Spring Truck Maintenance: A Seasonal Refresh for Heavy-Duty Trucks | As winter gives way to spring, now is the perfect time to inspect and maintain your truck to ensure it’s in top condition for the warmer months ahead. Harsh winter weather can take a toll on various components, so a thorough seasonal checkup can help prevent costly repairs and keep your truck running efficiently.
A good place to start is by giving your truck a complete wash, including the undercarriage, to remove dirt and road salt that can lead to corrosion. Pay special attention to your lights—corroded contacts are common after winter exposure, so check that all lights function properly.
Don’t overlook your windshield wiper blades, which can wear out quickly during winter. Replacing them with heavy-duty blades designed for trucks will help maintain visibility in spring showers. Also, inspect your tires for proper inflation and tread wear. Well-maintained tires not only extend tire life but also contribute to fuel efficiency.
On the steer axle, check for even tire wear across the tread. Uneven wear could indicate an alignment issue or a problem with the suspension that should be addressed promptly.
A clean air filter is essential for optimal engine performance and fuel economy, so inspect and replace it if necessary. Additionally, check all fluid levels and ensure they are at the proper levels. Carrying a spare fuel filter is a smart precaution in case a replacement is needed on the road.
Regular oil changes are key to keeping your engine in peak condition. Shell Rotella® offers a full range of synthetic and synthetic blend heavy-duty engine oils that protect both modern low-emission and older diesel engines. Shell ROTELLA® T5 10W-30 Synthetic Blend and Shell Rotella® T6 10W-30 Full Synthetic help improve fuel economy compared to 15W-40 engine oil. Both oils offer enhanced warm and cold-start performance.
Remember to clean debris from the radiator and air intakes to prevent overheating. Check your cooling system to ensure the proper concentration of coolant; maintaining the correct freeze point is crucial year-round. Consider switching to an extended-life coolant like Shell Rotella ELC NF which can help reduce maintenance needs and enhance cooling system performance.
Spring maintenance is essential for keeping your truck operating at its best. By taking the time to inspect and service key components, you’ll help ensure smooth, trouble-free driving.
Check this out on the Shell Rotella website.
