Crucial Tips On Smaller Tires On Trucks

Apart from facilitating a smooth ride, the entire weight of a truck rests on the tires all the time. A truck requires suitable tires for efficiency and better performance. Although some people prefer to install larger tires for boldness, others prefer smaller tires for aesthetic reasons. Smaller tires are the best choice for a truck. Therefore, it is essential to understand if installing smaller tires for your truck is necessary. 

Pros of Smaller Tires on A Truck

Smaller-size tires experience less sidewall rolling when making a sharp turn, improving traction and handling. The smaller diameter of the wheels allows more torque to the driving surface. 

When driving at the same speed, smaller tires will spin faster than the larger ones and thus will require higher engine RPMs. Since they spin faster, smaller tires offer more towing power than larger ones, and this is because they transfer more torques to the ground. 

Installing smaller size tires will lower your truck and boost its aesthetic, but a smaller tire for aesthetic purposes may interfere with the performance of your truck. 

Con of Smaller Tires on A Truck

Switching from big to small tires may not be the best option if your manufacturer does not recommend it. 

Installing smaller tires may be relatively expensive since you need to lower parts of the suspension system, such as the arms, brackets, springs, stabilizing bars, and shocks. Performing these modifications is expensive and might also alter the computer system of your truck. 

Smaller tires can give a faulty reading on your odometer and speedometer. Anti-lock brakes might malfunction, cause transmission problems, and lead to the appearance of an engine check light. You can also encounter wheel alignment problems and problems with the advanced driver assistance safety systems. 

Smaller tires reduce ground clearance, making it relatively hectic during extensive off-road driving. Your truck can collide with road debris that can damage vital parts under it, such as the oil pan. Low ground clearance also makes it relatively hard to get into parking lots. 

The higher torque from faster rotation and engagement with the pavement makes the small tires age and wear out faster. If your rim size is smaller than the overall wheel diameter, be cautious and ensure the brake rotors and the calipers have adequate clearance that enables the wheels to rotate freely. 

Can I Put Smaller Size Tires On My Truck?

Small tires improve traction during winter seasons and general driving safety. Winter tires might be expensive, especially if the manufacturer recommends size 19 and above. Unfortunately, the prices of winter tires are not directly proportional to their sizes. For example, 16-inch tires might be more expensive than the common-size 17 tires. 

You might end up buying non-winter tires when purchasing smaller winter tires. To avoid this, buy high-quality winter tires and the size your manufacturer recommends. 

Conclusion

Smaller size tires are appealing and have various advantages and disadvantages. Depending on your test and preferences, you can opt for smaller tires. Winter tires are relatively expensive. When buying smaller winter tires, stick to the correct tire size as your manufacturer recommends. 

Truck Repairs You Should Never Do Yourself

Do you know that there are truck repairs you should never do yourself? A truck has several complex parts, in new generations, most of these parts are controlled digitally. As a driver, it is essential to check some parts to be sure they are working before driving your truck. Thus, every truck owner must know basic truck repair and maintenance, such as changing tires and checking the liquid levels. 

However, it is extremely risky to perform some truck repairs alone, even though the owner’s manual has guidelines on performing everything. After reading this guide, you will understand the vital truck repairs you should never do yourself.

Truck Repairs You Should Never Do Yourself

Here are some complicated truck repairs you should never do yourself.

Adjusting the Timing Belt

The timing belt does the role of synchronizing the movement of the crankshafts and camshafts. It regulates oil intake, the opening and closing of valves to sync with the piston movement. It is not easy to change the timing belt since you will have to dismantle the entire engine, which reassembling is not an easy task. When adjusting the timing belt, the slightest mistake can harm your engine. It is, therefore, necessary to let only the technicians perform the role.

The Suspension System

A standard suspension usually has various control arms, bushings, coil springs, and shock absorbers. Its primary role is to absorb the road vibrations and offers a smooth ride as you drive through various terrains. Every wheel of your truck is attached to the suspension system. Never change any part of your truck’s suspension system, such as the coil spring and shock absorber, because you might not fix them properly, which can lead to an accident. When repairing the suspension system, you must raise your truck, which can lead to accidents if not well done. 

Body Painting

Sometimes when your truck has scratches or a layer of paint has peeled off, you might be tempted to repair it using the available kits in the market. Doing this might not help in restoring the original look of your truck. Applying paint is expensive and takes time and patience. If you decide to do it, you might spoil the exterior of your truck. Consider taking your truck to the mechanics with the right spraying guns to do the job for you.

The Air Conditioning System

All trucks have an air conditioning system that has various parts. The working principle of the AC is complex since it has mechanical and electrical parts. However, several do-it-yourself videos and booklets will guide you on how to repair the AC. Do not do it alone, as this can damage the compressors and cause gas leakage. 

Installing the Audio System

Installing the audio system in your truck is not as easy as plugging your home theater into the power system. It involves handling and connecting complicated electrical wiring that needs only an experienced auto electrician. When poorly done can lead to short-circuiting, which is expensive to repair.  

Conclusion

The truck has various mechanical and electrical systems, some are complex, and others are simple. As a truck owner, only perform truck repairs in areas you have experience. If you do not know how to repair the above parts, consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Shared in this guide are some of the truck repairs you should never do yourself. 

How Often Should You Service A Mini Truck?

Just like other trucks, you need to service a mini truck if you are to get good service from it. Every mini truck manufacturer will advise you to stick to the maintenance schedule if you want it to run smoothly. You may wonder when to service your mini truck, the cost, and what is involved during the procedure. Here you will get the information you need to know about mini truck service.

What & Why Is It Necessary To Service A Mini Truck?

Mini truck servicing involves inspection of the engine oil and filters and replacing them at a fee. Your mechanic will later inspect your mini truck to determine the condition of every part. Upon completion, your mechanic will recommend the parts you need to change and the cost of each part.  

How Often Should You Service A Mini Truck?

If you have just bought a new mini truck that is within the manufacturer’s warranty, consider sticking to the manufacturer’s service schedule. Doing this will keep your warranty valid. Older mini trucks also enjoy benefits from regular annual servicing. When properly maintained, the mini trucks drive smoothly for a very long time.

Proper servicing of your mini truck and keeping a detailed service history preserves its value when you sell it. You can achieve this by performing baseline maintenance, condition-based, and interval-based servicing.

Baseline Maintenance

Baseline maintenance, also known as regular servicing, starts with all the common things you will have to maintain in your mini truck, like changing the engine oil and filters. Baseline maintenance takes half a day and costs between $180 to $350, depending on the quality, type, and amount of oil your mini truck needs.

The price for baseline maintenance also varies depending on the quality, the type of oil, and the filters you opt to use. Generally, most mini trucks should undergo baseline maintenance after every 10,000km. During baseline maintenance, your mechanic will have ample time to inspect your mini truck and give you appropriate advice.

Condition Based Servicing

There are certain parts of your mini truck that you can wait for to show signs of wear and tear to replace them. For example, you will hear a squealing noise when your brake pads are worn out and need replacement. The brake rotors, engine mounting, timing belt, chain, tires, and radiator are some parts that will send you a warning when they need servicing. 

Interval Based Servicing

Consider servicing some mini truck parts pre-emptively because their failure is sudden and will not give any signs or symptoms. Failure of such components can lead to accidents or damage to your mini truck. 

The brake fluid, spark plugs, spark plug coils, battery, and transmission fluid are some parts that will never show any sign of wearing out, but the worst will happen when worn out. Consider checking and changing these parts as per the manufacturer’s instructions. 

Conclusion,

Your mini truck needs regular servicing to be reliable and give you a long service lifespan. Most mini truck manufacturers recommend that you service a mini truck after covering a specific mileage or when it starts showing some signs. During servicing, your mechanic will perform a thorough inspection to identify the parts that need servicing. 

Truck Collision Repair Myths That Are Common

Apart from damaging your truck, a collision can leave you with trauma that will take time to heal and a hefty repair cost. This guide takes you through some collision repair myths. But stress is the killer package after a collision, and it is mainly fuelled by rumors from various individuals and even close family members. Here are some of the truck collision repair myths that are common.

After Collision, Only Repair Your Truck At The Insurance Approved Repair Shop

When involved in a collision and you want to repair your truck, it is not necessary to use the repair shop recommended by your insurance company. You can seek the services of any of your preferred repair shops. But it is essential to consider the recommendations from your insurance company. Doing this will facilitate the process of settling down the issue.

Consider the fact that not all repair shops accept insurance compensation as such compensations take time to materialize. The compensation process will be seamlessly easy when you work with an insurance-recommended shop.

Your Insurance Company Covers All The Repair Cost

Depending on the nature of the cover for your truck, after a collision, many will comfort you never to worry because your insurance policy will cover all the repair costs, and you will not have to dig into your pockets. Such is a myth since the insurance company will cover the repair cost if it exceeds the deductible amount. Under such circumstances, the amount you choose to be deducted for your cover will play a greater role.

If you choose a higher deductible amount, you are more likely to receive lower insurance rates. The deductible amount proves to be a problem regarding collision repairs. You might cover all the repair costs. 

You Will Get the Best Repair Services Through A Dealer

Using a dealer or going directly to an independent repair shop does not affect the nature of the service you will receive. It is a false belief that most dealers have or know the best repair shops they can contact to repair your truck in case of a collision. 

Several repair shops have similar facilities, equipment, and skilled personnel to repair your truck after a collision. They all have equal access to OEM parts. Therefore, there is no need to choose to repair your truck through a dealer. Many people recommend dealers because several auto manufacturers offer them certifications. You will find that dealer with the certification of offering truck collision repairs. 

You Have To Consider Multiple Estimates

Most insurance companies will compel you to seek truck collision repair estimates from at least three repair shops. However, the law does not oblige you to do so. Instead, consider taking an online search and recommendations instead of stressing yourself to visit the repair shops physically. You can decide to choose the repair shop that offers the services that suit all your needs.

Conclusion,

Various myths accompany truck collision repair. Every individual will tell you what they know when repairing your truck. It is essential to research and get advice from experts. Doing this will guide you to doing the right thing after a collision. The above myths will save you from messing up when repairing your truck after a collision. 

Secrets To Ensure Truck Engine Goes a Long Way

A truck engine is the heart, brain, and powerhouse of the vehicle. If it malfunctions, your truck will become useless. A truck is the most significant investment for everyone. You must take care of its engine to give you a high return on investment.

A healthy truck engine in good working condition will not only save you money but also boost the reliability of your truck. Consider taking your truck to a specialist for a checkup whenever your engine starts to malfunction. 

An engine might look like a single big section, but it has various components that work jointly to generate power for your truck. It is thus essential to regularly service your engine to give it a long lifespan. Here are the secrets to practice to give your engine the longest lifespan.

Never Skip Oil Change

The truck engine has various metallic components that rub against each other as the engine is functioning. The rubbing generates friction that can tear and wear engine parts. Apart from tear and wear, friction generates heat. The engine oil plays the role of lubricating all the moving parts within the engine. It also absorbs heat from such parts. Another crucial role of engine oil is cleaning the engine parts. 

As the engine plays its roles, it becomes dark, sticky, and less effective and unable to perform its roles. Such happens after a specific mileage, and it is essential to replace your engine oil after 3-6 months, depending on how often you use your truck. When changing the oil, consider replacing the oil filter too. Doing this increases the lifespan of your engine.

Check the Condition of the Spark Plugs

Ensure your spark plugs are well channeled and clean to prevent dirt and debris from finding their way into the combustion chamber. To achieve this, consider disconnecting your plug’s lead and cleaning the area around the spark plug to eliminate any debris that can get into the combustion chamber when removing the spark plug.

Remove the sparkplugs and inspect whether the electrodes are burnt or have cracks. If it has cracks or the electrodes are burnt, consider replacing them. Such a procedure might be time-consuming, but it will improve your truck engine performance.

Clean Your Engine

Like other parts of your truck, the engine needs to be clean to work perfectly. Depending on where you do regular driving, your engine is prone to catching dirt. It is thus essential to keep it clean.

When cleaning your engine, consider using a degreasing agent to clean the outer part of your engine. You can use a vacuum cleaner to blow out dust and debris from the engine casing. The engine’s design keeps dirt from accessing the inner part, so you will not need to clean it. But, if you hear unfamiliar noise, a strange smell, or even smoke from your engine, never drive your truck. Instead, call a professional to determine the cause.

Conclusion,

How powerful your truck depends on the health status of its engine. As a truck owner, the health of your truck engine will depend on how to take care of it. When you take care of your engine, it will serve you for eternity. Consider following the above secrets to give your engine a longer lifespan.  

Crucial Tips When Diagnosing Brakes Of A Truck

Brakes are an essential part of your truck, but how do you go about diagnosing brakes of a truck? Is it easy or complicated? Your safety and that of other road users rely on the brakes’ effectiveness. Most road accidents result from worn-out brakes or brakes that are in poor condition. However, there are ways you can use to determine if your brakes have problems or not. Here are the tips to rely on when diagnosing brakes of a truck.

Grinding Sounds

Brakes should function in silence. But when your brakes produce a grinding sound is an indication of a problem. It could be the caliper or the metallic part of the brake pads. When such happens, consider checking your brakes as soon as possible.

Squealing Sound

If you apply brakes and hear a high-pitched squealing sound, it indicates that your brake pads are worn out. Such sound can also result from the accumulation of dust on your brake pads. Rust and debris on the rotors are also common causes. It is essential to take your brakes for a check-up whenever you hear such sounds.

Low Break Pressure

The brake pedals should be firm whenever you press them. Such a feeling should increase the more you press the pedals. If you press the brake pedal, but they freely move without resistance, it could indicate leakage on the brake lines. In worse cases, it implies that the entire braking system is failing. 

When driving and your brakes become soft, consider pulling over and calling your mechanic for assistance.

Brake Pedal Vibration

Pedal vibrations are common, especially when your rotors are worn out due to friction or heat. Whenever the brake pedals of your truck become bumpy or vibrate, get your truck checked immediately. This is one of the most crucial things that call for diagnosing brakes of the truck.

Checking the Brake Fluids

When diagnosing brakes, something that every truck owner should always remember is to check on the levels of the brake fluid. It is thus necessary to know the location of the brake fluid reservoir. The brake fluid reservoir has marks that will help you determine the right brake fluid level. 

If the brake fluid is below the marked level, consider replacing it. Apart from the right fluid level, consider using the right brake fluid for your truck. You can do this by checking your truck manual. It is in this book that the manufacturer recommends the right brake fluid for your truck. 

Inspect the Brake Lines & the Master Cylinder

Brake lines and the master cylinder are important parts of the braking system. They play the role of transferring the brake fluid from the reservoir to the brakes. The lines should never have any leakage.

When checking for leakages on the brake lines, pay more attention to the joints between the lines and the cylinder. Also, always remember to check the lines right from the reservoir tank. 

Inspect the Brake Pads

The brake pads take all the heat when braking. They thus have higher chances of wearing out very fast. Consider checking your pads after 6,000 miles. To do this, you have to remove your wheels. 

Conclusion,

As a driver, brakes will help you to have complete control to your truck. They should therefore be in perfect working condition. You can achieve this by performing regular check-ups and diagnosis to determine if all the parts are working perfectly. When diagnosing brakes, check all the parts of the braking system. 

Tips To Choose the Right Truck Repair Shop

Do you have a favorite truck repair shop? If so, how did you get to choose that particular repair shop and not any other? Trucks are slowly gaining popularity, and most people now prefer buying trucks to SUVs. Since trucks are becoming common on our roads, you might think it is easy to find a truck repair shop. Finding a truck repair shop is one of the tasks that will make you sweat. 

You will find various truck repair shops on the streets, but you will need help to find one that serves all your needs with honesty and urgency. So what makes up a repair shop? Several factors like customer service, experience, rates, and feedback. Here are the tips when choosing a truck repair shop for a new truck owner or if you need to change your repair shop.

Seek Recommendations

The old way of knowing the best repair shop is through recommendations from truck owners. Just the way you seek recommendations on the best lawyer or doctor from friends, the same approach is vital when selecting the best repair shop. 

The safest approach is to consult friends and truck owners when searching for a repair shop. They have prior knowledge of how repair shop works and will give advice that will enable you to choose the right repair shop for your truck.

Consider asking those you trust and are always willing to give you truthful information. Neighbors, friends, family members, and workmates are some of the people who can offer you genuine information. 

Visit Various Truck Repair Shops Websites and Focus On the Reviews Section

In this era of technology, you do not need to move downtown to look for the best truck repair shop physically. As long you have a computer or a smartphone and can access the internet, use Google to find truck repair shops around you.

After a list of all shops appears, never be attracted by their fancy name or the services they offer, but rush to the reviews sections to check the feedbacks that their client has left. Consider choosing that repair shop with the best reviews. Such shops will offer you exemplary services.

Compare the Price Range

Various truck repair shops have almost the similar equipment you need to repair your truck. However, what brings the difference is the charges for the services that they offer. Before taking your truck to any repair shop, consider comparing and contrasting their charges for various services. 

The prices usually vary depending on how popular the shop is and the level of services they offer. If you come across a truck repair shop that charges higher rates, consider finding out why they are doing so. 

Ask If they Have Legal Documents

For safety, before taking your truck to any repair shop, consider knowing if that shop is licensed and certified to offer the kind of repair you need. Doing this ensures that your truck is in safe and capable hands. 

Conclusion,

There are several truck repair shops on the streets, and such shops are on the fight over clients. Not all offer the service you require, and not all have what it takes to run such shops. Before taking your truck to any repair shop, consider the above tips. It will save you from landing in the most unreliable repair shop. 

When Should You Replace Truck Parts?

Even if you put more effort into ensuring that your truck is in good shape, most of its parts will wear out and need replacement. When should you replace truck parts? If you drive your truck daily, it will require regular maintenance for an extended lifespan. Regular truck maintenance will save you from hefty and costly repairs. However, many truck owners need to be more conversant with when to replace various truck parts of their trucks. 

It is hard to determine when to replace various truck parts because they wear down at different times and need a replacement in a specific month or year. Here is a short guide that will help you know when to replace your truck’s vital parts.

Battery

Your truck’s battery ages and becomes less powerful as it serves you. When its strength starts to weaken, your truck’s performance will go down. A truck battery, just like other batteries, usually charges and discharge. Such activity weakens it, and it will require a replacement. 

A good battery will give you at least 4-5 years of service, so prepare to replace your battery after every 5 years. Apart from replacement, consult a professional to check your battery after every year. The checkup aims to identify the physical damages, dirty terminals, and broken cables. 

Tires

Tires are among the most important truck parts that need replacement more often. The role they play exposes them to regular tear and wear. Your truck’s safety and performance depend on the condition of its tires. Therefore, performing a routine inspection of your tires is essential.

High-quality tires will serve you for several years, but you should consider replacing them when necessary. Several factors can interfere with the lifespan of your tires, like your driving habit and terrain. Therefore, replacing your tires after 5-7 years is essential.

Brake Rotors

The braking system has various components. The common one is the brake pads because they are prone to tear and wear. However, another integral part of the braking system is the rotors. It is the rotors that stop your truck because they are friction-based components. 

When you press the brake pedals, the friction from the rotors exposes them to wear, which might make them less effective. The rotors thus require a replacement as needed. Generally, the rotors will give you a service of 50,000 to 70,000 miles. Consider replacing your rotors after covering this mile. 

Shock & Struts

Shocks and struts are vital components of the suspension system. As the name suggests, the shock absorbers enable the wheels to recover whenever your truck hits a bump. On the other hand, the struts support your truck’s weight and determine how your truck handles while driving.

Most shocks and struts offer a lifetime guarantee, but you should consider replacing them after every 50,000 to 100,000 miles.

Conclusion,

Apart from the above-discussed parts, other important parts of your truck will need a replacement. The exterior lights, spark plugs, windshield, door handles, and locks are some parts you will have to replace with time. Consider taking your truck to a professional for a thorough inspection after a few months. Apart from inspection, be attentive to the warning signs your truck will be showing. 

How Can Truck Auto Inspection Save You Money?

Truck auto inspection is something that you do to ensure that your truck is roadworthy or conforms to emission requirements. A regular truck auto inspection is beneficial to you as a truck owner. Performing a regular inspection will save you huge amounts of money you could have spent repairing your truck. After reading this guide, you will understand how truck auto inspection will help you save money. 

Truck Auto Inspection Lets You Fix Minor Problems

With time as your truck is serving you, its parts will start to wear out and become damaged. If you fail to discover the wear out in time, such parts can be badly damaged. You will spend more cash on replacing the broken parts. 

Regular truck auto inspection will let you identify and fix such problems early before they escalate into major problems.

Increases Fuel Economy

When performing a truck auto inspection, you can identify engine issues that make it less fuel-efficient. When the fuel or air filter is clogged, your engine will work hard to generate the necessary power for your truck. In such a case, it will consume more fuel.

If the oxygen sensors are faulty, more fuel will be injected into the engine. Faulty ignition sparks can also negatively impact your fuel economy. It is not easy to notice such problems. As a result, you will be spending more on fuel for your truck. Running a truck auto inspection will help you identify and fix issues related to poor fuel economy. 

Truck Auto Inspection Improves Its Resale Value

Trucks are not assets that appreciate value. When you buy a new truck, ignite the engine and drive it home, its value will start going down. Never expect to sell it at the same price you bought it or more. 

Several factors can make your truck depreciate very fast. When looking forward to selling your truck, its auto inspection report will play a greater role in proving that it is well-maintained and in perfect working condition. Buyers will believe you go the extra mile to ensure that your truck is in perfect working condition. 

Your Insurance Cost Will Be Down

Truck auto inspection will help you identify factors that can put your truck at risk that can compromise its safety. You will never pay higher insurance premiums when you have good safety records.

Various insurance companies perceive that safe vehicle results in fewer accidents, and thus less will be paid as compensation. 

Extends the Service Life of Your Truck

Major truck problems usually start gradually and develop. Performing truck auto inspection will enable you to identify such problems and fix them before they become major. Doing this extends the service life of your truck. Apart from extending the service life of your truck, you will realize that you will be spending less on maintaining your truck.

Conclusion,

Truck auto inspection is an activity that every truck owner should consider practicing more often. Trucks are prone to wear and tear. Several truck issues start gradually, auto inspection enables you to identify such problems at an earlier stage and fix them. Truck auto inspection will therefore help you save money.

Does Your Truck Needs Servicing? How To Know When To Do It

With your truck, commuting from home to work or running personal errands can be smooth, but do you know when your truck needs servicing? It is thus essential to take care of it by not assuming the warning signs it will give you.

Upon reading this comprehensive guide, you will understand and be able to know when your truck needs servicing among some common problems your truck will encounter as a sign. When you experience the below signs, never continue driving your truck, but take it to the nearest service shop.

Starting Problems

It is never easy to wake up in the morning and start your daily routine. You will take some time to regain. However, this should be different from your truck. 

If your truck is in good shape, it will start without hesitating. When it fails to start, it has a problem you should not assume. If you try for the second time but it still does not start, your battery or any other part can be faulty. Consider visiting an expert for check-ups and repairs.

Your Truck Starts To Stall

Sometimes, your truck’s engine can stop functioning in the middle of a busy road. This is a good sign that your truck needs servicing. Sometimes if you push the accelerator pedal, your engine might sputter. When you experience stalls, it indicates a serious problem with your truck. Consider taking it to a professional for servicing and check-ups.

The Appearance of the Engine Check Light

The engine check light indicates something is wrong with your truck. If it starts to blink on the dashboard, it indicates serious engine problems, and you should fix your truck before taking it to the road. When the engine check light blinks, you will feel you are driving differently. If you are an experienced mechanic, you can diagnose such an issue alone, but the best option is to take your truck to the professionals for a thorough servicing and check-up.

Exhaust Smoke

Your truck should not produce smoke, but if you start experiencing colored smoke from your exhaust, it indicates a problem. Various engine issues, such as oil leaks and colds, can lead to smoke production in your truck. In case of cold, the smoke is normal since it will disappear as soon as your engine and the exhaust system warm-up. However, if the smoke is colored and has an odor, consider taking your truck for servicing. 

Leakages

Yet another reason that your truck needs servicing is when you experience leakages. You can easily spot leakages from your truck, especially if you park it for a while. During summer, you will notice a small quantity of water under your truck. Such is not leakage but a result of the AC, so you should never worry.

But if you notice green or black liquid from your truck, it might be coolant, engine oil, or even the transmission fluid leaking. In such a case, consider taking your truck for servicing to determine what is leaking and the cause.

Conclusion,

Your engine has various parts, and all these parts work jointly to offer a smooth and reliable ride. For your truck to serve you better, you need to service it. Suppose you forgot the actual date to take your truck for service. The above signs will remind you that the truck needs servicing.

Signs Your Truck Suspension Needs Repair & Maintenance

Driving on roads with potholes or rough roads increases the rate at which your truck suspension system wears out. Shocks usually have a service life of 50,000 miles before they wear out. Whenever your suspension becomes faulty, you will experience a poor-quality ride as well as strange noises. Your truck might become stiff and bouncy when speeding.

It is easy to take the truck suspension system for granted when performing regular truck maintenance and this is due to the long life span of service they offer to depend on the nature of the terrain of your regular driving. Consider servicing your suspension system for comfort, stability, and a safer ride. 

The suspension system wears out with time, and you will notice it based on the quality of ride your truck will offer. Upon reading this guide, you will understand some signs that your suspension system needs repair. 

Nose Dives When Stopping

When your shock absorbers are worn out, you will experience the body of your truck having a forward lurching or its nose diving whenever you firmly apply brakes. Nose diving makes it difficult to stop your truck abruptly and can expose you to accidents.

Uneven Tire Wear

Tires are the best indicators of the condition of your truck suspension system. A bad suspension system will make it hard for your tires to have uniform contact with the road, and as a result, you will notice uneven tire wear. You will realize balding spots, indicating that your suspension system is not holding your truck uniformly and exerts uneven pressure on your tires. 

Oily Shocks

When checking your shocks, sometimes you will note that they are greasy or oily. When you note this, it indicates that your suspension fluid is leaking. If this happens, your suspension will not work effectively. Consider replacing your shocks as soon as they start to become oily. 

Your Truck Pulls When Turning

When your suspension starts to fail, your truck will either pull or drift whenever you make a turn. When this happens, it indicates that your shocks cannot prevent the body of your truck from the centrifugal force. Pulling or drifting exposes you to the risk of rolling over. If you experience this when turning, consider checking the condition of your suspension system.

Rough Rides

The design of the truck suspension system enables it to prevent and absorb the shock from road bumps. Such a function lets you have a quality ride even on rough terrains. When driving over bumps and you start to feel each bump on the road, it indicates that your suspension system is wearing out, and you should consider replacing them. 

Conclusion,

The suspension is an essential system for your truck. It protects the body and other parts from damage when driving on rough surfaces. The suspension has various parts that work jointly to offer a quality ride. It becomes faulty with time and will give prior signs before failing. The above are some common signs that will warn you to check and replace your truck’s suspension. 

Increasing the Life Of Your Truck Brakes

You will need your truck brakes to slow down or even stop when there is a need to while driving. In heavy traffic, brakes will assist you in controlling your truck. Therefore, brakes are essential when it comes to safety. The braking system has various parts that work hand in hand to give you full control of the speed of your truck. 

In the driver’s cabin, there is a brake pedal whose primary role is to initiate the braking mechanism when pressed. The brake booster controls the pressing mechanism, whose primary role is to regulate the pressure necessary for the driver to operate the brakes. 

There are various braking components on the wheels, such as the disks, drum, brake shoes, brake pads, and master cylinder. The main focus of this guide is to give you some essential tips for increasing the lifespan of your truck brakes.

Flush Your Brake Fluid When Necessary

The heat from braking usually wears the brake fluid, which releases moisture that can cause rust the braking system. With time, the brake fluids get contaminated with debris, rubber, and metallic contaminants. Therefore, it is essential to flush out your brake fluid. 

The process of flushing out brake fluid requires keenness for the truck brakes to function properly, but a professional mechanic will do it within seconds. Here is what happens during the brake fluid flushing.

  • The draining out of the old hydraulic fluid.
  • Cleaning the braking system to remove debris.
  • Inspection of the braking system for rust.
  • A new brake fluid is fed into the system.

Rust and corrosion damage the braking system, leading to expensive repairs. It is thus essential to flush your brake fluid after covering 30,000 miles or driving for two years, depending on how often you drive your truck. 

Ensure your Truck Brakes Disc, and Drum are Clean

Rust and corrosion cause your truck brakes, discs and rotors to wear out prematurely. Cleaning the discs and rotors can be done during routine service, and this procedure helps eliminate dust and other debris that can corrode your disc and rotors. You can clean your disc and rotors if you have basic brake maintenance skills and the necessary tools. 

Avoid Braking At High Speeds

When driving at high speed, never brake instantly. Trucks usually have brake drums and discs. Inside the drum, there are brake linings whose contact with the drums initiates friction to stop your truck. The discs also have pads that perform a similar role. 

The lining and the pads are made of materials that wear out. Instant braking causes tremendous wear out of such parts and can lead to brake failure. When such happens, you will note that your truck shakes when you brake at 60 mph. To avoid premature wear out of the brake lining and pads, it is essential that you gently apply pressure on your brakes to stop your truck gradually. 

Conclusion,

Taking care of and increasing the life span of your truck brakes is a simple task. How you drive your truck will mostly contribute to your brakes’ life span. Be gentle when braking at high speed, ensure you flush out your brake fluid, and regularly clean your brake discs and drums. Practicing what is covered in this guide will improve the lifespan of your brakes. 

How Low Temperatures Can Affect Your Truck Regular Use

Do you know the impact of low temperatures and how it can affect your truck’s regular running? During winter, everything suffers right from animals to various machines that make work easier. The cold temperature strains various parts under your truck’s hood, which can interfere with the driving condition. Whenever you leave your truck at the parking, you should understand the adverse effects the winter weather can cause to it. As soon as you are through with reading this guide, you will understand how low temperature affects your truck’s regular use. 

Corrosion

During winter when there are low temperatures, salt is used to melt snow on the roads and the streets. When driving, your truck comes into contact with the melted snow with salt. The salt sticks to various parts of your truck such as the brakes, wheels, and undercarriage. The accumulation of salt in these parts leads to corrosion.

During winter, it is essential to wash your truck regularly, paying more attention to the parts that come into contact with the salt. Avoid wiping salt, as this can scratch the paint of your truck. 

Poor Traction

Low-temperature results in the reduction of the tire pressure. After driving your truck for a while, it will generate heat that will increase the tire pressure. If you use the all-season tires, they will harden the moment temperatures go below 45 degrees. 

The deflation and inflation of truck tires during winter results in loss of traction. You can prevent this by fixing winter tires that will remain soft and offer a good grip on the road during the cold season. 

The Engine Block Can Crack

During the winter low temperatures, your coolant is likely to freeze. When this happens, the coolant becomes hard, which can crack your engine block. Cracks on the engine block lead to various performance issues. To prevent this from happening, use the right coolant during winter. Never mix the regular, green 2-year anti-freeze with long life-life coolant. Doing this reduces the lifespan of the coolant itself. 

Thickening of Fluids

Your truck depends on various fluids such as motor oil, transmission fluid, suspension fluid, and coolant. The extreme cold during winter leads to the thickening of these fluids. They thus will not move smoothly within their respective hoses, when such happens, your truck can malfunction anytime. 

Before the winter season starts, there are signs that you should be aware of. Whenever you note such signs, consider checking the level of all the fluids within your truck and top them up.

Increase In Fuel Consumption

During the low temperatures of winter, trucks usually struggle to function, due to less road grip your truck will move slowly and consume more fuel. Leaving your truck idle for a longer duration in winter also increases the rate of fuel consumption. 

Conclusion,

Winter can be devastating to your truck, it is during this time of the year you might experience emergency breakdowns and other mechanical issues. It is, therefore, necessary to know some of the effects of the cold temperature on your truck and how you can prevent them. All you need to know about winter and the effects it has on your truck has been covered in this guide. 

Truck Repair And Maintenance – Top Reasons Never To Skip Them

How regularly do you do your truck repair and maintenance? This guide will take you through all you need to know about that. Owning a truck is the best thing in your life. It is a privilege since many long to, but they have limited budget. However, you have to take care of your truck for it to give you top service. Being consistent and fulfilling the maintenance recommendations of your truck is the only secret to maintaining it. 

Regularly maintaining your truck is beneficial to you and the truck itself. Changing the filters and oil and regularly checking the levels of the fluids is a game changer when it comes to regular truck maintenance. Here are the top reasons why you should never take for granted truck repair and maintenance. 

Identify The Problem Early

Just like other vehicles, trucks gradually develop mechanical problems. Sometimes you might notice your truck has mechanical issues when it is too late, and you cannot avoid the problem. Which becomes damn expensive to fix at this point.  

Regular truck maintenance will enable you to identify and address such problems earlier and take necessary action before they develop into major issues. 

Improves Your Mileage

Performing regular truck repair and maintenance helps in improving your gas mileage. For example, driving with low tire pressure for a long time can cost you up to 3% fuel mileage. The percentage might not be significant but accumulates into more cash with time. It is thus essential to perform regular tire rotation and ensure your tires have the right pressure.

Regular truck maintenance will also enable you to identify and replace dirty air, oil, and fuel filters, which interferes with fuel economy. 

Keep Your Truck High Value

Several factors such as value comes into consideration when planning to sell or trade-in your truck. Truck evaluation is essential, and it is aimed at determining what your truck is worth. During the evaluation, your truck is checked to see if it has mechanical issues. If found, the value of your truck will go down.

When you perform regular maintenance on your truck, it will have fewer mechanical issues and it will fetch the high resale value.

Saves Money

Regular truck maintenance and check-up will help you keep more cheques in your bank account. In trucks, small problems gradually develop into major issues. An oil leak repair can cost you $100, but if you ignore it, you might use $4000 or more to perform a major repair to your truck. 

Increases Your Safety

Several issues can expose you and your passenger to risk when on the road. Driving on balding tires with tiny visible wires inside the rubber is dangerous. Your tires can easily blow when this happens. Several road accidents result from tire blowouts. 

Many truck owners never pay attention to their tires, and thus they fail to know that their tires are in bad condition. During regular truck maintenance and servicing, the technician will check on the condition of your tires and advice you accordingly. 

Conclusion,

Trucks have several advantages and help in running many errands. Like other vehicles, they need regular truck repair and maintenance for them to run smoothly. The above are the top reasons why you should refrain from assuming truck repair and maintenance. Always listen to your truck and take seriously the early warning signs it gives before breaking down.  

Truck Maintenance That Needs An Expert To Handle

The knowledge of basic truck maintenance enables you to save hundreds or thousands of dollars you could spend when a professional does it. Such basic maintenance includes changing the oil and the filters. Some truck repairs are complex for you and require an expert. It is, therefore, essential to know when you need help from an expert. 

Taking care of your truck and ensuring that only the experts handle complicated repairs ensures that minor problems do not emerge and develop into major issues. Here is the truck maintenance that requires only an expert to handle. 

Repairing the Air Conditioning System

The AC in the truck is one of the complex parts to repair. Parts such as the compressors usually wear out, and the Freon can leak as well as breakages of the fun. When such parts develop mechanical issues, Your AC will not function effectively. 

The AC has chemicals, so it is not advisable to repair it alone. When you realize your AC is not functioning properly, consider taking your truck to a specialist with the special tools to restore it. 

Replacing the Windshield

Your truck’s windscreen may seem easy to fix when broken. Replacing it requires a professional to work on because it is a highly specialized job that needs special tools which you may not have. 

Wheel Balancing & Tire Mounting

Changing truck wheels is basic truck maintenance that anyone can handle. But performing wheel balancing or fixing new tires on the rims is a challenge and will require a professional. This procedure requires special tools. You can experience uneven tire wear when you fail to perform tire rotation. 

Transmission System Repairs

The transmission system has various complex parts and plays the crucial role of linking the wheels to the engine. The complexity of this part requires a highly professional to handle it. 

The Electrics

Before handling your truck’s electrical system, you should be sure of your ability. Modern trucks have a complex electrical system with complicated wiring that is computer controlled. Performing diagnosis and finding a repair solution requires a skilled truck electrician to perform the task. 

The Cooling System

When the engine is running, it generates heat. The cooling system ensures that the engine has an optimum operational temperature. When the cooling system wears out, you will notice leakages, and your engine may also heat up. Consider taking your truck to a professional for fixing in such a situation. 

The Suspension

The suspension plays a vital role in protecting the body of your truck and other parts from damage when driving in harsh terrain. The suspension has various parts, such as the shock absorbers, the arms, and the leaf springs. When any part of the suspension becomes faulty, it will be difficult to handle your truck. 

Conclusion,

A truck has various parts, some of them are simple and you can easily maintain, while others are complex and require only a professional to handle. The timing belt, bodywork, and engine tune-ups are some areas that need a professional to handle. 

Transmission Failure in Trucks – Knowing Before Its Too Late

How do you know about transmission failure in trucks before it is too late? The primary role of the engine in your truck is to generate power which is essential in the rotation of the wheels. The power from the engine reaches the wheels through the transmission system. The transmission is thus an essential system in your truck. 

Efficient transmission is essential for the performance of your truck. It converts torque into power, which is essential for rotating the wheels of your truck at various gear ratios. The transmission is the most expensive part of your truck because it is having various parts, like the gearbox. 

The cost of repair and the replacement of the transmission is relatively high. It is thus essential to be aware of the signs your transmission will show when it is almost failing. Such knowledge will aid in extending the lifespan of your transmission and avoiding costly repairs. 

Early Signs of A Transmission Failure

The transmission does not fail abruptly. It will have to give you some signs that it is soon failing. Here are the early signs you will experience. 

Weird Noises

Truck noises vary depending on the make and model. Whenever your truck produces a strange noise, consider taking time to know where the noise is coming from. Consider noting the nature of the noise if it is whining, clunking, or humming. 

The transmission has various components, and your truck will produce weird noises if any fail. The common noises related to the transmission are whining, clunking, buzzing, and humming. If your truck uses the manual transmission system, it will produce clunking noises. In contrast, the automatic transmission truck will produce a humming, buzzing, or whining noise when faulty. 

Leakages

Transmission relies on the transmission fluid to function effectively. The fluid reduces the friction and lubricates the transmission parts, preventing them from overheating. The fluid also aids in engaging the gears.

When your transmission failure occurs, you will see leakages of the transmission fluid from your truck. When this happens, friction within the transmission’s inner parts will lead to heat generation. As a result, your transmission will completely break down. Whenever you note that your transmission fluid is leaking, consider taking your truck for a thorough mechanical check-up. 

The Engine Check Light

The appearance of the engine check light is another early sign that your transmission is failing. The light appears when the sensors pick up irregular information from the transmission. When it appears, consider taking your truck for diagnosis to determine if the transmission is the cause. 

Shaking, Jerking, or Grinding

Primarily, when your transmission starts to develop problems, your truck will be jerky, shake or grind. Gear grinding is dominant in manual transmission trucks. In contrast, automatic transmission trucks will hesitate when you shift the gears. Commonly, you will hear truck owners referring to it as slipping gears. When you ignore this, your truck will tremble or shake whenever you change gears. 

Conclusion

The transmission is an essential and the most expensive part of your truck. It is exposed to the regular stress of transmitting the engine torque to the wheels. It, therefore, wears out. Before wearing out, you will experience the above signs. Never take these signs for granted. 

How To Take Care of Your Truck In Hot Summer

Summer weather can sometimes be a challenge to truck owners. Trees shading off their leaves reduces the surface area exposed to water loss. Similarly, your truck is also at risk if the season gets to its extreme. A lot of maintenance is required. It is necessary to prepare it for summer. Here you will have an insight into how to take care of your truck in summer.

How To Take Care of Your Truck In Hot Summer

Ensure you get full service from your truck during summer by regularly visiting your mechanic and performing the essential safety checks. As a way of keeping your truck running, consider checking the below.

  • Consider checking and servicing your cooling system as soon as summer temperature encroaches. When checking the cooling system, drain the coolant, and check on the condition of the belts. The cooling system guards your engine against overheating and must be in good working condition.
  • Inspect all the fluids in your truck. They aid in preventing overheating as you drive. Before summer, it is necessary to check the level of liquids and top up when necessary. 
  • Check the condition of your battery. During summer, the battery comes in handy, so if you have been using an old battery, it is this time of the year to fix a new one. 
  • Check your tire pressure regularly. Ensure your tires has the required amount of pressure. During hot temperatures, your tire might blow off in the parking lot. 

Save the Interior of Your Truck From Sun Damage

During summer, the interior of trucks becomes very hot, and the parts which face the sun become hotter. The high interior temperatures are dangerous for your truck as the colored pigments absorb the UV rays and, with time, start to fade. The plastic parts in your truck’s interior suffer predominantly and begin to warp. If your truck has leather seats, such seats will start to peel off or form cracks. Practice the below steps to prevent your truck’s interior from excess heat.

  • Sun rays usually get into the truck through the windshield. Always put a sunshade to protect your dashboard from extreme sunlight when parking.
  • Always park under a shade or inside your garage.
  • You can prevent cracks in your leather seats by cleaning and applying conditioner to them.
  • Cover your seats to prevent the leather from receiving direct sunlight.

Protect the Exterior of Your Truck From Excess Sunlight

The exterior of your truck is likely to fade when exposed to direct sunlight for a long. The below steps will aid you in protecting your truck from damage.

  • Always park under a shade or inside your garage.
  • Always keep your truck clean and shiny, as dust and dirt cause tiny cracks, which give your truck a dull finish.
  • Wax your truck to prevent the harmful UV rays from damaging it.
  • Use plastic and rubber protectants around the headlights and your bumper.

Conclusion

Summer temperature can affect any part of your truck. Before summer, it is necessary to adjust various aspects, from the engine to the interior and exterior. Doing this will enable your truck to survive the summer weather or even last longer.

Oil is Coming Out of Mini Truck Exhaust Pipe – What to Do

The mini trucks, like other vehicles, will develop weird issues after using them for a long time. During your ownership, you will realize several problems come from the fuel system. But sometimes you will realize that some oil is coming out through the exhaust pipe as you drive. It usually happens after using the mini truck for a long time. There are ways of solving this if it happens.

What to Do When Oil is Coming Out of Mini Truck Exhaust Pipe

If you see some oil coming out of the exhaust pipe of your mini truck, do not panic. This guide illustrates what to do when such a scenario occurs. 

Check the End of Your Exhaust Pipe

Sometimes what you might mistake as oil leakage on your exhaust pipe might not be oil. The exhaust pipe’s end accumulates soot, forming a very thick layer. If you have never cleaned the end of your exhaust pipe for a while, the condensed liquid might come out through the exhaust pipe looking like oil. To fix this, put on gloves and insert your finger into the exhaust pipe to check if any soot is formed in the exhaust system.

Check if there is Congestion in the PVC Valve

The PVC valves provide a medium through which the internal combustion gases travel to the combustion chamber. The accumulating gas volume will expose the engine to pressure if the PVC valve is clogged. However, the pressure will make the oil sort for ways out and pass through the exhaust pipe. If your mini truck starts to release bluish smoke and you witness the spark plug having some oil, then the possibility of the PVC system being blocked is high. In case such happens, fix the new PVC valve.

Check if the Gasket is Broken

The gasket forms the part of the entire exhaust system and does the role of sealing the engine head and the block. If the gasket is blown, the liquids such as oil will pass the seal and move to the exhaust system. However, if oil comes out of your exhaust pipe, it is necessary to check the exhaust system. How will you determine if your gasket is broken? The engine of your mini truck will start to overheat, the engine will be less powerful, and fuel consumption will increase. To fix this, replace the broken gaskets. 

Conclusion

The exhaust pipe is not designed to remove oil from your mini truck. Several possibilities might cause the oil leakage through the exhaust system, such as a broken head gasket and congested PVC valve. However, if you witness this, never ignore it, as it signals the beginning of a problem that might take your engine to the intensive care unit.

Oil leakage is likely to reduce the performance of your mini truck. It will start to overheat, and its parts will wear out very fast. If you see oil coming out through your exhaust pipe, take your mini truck for a check-up to fix the issue.

Troubleshooting Mini Truck Air Conditioner Issues

Imagine driving your mini truck for long on a hot day, you have just turned on the AC, but it isn’t working. It is the most frustrating moment behind the wheels. This article shall focus on troubleshooting mini truck air conditioner issues and how to fix them. It is effortless to realize that your AC is not functional, and your mini truck will give you the following signs.

  1. When you turn it on to blow cool air, it blows hot air.
  2. The pressure at which the air comes in will be low.
  3. You will feel a bad smell in your mini truck.
  4. You can also hear weird sounds.

Troubleshooting Mini Truck Air Conditioner Issues

Here are some of the mini truck problems that you are likely to face with air conditioning and how to go about fixing them.

Causes of AC Failure

Before your AC fails, it will send warnings to you. Previously we have seen some signs that your AC has started to malfunction. The above symptoms result from the three common causes discussed below.

Leakages on the Refrigerant

The refrigerant cools hot air in the ac system by absorbing heat from the hot air to leave only cool air in the system. There are tubes that this air moves through as they undergo heat change. Such pipes might develop problems and leak. The leakage might result from corrosion as well as improper installation. Leaking refrigerant will not effectively cool the air, and the AC will give you hot air instead of cold. 

Overstrained Compressor

Water, dirt, or oil particles are impurities that can contaminate the AC system. The compressor plays the role of processing gases only. If such contaminants are in the system, it is likely to overstrain and malfunction. A damaged compressor will not circulate the cool air from the refrigerant; as a result, you will receive hot air when you put on your AC.

Blockage on the Condenser

The condenser performs the role of converting gases into a liquid to facilitate the process of air cooling. The condenser has coils in which impurities might build up with time. Accumulated impurities make the condenser block. Therefore, it will not perform the function of converting hot air into liquid.

How to Fix Your AC

If your air conditioner fails because of any of the above issues, here is how to solve them.

Inspect the Causes of Leakages. The presence of liquid under your mini truck indicates a leaking refrigerant. Always inspect your hoses and make necessary adjustments if you note they are loose.

Regularly Charge your AC. You can do this by locating where the low-pressure valve is and opening it. Do not overcharge the AC; it is necessary to do it with the help of a mechanic.

Inspect whether there is Debris. Do a regular check and remove any debris building up on the AC system.

Conclusion

Always keep your mini truck’s air conditioning system is in good condition by conducting a regular check and maintenance. Doing this will increase the productivity of your mini truck, and it will save you from the shame of a malfunctioned AC system when driving over a long distance in hot weather.

5 Mini Truck Noises You Should Not Ignore

The only familiar sound that should come from your mini truck is that of the engine and maybe of the air opposing your movement. Sometimes you are likely to hear unnecessary mini truck noises. Such noise signals that something worth paying attention to is happening to your mini truck. When driving, you should occasionally roll down your windows and listen to any weird sound that might come from outside as you drive. Doing this will help you recognize any problem at an early stage. 

Common Mini Truck Noises You Should Not Ignore

Rattling Sound

You might feel a rattling or a sound like a coin moving on a cloth line when in motion. The sound usually comes from the wheels, signals a loose lug nut, and signals that your wheel is not properly tightened. If you hear this noise, call your mechanic as soon as possible.

Squealing Sound

Squealing is common when you apply emergency brakes. But if it becomes a norm when you apply brakes, then something might be wrong with your brake pads. In case the squealing becomes grinding, your brake pads are completely worn out, and the metallic parts are rubbing against each other. If you ignore the grinding, the damage might be severe to the brake rotors and other essential components. 

Hissing Sound

Hissing sound signals that something is leaking under your mini truck. When attending to this, avoid touching any liquid because it might be hot. If this happens, seek an appointment with your mechanic. 

Knocking Engine

The engine might knock if you use lower-octane gasoline, which your manufacturer does not recommend. Sometimes you might use the recommended engine oil, but your engine knocks. In case of this, visit your mechanic. 

Clicking Sound

 If you start your mini truck and hear this sound, your battery is no longer powerful to start the engine, and it is straining. A good car battery should last for around three or five years; this is pretty long, and you might not realize it if the battery starts to be less powerful, you might not realize. The clicking noise signals a dead battery. 

Singing or Howling Sound

If you hear this sound, check your bearings. Bearings are small metallic balls that facilitate a smooth rotation. When the howling becomes too much, the rear bearings are worn out. The sound might get louder as you accelerate. In case of this, check the differentials and any leaking fluid. 

Squeaking Noise Whenever You Accelerate

If your mini truck is either rear or four-wheel-drive and you hear this sound, you must check the universal joint. The U-Joint are usually in pairs and are components of the driveshaft. The Universal joint wears out the point where it connects to the driveshaft. Ignoring this sound will damage your driveshaft, and it is costly to replace a driveshaft as compared to replacing a U-Joint. 

Conclusion

Listening to your mini truck whenever it communicates is the best way of keeping in touch with it. If you ignore interpreting the messages from such sound, you will spend more time and money repairing it. 

Installing Aftermarket Steering Wheel In a Mini Truck

The steering wheel is an important component of a mini truck which contributes to safety while in motion. It is the steering wheel that gives you total control of the direction of your mini truck. The steering wheel has to be convenient to perform effectively. If you feel a little bit uncomfortable with your steering wheel, never worry because there are various aftermarket steering you can buy and install for your mini truck. The aftermarket wheels will improve your driving experience because a number of them are small in size hence better handling. There are two main ways to change your steering wheel, taking your mini truck to a trusted workshop or doing it alone. When doing it alone, prior experience is necessary. Here are some steps to consider when installing aftermarket steering wheel in a mini truck. 

Choose & Installing Aftermarket Steering Wheel In a Mini Truck

There are a lot of aftermarket steering wheels that you can buy. The difference in this steering wheel is the column construction and the main bolt holding the steering wheel. 

When planning to buy an aftermarket wheel, it is necessary to do thorough research so that you do not settle for a steering wheel which will not make you happy. The diameter of many aftermarket steering wheels ranges from 33 to 35 mm, and they are smaller than the regular steering wheels, giving you a sporty experience as you drive. 

Remove the Plastics on the Steering

The first step to removing your steering wheel is removing all the plastics covering it. Doing this will expose your wheel, and you will easily spot the screw holes. Do this cautiously because you will need to fix the same plastic parts when installing the new wheel. 

Disconnect the Wires

You will see several wires from the dashboard to the steering wheel because the modern steering wheel has many functions. To effectively do this, make sure the battery is disconnected. Disconnect all the wires connected to your steering wheel. Doing this is an easy task. Never cut or tear any wire while disassembling them.

Locate the Centre Lug Nut

Disconnecting all the wires will allow you to see the centre lug nut. It is this nut that holds the steering wheel firmly in its position. To remove it, use common tools. 

Some complex ones will require you to have special tools, especially when the patterns of the centre nut are unique. Despite this, removing it should not give you a headache. Up to this point, you have already removed the steering wheel and jogging to fix the new one.

Lubricate the Centre Part

When removing your steering, you notice that the surroundings of the central lug are greasy. Lubrication aids in the smooth movement of the steering wheel. Lubricate the central part after fixing the new wheel. Doing this will make it function smoothly.

Conclusion

You can install an aftermarket steering wheel for your mini truck. Doing it is not difficult; this guide has simplified it for you. If you are not confident performing the procedure, consult a professional mechanic. 

Is Your Truck Consuming more Fuel than Usual?

Your gas tank has to be full for your truck to serve you. A full tank will save you from the stress of worrying if the remaining fuel can sustain you up to the next filling station. Fuel consumption on trucks varies depending on the size of the engine and the number of cylinders. Sometimes, you will realize that the consumption of your truck is getting higher than usual. You will understand some of the reasons that can make your truck consume more fuel than before. High fuel consumption can result from several factors that range from driving habits to mechanical issues.

Reasons For Your Truck Consuming more Fuel than Usual

Here are some of the reasosn why your mini truck could consume more fiuel than usual.

Load On The Truck

The amount of fuel your truck will consume on the road will depend on the load it carries. When you overload your truck, it will consume more fuel than a truck with no load. Load is directly proportional to the amount of fuel your vehicle will consume. For example, your car will consume less fuel when you are alone, but the consumption will go up if the entire family is on board. The increased consumption results in the engine working hard to produce extra energy to carry the load, leading to the demand for more fuel in the combustion chamber. 

Speed and Aerodynamics

What is aerodynamics? It is the way objects move through the air. Aerodynamics explains why airplanes can fly. The speed and aerodynamics affect the rate at which your truck consumes fuel. When you increase the speed of your truck, the force at which it will try to break the air will increase. The opposition of air and high speed will lead to high fuel consumption.

Tyre Inflation and Wheel Alignment

If the tire is not well inflated, the rate at which your truck consumes fuel will increase. If one of your truck’s tires is not well aligned, there will be an increase in the rate at which your truck will drag. Increased drag leads to more tire scrub on the road, leading to increased fuel consumption. 

Driving Habits

How you drive will either increase or reduce the rate at which your truck consumes fuel. Habits like accelerating fast, fast driving, and sudden braking can lead to high fuel consumption, reduce fuel consumption, drive at the speed of the traffic, and accelerate slowly when necessary. Always ensure adequate space between you and the vehicle ahead to help you gradually stop in an emergency. A gradual deceleration will increase fuel economy. 

Oiling

Always change your oil regularly when your truck hits the required mileage. When oil gets exhausted, your truck will consume more fuel, and the engine might completely die if you fail to change the oil. 

Conclusion

Several factors lead to high fuel usage in trucks. The current global inflation is compelling us to economize and take advantage of ways of minimizing expenses. If you realize that the rate at which your truck is consuming fuel has gone up, find out the possible cause and rectify it as soon as possible.

Brake Drum Replacement in Mini Trucks

Many mini trucks have the drum brake fitted on the rear wheel. The brake drums have a cylinder to push the brake shoe against the walls of the drum. This action stops the wheel because the drum is connected to the axle and rotates while the wheel is rotating. The working principle between the drum and the disc brake differs slightly as both serve the purpose of stopping your mini truck. The continuous action in the drum braking system exposes it to friction which wears it out with time. When the brake drum starts to wear out, the driver will feel some symptoms, especially when applying brakes. Let us look at when to do brake drum replacement.

Weird Feeling on the Brake Pedals

Brakes in good condition will stop the vehicle immediately when you step on the brake pedals. When the drum brake starts to malfunction, you will feel your brake pedals are not functioning normally the way they used to before. You feel vibrations, soft brake pedals, and pulsating whenever you step on the brake pedals. When trying to apply breaks, such weird feelings signal that the drum barking system is wearing out and needs a replacement.

Difficulty in Stopping

Most mini trucks have disc brakes in front and drum brakes on rear axles; when both are faulty, you will experience difficulty in braking. When the drums or brake shoes start to wear out, you will experience difficulty in stopping your mini truck whenever you step on the brake pedal. Mostly you will apply breaks, and your mini truck might take time to break instantly. 

Loud Sharp Noise

A braking system in good condition will never produce any sound when the driver steps on the brake pedals. When the brakes start to wear, they produce loud noise because the drum will not be able to absorb the heat produced during braking. The build-up of the heat further stresses the brakes, making the noise louder as the shoes and the drums connect.

The Hand Breaks becomes loose

The parking brake in mini trucks is at the back wheel. The parking brake depends on the drum brakes for it to function effectively. Worn-out drums will not have the power necessary to keep the mini truck in place. When the drums are worn out, you will note that your mini truck slips a few inches after applying the parking brakes. The slipping might also happen due to loose brake cables and worn-out brake shoes. 

Conclusion

The brake drum is a critical component of the mini truck braking system which should operate properly. If you feel the above signs when braking, there is a high probability that either a part or the entire brake drum might be faulty. You need to do a brake drum replacement. You will need to replace the whole system or the worn-out part to solve this. Repairing the brake drum is not hard if you have the necessary tools and practice caution. It is advisable to replace brake drums under the guidance of your mechanic.

Replace Mini Truck CV Axle Boots

The power transmission system in a mini truck is complex to understand, but you can if you dedicate your time you will surely understand it. The engine is the power production department, but how does the engine do this? It has various mechanical parts such as pistons, cylinders, and fuel injectors. The power from the engine rotates metals called shafts; these metals transmit the rotational power to the wheels. The shafts are in two classifications, the drive, and the driven shafts. The driven shaft is directly connected to the axles. It is the axles that rotate the wheels.

The CV boots house the CV joints and offer protection against harmful debris. It also ensures the grease lubricating the cv joint is in place. The CV boot, on some occasions, might break.

How to Replace Mini Truck CV Axle Boots

Want to know how to replace mini truck CV axle boots? Here you will learn what to do in case the CV boot of your mini truck breaks. 

Remove the Tire

The first step to replacing the cv axle boot is removing the tire. To remove your tire, ensure your mini truck is safely parked and check whether your hand brake is engaged. Chock the rear wheels for additional safety. The lug nuts are hard to loosen after lifting your mini truck. Loosen them by making two turns on each. Use the hydraulic jack to lift your mini truck until it reaches the jacking point. When lifting the vehicle, practice caution and ensure it is safely lifted. Then remove all the lug nuts, and your wheel will be free to be removed. 

Remove the broken CV Boot

After removing the wheel, you will see and inspect the cv boots. To remove the broken one, do the following.

The rubber boots have metal clamps. Cut these clumps using cutters to remove them. 

After removing the metal clamps, cut the rubber boots using a blade. When doing this, start by the edge close to you to the furthest edge. 

Clean the Axle and the Joints

First, ensure you have your goggles and gloves on and place a basin under your car so you do not stain the floor of your garage. 

The parts cleaner agent will clean the axle and the joints perfectly by effectively removing the grease and dirt. 

Fix the New CV Axle Boot

The new CV axle boot will be with grease. Cut the grease tip and apply it to the CV joint and the axle. 

After applying grease, check the new cv boot and you will see grooves on it, open these grooves and fix it on the axle. Once it has covered the axle, use glue to fix and attach its ends. Apply grease on both the inner and the outer parts of the axle. At this point, you are almost through.

Do the reverse procedures to fix back everything. 

Conclusion

The CV boots usually wear out. If they wear out, the only solution is to replace them, and it is not a complex procedure in case you know what to do. If you are unsure, you must do it under the supervision of your mechanic.

What Causes Mini Truck Engine to Overheat?

The engine of your mini truck will become hot when it is running. However, when the heat intensifies, never ignore it because it can melt the entire engine block. The cooling system might be faulty when your engine is overheating and should be addressed soon before things get out of hand. This guide aims to address what causes mini truck engine to overheat which could cause some worse problems in the vehicle.

What Causes Mini Truck Engine to Overheat?

Here are some of the things to keep in mind if you experience issues with the mini truck engine overheating.

Problem with the Cooling System

The engine of your mini truck will start to overheat and eventually fail when the cooling system becomes faulty. The temperature of the combustion chamber can go as high as 4500 degrees. The cooling system expels these excess high temperatures from the engine. The cooling system might fail in case of leakages. You should regularly service your cooling system to ensure it performs its roles without fail.

Faulty Radiator

The radiator performs the role of eliminating excess heat from the engine. It does this by receiving the excess heat from the coolant through metal fins. The radiator receives cool air through the grilles as the mini truck is in motion. A vehicle radiator will expel the hot air as the cool air comes in by blowing it with its fan. The radiator can be destroyed when debris builds up, which makes it unable to effectively perform its role, resulting in the entire engine overheating. 

When the Belt Becomes Faulty

The belts or hoses do the roles of cooling, air conditioning, and charging the engine systems. The engine will overheat if the belts or hoses fail to function effectively. The belts also transmit power from the engine to all other parts that require power to be driven, such as the air-conditioning system and the fans. If the belts become faulty, the air-conditioning system and the fans will not receive energy to run and thus will stop cooling the engine system.

Dropped levels of Oil

Friction produces heat; most parts of the engine generate heat as they rub against each other. The Oil reduces heat by creating a layer that prevents the engine’s moving parts from directly rubbing against each other. Reduced oil levels will likely make it not perform its role effectively, and the engine will overheat and fail. If your oil leaks, make sure you fix the broken part and fill the oil tank.

When the Water Pump Fails

The water pump plays the role of ensuring the coolant is moving through the entire cooling system. The coolant absorbs the excess heat from the engine, which is transferred to the radiator by the water pump. After the radiator has cooled the coolant, it goes back to the engine, and the cycle continues. When the water pump fails, you will see steam from the radiator and witness coolant leaks under your mini truck. A faulty water pump will make the engine overheat.

Conclusion

Friction and heat from the combustion chamber make the engine to be hot. The cooling system performs the role of eliminating excess heat, which can destroy the entire engine block. This article has discussed some of the possible causes of an engine overheating. 

Hard Steering Wheel – Causes on Mini Trucks

The steering wheel plays the role of guiding your mini truck in the desired direction. You will use this wheel to dodge portholes on the road, make a turn, and change lanes while overtaking and parking your vehicle. The steering wheel sometimes can malfunction. If this happens, it resists moving by getting hard. This problem can be dangerous when it happens to your mini truck on the highway. Imagine a scenario of trying to switch lanes on the highway, but the steering moves slowly. It is disappointing to have a hard steering wheel. You will not be able to control the vehicle effectively and might expose you to a fatal accident. Let us focus on some of the causes of stiff steering on mini trucks.

Causes of Hard Steering Wheel on Mini trucks

Stiff steering has several causes. In this section, let us exhaust some of the causes of hard steering.

Bad Tire Pressure

Your mini truck has four wheels, and sometimes the rear wheels are double. All these wheels should be inflated as per the requirements of the manufacturer. If there is no pressure balance on the wheels, such as one being deflated, it will be hard to turn the steering wheel while driving.

Misalignment is another major cause of hard steering. Poor alignment will make your mini truck drag sideways while in motion or when making a turn. The misalignment of the wheels results from the treads not wearing uniformly.

Damaged Steering Rack

The steering rack is joined to the wheels by several shafts and U-joints. Daily driving damage the rack itself, the shafts, and the U-Joints. If your steering wheel becomes hard immediately after igniting your mini truck, conclude that the steering rack is faulty. As you drive, the steering wheel gradually becomes free, and this is because the rack becomes hot as you drive, and the lubricants will effectively reach it. If this is ignored, it might end up in significant problems.

Leakages

The steering will be stiff if the system has less fluid due to leakages. Leakages happen when too much pressure is exposed to the fluids’ pipes, which breaks them. The pump generates the pressure. This pressure makes it easy for the fluids to move in the fluid tubes efficiently. When the fluids find such damage, they will leak and reduce. The power steering will therefore lack adequate pressure that will enhance its efficiency.

Faulty Pump

The pump plays the role of creating pressure for the movement of fluid in the power steering system. If the pump becomes faulty, the steering wheel will be hard to turn. But the steering will not be rigid, it will move, but you will be forced to apply a lot of pressure. Applying much pressure is deadly during an emergency, like taking a U-turn.

Conclusion

Stiff steering on your mini truck might signal mechanical problems, which you must not ignore. Sometimes you might experience it when your steering gets locked with the pin when you turn off your engine. 

How To Fix A Play In A Mini Truck Steering Wheel

The steering wheel does the role of ensuring your mini truck is headed in the desired direction. This wheel enables a driver to make a turn and drive through a straight road. At some point, you will feel the steering wheel of your mini truck playing as you drive. You will feel your mini truck doesn’t want to maintain a straight line or wonders on the road. Such signs symbolize that the steering wheel is loose. If it becomes loose, it will endanger your life as the driver and other road users. In this guide, we will go through ways on how to fix a play in a mini truck steering wheel.

How To Fix A Play In A Mini Truck Steering Wheel

If you start feeling such signs, there might be a problem with the steering pump, rack, or pinion housing. Adjust the steering box, which is easy with a few essential tools. To fix playing steering, consider the below steps.

Park Your Mini Truck on a Plain Ground.

Ensure your mini truck is parked on plain ground, disengage gears to neutral, and engage the handbrakes. Doing these will enhance your safety as you try to adjust the playing steering wheel. The steering wheel is at the front part of your mini truck. Lift it using a jack for you to access the lower part of your Kei truck easily.

Move Your Steering on Both Left and Right Directions

Make sure you have a ruler that you will use to measure the inches in which your steering will be covering as it will make a left-to-right motion. Your steering wheel has too much play if this distance is more than one inch. You will see the steering housing joining the gearbox on the driver’s side. Above the gearbox, you will see a screw and lock nut called worm gear. Make adjustments on this screw.

Loosen the Lock Nut

You will effectively do this when you have a wrench that fits the lock nut and slightly loosens it. Using a screwdriver, make a ¼ clockwise turn and tighten the locking applying mild pressure. 

Measure the Play Again

After tightening the lock nut, repeat the first procedure to check if there are any changes on the play. Once more, loosen the locking nut and make a ¼ clockwise adjustment on the screw. Do this procedure until the steering wheel play reduces to 1 inch. Using a torque wrench, tighten the lock nut per the manufacturer’s specifications. After this, lower the jack and take your mini truck for a test drive to check whether the steering is still playing.

Conclusion

Adjust your steering wheel as soon as possible. It is not complex to fix a play on the steering wheel. You need the right tools to perform it. If you are not sure of what to do, it is necessary to seek help from a professional. It is risky to drive a mini truck with a playing steering wheel. Never take chances if you feel the vehicle is becoming tough to control. Suppose you value the services your mini truck is offering to you. Consider servicing it as soon as you feel something is in a mess with it.

Timing Belt Replacement In A Mini Truck – Steps

The process of replacing the timing belt in a minitruck is complex. It can be simple if you first assemble the necessary tools to do this work. Tools such as Socket sets, Torque wrench, Combination wrenches, Screwdrivers, Jack and Jack stands, and a new timing belt are necessary. In most vehicles, timing belts become faulty without issuing a warning. When your minitruck suddenly stops and will not start, the problem is likely to be with the timing belt. If you realize that the timing belt of your mini truck is not functional, check if the valve is in good condition before replacing the timing belt. Check if your service manual indicates that a faulty timing belt can destroy the valve. This guide captures step-by-step timing belt replacement in a mini truck.

Steps To Do Timing Belt Replacement In A Mini Truck

Buy a New Timing Belt

Before buying a new timing belt, ensure you know the year your minitruck was manufactured and its engine size. This information is necessary because many minitrucks have variations with the model year. When buying a new timing belt, ensure you also buy new gaskets and gasket adhesives. Most spare parts dealers will inform you what you need to buy before replacing your timing belt.

Remove the Old Timing Belt

Before removing the timing belt:

  1. Disconnect the negative battery wire.
  2. Locate the old timing belt and remove them.
  3. Assess the damage, and check whether a replacement or service is necessary.

Disconnect the Alternator Belt

There are some minitruck models which has the serpent belt. If yous has it, remove it to access the timing belt. Loosen the nuts holding the alternator, then pull it out. Remove other accessories like the power steering pump, alternator, and air conditioning compressor to access the timing belt easily.

Align the Timing Marks

Use a socket on the crankshaft to rotate the bolt on the engine. Rotating the bolt will align the timing mark on the crankshaft pulley with the zero degrees mark on the timing scale. After aligning the timing belt marks, confirm whether you need to remove the harmonic balancer before removing the timing belt cover then unscrew the screws attaching the timing belt Covers firmly. Removing the screws will make it easier for you to remove the timing cover from the engine.

Use the Service Manual to Loosen all the Mounting Bolts

These mounting bolts hold the belt tensioner in place. When they are loosened, it will be easy for the timing belt to come out. After loosening the belt tensioner, check if the tensioner pulley has any damage. During the check-up, grease the tensioner pulleys, which are dry.

Remove the Old Timing Belt

Remove the old timing belt by sliding it off the sprockets to install the new one. Fix the new belt and reassemble your minitruck.

Conclusion

Installing a new timing belt of a minitruck is not easy. You require a lot of time to do it. It will help if you do it under the guidance of a professional mechanic.

Diagnosing Differential Problems in a Mini Truck

The differential plays the role of ensuring your minitruck is moving in the right direction. It coordinates the front wheels by ensuring that each wheel gets the required power to move in the direction the driver controls. If your differential has a problem, it might be bad news for your mini truck. We will focus on the symptoms and diagnosing differential problems in a mini truck. This will help you keep your mini truck in good working condition.

Causes of Bad Differential

How you drive your mini truck is the main reason your differential goes bad. Your differential is likely to overheat and break down. Your minitruck has a grace period in which it has to be ‘broken in,’ if you do this too soon, either the front or the rear differential will produce unnecessary noise, which will signal a serious issue. If you drive your new minitruck too fast for a long period or you buy it and start towing with it immediately.

Leaving your minitruck to spin occasionally is not harmful to it. But if you do this more often can cause serious issues. For example, leaving the front wheels on the road as the rear ones are spinning out of the road is likely to harm your mini truck. Poor driving styles will break or damage the parts of your mini truck’s differential parts.

Symptoms & Diagnosing Differential Problems in a Mini Truck

You need to know what causes problems to your differential, which will help you practice habits that will make you avoid such problems. It is important to know how your mini truck behaves when the differential is damaged so that you can repair it before it gets worse. Signs of bad differential are sensitive, so you cannot procrastinate about it.

When the differential is bad, it could signal multiple problems to your mini truck. Below are some of the symptoms of a bad differential:

  • When your minitruck goes through oil.
  • When your steering becomes difficult to operate.
  • When your front differential produces loud noise from the gears grinding.
  • When your rear differential produces loud noise, which might result from poor lubrication.
  • When your tires are wearing out very fast.
  • Vibration when your minitruck is in motion, which advances as you accelerate.
  • When the driveshaft is not balanced.

Your minitruck might develop some problems which may not be that serious, but you cannot ignore differential problems because it plays a key role in the steering power of your mini truck. Whenever you feel any of the signs mentioned above, visit your mechanic for a thorough mechanical check-up.

Conclusion

The differential facilitates the front or back motion of your mini truck. In this guide, we have seen some of the causes of bad differentials, such as poor driving habit is the major reason why your differential is likely to break down. And also, we have seen symptoms of bad differential. It is necessary to trust a professional mechanic to handle differential problems. The knowledge of causes and symptoms will aid you in identifying the issues related to differential and repair on time.

Considerations When Making a Mini Truck Clutch Replacement

The mini trucks with manual transmissions are fun to drive because they create a cordial connection between the driver and the vehicle as the driver changes the gears. What brings this connection is that when they demand a new gear, you will feel the sound the engine will produce. As a driver, you should step on the clutch pedal and change the gear using the gear lever. Stepping on the clutch pedal creates a temporary disconnection between the two shafts as the vehicle is in motion. The clutch does a backbreaking function in a mini truck. It is due to this fact that the clutch wears out with time. You will be forced to change a new clutch if yours wears out. When replacing your clutch, you should be aware of the parts that you need to change. Here we go through the considerations when making a mini truck clutch replacement.

5 Considerations When Making a Mini Truck Clutch Replacement

As a mini truck owner, you will have to replace your clutch. Some specific parts work hand in hand with the clutch, which you should consider changing.

Thrust Bearing

The thrust bearing gives the clutch the freedom to spin as you engage the gears. The regular function of the thrust bearing makes it wear out due to rough use, inadequate lubrication, and if the clutch is not adjusted correctly. The thrust bearings should also be changed whenever you change the clutch disk.

Pressure Plates

The role played by the pressure plates can make them develop cracks or even bend. It is always cheaper to replace the clutch disk alone, but it is necessary to fit in new pressure plates when replacing the clutch disks.

Transmission fluid

The manual transmission needs proper lubrication; therefore, whenever you replace the clutch, spend a little cash to buy and refill the transmission fluid. It will help to reduce serious gearbox problems caused by friction.

Clutch Fluid

The worst scenario when driving is when your clutch sticks to the floor when you step on it. It can result from problems with the hydraulic system, primarily in case of corrosion. To prevent this, when changing the clutch disk, your mechanic should drain and refill the clutch fluid between the slave and the master cylinders.

The Slave Cylinder

It is a hydraulic arm that presses the clutch fork. Whenever you press the clutch pedal, it moves in and out. Your daily driving exposes the slave cylinder to a lot of stress, making it wear out and leak. When doing the clutch maintenance, consider replacing the slave cylinder

Conclusion

Most parts of the clutch work hand in hand. The wearing out of a given amount causes another to wear out. As a result, you ought to know which parts wear out simultaneously and replace them when replacing the major parts. Doing this will save you from regularly visiting your mechanic and spending more money to make repairs on damages resulting from these silent ignored parts. This guide has highlighted some parts you can consider replacing when replacing the clutch of your mini truck.