Standard Auto Parts for Vehicle Repairs

Smart Trucking

When you were employed by a national trucking outfitter, malfunctions and basic upkeep was probably not your responsibility. As an owner and operator of a personal rig, you should complete some prep work before and after every trucking expedition. Being vigilant about the care of your truck will result in less downtime and more opportunities to complete transportation duties as scheduled.

An Inspection Before And After

If your trucking career requires you to be on the road for a couple weeks and to return to your hometown after a job is complete, research trucking businesses that service large trucks. A trucking mechanical shop will be larger than a regular automotive shop, since big vehicles will need to fit inside of the bays that comprise a trucking service shop.

Trucking technicians will perform an inspection that will ensure that your vehicle is ready for the road. Simple things like air conditioning or the operation of your clutch may be taken for granted, and these essentials could make a road trip unbearable if a problem were to arise. During an all points inspection, parts of your vehicles exterior and interior will be checked and serviced.

A post inspection is equally important and should be conducted as soon as you return from a trucking assignment. Schedule pre- and post-inspection appointments ahead of time so that you can guarantee that your truck will be ready to be driven when need to haul additional goods for a subsequent transportation responsibility.

An Idea Of Where Help Is Located

There are many large trucking facilities located nationwide. These facilities feature automotive mechanics, dining areas, retail goods, and areas to relax. Before beginning a new job assignment, look up information about the travel route that you will be taking and record details about trucking businesses that are en route to your end destination.

Break your trip into segments and plan on stopping at multiple truck stops while on the way to your destination. At each destination, purchase fuel, fill up your vehicle's tires, and perform a basic inspection under the hood of your vehicle.

If you noticed any issues when you were driving, including unfamiliar sounds or a loss of power, request that an onsite mechanic takes a look at your truck. Research the next leg of your trip and rest up some prior to heading back out onto the road to complete the next segment of the road trip.

For more information about keeping your truck in good working order, contact local truck service or parts supplier like A & B Truck Recycling.