1. Check the Engine Oil
Open the engine oil dipstick and check the oil level before starting the truck. The oil should normally be between the minimum and maximum marks.
If the oil level drops too quickly, don't just add more oil and continue working. Check around the engine for possible leaks. Dark or dirty oil is not always a problem, but if the oil becomes unusually thin or contains metal particles, the engine should be inspected.
2. Look at the Coolant
The engine cooling system is especially important when the truck works under heavy loads or in hot weather.
Check the coolant level before driving. If the temperature gauge often rises higher than normal, stop and check the cooling system. A blocked radiator, low coolant level or damaged fan can all cause overheating.
Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot. The cooling system may still be under pressure.
3. Check the Tires
Take a quick look at all tires before leaving the yard.
Check for:
Low tire pressure
Cuts or cracks
Uneven wear
Damaged sidewalls
Loose wheel nuts
For trucks working on construction sites or quarry roads, tire damage can happen more easily because of sharp stones and rough ground.
4. Check the Brakes
Brake problems should never be ignored.
For an air-brake truck, check the air pressure before driving. Listen for obvious air leaks around the brake system and make sure the parking brake releases normally.
If the truck takes noticeably longer to stop than before, or the brake pedal feels different, the truck should be checked before continuing heavy-duty work.
5. Check the Hydraulic System
For a dump truck, the hydraulic system is used every time the cargo body is lifted.
Look at the hydraulic hoses, cylinder and connections for oil leakage. Also check whether the cargo body rises smoothly.
If the body moves very slowly, shakes during lifting or cannot reach its normal position, the hydraulic oil level, pump and hydraulic cylinder may need inspection.
6. Check the Cargo Body
Before loading, take a look at the cargo box.
Pay attention to cracks around the welding points, damaged side panels, loose bolts and deformation of the bottom plate. This is particularly important when the truck regularly carries rocks, gravel or other heavy materials.
A simple inspection before work can often prevent a much bigger repair later.
A Few Minutes Can Save a Lot of Trouble
A daily inspection does not need to take a long time. Engine oil, coolant, tires, brakes, hydraulic components and the cargo body are the main areas worth checking.
For trucks working in mines, quarries and construction sites, these checks become even more important because dust, heavy loads and rough roads put extra pressure on the vehicle.
Good maintenance is not only about repairing a truck after it breaks down. It is about finding small problems before they stop the truck from working.
