vehicles on highways, which means that your brakes are feeling the impact from the past season. Airline hoses and coils and spring brakes should be checked and replaced if needed. After all, you will be using your air brake system even more moving into thunderstorm season. (You know what they say: "April showers brings May…brake damage?")

Windshield Wipers

Speaking of thunderstorms, check on your truck's windshield wipers and windshield wiper fluid. Wipers may have been used and abused during wintertime to wipe off dirt and other road chemicals, and they may have weakened and loss cleaning juice. Like a car, windshield wiper replacement on semi-trucks is easy and only takes a few minutes.

Gauging Tire Pressure

Your tires may have lost pressure because of the dip in cold temperature, and it'll be time to re-inflate them. Typically, semi-trucks should have 110 PSI for large loads carrying 6,175 pounds, butyou only need 75-80 PSI for 4500-pound loads (the minimum we would suggest for pressure). While the numbers fluctuate based on the source, it's best to go higher in PSI for safety and compliance.

Batteries and Components

Did your truck have trouble starting during winter? The cold weather probably put stress on your AGM batteries, starters, and alternators. Be sure to check these electrical truck components with a volt reader and replace, if necessary.

And, while you're looking into electrical parts, check on your lights, too. LED lights with multiple diodes may not be as noticeable of a problem at first glance, butthey carry heft penalties from police should you get pulled over for failing lights.

Bottom Line

Spring cleaning takes on a whole new meaning when you're a trucker. Other systems to check include your fluid levels - engine oil and antifreeze/coolant – as well as smaller components such as bearings. With these spring care tips in mind, you will be safely cruising the nation's open road ready to take on another season doing what you do best: truck driving.