Summer is almost here, and it’s time for truck drivers to prepare their rigs for the hot weather conditions. High temperatures, humidity, and prolonged exposure to the sun can take a toll on your truck and cause various issues. From engine overheating to tire blowouts, it’s crucial to take preventative measures to avoid any problems on the road. In this blog post, we will discuss some common issues with trucks in hot weather and how to avoid them.
Proper Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for any vehicle, and it’s especially crucial for a truck that operates in hot weather conditions. Before hitting the road, performing a full maintenance check, including tire pressure, oil levels, and all other fluid levels is important. Paying attention to routine maintenance checks can save you from significant problems down the road. Always ensure you’re doing regular maintenance on your rig and taking the time to perform a thorough pre-trip inspection before each haul.
Protecting Your Truck
The sun’s harsh rays can cause significant damage to your truck’s exterior. To avoid this, it’s important to protect your truck from sun damage. You can do this by parking in a shaded area or using a truck cover. Applying a coat of wax to your truck’s exterior can also help protect the paint from the sun’s harmful UV rays. To protect the cab, use a sunshade when you’re parked. This will not only help prevent damage to your interior but also help keep the cab a little cooler for when you return.
Preventing Overheating
One of the most common issues with trucks in hot weather is engine overheating. To prevent this, ensure your truck’s coolant levels are topped up and the cooling system is functioning correctly. Regularly checking and changing the engine oil and air filters can also help keep your engine running smoothly.
Checking Tire Pressure
High temperatures can cause tire blowouts, which can be dangerous for drivers and motorists. Ensure you check your tire pressure regularly, especially during hot weather conditions. Over-inflated or under-inflated tires can lead to uneven wear, which can cause blowouts.
Rust Prevention
Humidity levels can be high during summer, which can cause rusting and corrosion to your truck’s undercarriage. To prevent rust, it’s important to clean and dry your truck’s undercarriage regularly. A rust inhibitor can also help protect your truck from rust and corrosion.
Suspension Maintenance
Summer driving conditions can put additional stress on a truck’s suspension system. Truckers can avoid suspension issues by performing regular maintenance checks, including inspecting shocks and struts, checking alignment, and examining steering components.
Ensure the Truck’s Driver is Ready for Hot Weather
It’s also important to take proper care of yourself in hot weather so you can stay cool, comfortable, healthy, and focused out there on the road. Wear loose clothing made from breathable fabrics. Make sure your air conditioning is working correctly. Above all, stay hydrated. Good hydration is absolutely essential in the summer months; it will help you stay alert and improve your personal safety as well as the safety of surrounding motorists. Ensure you’re drinking plenty of water and avoid overly sugary and caffeinated beverages as these can further contribute to dehydration.
Those hot summer months are right around the corner, and they hit a little different for both you and your truck. Preventive measures to prepare yourself and your rig can help you avoid certain heat-related challenges. By following these tips, you should be a few steps closer to a safe and successful summer OTR!
