Downtime can be defined as unplanned stops. Sometimes they
are unavoidable. However, there are many things a truck driver can do to maximize uptime. Here are four useful tips to consider everyday.
I. Walk around your vehicle – look and listen
Make time for a pre-trip inspection. This is often overlooked, yet many problems can be avoided if this is done correctly. Are there any hydraulic leaks visible, or any defects on washers, mirrors or lights? Check your load and trailer if applicable. Listen for any audible faults – how does the engine sound? It’s also advisable to make sure that you have enough supplies for your journey, like extra windscreen fluid and spare bulbs for example.
Make time for a pre-trip inspection. This is often overlooked, yet many problems can be avoided if this is done correctly. Are there any hydraulic leaks visible, or any defects on washers, mirrors or lights? Check your load and trailer if applicable. Listen for any audible faults – how does the engine sound? It’s also advisable to make sure that you have enough supplies for your journey, like extra windscreen fluid and spare bulbs for example.
II. Report any problems
Preventive maintenance is key. Most companies have fault reporting procedures. Be aware of these procedures and any issues can be taken care of during planned maintenance. Report problems early. If possible, fix any smaller faults right away. After all, small and inexpensive problems can easily become big and expensive ones.
Preventive maintenance is key. Most companies have fault reporting procedures. Be aware of these procedures and any issues can be taken care of during planned maintenance. Report problems early. If possible, fix any smaller faults right away. After all, small and inexpensive problems can easily become big and expensive ones.
III. Know your vehicle on the road
How you drive your vehicle is crucial in determining uptime. Driving efficiently means there’s less fuel used and less braking, meaning less work and wear on the truck’s drive-line. Be aware of how your vehicle warms up and cools down. Understanding your vehicle’s response is important in terms of being able to anticipate prospective problems.
How you drive your vehicle is crucial in determining uptime. Driving efficiently means there’s less fuel used and less braking, meaning less work and wear on the truck’s drive-line. Be aware of how your vehicle warms up and cools down. Understanding your vehicle’s response is important in terms of being able to anticipate prospective problems.
IV. Take good care of yourself
Sticking to service plans will help to maximize your uptime. Yet it is not just your truck that can be maintained preventively. By looking after yourself and driving safely and responsibly, you can help to safeguard your truck against any unplanned stops. When driving – always be strict about resting times. Go for a walk, drink water and eat healthy. And always make sure to get a good night sleep before a day of driving.
Sticking to service plans will help to maximize your uptime. Yet it is not just your truck that can be maintained preventively. By looking after yourself and driving safely and responsibly, you can help to safeguard your truck against any unplanned stops. When driving – always be strict about resting times. Go for a walk, drink water and eat healthy. And always make sure to get a good night sleep before a day of driving.
Source: Volvo Trucks Magazine.
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