Tailgate Topics: Truck and Trailer Maintenance

TNLA Tailgate Topics:

TRUCK AND TRAILER MAINTENANCE CHECKLIST

Objective: Participants will be able to correctly maintain truck and/or trailer prior to use through use of the following checklist.

APPLICATION: Using a truck and trailer have participants practice completing the following checklist. The checklist should be completed prior to an individual ever starting the vehicle.

Regardless of how skilled you may be with an automobile, you must acquire new skills when driving a truck and hauling a trailer. The movements of the trailer depend almost entirely on the driver. When driving on highways, you are responsible for not only your life but also the lives of other motorists. Equipment maintenance directly influences your ability to safely operate a truck and trailer.

TRUCK CHECKLIST:

General:

 Have a current driver’s license  Air filter (Change with each oil change)  Check tire air pressure (including spare tire) and adjust if necessary  Clean windows and mirrors  Before starting engine check adjustment of outside and rearview mirrors and readjust if necessary

Headlights

 High beam  Low beam  Turn signals

Taillights

 Both taillights work  Both stoplights work  Turn signal lights

Fluid Levels

 Coolant (Service radiator annually, or as instructed)  Windshield washer  Engine oil (Change oil and filter every 3,000 to 4,500 miles, or as instructed)  Automatic transmission level (Change transmission fluid and filter every 15,000 to 20,000 miles, or as instructed)  Brake fluid level

TRAILER CHECKLIST:  Check tire air pressure (including spare tire) and adjust if necessary  Check wheels by grabbing tires at top and shaking vigorously  Check lug nuts for proper torque  Check wheel bearings  Check wiring plug to ensure same as truck; if different an adapter must be used  Grease equalizer monthly (if trailer is used daily)

TRAILER TO TRUCK CHECKLIST:  Back truck into position to connect to trailer  Lower trailer tongue onto ball and secure with holding pin  Check trailer hitch  Check bumper or receiver hitch for tightness  Check ball for tightness and correct size