The snow of winter has melted (and barely appeared in the first place), the days are getting warmer and longer, and spring cleaning and maintenance periods are now upon us. Spring is the perfect time to give your rig a little extra attention and perform some basic spring maintenance. Here are some of our favorite tips to make sure your rig stays in great shape.
Your Basic Spring Maintenance Checklist
Spring maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated! Here is a quick checklist to guide you through all of the appropriate spring maintenance tasks for your rig:
- Batteries, plugs, and wires: Check all of these to make sure that they are in good condition. Since they work overtime during the winter months, they might need replacement or repair before spring and summer begin.
- Tire pressure: Cold weather typically reduces tire pressure, so check it now! This spring maintenance step will help avoid excess wear on your tires and wasted fuel on long hauls.
- Belts and hoses: Inspect all of your hoses and belts to see if they are worn or cracked. Replace them if needed.
- Brakes: The winter, especially if you spent a lot of time driving in snow and ice, probably gave your rig a workout. Inspect your brake system and any lines, hoses, parking brakes, and brake fluid.
- Suspension and alignment: Many people skip this because they forget, but improper alignment can really have an effect on how smooth your drive is. Spring is full of potholes, so spring maintenance now can ensure your rig doesn’t get even further out of alignment later.
- Fluid levels: Check your engine oil, transmission fluid, antifreeze, coolant, windshield washer fluid, and brake fluid to make sure everything is at the proper levels.
- Engine air filter: If your filter is dirty, replace it so that your engine can properly perform.
- Windshield wipers: After a long winter of rain and snow, these can get worn down. The spring rains are on the way, so make sure to replace your windshield wiper blades as part of your spring maintenance.
For All of Your Trucking Needs
Evan Transportation provides trucking and transportation services for clients throughout the Mid-Atlantic region. All of our drivers and staff are offered competitive salaries, benefits, and are guaranteed to be home every day. Interested in finding out more? Visit us online or give us a call at 443-673-3365. For even more information, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Google+.