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Whether you use your truck for work or play, it works hard to get you and your gear to where you need to be. But if it were to let you down on a remote worksite or distant trail, help might be a long time coming. Here are some things you should do regularly to keep your truck in good working order to ensure it keeps going day in and day out.
Keep It Clean
If you let mud, dust, and grime build up on your truck, the paintwork will fade and the bodywork could start to rot. So, wash the exterior regularly and be sure to get the dirt out of all the nooks and crannies. Use wax, polish, or paint sealant to add another layer of protection and keep your truck sparkling.
Vacuum the interior flooring, and use dash cleaner on all the surfaces. Also, invest in some durable floor mats — if you don’t already have them — to protect the carpets. Seat covers are also useful for keeping your upholstery in good condition.
Inspect the Tires
Regular driving on construction sites or off-road trails is tough on tires. To ensure your truck keeps up in these conditions, you need hard-wearing tires. Although these tires are long-lasting, you should check them at least once a week for excess tread wear and cracks or bulges on the side walls. Remember to keep them inflated to the recommended pressure as well.
Look Under the Hood
Hauling and towing heavy loads drain engine fluids quicker. Unfortunately, the lesser the fluids in your truck, the more strain on its engine. So, to keep the powertrain running smoothly, check the fluids every week. Where necessary, top up the oil, transmission fluid, brake and power steering fluids, and coolant levels. Don’t forget the windshield washer fluid.
Test the battery and alternator, as you don’t want to get stranded with a dead battery. Check all the hoses and belts, and adjust or replace them if they’re loose or worn. Your friendly local auto shop can do this for you. Lastly, have your truck serviced at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer.
Have the Suspension Examined
Your truck’s suspension ensures a smooth ride wherever you go. So, if your truck starts making excessive road noise or vibrations, you need to get the suspension checked. Also, if the struts, springs, shock absorbers, or linkages are showing wear, have them replaced.
Check the Glass and Lights
Whether you’re on or off the road, you need to see and be seen. So, keep your windows and mirrors clean for a clear view, and check your windshield for chips or cracks. Make sure all the lights are working, including the brake and reversing lights. In addition, clean the light lenses regularly, and check them for cracks.
Clean Your Tonneau Cover
A tonneau cover is a great accessory that not only makes your truck look good but also keeps your load and tools hidden from prying eyes. But if the cover is dirty or faded, it doesn’t look so good. To clean it, rinse with water to loosen dirt and grime. Then, use a brush and car washing solution with water to scrub.
Following these simple regular steps will keep your truck looking its best and always ready for work.
Image via Ford
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