Whether your business owns a large fleet of tractor-trailers, an assortment of delivery trucks, a small group of Sprinter Vans, or just as few vehicles, you know how important it is to maintain your fleet and keep them in good condition.
Experienced fleet managers know that there will always be maintenance costs associated with fleets of any size. Replacing worn parts, maintaining brake systems and keeping up with tire wear costs money. But these measures also ensure that your investments are safe and continue to provide service for years to come.
But even with the best fleet maintenance plan, there are always going to be costly issues that arise no matter how careful and conscientious we are.
Corrosion is one such issue and often begins creating problems long before any damage becomes visible.
Rust and corrosion often occur naturally over time. However, during the winter months, the major causes of corrosion are multiplied.
The accumulation of road salt, sand, and gravel which are all used to make the roads safe for travel in the winter time, also can wreak havoc on a fleet of vehicles. These materials eat away at the frame, electrical system, braking system, undercarriage and any exposed components causing rust, corrosion, and accelerated deterioration.
The electrical system is especially vulnerable to corrosion.
Follow these 6 helpful tips to protect your fleet's electrical systems from winter weather, corrosive salt, calcium chloride, road grime, and moisture.
- Inspect cables and wiring regularly.
- Use heat shrink tubing on all exposed terminals and electrical connections.
- Use an anti-corrosive protector spray on battery posts and terminals.
- Invest in simple anti-corrosion repair kits for your fleet.
These kits help drivers stop wire corrosion when they see it and allow for emergency repairs on the road.
- Clean connectors every six months using a plug and socket brush.
- After every cleaning, re-apply dielectric grease on plug and socket pins.
Of course, electrical systems aren’t the only place corrosion can cause problems on your trucks.
Braking systems (both hydraulic brakes and air brakes), suspension systems, body panels, steering components, wheel lugs, and fasteners of all types are susceptible to damage from winter weather conditions.
Keeping your trucks clean year-round is a wise investment -but especially during the cold, snowy winter months.
A consistent fleet washing program keeps the salt, calcium chloride, de-icing agents, and road grime from building up and causing rust, corrosion, and premature wear all the parts of your valuable vehicles.
Also, dirty trucks have more surface drag which can affect mileage in the long-run.
Clean trucks, vans, and delivery vehicles make a more positive impression and represent the company image in a more positive light.
Most experienced fleet managers recognize that a clean fleet of trucks tends to give their drivers a deeper sense of pride in their rigs. This often translates into safer driving habits, more conscientious behavior, higher job satisfaction, and a more pleasant disposition.
A clean truck also gives the general public a more positive image of the company that fleet represents. The general assumption is that if a company takes pride in their fleet and keeps their trucks clean, they also mechanically maintain them in a safe and efficient manner.
Let’s discuss adding a consistent truck wash program to your fleet maintenance program.
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We can work together to extend the life of your vehicles and equipment, while we promote your company image.
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