In many parts of the country, it has been a long, long winter. In fact, there are places where people are still trying to get out from under record snowfall amounts. However, spring is just around the corner and it’s time to ensure that your fleet of trucks is ready to roll.
To ensure that your entire fleet is prepared for more sunlight and higher temperatures, Ace Supply shares five steps to take now:
Perform a deep clean. It is important to remove salt and debris that has accumulated on your trucks to prevent rust and other damage so power washing your fleet is well worth the time and effort. You also may want to consider waxing exteriors to protect against sun damage that occurs during the spring and summer. Cleaning the interior of trucks does more than just improve the looks of those trucks, it also gives you an opportunity to check if there are parts that need to be replaced.
Check fluid levels. Ideally, drivers would check their vehicle’s fluids on a regular basis but the cold temperatures sometimes prevents them from doing so. Now that the weather is nicer it is critical to check brake, power steering, transmission and windshield washer fluid. Further, if you have been employing the use of antifreeze with your windshield wiper fluid it is time to change over to one that combats bugs. (While you’re at it you may want to replace windshield wipers, as well.)
Kick the tires. Potholes are everywhere this time of year so it is likely that your fleet’s tires have suffered the consequences. Now’s the time to take a look at tires to see how they are standing up to wear and tear and replace when necessary. If tires are still in their prime, it is important that they are balanced and rotated and that the alignment is checked.
Replace filters. The amount of dust and pollen in the air rises in the spring, so replacing your filters is a must. While most manufacturers have guidelines for when air filters need to be replaced, the only real way to know for sure is to inspect them yourself.
Test the air conditioner. It may not feel like it now but spring is the best time to make sure your fleets’ air conditioning units are in good working order. This will make it less likely that you will have to address problems on a scorching summer day.
It doesn’t cost a whole lot to get your fleet ready for the spring but it can cost you a lot if you neglect to do it.
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