3 Tips For Preventing Common Trucking Breakdowns For Your…

It is common knowledge that Peterbilt truck breakdowns are costly. For most fleet managers, lowering the costs of breakdowns is a top concern. Looking at hidden breakdown costs, the amount of breakdowns/unscheduled service events, and the cost of breakdowns is a good place to start.

You may believe you know all the costs associated with a Peterbilt truck breakdown, but you are likely neglecting some significant fees. Price of rental/safety stock, lower driver productivity, overtime pay, towing charges, customer delivery penalties and lost warranty recovery chances should all be considered. The ideas below will help you decrease the frequency and severity of Peterbilt truck failures and their cost.

1. Stick to well-defined maintenance programs

The most significant line of protection against Peterbilt truck breakdowns is a good PM program. You’ll always know when it’s time for each vehicle’s essential PM if you set up automatic maintenance alerts and notifications. Based on your application, including the OEM’s suggested PM intervals, which may include calendar time, engine hours, or miles.

When it comes to maintenance, keep in mind that more frequent PM periods may be necessary if your assets have long duty cycles.. Try to avoid depending on spreadsheets or manual data changes to determine if PMs have been performed. An automated system notifies you when a planned PM is due and monitors the completion of that PM service. If you want to postpone a scheduled maintenance event, your system should record it as a pending operation, alerting you that the work is still required.

2. When feasible, bundle service events

At the point of service for each truck, you should be able to rapidly identify PMs that are due or coming due, deferred/pending operations, and outstanding service and recalls during any planned or unscheduled service events. Completing all necessary services while a vehicle is in the shop is preferred because it means that the truck’s overall downtime will be decreased.

3. Don't put off maintenance indefinitely

While some fleets may feel compelled to put off maintenance at certain times, postponing maintenance eventually leads to more expensive vehicle failures. While waiting for maintenance may make the figures appear favorable for the month or quarter in question, breakdowns, in the long run, wipe out any benefits caused by delayed maintenance.

Final words

Organized preventative maintenance programs and data are important when evaluating the cost of your Peterbilt truck. You can use findings from previous maintenance service to help identify recurring issues and even forecast potential future failures. With this information, you’ll be more likely to prevent surprise breakdowns in your Peterbilt truck. . Examine your most recent Peterbilt truck breakdowns to see the hidden expenses and what you’re currently doing to decrease breakdown frequency. Use the tips above to help you keep your breakdown expenses under control. It will allow you to stay away from expensive Peterbilt truck maintenance fees.

Top 3 Most Expensive Truck Repair Mistakes: How To Avoid Them?

Nobody said owning a truck would be inexpensive. New trucks have lower maintenance expenses than older trucks in the last decade. As pickup trucks become more popular, more used ones become available. However, there are possible issues if you purchase a secondhand truck from a respectable vendor. These truck repairs, on the other hand, might be rather costly. This is where you need to be aware of the most expensive truck repair mistakes to avoid.

You should anticipate truck repairs from time to time if you own a truck. You’re using it as a business truck or an off-roading truck, and the increased stress might cause it to break down sooner. However, if you come across one of these five truck repairs, you may want to rethink your decision. It’ll cost a lot of money.

1. Issues with differential

A rear differential is standard on all trucks, while front differentials may be optional on some versions. It distributes the rotational force of the driveshaft to the wheels, allowing your truck to move forward and backward. A differential overhaul might include anything from bearing replacement to a whole new carrier assembly or case. You may anticipate a repair price of at least $1,000, with the possibility of additional costs.

2. Transfer case and transmission issues

The transfer case oversees engaging and disengaging the front wheels of a 4WD truck. In 4WD, it also shifts between high and low gear. The transfer case on most trucks is rock strong, but it does have the potential to build up. It’s easily a $2,000 or more fix if the transfer case must be replaced.

The rotational force of an engine is converted into controlled power through a gearbox. Although truck gearboxes are designed to withstand the demands of towing and carrying, they are not invincible. You’re going to be pullingout the checkbook if your truck’s gearbox begins sliding or won’t move into drive. A transmission repair for a truck normally costs $2,500 or more.

3. Engine issues

It will cost you a lot of money if your engine isn’t in good shape and has to be fixed. Some signs could be rough running, rattling or banging from the engine, blue or black smoke from the exhaust. If you’re fortunate, a truck engine repair will cost you $3,000, but if you’re not, it’ll cost you $7,000 or more.

Final words

Diesel engines are more efficient than gas, but they can be more costly to maintain. Even a small engine issue, such as a high-pressure fuel injection pump, may cost thousands of dollars to repair. Therefore, you will need to pay special attention to maintaining your truck’s diesel engine. A small mistake is more than enough to cost you a fortune with taking good care of the truck. Hence, you should ensure that not even such a small mistake happens from your end.

Heavy-Duty Truck Engine Rebuilding: 3 Most Common…

Engine rebuilding is a complicated undertaking, so you’ll want to ensure you don’t make any errors. To make life easier, we’ve compiled a list of heavy-duty truck engine rebuilding mistakes that someone can make when rebuilding an engine. Make sure you don’t make any of these blunders to keep out of trouble. These tips will allow you to get the maximum performance out of an engine rebuilding job as well.

1. Not taking accurate crankshaft measurements

This is probably the most common error we encounter. When it comes to diesel, heavy-duty trucks, the cylinder could be out of compliance by as little as 0.003″, and your crankshaft could be out of spec by as much as 0.0005″. A cylinder that’s also tapered by 0.004″ or a crank journal which is out of round by 0.0005″, on the other hand, is undetectable to the naked eye. There may be no apparent wear or damage on an out-of-spec engine. Use a micrometer to examine the bore and crankshaft if you want the rebuild to last as long as possible.

2. Not using appropriate measuring devices

Calipers are helpful for a variety of activities; however, they are not suitable for measuring engine components. If you as much as move your wrist while counting, your measurement will be wrong. A micrometer is preferred because it is easier to keep perpendicular to the measurement component but does not move till the thimble is spun. Because using a micrometer requires practice, make sure to fine-tune your technique using established “standards.”

3. Not using appropriate rod bearings

Unfortunately, not ensuring that the bearing clearance has been checked is a common occurrence. Overtightening the bearings, especially on the rods, is the worst thing you could do to a diesel engine, especially on a heavy-duty engine. The rod expands a bit as you spin them up, squeezing the bearing or failing to obtain enough oil if it is cold enough, leading the bearings to fail.

There’s no need to apply engine oil or assembly oil on the back of the bearings, and we’re not sure why some manufacturers do so. It would help if you had high bearing crush and security in saddles and tie rods. Bearing saddles should also have a crosshatch design and be bone dry to maintain bearing stability. Lubricate all bearings & journal surfaces well before mounting the crank and cylinder components.

Final words

These are the most typical engine rebuilding errors that are commonly made. Concentrate on these areas and make sure you avoid making these errors. Then you can make sure that you will not end up doing anything terrible to the truck’s engine.

Top 3 Signs Your Pickup Truck Has Transmission Problems

It may seem complicated to diagnose pickup truck transmission issues on your own but there are some common signs that can help alert you to problems. We’ve compiled the top 3 signs that your pickup truck has transmission problems. If you notice any of these issues it’s important that you get your truck booked in at a diesel repair shop as soon as possible. Addressing these early signs can help you prevent full transmission breakdowns and extremely costly repairs.

1. Refuses to Change Gears

Despite what may seem to some as a more straightforward operation, manual transmissions have their problems. One common issue is that the gearbox refuses to move when you compress the clutch pedal and try to move the shifter. This can happen at any time when shifting through gears. Low transmission fluid, the improper viscosity (thickness) of fluid, or the need to change the shift cables or clutch linkage are all common reasons. If you start to notice resistance or slipping when shifting gears it’s advisable to get your truck serviced as soon as possible.

2. Burning smell

If you catch a whiff of burning transmission fluid, know that it isn’t the pleasant aroma of victory, and it might be a sign that your transmission is overheating. Transmission fluid keeps the transmission’s numerous moving components lubricated and provides much-needed cooling, preventing the device from overheating.

In particular trucks, the gearbox has its tiny radiator (oil cooler) that circulates fluid to remove heat from the transmission unit. Low or insufficient transmission fluid is a common problem, which might suggest a leak or unclean fluid that needs to be changed. If you assumed your transmission was secure from wear when in neutral, you could be surprised by the reality.

3. Noisy transmission

If you hear strange sounds while the truck should be shifting, the gearbox is malfunctioning.

Such noises may have an easy and affordable fix – like with many of the issues on our list, adding or changing transmission fluid may occasionally solve the problem. Remember that, much like engine oil, various trucks benefit from the exact composition recommended in the owner’s handbook.

Alternatively, if you hear sounds from the transmission when your truck is in neutral, it might indicate something more severe, such as mechanical wear that necessitates component replacement. A worn reverse idler gear or worn bearings, potentially in combination with worn gear teeth, are frequent causes in this instance.

Final words

If your truck has any of these transmission problems, you will need to seek the assistance of a transmission repair specialist. Then you will be able to fix the issue and overcome the challenges you face on the road.

3 Tips To Keep Your Truck Fleet In Great Shape

To achieve your company’s sales and service goals, keeping your heavy-duty trucks and drivers in a safe, productive, and on-the-road condition is essential. What can you do to keep your fleet in good shape? In this post, we’ll provide three insightful suggestions on maintaining your truck fleet in top condition. Following these suggestions will enable you to get fantastic outcomes consistently. To manage your fleet, use the following checklist:

1. Stick to the owner's manual

Obtain the owner’s manual for your heavy-duty truck before you start to lay out your maintenance program. While this applies to all heavy-duty trucks operators, it’s especially important for fleet managers to pay attention to. You may better understand and take care of your heavy-duty trucks by consulting the owner’s handbook.

The owner’s manual for your heavy-duty truck will outline the maintenance checkups it requires. You could even receive suggestions for truck parts that are best suited for your heavy-duty truck. A chart to help you keep track of your maintenance history will also be provided. Consult your heavy-duty truck’s owner’s manual for detailed maintenance requirements. To start your heavy-duty truck maintenance off right, keep reading the directions.

2. Inspect your tires

Your truck’s tires are a crucial component and need careful upkeep. Truck tires experience large loads, which increases the likelihood that they will eventually wear out and fail. Before you start driving, check the tire pressure for your entire fleet. See the owner’s manual to determine if the tire pressure is right.

An ideal PSI range for heavy-duty trucks is 85 to 105. Don’t forget to consider temperature differences. Next, look for excessive tread wear that might endanger the truck’s traction. To prevent misalignment, it is also crucial that the tires wear evenly. If the heavy duty truck is stationary for a while, rotate the tires by a quarter turn to avoid stressing one area of the tires.

3. Check your heavy-duty truck’s batteries

Make sure all connections are tight and look for corrosion in the batteries under the truck’s hood. Ensure the battery is removed if you want to leave the heavy-duty truck parked for a while. It’s important to note that particular heavy-duty trucks are equipped with numerous batteries. The heavy-duty truck is powered by one battery, while the dumping mechanism is powered by the other. This ensures that the dumping mechanism will operate smoothly and with sufficient strength to lift heavy loads. Ensure that all of the batteries in your heavy-duty truck are adequately charged if you want to get the most out of it. When the heavy-duty truck is not used, connect the engine battery to a trickle charger.

Final words

Anyone who focuses on these tips can keep the heavy-duty truck fleet in perfect condition. You will not encounter any complaints from truck drivers as well.

3 Signs of Bad ECM Tuning in Your Heavy-Duty Truck

A fantastic invention that has made it easier for owners of heavy-duty trucks to operate their vehicles smoothly and travel great distances is the engine control module (ECM). It is a brilliant piece of technology that enhances your truck’s performance. However, it is subject to malfunction, which may require repairs, reprogramming, or replacement, just like any other mechanical component of your vehicle. To make sure the engine in your heavy-duty truck runs efficiently, pay close attention to the following three symptoms of a damaged ECM unit:

1. Heavy-duty truck not starting

You should begin troubleshooting if your heavy-duty truck doesn’t start. Check to see whether the vehicle is out of fuel first. After that, check the battery. Check the ignition switch by turning on the headlights if it doesn’t work.

If fuel, battery or ignition switch don’t seem to be the issue, the ECM could quite possibly be to blame, particularly if the engine cranks but won’t start. It demonstrates that your truck’s engine isn’t receiving the critical computer inputs it needs to function. You should never ignore these ECM symptoms to ensure that your heavy-duty truck engine runs efficiently.

2. Low fuel efficiency

Decreased fuel efficiency can be an indicator of your ECM unit malfunctioning. Poor fuel efficiency results from the ECM’s inability to determine the ideal fuel to burn during the combustion process.

In this situation, your heavy-duty truck is using more diesel than is necessary for it to operate, resulting in lower fuel efficiency. You must have your ECM fixed or reprogrammed since operating a commercial transportation company might cost hundreds of dollars a month.

3. The check engine light is on

As the name implies, the check engine light indicates if there is an issue with the engine. After having your truck checked for possible problems, if the warning light still doesn’t go off, there is little doubt that your vehicle’s ECM is malfunctioning.

For instance, your ECM is probably at fault if you get a specific error number; correct it, but the check engine light still illuminates. To prevent issues in the future, get the ECM diagnosed by a qualified service provider.

Final words

It’s essential to get your ECM evaluated by a skilled ECM service provider if you notice any of these symptoms and suspect it’s not working correctly. To improve the efficiency of your truck’s engine and avoid these issues, a competent ECM service provider will precisely diagnose the issue and carry out the required repairs.

4 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing the Right Shop For a Pickup Truck

If you frequently drive your pickup truck long distances, it is important to ensure that the wheels are properly balanced. Failing to do so can result in various problems and difficulties. However, finding a reliable wheel balancing shop can be challenging. To make the process easier, we have compiled a list of four common mistakes to avoid when selecting a shop for your pickup truck’s wheel balancing needs.

1. Waiting till the last minute to find a wheel balancing shop

Waiting until the last minute to find a wheel balancing shop can be a bad idea for several reasons. Firstly, it may be difficult to find a shop that is open and able to accommodate you on short notice. This can lead to delays and inconvenience. Secondly, if you are in a rush, you may not have the time to research and find a reputable shop, which could result in poor quality service or even further damage to your vehicle. t is always best to plan ahead and take care of necessary maintenance in a timely manner to avoid any potential issues.

2. Failing to do background research on the company

Failing to do background research on a wheel balancing repair shop can lead to several negative consequences. You may not be aware of the shop’s reputation or level of experience. This could result in poor-quality work or even dangerous repairs that could compromise the safety of your pickup. It may also result in you paying more than necessary for wheel balancing services. Conducting background research on a wheel balancing repair shop is crucial to ensure that you receive the best service at a fair price.

3. Failing to check the cost

Failing to check the cost of services at a wheel balancing repair shop can lead to unexpected and potentially expensive costs. Without knowing the cost beforehand, you may be surprised by the final bill and be unable to afford it. Additionally, if you are unaware of the cost of wheel balancing services at other repair shops, you may not know if you are being overcharged or if you could find a better deal elsewhere. This lack of knowledge could result in financial stress and inconvenience, as you may have to return to the shop to negotiate prices or seek out another repair shop.

4. Failing to avoid upsells

It’s important to be cautious of upsell offers while getting your truck wheels balanced. Many businesses may try to sell you additional services or products. These offers may be useful in some situations, but they can also be a waste of money. Take the time to evaluate these upsells before making any decisions. Remember that every business wants to increase its profits, so it’s important to consider the value of these additional purchases before committing to them.

Final words

To avoid common pitfalls when searching for a reliable wheel balancing shop for your pickup truck, consider these tips. By following these suggestions, you can successfully balance the wheels of your pickup truck and overcome any challenges you may encounter.

3 Indicators Your Heavy-Duty Truck Needs Engine Repair

Your heavy-duty truck’s engine is its heart. The engine generates the energy that moves your truck from point A to point B. The engine will ultimately splutter and die if ignored and does not get the crucial maintenance required. Of course, having an engine issue is more likely if you have a high-mileage heavy-duty truck. Don’t put off having the issue checked if you suspect engine issues; the longer you wait, the more costly it can be to correct. Here are some typical engine issues that call for repair.

Heavy smoke coming out of the exhaust

Large volumes of white exhaust smoke are a warning that the head gasket is likely to be blown and that coolant is entering the engine. Engine oil is consumed with the fuel if you see the blue smoke. Piston rings that no longer appropriately seal and let the engine oil mingle with the fuel are often to blame. If oil burns, your engine isn’t properly lubricated, which might cause extensive engine damage.

A knocking noise

To ensure smooth operation, the moving parts of the engine are supported by bearings. These bearings are kept lubricated by the oil that flows through the engine while it is running. If the bearings become worn out due to high mileage or insufficient oil levels, they may produce a loud knocking sound similar to shoes being tumbled in a dryer. It is important to pay attention to the condition of the old oil when changing it, either by yourself or with the help of a professional mechanic. If you notice any metal flakes in the oil, it could indicate that the components of the engine are experiencing excessive wear and tear due to metal rubbing against metal.

You experience a reduction of power

It could be time for an engine repair if your heavy-duty truck has lost a lot of power, stalls regularly, or idles poorly. As a result of normal wear and tear over many years and miles, you may experience a progressive reduction in power; nevertheless, if you suddenly find yourself struggling to accelerate, you will require internal engine repair.

When the power in your truck engine is reduced, you will have to go through a frustrating experience as you continue driving it. This is where you will need to get the help of a truck engine repair shop and fix it as soon as possible.

Final words

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible by bringing your truck to a qualified mechanic for repair. By taking care of potential problems early on, you can avoid more costly repairs and disruptions to your business in the future.