Guide to Common Semi Truck Repairs

Just about every truck driver has been there at some point: standing over a smoking hood on the side of the freeway, hearing the distant sound of dollars being flushed down the drain. Whatever the reason for your breakdown, it can waste precious time and money, and roadside repairs are best avoided altogether. Learn how to steer clear of the most common problems that affect semi trucks with the following maintenance guide from McCandless Truck Center!

Need more advice on semi truck maintenance? Feel free to contact us! McCandless Truck Center proudly serves the trucking community in Colorado, Nevada, and Wyoming.

Tires and Wheels

Statistics from the Technology & Maintenance Council have indicated that more than half of all semi truck breakdowns result from tire problems. That may come as no surprise, considering the hard work commercial truck tires are expected to perform. The good news is that you can avoid most of these problems just by inspecting the tires on a regular basis.

For example, excessive or uneven tread wear will make your tires a lot more susceptible to damage. Examine your tires before each haul and make sure they have adequate tread. Meanwhile, underinflated tires will cause excessive heat buildup in the sidewalls, which can lead to blowouts. Adjust the inflation as needed, and in accordance with manufacturer instructions.

While you are checking the tires, take a look at the wheel axles and make sure they are in the proper alignment. Encounters with potholes, minor collisions, and faulty shocks can upset the alignment, and misaligned axles can wreak havoc on your tires.

Brakes

In studies conducted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, brake problems were shown to account for about 29% of semi truck accidents. This is a scary number, and it makes perfect sense: after all, the brakes are your first line of defense against collisions. And because the brakes in a semi truck are exposed to extreme heat, pressure, and friction, they can wear down rapidly without proper maintenance.

The most common brake issues include air leaks, external corrosion, and internal water contamination that can cause the brakes to freeze during the winter. All these problems have warning signs: screeching or grinding noises, soft or sluggish braking, fluid leaks, and foul odors. If you have any cause for concern, head to your nearest service shop.

To prevent brake problems, regularly check the brake drums and pads, and replace any components that show signs of wear.

Electrical System

The electrical system of a semi truck is composed of the starter motor, the alternator, and the battery. Signs of a faulty electrical system include corroded battery connections, dead batteries, dim or flickering lights, strange odors, and clicking sounds. If you notice one or more of these indications, it’s time for a visit to your service shop.

Engine

The diesel engines found in most commercial trucks are known for being highly durable, but that does not mean they can go without regular maintenance. Engines that are overused and undermaintained can fail without much warning, and leave you stranded on the highway. Signs of a failing engine include reduced gas mileage, decreased horsepower, and being unable to reach and maintain high speeds.

You can preserve your diesel truck engine by cleaning the diesel particulate filter, the oxidation catalyst, and the after-treatment fuel injector on a frequent basis. You should also remember to stay on top of those regular oil changes.

Time for a Shop Visit?

There are some semi truck repairs that are simple enough to handle on your own, and there are others that require the specialized tools and expertise of a certified technician. When you need professional assistance, hustle over to McCandless Truck Center. We have seven locations across Colorado, Nevada, and Wyoming.