Fall is a great time to upgrade your headlights because of the early nights ahead.
We’ve officially passed the autumnal equinox for another year and entered into the fall. While this time of year is comfortable and beautiful, it does present its own challenges, especially for semi-truck drivers. The days are shorter and the nights are longer, and it will only continue to shift in that direction until the winter solstice when we start to flow the opposite way once again. What does all of this mean for your life and income as a trucker? Well, for many, the fall is a down time and a slower season. That doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to do, however. Take advantage of the time you have and get some seasonal fall semi-truck maintenance done.
Check On Those Lights
With longer nights, there’s a greater chance of driving in the dark. So when skimming down your list of to-do’s for your semi-truck maintenance, it is important to make sure that your headlights are in good working order. This also might be a good time of year to upgrade your headlights if you can. LED and halogen lights are the most common types of headlight. They each have their pros and cons and your mechanic can help you choose the best ones.
Be Aware Of Slip Hazards
Fall is a bit time of year for road hazards and slipping. Part of this is because of the leaves that fall from the trees and litter the roadways, but it is also typically a wet time of year with many rain storms. Leaf litter and rain make a very slippery combination. Take time to check all of the parts of your rig involved in stopping in slippery conditions: the brakes, the tires, and the shocks. Make sure they’re all in working order and when you’re on the road leave even more distance than usual.
Maintain Your AC
When it comes to checking off tasks on your semi-truck maintenance list, it may seem as if fall is a weird time of year to maintain your AC but it is actually the best time. While you likely won’t be cranking the AC all day that you’re on the road, the odds are good that you will still be using it for parts of the day. When you’re driving in the afternoon, that sun can actually make things pretty hot. On the other hand, as it gets cooler, you can expect to go several days without needing to run the AC. When the rain hits, you will still need that unit system to clear the fogs from the windows, so it is good to do a tune up and have the peace of mind that it will work when you turn it on, even if it has been a while.
Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star for all Your Trucking Needs!
Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet to tow trucks or simply interested in the latest trucking technology, you can rely on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. We have provided top-notch service for the trucking industry for 30 years and would love to assist you in buying a new top-of-the-line truck, finding the specialty parts you need, or repairing your truck. Give us a call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474, or contact us online. To find out more about what we are up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.