Truck usage entails speedy wear and tear and if they are not regularly maintained a lot of accidents can occur. Maintenance and work on trucks is not something that can be trusted onto anyone. It is essential that a truck’s work is done with responsibility and only by an expert. Here are 5 things that every good truck mechanic adelaide should know about truck repair.
Serpentine belts
The serpentine belt drives multiple peripheral devices such as the power steering pump, water pump, alternator, compressor, air pump and air conditioner. If a truck starts to squeal then it is an indication that this belt needs to be checked, fixed or changed. Do not compromise and change the belt if it is chipped, torn or cracked. Problems with serpentine belts can manifest through a heated engine, power steering and AC not functioning. A trucks complete breakdown also indicates failure in terms of this belt.
Suspension and shocks
Due to constant wear and tear through heavy lifting shocks of a truck are bound to trouble. This calls for suspension repair. Bad suspensions entails that the truck will be out of control specifically while turning and stopping. If a truck driver isn’t able to control his truck imagine the damage that can take place on the road. Further, if uneven wearing down and balding spots are noticeable on the tire then this means that suspension needs attention. Take a look at the shocks under the truck. If they are greasy and oily then this denotes leaking and a need for repairing.
Working with a diesel engine
Heavy vehicles such as trucks are mostly diesel based. Therefore a good truck repair mechanic must know how to specifically deal with an engine that works on diesel. This is where the difference and specialization in terms of trucks lie. A good knowledge about the relationship between the engine and diesel will help in running diagnosis and repairing. Engine valves should be adjusted at least yearly as this will help in estimating the work required on the criteria of mileage. Diesel particulate filters require a replacement often to remove ash left over from regeneration. Inadequate diesel exhaust fluid can indicate fault codes and reduced engine performance.
Filters
Fuel filters should be replaced timely so that deposits do not reach and damage the engine. Any cases of engine damage ranging from reduced performance to no performance must include replacement of fuel filters. Inlet piping and hoses should be checked for deterioration. Air filters should also be changed as they too restrict the performance of the engine if they are clogged. Every oil change should be followed by an oil filter change.
Radiator
Diesel engines produce a lot of heat which can do a lot of damage by overheating if a radiator is not doing its job properly. Coolant must be checked and definitely replaced at least every two years or as need be. Complete coolant maintenance includes radiator cleaning, coolant testing, checking coolant freeze temperature and the potency of the chemical components.