Keeping Big Wheels Rolling

Broken down trucks do not make money. Since repair mechanics charge $80 an hour and up and the cost of tow trucks can be $1000, smart drivers avoid these unwelcome surprises if possible. Surprisingly, five simple actions reduce these problems. Vehicles with fully charged batteries, tires in good condition filled with air, Truck Insurance, enough fuel and motor oil to reach the next truck stop and a working alternator keep going.

Batteries

Since dead or low batteries are the number one reason for disabled trucks, batteries should be checked frequently. Problems include loose or dirty battery clamps, units not holding a charge or low fluid. Many truckers carry a spare battery and jumper cables.

Tires

The second most common emergency call is tire problems. Even flat tires require special treatment because of the size and amount of air pressure. Blowouts need to be replaced. Drivers who check tire pressure frequently and the condition of the tires have fewer problems. After all, it is cheaper to deal with this problem in town.

]]>

Truck Insurance

Businesses and owner operators need vehicles repaired quickly after an accident and save money on Truck Insurance by shopping, increasing deductibles and bundling the insurance with other policies. The cost is based on the vehicle and operator. Well maintained vehicles in good condition are cheaper to insure because drivers avoid accidents when turn signals and brakes work. Many insurance companies have an inspector on staff and give discount to vehicles that pass his or her in-depth inspection. Likewise, drivers with clean driving records and a good driving history get cheaper premiums. Experienced drivers between the ages of 30 and 65 with the right endorsements on their CDL licenses pay less for insurance.

Fuel and Motor Oil

Empty fuel tanks, at number three, and insufficient motor oil, at number four, strand many professional drivers on the nation’s roadways. Sometimes these drivers are caught unaware when they pass a truck stop expecting to fuel at the next town and that town does not have diesel. Occasionally, they miscalculate how far they can drive. When multiple drivers use the same vehicle, many times each driver assumes someone else checked the motor oil.

Alternator

Finally, the fifth reason for emergency road calls is alternator problems. It is hard to tell when an alternator is not working properly. Since dead batteries and stalling are signs that something is wrong, experienced drivers check this frequently.

Because drivers are paid by the mile, keeping the truck moving from one destination to another is their number one priority. By checking batteries, tires, truck insurance, fuel, motor oil and alternators periodically, drivers reduce breakdowns and problems. After all, no one wants to be stuck on the highway or in an accident without good insurance. 

 

Please visit our website HERE for more information or visit our BLOG. Thank you.
Article Source

CDL Tests Video