According to a survey, fleet truck breakdowns can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500. Additionally, it can have a big impact on the fleet’s overall performance. Heavy truck breakdowns can be more than just inconveniences. They can disrupt your fleet operations, increase safety risks, affect costs, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Breakdowns are an integral part of owning and operating a trucking business. Still, it is important to know the common heavy truck repairs and take the right steps to prevent them. Here are some of the common repairs you should know about.
- Repairing a Blown Head Gasket
A damaged head gasket can translate into major damage to the engine, leading to costly repairs. Usually, the underlying cause is a problematic coolant system, leading to engine overheating.
You can prevent head gasket problems by maintaining your truck’s coolant system.
- Check the coolant levels regularly
- Make sure the radiator is working properly
- Look for any signs of leaks
- Ensure timely coolant flush and replacement
- Make sure the water pumps, coolant reservoir, and fan clutches are well-maintained
- Engine & Powertrain System Repairs
When problems occur with the engine or powertrain system, you can experience complete vehicle failure. Common heavy truck repairs involving these systems can range from engine failure to minor sensor issues. However, these problems can increase downtime, vehicle towing, and costly repairs. When your truck stays out of service, it can lead to schedule disruptions and revenue loss.
It is recommended to follow a strict preventive maintenance schedule involving the following steps:
- Regularly changing oil
- Checking cooling system
- Replacing oil, fuel, and air filters
- Keeping track of any warning signs in engine diagnostics
When you address dashboard warning lights immediately, it can help prevent minor issues from leading to major breakdowns.
- Repairs Required for Overheated Transmission
Transmission repairs are also common heavy truck repairs. The underlying problems can range from total transmission failure to trouble with gear shifts. The transmission fluid functions as a lubricant as well as a coolant for your heavy truck’s transmission system. It is recommended to change and flush it regularly. Otherwise, it can degrade over time.
- Heavy Truck Brake System Repairs
Common issues that require brake system repairs in heavy trucks include worn pads, air leaks, and contaminated fluid. Any time your truck has a brake system failure, it becomes unsafe to operate. It may require roadside assistance or it will have to be driven slowly to the nearest repair shop.
This is one of the most common heavy truck repairs and one of the most dangerous types of breakdowns as well.
One of the most important heavy truck maintenance tips is to ensure thorough and regular brake inspections. This requires checking:
- Brake shoes & pads
- Rotors
- Drums
- Fluid levels
- Air lines
Any time you notice any signs of wear, including grinding noises or squealing noises, or a spongy brake pedal, the problem should be immediately fixed. It is also important to ensure that slack adjusters are properly adjusted for air brakes and that any worn parts are replaced in time.
- Heavy Truck Fuel Injection System Repairs
Diesel fuel injection systems may require repairs when they develop fuel rail and injection problems. These issues can cause a decrease in engine performance and fuel economy.
The simplest heavy truck maintenance tip is to change the fuel filters during every oil change. This can ensure the engine receives clean fuel without any dirt or debris that can otherwise clog the injectors. This is a simple step to preventing costly repairs later on.
So, these are some of the most common heavy truck repairs that can be avoided by following the right preventive measures. Ensuring regular and proper maintenance and repairs can help you prevent major breakdowns, helping keep your trucking operations up and running for the maximum possible time.