How to avoid downtime on trucks

FIOWNTIME on delivery trucks

V can be expensive and frustrating with customers unhappy about delayed deliveries, drivers being paid while idle, and costly unscheduled repairs.

But with a regular program of daily checks, preventive maintenance and regular service, trucks can be operated efliciently and safely without unexpected delays or repairs. The owner's manual for each vehicle should be a bible of maintenance. Adhering to the manufacturer's recommendations is vital whether you have your own garage or send out your maintenance and repairs. Regularly scheduled maintenance allows your delivery operation to function smoothly, efficiently and economically.

Each driver should be made responsible for conducting a daily check of his vehicle and reporting any trouble or potential problem to his supervisor who then must be responsible for having the problem corrected. A written policy should be posted to establish who is responsible for minor routine maintenance such as changing oil, lubrication, adjusting brakes, replacing worn tires and doing minor repairs as well as keeping the equipment clean.

Daily delivery records kept by the driver should include a sheet for a daily preventive maintenance report. This sheet, which should include the name or number of the vehicle, the odometer reading and the date, must be completed and signed by the driver at the conclusion of each day. It is turned into the supervisor who becomes responsible for attending to any problems pointed out.

Story at a Glance

Preventive maintenance prevents trouble. drivers must do daily checks what items you and your people should be checking to avoid problems.

The checksheet. which can be run through very quickly, divides the inspection into three parts with space for remarks by the driver. The engine check includes gasoline, oil, battery and radiator plus additional inspections judged necessary by the driver.

The exterior checkoff includes examining all mirrors, reflectors and glass including headlight covers for cracks, chips and cleanliness. Inflation and condition of tires plus checking wheels and rims for damage, missing or loose lugs and leaks also must be checked. Checking door operation and examining the body and equipment for damage are additional items.

The interior check includes testing lights, emergency flashers and turn signals, horn, windshield wipers and safety belts as well as both hand and foot brakes and steering mechanisms. Cleanliness of the cab is another interior checkpoint.

Drivers also should maintain and be responsible for checking emergency equipment such as truck insurance card, accident report forms and emergency flares, as well as items such as ropes, red flag for tailboard loads, shovel, chain and binder.

It is important that the driver plays a key role in maintenance. He is the only one in a position to detect and avoid trouble on a routine basis. The supervisor of drivers also must be diligent in attending to any problems reported to him. If nothing is done after a driver documents potential trouble, the system is worthless.

If downtime is a headache in your business, now is the time to get together with your maintenance people, supervisors and drivers and initiate a preventive maintenance program.