Having a truck is like having any other machine – if you take good care of it, it will serve you longer. And considering your livelihood and safety both depend on your truck, it’s a good idea to make sure they are maintained for optimal results. While every make and model have their own special needs, with these simple maintenance tips your truck can continue running like it just came out of the shop for years to come.

Never miss an oil change

This is simple, but no doubt one of the most important things you can do to ensure the long life of your truck. Be sure to pick up the best oil for your needs. There are many varieties and a wide range of high mileage options tailored to increasing the life of older engines, so be sure to consult your owner's manual or a specialist for your make and model before changing. For older, higher mileage trucks, always change your oil filter along with the oil.

Rotate your tires

Changing your oil is a good time to also check your tires as part of a routine maintenance. Rotating your tires each time you change the oil helps ensure an even wear—because tires wear unevenly according to the drivetrain of your truck. Rotating them may not only extend their life, but also make for a smoother ride and reduce the burden on your truck's suspension that can come from unevenly worn tires.

Keep your tires balanced

And while you’re getting your tires rotated – have them balanced as well to ensure the weight is distributed evenly. With each bump and pothole, your tires get more and more out of balance. An unbalanced set of tires can lead to vibrations on the road and cause increased wear on your suspension as well as uneven wear.

Prevent body corrosion

Dust, salt, certain environmental conditions and even chemicals can cause rust and body corrosion. Wash your truck once every two weeks to help remove dirt and contaminants from the surface. During the winter months, spray the door locks with lubricant and be sure to wash the truck after snow or heavy rainfall.

Align the wheels

If around the time of your oil change, your truck is pulling to one side or the other it's probably time for a wheel alignment. Driving over rough roads or using higher speeds can both increase the likelihood of misalignment. If your wheels are out of balance, it may cause higher fuel consumption and poor handling on the road, in addition to damage to the truck from uneven load distribution.

Make sure fluid levels are up

It is essential to check the level and quality of the fluids in your truck. The most important one to check is the engine oil. It must be cool to get an accurate reading. Also, check the oil itself. If it's dirty or smells like gasoline, it's time for a change. Next, make sure there is enough engine coolant. Check the levels by popping the cap. Refill as needed with the coolant specified in your owner's manual. Finally, check out your windshield washer fluid. It's a good idea to keep an extra jug of it somewhere onboard, especially in winter, when salt and sand are on the road.

Give your engine a breath of fresh air

In order to function its best, engines need clean air. Over time, air filters become clogged with dust, debris, and chemical contaminants. Don’t forget to change them. A clean air filter will not only help your engine last longer, it can optimize your engine's efficiency and acceleration.

Know your driving conditions

One of the most important aspects of long-term care is keeping in mind what kind of wear and tear you're putting on your truck. Whether you're carrying heavy loads, driving offroad, or making multiple short trips daily, the way you use your truck will determine the exact type of maintenance you'll need. Talk to your mechanic about the best ways to care for your truck given the roads you’re driving on each day.

Conduct pre- and post-trip truck inspections

Inspect your truck before and after your trip to check for new damage. You can keep a checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything. If necessary, take your truck for repair as soon as you notice a problem.

Read up

Everything you need to know about keeping your truck running well is in the owner's manual. From cleaning, to optimal fluids, to maintenance checklists — it's all in the book. You may not consider it important, but it might be worth looking through the user manual to learn how to take care and make the best use of your truck.

 

Source:

https://www.americatruckdriving.com/how-to-keep-your-semi-truck-in-great-condition/

 

https://www.roadandtrack.com/car-culture/classic-cars/g6500/10-tips-help-keep-truck-running-past-150k-miles/