Just a reminder, engine fluid levels should be check daily at the beginning of your shift during your pre-trip inspection. This is also a good time to check your power steering fluid level, your windshield washer fluid level along with a visual inspection of hoses and belts. When inspecting your hoses, look for a hose that are swelled or bulging. If you have started using a small amount of coolant, it is a good time to look for a cold-water leak around the end of a hose or hose clamp. A cold-water leak is a leak that only happens when the engine is cold and as the temperature comes up the leak stops and the coolant evaporates. During a pre-trip inspection is also a good time to check your spare oil and coolant supplies. When adding oil, wait until your engine needs a full gallon rather than adding 1 or 2 quarts at a time. Typically truck engines have a capacity of 10 – 11 gallons, along with a cooling system capacity of 12 – 13 gallons. All trucks should carry an extra gallon of oil along with an extra gallon of coolant. If you need a container of oil or coolant, or if you need your container refilled, please write it up and turn into the shop.
