Tow trucks are the unsung heroes of the road. Wreckers tirelessly come to the rescue of stranded drivers and keep traffic flowing smoothly. Carriers are our economy’s workhorses, transporting multi-ton vehicles and equipment to where they need to be. And rotators handle the most challenging recoveries.
However, behind tow trucks’ powerful performance lies a need for diligent maintenance to ensure they’re always ready for action. As Paul Blackston, Jerr-Dan Sales Specialist at Columbus McMahon Truck Centers, puts it, “These are expensive pieces of equipment that are moving heavy and expensive pieces of equipment. If they are not properly maintained, it poses a safety risk and potentially adds to downtime. You don’t want to miss out on high-dollar recovery work because your truck is down.”
To keep tow trucks operating at their best, it’s essential to follow a comprehensive preventative maintenance plan. Here’s a breakdown of what that entails:
- Regular Inspections: Scheduled checks of critical components such as the engine, transmission, brakes, suspension, and towing equipment help catch issues early, preventing costly breakdowns.
- Tire Care: Given the heavy loads tow trucks carry, tire maintenance is vital for stability, fuel efficiency, and safety. Keep an eye on tire pressure, tread depth, and overall condition.
- Brake Maintenance: Reliable braking is paramount for safety. Regularly inspect and service the brake system to ensure it’s in top condition.
- Fluid Levels and Changes: Proper fluid levels and clean fluids are crucial for optimal performance and component longevity. Regularly check and replace engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and hydraulic fluid.
- Towing Equipment Inspection: Well-maintained towing equipment is essential for safe operations. Inspect and maintain winches, hooks, and other components regularly.
- Electrical and Lighting Systems: Faulty lights can lead to accidents and violations. Regularly check all lights to ensure visibility and compliance with regulations.
- Emergency Preparedness: Equip tow trucks with basic toolkits, spare parts, and emergency supplies to handle unexpected issues on the road, minimizing downtime.
- Documentation and Records: Keep detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, and part replacements to track the tow truck’s history and aid in future diagnostics.
- Environmental Considerations: Protect tow trucks from corrosion by regularly washing and applying protective coatings, especially after exposure to corrosive substances.
- Training and Education: Ensure tow truck operators are trained in maintenance protocols and safety procedures to promote better care for vehicles they operate.
- Preventative Maintenance Schedule: Implement a proactive maintenance schedule based on manufacturer recommendations and industry best practices to catch potential problems before they escalate.
- Collaboration with Professionals: Establish relationships with reputable mechanics and service centers (such as McMahon Truck Centers) for skilled maintenance and to have a partner available for emergency parts and service support.
- Financial Investment: View maintenance as a wise investment rather than an expense, as it helps prevent costly repairs and premature vehicle replacement.
In essence, a commitment to preventative maintenance not only preserves assets but also ensures the safety of tow truck operators, other drivers, and vehicles they serve on our roads. By following these guidelines and adopting a proactive approach, companies can keep their tow trucks operating reliably and safely, ready to tackle any challenge that comes their way.
For one-stop, expert maintenance on your Jerr-Dan tow truck, come to any of the McMahon Truck Centers in Ohio. Most dealers either service tow truck equipment or the chassis and cab. McMahon Truck Centers have the parts and OEM-trained specialists to service both, so you don’t have to go back and forth to keep your tow truck in top condition. “We can give turnkey service on our brands. What happens is the people who offer Jerr-Dan only just fix the body part and can only supply parts for the body. Whereas, we can support the full product,” said Blackston.
Call East Columbus McMahon Truck Centers for your tow truck service needs: 614.246.7565
