Hitting the open road with your truck can be an epic adventure. Before rolling out, you should check your truck to make sure the journey will be safe and memorable. As a truck driver, you need to know what to check on your truck before a long trip.
Tire Pressure
Starting from the ground up, tire pressure is the first checkpoint. The most common problems truck drivers face on the road are tire-related, and incorrectly tracking could be disastrous. Inflating your tires to the correct pressure improves fuel efficiency and reduces the risk of tire blowouts. Don’t forget to check your tires’ condition periodically by examining for holes, punctures, or rips!
Fluid Levels
Next, pop the hood and take a peek at the engine’s fluid levels. Your truck is a thirsty machine, running on various fluids like engine oil, coolant, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Low fluids could mean leaks or other issues. Top them off or take your truck to the auto shop before fluid issues lead to bigger problems down the road.
Brake System
Brakes are your best friends, especially when hauling a full load. Check the brake pads to confirm the entire system will function without hiccups. A responsive brake system keeps you safe on the road, particularly in emergencies.
Electric Vehicle Considerations
With the advent of electric trucks, it’s essential to distinguish your ride’s power source. If you’re driving an electric truck, consider packing emergency supplies for electric fires. When shopping for gear, consider looking into fire equipment suppliers. While these fires are rare, it’s never a bad idea to stock up on items like a fire-retardant blanket, sand, and a Class D fire extinguisher.
Space Management
Maximizing space in your truck cabin or truck bed will help you make room for your cargo, whether it’s commercial goods or camping gear. While you obviously want everything to fit, you also need access to your toolkit, emergency supplies, and personal items. Strategic packing allows for a comfortable ride and less stress if you need to find something quickly. Looking for ways to increase your truck storage? Check out our tips: Great Ways To Add More Storage to Your Truck
Pack Smart
Don’t play Tetris with your essentials. Emergency equipment, crucial documents, and a well-stocked first aid kit are non-negotiables, so make sure they are easily reachable.
Here’s a tip: Whether you’ve been on the road for decades or this is your first time navigating the trucker’s path, keeping tools handy for potential quick fixes can save you time and fuss. Also, making room for rest in your schedule is just as important for a successful trip.
Hit the Road and Travel Safely
By ticking these items off your checklist, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth ride. Your truck is your companion on the long stretches of highway you’ll conquer. Treat it well, and it’ll do the same in return. Make your trip enjoyable by checking your truck before a long trip.
