Although winter is gone and you won\u2019t have to deal with salty and icy roads, summer and hot
\nweather present a different set of problems for your fleets, especially overheating vehicles.
\nEngines produce a lot of heat, combine that with high air temperatures in the summer heat, and
\nit is the perfect storm for overheated engines and engine breakdowns. Plus, drivers whose
\nvehicles break down on the road due to an overheated engine on a scorching hot summer day
\nare at risk themselves. For these reasons and more, it is important to conduct summer fleet
\nmaintenance.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Summer Fleet Maintenance Tips<\/p>\n
Below, we provide you with some great tips for your summer fleet maintenance.<\/p>\n
Check the Air Conditioner<\/p>\n
As we mentioned, high temperature is a risk for drivers, not just their vehicles. On long summer
\nday trips, you\u2019ll want to make sure that all of your vehicles have working air conditioners to keep
\nyour drivers safe and comfortable. So check all of the AC units and make sure they have plenty
\nof refrigerants.<\/p>\n
Inspect Cooling System<\/p>\n
Along with the drivers, engines are at risk during high temperatures. Excessive heat coming
\nfrom both hot air temperatures and heat produced from the engine can result in engine
\nmalfunction. Overheated engines are a common problem during the summer months and the
\nbest way to prevent this is by making sure your cooling systems are in good working condition.
\nMake sure to check coolant levels and flush the system every two years.<\/p>\n
Replace Air Filters<\/p>\n
Generally, air filters should be changed about once a year. Summer is a great time to do this. If
\nair filters are overdue for a change then the engine will work harder and the result is increased fuel consumption and wear.<\/p>\n
Check and Change Tire Pressure<\/p>\n
Increases in temperature cause air to expand, meaning that tire pressure can increase from
\nwinter into summer months. To keep tire pressure where you want it, check each vehicle's tire
\npressure once a month to prevent any problems.<\/p>\n
Check Tires<\/p>\n
Check your tires to make sure you have the right tires for summer conditions and that your tires
\nhave maintained enough tread. Doing this will reduce fuel consumption and keep drivers safe
\non the road.<\/p>\n
Get a Brake Inspection<\/p>\n
Driving year-round can put serious wear on a truck\u2019s brakes. Additionally, some drivers put
\nmore wear on brakes than others, so it\u2019s important to regularly inspect them and replace them if
\nneed be.<\/p>\n
Continue Standard Maintenace
\nStandard maintenance practices should be carried through in the summer as well. Make sure to
\ncontinue checking transmission fluid levels, oil, and filter. Doing this will keep your trucks in
\ngood condition and also keep your drivers safer on the road.<\/p>\n