Tips to Check Truck Engine for Issues and Overall Health

Checking your truck engine on your own is an essential skill for any truck owner or operator traversing Australian roads. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent costly breakdowns and keep your truck running smoothly. 

 

New truckers often struggle to check their vehicles on their own as they are not aware of the right tips to check the truck engine. That’s why we created this blog to help truckers check truck engines on their own.

 

In this article, Waraich Mechanicals - trusted for heavy vehicle repairs in Rocklea - will share 13 tips and ideas to help truckers check their truck engines for basics. Let’s start!

 

Checking Truck Engine

 

The below 13 tips will help you check your truck engine on your own for safe and secure driving:

 

Understand Your Truck Engine

 

Before you begin any inspection of your truck, it’s crucial to have a basic understanding of how your truck engine works. Familiarize yourself with the major components, such as the cylinders, pistons, valves, crankshaft, and camshaft.

 

Check Owner Manual

 

The truck owner’s manual is your best friend when it comes to understanding your truck’s specific maintenance requirements. It contains valuable information on recommended service intervals, fluid specifications, and troubleshooting tips.

 

Inspect Fluid Levels

 

Checking your truck’s fluid levels is one of the simplest yet most important maintenance tasks. Regularly inspect the engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Low fluid levels can indicate leaks or other issues that need attention. So, Australian truckers should watch out for this.

 

Change Engine Oil and Filter

 

Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining engine health and prolonging its lifespan. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended oil change interval and type of oil to use. Always replace the oil filter with each oil change to ensure proper filtration. 

 

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Check for Leaks

 

Inspect the engine and its components for any signs of leaks, such as oil, coolant, or fuel puddles beneath the truck. Leaks can indicate worn seals, gaskets, or hoses that need to be replaced. Addressing leaks promptly can prevent further damage and ensure optimal engine performance.

 

Inspect Belts and Hoses

 

Belts and hoses become worn, cracked, or damaged after some time and it compromises their effectiveness. Inspect the drive belts for signs of wear and proper tension. Additionally, check all hoses for leaks, cracks, or bulges, especially those connected to the cooling system.

 

Test Battery Health

 

A healthy battery is essential for starting your truck reliably. Use a multimeter to test the battery voltage and ensure it falls within the manufacturer’s recommended range. Inspect the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Consider replacing the battery if it’s old or showing signs of wear and tear.

 

Check Engine Air Filter

 

The engine air filter prevents dirt, dust, and debris from entering the engine and causing damage. Inspect the air filter regularly and replace it if it’s dirty or clogged. A clean air filter promotes better airflow and improves engine performance and fuel efficiency.

 

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Inspect Spark Plugs

 

If your truck is equipped with a gasoline engine, inspect the spark plugs regularly. Worn or fouled spark plugs can cause misfires, rough idling, and poor fuel economy. Remove the spark plugs and inspect them for signs of wear, such as fouling or electrode erosion. Replace the spark plugs as needed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

 

Check Engine Coolant

 

Proper engine cooling is crucial for preventing overheating and engine damage. Check the Coolant level regularly and top it off if necessary with a mixture of coolant and distilled water. Inspect the radiator and hoses for leaks or damage, and flush the cooling system periodically as recommended by the manufacturer.

 

Inspect Exhaust System

 

A properly functioning exhaust system is essential for reducing emissions and maintaining engine performance. Inspect the exhaust system for any signs of leaks, corrosion, or damage, including the exhaust manifold, pipes, catalytic converter, and muffler. Address any issues promptly to prevent exhaust leaks or restricted airflow.

 

Monitor Engine Temperature

 

Keeping an eye on the engine temperature gauge can help you detect overheating issues early on. If you notice the temperature gauge approaching the red zone or if you receive a high-temperature warning, pull over safely and allow the engine to cool down. Inspect the cooling system for leaks or other issues that may be causing overheating.

 

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Listen for Unusual Noises

 

Pay attention to any unusual noises coming from the engine, such as knocking, tapping, or grinding sounds. These noises can indicate problems with internal components like pistons, valves, bearings, or timing chain. Investigate the source of the noise promptly to prevent further damage.

 

Tips to Check Truck Engine Wrapup

 

Following the above tips will help Australian truckers effectively check the truck engine on their own and ensure it remains in top condition for thousands of miles. Make sure to get your truck regularly maintained by trucking experts like Waraich Mechanicals to maximize the lifespan of your truck engine.

 

Got any queries to ask? Call us at +61 416 976 058 to get them answered by our heavy vehicle experts.

 

Also don’t forget to check out our recently published blogs:

 

Common automobile electrical problems and their diagnosis

 

Tips for new truck drivers to maintain vehicle and boost safety

 

Tips to prevent rust on truck frame

 

Causes and fixes of truck engine overheating