When disasters strike and utility vehicles are needed to clean up or do repairs, you want to be ready. Your drivers have to be able to load up and roll out to wherever the problem is.  Utility fleets get things back to normal as soon as possible. But, if your trucks are not in top shape, you won’t be able to contribute.

While maintenance tasks may not be the exciting part of overseeing a fleet of utility vehicles, it is one of the most important. After all, preventing problems is better than repairing or replacing parts or trucks.

Keeping Your Utility Trucks Ready to Go

Utility2Storage –

Ideally, have trucks not in use stored in a garage or at least in a covered area. This will keep them protected from pollutants, sunlight, wind, rain, and other elements ensuring the trucks look better and more professional.

Keep the Trucks Clean and Organized –

While this may not affect how the trucks run, having everything organized and clean makes it easier to find the tools when needed There are a variety of products on the market that can help keep your trucks neat and organized.

Repair Dings and Dents ASAP –

Utility trucks can take quite a beating from debris, close working space, and road debris. Don’t ignore the small chips, scratches, or dents. Get them repaired before the small bits of damage become big problems.

Keep the Coolant and Fluids at the Correct Level –

Transmission fluid, brake fluid, and coolants should be checked at least once a month and topped off as needed. Failing to do so can cause engine damage and affect safety. Diesel exhaust fluid should also be checked monthly as it keeps the exhaust of unburned fuel from entering the environment.

Inspect the Tires –

Most manufacturers recommend having tires rotated every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. But beyond the rotation, be sure that the tires are aligned, and that they have the correct air pressure so that the tires can grip the surface properly.

Change the Oil –

Keep the engine and its various part working smoothly by changing the oil as per recommended instructions. With traditional oil this is typically around 5,000 miles; using AMSOIL synthetic oil will allow you to go 7,500 miles to 10,000 miles between oil changes. When you purchased the oil in bulk from AMSOIL dealer, LifeTime Oil you can change the oil without needing to leave your work garage.

Check the Brakes –

Most utility vehicles are bigger than the average personal car or truck, and take longer to come to a complete stop. Be sure your vehicle(s) can stop quickly by frequently checking the brakes, brake line, and brake pads. If you note any wear and tear to any of the parts get it corrected or replaced immediately.

Buckets, cranes, and beyond –

Equipment such as cranes, spreaders, buckets, and others are vital to getting a job done. But if there is damage to the hoses, hydraulics, etc. you are putting your workers at risk of injury. Protect everyone by checking these areas of the truck after every job.

While there are many tools you can use to help you stay on top of your vehicle maintenance, the jobs that need to be done are the same. From inspecting tires to checking the hydraulics, and changing the oil to keeping the trucks clean, these tasks play a part in keeping your fleet ready to go. Don’t put off these jobs! They make a big difference for everyone.