Do you know how you can prevent radiator leaks in your truck? It is never appealing to see leaking under your truck. It does not matter whether the leakage comes from the radiator, water pump, or the cooling system, but it is a sign of something serious worth not ignoring. Fortunately, there are ways you can use to prevent leaks without spending much or performing repairs. The radiator stop leaks flow inside the hoses without narrowing down their sizes. 

The radiator stop leaks are either liquids, pellets, or powder. They are usually poured into the radiator to flow with the coolant. When flowing, it seals the leakages along the cooling system. They also lubricate your water pump together with the seals. Stop leaks are cost-effective in avoiding the headache of taking your truck for a mechanical check and repairing the damages expensively.

The Best Radiator Stop Leaks

Here are some of the best ways to stop radiator leaks you can buy to service your radiator.

K-Seal Coolant Leak Repair

K-seal coolant leak repair works in seconds in offering a tight seal to your cooling system. Using this product is easy and does not require professional intervention. Just buy it and apply it to your cooling system. You can add it when your engine is hot or cold. This feature of working under any temperature makes it time-saving. When adding it to a hot engine, be cautious of hurting yourself. 

The K-seal repair freely mixes with any anti-freeze in your cooling system. Therefore the brand of your truck is not an issue when buying it. When the need arises, it is easy to flush it from the cooling system.

Bar’s Leaks Liquid Aluminum 

Bar’s leak is famous and the best aluminum stop leak. It is a product of various compounds that work jointly to seal leaks and condition your engine. Bar’s leaks are durable and stop leakage in different parts of the radiator made of multiple materials such as aluminum and plastic.

You do not need to flush out your anti-freeze when adding this stop leak. And it is compatible with all kinds of coolants. The downside of this product is applying it, your engine has to idle for at least 20 minutes to seal all the leaking parts.

Blue Magic Radiator and Block Sealer

Blue magic radiator and block sealer is a liquid glass and copper radiator stop leak that permanently repairs all the leaking parts of your cooling system. If you have a heavy-duty truck whose radiator is leaking, this is the best radiator leaks consideration. It is easy to use. Just pour it directly into your radiator, and it will offer a solution within 5 minutes.

The disadvantage of this product is that it works perfectly in big engines and is never clear dry, making it less attractive.

Conclusion

The radiator is a vital part of the cooling system and acts as a point where heat exchange occurs. The hot coolant gets cooled and travels back to the engine. Radiator leaks are common, and it is essential to avoid them as early as possible. Some DIY solutions, such as using radiator leaks solutions, offer a cost-effective solution. The above are some of the reliable radiator leaks solutions to consider.

Power steering problems are not very common, but they exist. Here we will go through ways of fixing them. Driving a truck is fun only when everything is working perfectly. If you realize an issue with your truck’s handling, taking it for a mechanical check-up as soon as possible is essential. As a truck owner, one area you should always pay attention to is the power steering. It is a mechanism that enables you to handle the steering wheel easily. 

All modern trucks have a power steering system. It comprises a pump, a special fluid, and most definitely hoses. Sometimes the power steering system develops issues such as leakages. This guide discusses some power steering problems and how you can fix them.

Common Power Steering Problems & Their Solution

Here are the common power steering problems worth knowing as a truck owner.

Low Power Steering Fluid

The power steering system has a special fluid that aids in the power transmission to the steering. Sometimes the levels of this fluid go down. If such happens, the power steering pump will make a whining sound. 

To solve this problem, check the level of your power steering fluid. Check the manufacturer’s guide to follow the laid down procedure. If the need arises, consider topping it up yourself or seek the services of a professional mechanic. 

Fluid Leakage

The power steering fluid is the most important part of the power steering system. When you realize that the frequency at which you are topping up the power steering fluid increases, there may be leakages in the system. A common sign of leakage is the presence of fluid under your truck. You will note this when your truck is parked for a while. 

You can fix this by taking your truck for a mechanical check-up to determine the exact cause of the leakage and fix it.

Worn–Out and Loose Belts

When the belts within the power steering system are old and worn out, your truck will produce a screeching sound whenever you turn the wheels. 

When the belts are loose, visit your mechanic for tightening or repositioning. But if they are worn out, you can replace them to restore the perfect working condition of your truck.

Cracks on the Hoses

The hoses play the role of transmission of the power steering fluid. These hoses are made of rubber, and they will develop cracks with time. The power steering fluid will start leaking when the cracks advance and become bigger. 

To prevent this, consider performing a regular inspection to check on the condition of the hoses. If you note any cracks on the hoses, replace them as soon as possible.

Slippage On The Hose Coupling

The hoses and other parts of the powering steering system are joined with the coupling. This coupling may slip with time.

It is easy to see this problem, but it is essential to let a professional mechanic work on it as soon as you note a slippage. 

Conclusion

The power steering system makes it easy to control your truck’s steering wheel. The system has various parts that wear out or experience mechanical problems independently. When such happens, the entire system will not function effectively. It is, therefore, necessary to know the common causes of the power steering systems and the possible solutions, as illustrated in this guide. 

Protecting your truck with a paint sealant will give it an appealing look and stay shiny and clean for a long time after cleaning. It feels good to have a nice-looking truck. When your truck’s paint is exposed, it will start to fade with time, but if you apply paint sealant, your truck will look new every day.

Are you thinking of using a paint sealant for your truck? This guide will give you detailed information starting from what a paint sealant is and how to choose the right one for your truck. 

What is A Truck Paint Sealant?

A truck paint sealant can either be colored or a clear coating that, if you apply to the exterior of your truck, it will repel water and other debris that can make the body of your truck rust. Paint sealant gives the painting of your truck a long lifespan.

A paint sealant’s primary role is to protect your truck’s paint from fading, weathering, or oxidation. It will also protect your truck’s paint from scratches or unnecessary marks. You can apply the paint sealant with your hand or use a machine. After washing your car, adding a paint sealant is the best option.

Choosing Paint Sealant For Your Truck

When choosing the suitable paint sealant for your truck, there are a few things you should put into consideration. Here are some of them.

Time

Before buying the best paint sealant for your truck, ask yourself how much time you are willing to invest when applying it. A cleaner wax is the best option for those who always have a limited time. Traditional waxes and spray coatings are the best for those with reasonable time, as you will need a little preparation to apply them.

Environment

When considering using paint sealant, your environment will play a more significant role in the frequency at which you will apply the paint sealant. If you are living in areas that experience harsh weather conditions, you will need to reapply the paint sealant more often to maintain the paint protection for your truck.

Finish

The final look you want to achieve after applying the paint sealant will be another deciding factor. Some sealants offer a wet look or high gloss, giving your truck an attractive and shiny finish.

Some truck owners love it when their trucks have a mate look since it is not that attention-grabbing and attractive. But still will protect the paint of your truck. It is necessary to consider the kind of look you want to achieve before choosing the right sealant paint. 

Budget

When buying a paint sealant, consider the amount you want to spend. Sealant paints vary depending on the prices. High-quality sealants are relatively expensive, and great chemistry sealants, too, are expensive. Apart from the high quality and great chemistry sealants, other sealants in the market offer great protection at a relatively lower price.

Conclusion

The paintings on your truck can fade or become oxidized. When such happens, your truck will no longer have that attractive look unless you repaint it. Paint sealant protects your truck’s paint from any damage and gives your truck an attractive look. Before choosing a paint sealant, consider the above factors. 

The ignition system of a truck has various parts, but the spark plugs are popular. Spark plug coils are another essential part worth knowing. The spark plug coil has two coils, and it is this part where the electrical energy from the battery passes through to the spark plugs. The primary role of the spark plug coil is to transform the electrical energy from your truck’s battery into high voltage. It temporarily saves and emits the high voltage current to the spark plug.

The spark plug coil, just like other parts of the engine, also faces tear and wear. At some point, you have to replace them. Knowing when to change the spark plug coil is essential. This guide will let you know when to do it as you read.

When to Change Spark Plug Coils

The spark plug coil should serve you for 100,000 miles. When this mileage is exceeded, you will start experiencing the below signs.

Power Loss

When the spark plug coils cannot transform and supply the required voltage to the spark plugs, combustion in the cylinders will not be effective. In such a situation, your truck will become sluggish and pick up slowly whenever you press the gas pedal. Power loss also results from irregular sparks within the cylinders. 

If you experience power loss and other parts, such as the fuel system, air system, and spark plugs, are working perfectly, consider checking if your spark plug coils need a replacement.

Engine Check Light

The engine of modern trucks has various sensors. The primary function of these sensors is to ensure that the entire system runs smoothly. When the spark plug coils become faulty, the sensors will take this information to the engine control module, which will light an engine check light on the dashboard.

If the engine check light shows on your dashboard, consider taking your truck for a computer check-up to read the error code. If the spark plug coils are the cause, consider replacing them.

Low Fuel Economy

A faulty spark plug coil will not supply inadequate voltage to initiate combustion but also reduce your engine’s performance. When your engine’s performance is poor, your feet will rest on the gas pedal, resulting in high fuel consumption. 

Engine Misfiring 

Your engine will misfire when you press the gas pedal once the spark plug coils become faulty. Engine misfire result from one of the cylinders not functioning effectively or dead.

Engine misfires indicate that your spark plug coils need a replacement. 

Hard Starts

For your engine to function effectively, all processes must be done promptly. For example, when igniting the engine, the fuel and air should get into the cylinder, and spark plugs should cause combustion. All these are timed processes, and if one does not happen within the required timeframe, your engine will become hard to start and sometimes even stall.

Conclusion

The spark plug coils, like other parts of the ignition system. Although they have a longer lifespan, they also wear out. After covering more than 100,000 miles, your spark plug coils will start becoming exhausted and faulty. When such happens, you will experience some of the above signals. When such signs start to develop, consider fixing new ones.

Spark plugs need to be firmly held in their place to function effectively and at times you may need a torque wrench to achieve that. When correctly tightened, you can avoid engine performance issues. A common tool when installing and removing spark plugs is a torque wrench. 

Are you removing your spark plugs for the first time? Here is how to do it using a torque wrench. But first, you need to know a torque and torque wrench. 

What is Torque?

You have come across this term before. When buying your truck, two things attracted you, horsepower and torque. So what is torque? It is the measure of the force on an object that will make it rotate. Torque has various SI units, such as newton meter (N.M), pound inch (Ib.in), and pound-foot (Ib.ft)

What is a Torque Wrench?

A torque wrench is a common term you will hear more often when you take your truck for routine servicing or read various guides about performing a given procedure in your truck. In simple terms, a torques wrench is a tool for tightening bolts and nuts. It enables the user to achieve the necessary tension when tightening bolts or nuts. 

A spark plug is a vital part of the engine, and it is essential to apply the correct torque when fixing it. Doing this will let it give you optimum performance.

Using a Torque Wrench For A Spark Plug

The spark plug has to perform effectively for your truck to get adequate horsepower and torque. It is, therefore, essential to tighten it to a given degree to offer the best performance.

There are various brands of spark plugs in the market. And these different brands have multiple specifications about how to fix a new or serviced unit. For example, a given brand may outline the torque necessary when installing a new spark plug and when fitting a serviced unit.

Spark plug manufacturers give different directions regarding fixing a new spark plug and fixing a serviced one because these units differ. One is new, and the other has been in service.

Removing the Spark Plug

When removing your spark plug, a torque wrench is an essential tool. How do you use it? Place the socket of your torque wrench around the spark plug and turn it in an anti-clockwise direction. If done correctly, the spark plug should quickly come out. Sometimes you might experience difficulty when removing your spark plug. The spark plug might be too tight in such a scenario. Stop before breaking it.

Installing a New Spark Plug

First, you need to hand-twist the spark plug in a clockwise direction until it becomes firm. Fit your torque wrench over the spark plug and screw it as per the manufacturer’s specifications.

Never over-tighten the spark plug, as this can damage the engine. Spark plugs need to be firmly held in their place to function effectively and at times you may need a torque wrench to achieve that. head and other parts. In some engines, using a torque wrench is essential for proper indexing.

Conclusion

The spark plug is a delicate part of the engine. One needs to be cautious when working on it, especially fixing it. A torque wrench is essential for fixing and removing a spark plug. When fixing a spark plug using a torque wrench, go through the specifications. 

What are the effects and symptoms of overtightened spark plugs? Truck maintenance is a balancing act and might develop serious issues when it goes past the service date. Also, overdoing maintenance can lead to other financially draining problems.

Trucks are complex engineering art. Thus, you must be extremely careful when replacing or fixing a new part. If whatever you are installing fits the wrong way, the performance of your truck can go down.

Spark plugs as part of the ignition system and electrical component. It is partially inside the cylinder and partially outside. It means it occupies a hole for better anchorage and is tightened at the top of the cylinder. Upon reading this guide, you will be able to know some notable symptoms of an overtightened cylinder.

When your truck has an overtightened spark plug, it will not respond even if you try to loosen it using a wrench. 

Some spark plugs have specific guidelines for installation and re-installation. If you do not adhere to the guidelines can over-tighten the spark plug. 

Signs of Overtightened Spark Plugs

The spark plugs can be a little tight to function effectively. But it would be best if you exerted a little pressure for it to be held firmly on the head of the engine. 

Hard To Remove

It is not easy to remove overtightened spark plugs. But sometimes, it completely fails to come out. This might give you a feeling that the spark plug has been plastered on the cylinder head. When rusty or having debris, it will be hard to remove.

Destroyed Cylinder Head

The bolt hole on the cylinder head that lets the spark plug in the cylinder should be intact. In case of stripping or deformation, you can’t install a new one. Overtighted spark plugs can destroy the bolt hole if you try to remove it. This will lead to expensive repairs. Substantial damage on the cylinder head indicates that pulling the spark plug will not be easy.

Debris In the Cylinder

Apart from valves, a cylinder has two openings on the top and the bottom. The bottom opening is sealed with the pistons, while the top is sealed with the sparkplugs. These are the main areas that can allow debris inside the combustion chamber. A plug insulator or electrode is the typical junk that gets into the combustion chamber. 

When such debris is in the cylinder, it can harm the surrounding parts or the surfaces they hit against. Spark plugs are some of the parts that can face damage. When such happens, it will be challenging to remove your spark plugs.

The erratic motor will warn when your spark plug is poorly installed. When it gives a warning, you might find your spark plug loose. In such a case, tightening it will be helpful. But it becomes tricky when you realize that there is an ovetightened spark plugs on your truck.

Conclusion

When installing or servicing an existing spark plug, it is essential to know some guidelines for tightening it. Various brands have unique ways of tightening a newly installed spark plug and a serviced or preinstalled unit. Failure to adhere to the specifications can lead to overtightened spark plugs.

In this guide, we will go through some tips on auto brake maintenance. Truck brakes are essential life-saving components. Although they are life-saving, brakes usually wear out more often. It is thus necessary to learn simple ways to maintain your brake system and troubleshoot any part-developing problems as early as possible. 

Truck Brake Maintenance

When your brakes are in good working condition, they function without making any noise or squealing sound. But brake maintenance is something you need to have in mind. You will also stop effortlessly without pressing the brake pedal to the floor. 

Whenever you hear a grinding sound when pressing your brake pedals, it indicates that they are in critical condition. In such a situation, your brakes are worn out, and you should immediately head to the auto repair shop. 

Consider troubleshooting the issue when your brake pedal feels soft, or you hear noises when braking. 

You will need to check your brake fluid. If it is low, it might be the cause and the solution to this topping it up.

If it still needs to be fixed, take your truck for a test drive and pump the brake pedal while driving. Doing this will fix the issue. 

If pumping the brakes does not solve this, consider driving down the block and stopping your truck. Listen for noises and vibrations on the steering wheel or even a drift when braking. Doing this will enable you to describe the issue to the mechanic, who will fix it. 

Replacing The Brake Pads

As pat of regular brake maintenance, you need to conside replacing brake pads. Brake pads are part of the braking system prone to wear and tear. When they are worn out and old, your truck will not be able to brake properly. It is thus essential to replace them when they show signs of wearing out. 

If you can replace your tires, replacing the brake pads should not stress you. 

Walk to the nearest auto parts shop and purchase the brake pads that fit your truck make and model. Lift your truck using a jack to remove the tire lug and pull out the wheel. Doing this will give you an easy time working on your brake caliper. Remove the bolt from the brake caliper and push it up. Doing this will expose the brake pad.

The brake pads are held firmly in place with the retaining clips. You can remove the clips and pull out the brake pads. 

Push the new brake pads and press the retaining clips to hold them firmly. The pads usually snap when they are in the correct position. Grease the brake pad clips to prevent squeaks. 

Push the brake pistons into their place, then fit the brake caliper on the brake pads. The pistons should be past the brake pads, and you can achieve this by using hard objects to push them past the brake pads. After doing this, attach the brake caliper and bolt. After ensuring everything is in the right place, consider reattaching the wheel. 

Conclusion

As a truck owner, you must know some brake maintenance tips. The braking system is not complex, and you can easily troubleshoot and fix most of its parts without the help of a professional mechanic. This guide has the essential information to service and maintain your brakes. Servicing your brakes will keep your truck at its peak performance and efficiency. 

Do you know why you may need to torque spark plugs of your truck? The spark plugs are a vital part of the ignition system for petrol engines. It plays two main functions, ignition to initiate combustion and moving away heat from the combustion chamber. Installing spark plugs is relatively easy, but only for skilled technicians. Applying the correct torque when changing spark plugs might take much work. Upon reading this guide, you can tell if it is necessary to torque spark plugs.

Why Torque Spark Plug Matters

While working on your truck, you will find yourself rushing the process. You will want to finish very fast so that you do other activities. But you can’t rush more because this can land you into problems that will drain you financially. When working on spark plugs, taking time and being cautious are essential. 

You will need to be careful when tightening the spark plugs, and failure to do so can give birth to severe issues. Consider using your fingers to tighten the spark plugs before using a torque wrench. In case you have no torque wrench, tighten it according to the manufacturer’s guide. If your spark plugs are too tight or loose, you will experience several issues. 

Too Loose Spark Plugs

You will notice immediately if your spark plugs need to be well-tightened. The cylinder with the loose spark plug will die. Why? The fuel-air mixture in the cylinder will receive a lower voltage necessary to initiate combustion. 

You will experience pre-ignition issues, engine misfires, and weak acceleration. The worst that can happen is an engine knock. When you feel any of the above problems, check if your spark plugs are loose and tighten them. 

Too Tight Spark Plugs

Tightly tightening your spark plugs can also result in various issues. When overtightening your spark plugs, remember you will need to remove them in the future. Spark plugs will stick and become hard to remove when you overtighten them, which can cause damage to the cylinder as you struggle to loosen them. 

The spark plugs can also break if tightly tightened. A foreign object will find itself in the combustion chamber if they break. Such an object will knock and damage the cylinder walls and other components. 

Do you Need to Torque Spark Plugs?

It is necessary to torque your spark plugs as long you do not over-tighten or loosely attach them. It is difficult to determine if you have not over-tightened your spark plugs. This is the reason why most people prefer using a torque wrench.

When installing spark plugs without a torque wrench, consider having the ½ turn measurement in your mind. After tightening the spark plugs using your hands, adding ½ turn is enough to tighten your spark plug.

You will require more torque and effort during the uninstallation of the spark plugs. This is because the spark plug wires sustain minor damages that tighten them.

Conclusion

Spark plugs are a delicate part of the ignition system, but you must handle them. You will have to torque spark plugs when removing or installing them. Most people prefer using a torque wrench when handling spark plugs. Remember the ½ turn rule during installation if you do not have a torque wrench.

Every truck owner with basic automotive experience knows the power steering pump’s reaction when the power steering fluid level drops due to leakages. When your power steering fluid leaks, the power steering pump will be the first to react to the low levels and let you know. 

When a power steering is functioning without enough power steering fluid, your truck will suffer serious damages that are costly to fix. It is, therefore, essential to react very fast whenever the power steering pump warns that the power steering fluid is running low.

Stopping Power Steering Leaks

Consider doing the following to stop your power steering fluid from leaking.

Take Your Truck for a Drive

Drive your truck while paying attention to the way it is steering. When your power steering is faulty, you will notice it when driving at lower speeds, especially in the parking area. Turn your steering to the right and left sides as you listen to whining sounds. Sometimes, the wheel might be hard to turn at low speed, or you can feel a mini-burst from the steering rack.

Clean the Power Steering System

Consider cleaning the power steering lines, steering rack, and reservoir. Doing this is the simplest way of identifying leaks within the system. Wipe all the surfaces using a cloth, go for a short drive and check for leaks. The power steering circuit will never leak when the engine is off. Driving activates the system and enables it to function under the required pressure.

Check the Fluid Level

Every manufacturer has specific instructions to check the levels of power steering fluids. Consider going through such instructions before you start checking the level of the power steering fluid. The simplest way of checking the power steering fluid level is by removing the reservoir cap and using a dipstick to determine the levels. Maintaining the steering fluid level is essential because many vehicles have a smaller quantity of steering fluid.

Most power steering system in trucks does not need servicing. Ensuring the level of the liquid is correct is important. Whenever you realize that your power steering fluid is dropping very fast or note leakages, never tense. The power steering system is unique because it will need a physical repair on rare occasions. So in case of leakages, use products that prevent it from leaking.

Take an Immediate Action

Automotive fluids play an essential role in your truck. Experiencing leakages is common. When you notice your power steering system is leaking, never wait for all of it to leak out but take immediate action. Such leakages can lead to damages that are costly to repair when ignored. 

Conclusion

It is essential to do a regular check-up on the levels of the transmission fluid. Doing it is not complex and takes the minimum time possible. You will note a problem with the power steering when driving your truck at low speed. The power steering only functions when the engine is on. The tips in this guide will let you determine and stop power steering leakages.

Nobody out there is using paint sealant on their trucks, and they are just looking fine. So, is it necessary to do it? Your truck’s paint will never fade out if you do not wax the truck. But, it will age quickly in the next 5 to 10 years. It is, therefore, essential to protect the paint of your truck. Here is why your truck needs paint protection.

Defense

The clear coat on your truck is very thin and measures about 1.5 to 2 microns thick. It is easier for the clear coat to get scratched. Being thin, the scratches also reach the underneath coat. When this happens, you will need to repaint your truck to restore its original look. 

Besides scratches, dangerous ultraviolet rays can crack your truck’s paint, making it fade or oxidize. If it’s long since you took your truck for cleaning, tough stains will react to the sun, which will burn the clear coat.

With time, dirt accumulation, scratches, and UV rays from the sun will fade the color of your truck, and it will no longer shine. What’s the solution? Paint protection is the solution. The paint sealant forms a layer of barrier on the surface of your truck. This layer will protect the clear coat from damage. Apart from protection, your truck will look as new as it was when you bought it.

Cleans Up Nicely

Paint sealant not only protects your truck from external or environmental damages. But it also makes it easy to rinse or wash off dirt from your truck.

The sealants create a slippery surface that makes it difficult for dirt to stick to the body of your truck. When tough stains like tar or bird droppings come in contact with the body of your truck, you will only need soap and water to wipe them off.

Most products used as sealants repel water. After washing and rinsing your truck, no water will stick on the surface, giving your truck a spotless dry. 

When to Use Paint Protection On Your Truck

Consider applying paint sealant after washing and drying your truck. Before using paint protection, ensure the surface is sparkling clean. Doing this will remove the abrasive soil and other debris that the sealant might seal on the surface of your truck.

First-timers should take between 5 – 10 minutes to apply the paint sealant. Using spray waxes is easy. Make 1 to 2 sprays, then wipe them using a microfiber cloth. If you want to create a deeper shine, consider learning how to use DA polishers.

Ensure you regularly use the type of paint sealant you have chosen. Natural waxes have a lifespan of three months, so it is necessary to reapply after every three months. The ceramic coatings and graphene waxes have a lifespan of 1 year.

Conclusion

Using paint sealant gives your truck extra protection and maintains its fresh minty look. When applying any sealant, you must wash and let your truck dry. Applying a sealant on a dirty surface will trap the dirt, which will not give your truck an appealing look.

Most truck owners believe that the problem lies with the battery when they have starting difficulty but the reality is that spark plugs could be the cause. At the same time, this can be the case, but there are other reasons for starting issues. A faulty spark plug can also make it hard for your engine to start and run effectively. 

The spark plugs are small but perform an elephant role to start and run the engine. It is the role of the spark plug to initiate the combustion of gasoline and air in the cylinders. Internal combustion engines greatly depend on this to generate power to cause motion.

The spark plugs, therefore, need to be in good condition to offer a reliable performance. These signs show an ideal time to change the spark plugs.

The Check Engine Light

Modern engines have several sensors that monitor how they function. It is the responsibility of these sensors to give a warning if a specific part of the engine becomes faulty. When the spark plug of your truck is faulty, the sensor will take the information to the engine control module, which will, in turn, show an engine check light on the dashboard of your engine.

When an engine misfire accompanies the check light, it is evident that your spark plug is faulty. A lashing engine check light signals a severe issue worth not ignoring. 

Troubles When Starting Your Truck

The spark plugs provide the spark that initiates the combustion in the engine. When they are old or worn out, it becomes hard for them to generate a spark that initiates combustion. You will experience difficulty when starting your engine, and sometimes your truck can stall on the highway. When this happens, consider checking and replacing your spark plugs.

Poor Fuel Economy

When the spark plugs are in their last stages of failure, your truck will consume a lot of fuel. Worn-out spark plugs will not generate the adequate spark to burn fuel in the engine, therefore, the excess fuel will move to the exhaust system.

Rough Idle

It is essential to let your truck idle, and when idling, you will quickly notice if your engine is healthy or if something is amiss. If your spark plugs become faulty, your truck will develop a rough idling. The engine will produce rattling or pinging sounds. When you notice this, consider checking and replacing your spark plugs.

Slow Acceleration

When your spark plug is faulty, you will note your truck is taking time to accelerate whenever you press the gas pedal. A faulty spark plug will not be able to generate sparks to cause combustion in the cylinders. An internal combustion engine depends on the combustion of gasoline and air in the cylinder to generate power.

 When you press the gas pedal, more gasoline moves to the combustion chamber, and equally, the air supply also goes up. If your spark plug is healthy, it will effectively generate a spark to burn all the air-fuel mixture. 

Conclusion

The role that spark plugs play categorizes them as the part of an engine that needs regular inspection and maintenance. The above are the signs you will note when your truck needs new spark plugs. Manufacturers also recommend changing spark plugs after 80,000 miles.

Adhering to the engine maintenance of the truck prolongs its life, thus reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and costly repairs. Care for the truck engine is also essential for the safe operation of the truck. Every truck owner and enthusiast should know when to maintain their engines. Here are the signs of engine maintenance worth knowing.

Signs of Truck Engine Maintenance

When you note the below signs from the engine, take your truck for maintenance as soon as possible.

Poor performance 

If your truck’s overall performance has become abysmal or your truck is developing poor fuel economy, the cause can be a clogged air filter, faulty fuel pump, or injectors. Take your truck for inspection cleaning or a change of filters. 

Experiencing Brake Issues

The immediate effect should be taken when changes are experienced in how the brakes feel or work. The changes experienced may include vibration due to heating brakes, a squishy feeling during the pressing of the brake pedal, strange noises when applying the brakes, and the truck pulling on one side during braking. 

Leakages

Oil, transmission fluid, and wiper fluids are some of the many fluids involved in keeping the truck running smoothly. Thus, leakage of any of the fluids can leave the truck vulnerable to failure or severe damage. Therefore, any leakage from your truck should be looked at. Sometimes you may spot a pool of liquid where you previously packed, which is a sign of fluid leakage.

Colored Exhaust Smoke

Smoke is hazardous not only to the truck but also to health. Therefore, take immediate action whenever your truck starts to produce unusual smoke.

White smoke may be a result of overheating. Usually, when coolant leaks and finds its way of getting into the combustion chamber.

Black smoke indicates that your truck is burning fuel, and the air filter or the fuel injectors could be faulty. 

Blue or gray smoke shows oil leakage into the combustion chamber. The cause of this can be faulty piston rings. The rings offer a tight sealing for oil does not get into the cylinders.

Unusual Noises

Unusual noises from the engine result from low oil in the engine. When your truck uses a timing chain, you will also feel the noise when the timing is poor since the chain will be loose.

 Warning Dashboard Lights

The dashboard is where the ECM displays various issues with your truck. A check light appears on the dashboard whenever a sensor records a problem with the engine. In such a scenario, consider knowing the reason for the appearance of the check light and fix it.

Odors From Inside The Truck

It is dangerous to feel a bad engine smell from the cabin of your truck. If there is a strong odor in the exhaust, it could be a sign of engine damage. Thus, consider checking the engine.

Conclusion

The truck’s engine is a complicated system requiring regular servicing to keep it at optimum power. Knowing the exact part of the engine with the problem will help the mechanic understand where to focus and efficiently diagnose. Therefore, the above signs will help determine when your truck needs engine maintenance.

In this guide, we will go through some top truck parts that need routine maintenance. Maintenance tells how much you treasure your truck. Most truck owners are car enthusiasts who love everything about their trucks. They will work round the clock to ensure their trucks are healthy. But how can you do this if you are a first-time truck owner? Reading this guide enlightens you about the crucial parts of your truck that you should never ignore when performing essential routine maintenance.

Crucial Parts Worth Not Ignoring

Some parts of your truck need to be in proper working condition for your truck to be reliable and safe. Here are some of the parts that need routine maintenance.

Brake Pads

Brake pads are the crucial components of the braking system. All the braking processes end at the brake pads. Brake pads are usually two, and the brake disc moves between them. When you apply brakes, they cling against the brake disc to offer the necessary resistance that stops your wheels.

The brake pads strain as they functions. As a result, they wear out more often. If you fail to replace them in time, you will hear a loud screech due to metallic contact whenever you press your brakes—indicating that your brake pads are due for replacement. It is without a doubt one of the most important parts that need routine maintenance more often.

Brakes are life savers not only in trucks but also in other vehicles. It is essential to replace your brake pads after covering at most 40,000 miles. But this will depend on your driving style.

Battery

A battery is an essential part of your truck. It initiates the starting of the engine and also stores power that other electrical components use when the alternator is off. When it dies, starting your truck will be a nightmare. But if you own an old manual truck, you can put a free gear and get a push to start the engine.

Most truck batteries give 3 years of service, but more is needed to guarantee that it will serve you for those years or more. The service your battery offers solely depends on where you live. If you experience extreme weather conditions, your battery will weaken faster.

It is essential to check the condition of your battery at the beginning of winter and summer. Such seasons need a healthy battery, and they also facilitate the rate at which your battery wears out.

Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are part of the ignition system that plays the role of initiating combustion in the cylinders. They develop rust with time. A corroded spark plug will not function effectively, leading to engine misfires and other performance issues. It is essential to replace them in time.

The spark plugs have a relatively long life span. You can think of replacing them after covering at most 90,000 miles, depending on the model and type of your truck.

The Filters

Oil, air, and fuel filters are common, but there are some, like the transmission fluid filter. Filters trap and prevent debris in the engine fluids from reaching the engine’s delicate parts. They get clogged with time and fail to function. Therefore, replacing them after 15,000 to 30,000 miles is essential.

Conclusion

While doing your regular truck maintenance, you should also consider other parts, like the engine belts, which also need routine maintenance. Taking care of these parts will give your truck prolonged health. Shared above are some of the parts that are often ignored but very crucial.

Jerking is one of the problems you will or have experienced as a truck owner. Jerking when accelerating is an indication of various problems. If you ignore it, it will escalate into other issues that are expensive to fix.

The feeling annoys you and makes it difficult to handle your truck while driving. You can avoid it only by knowing why it happens and what to do to fix it. Here are the reasons and how to fix them.

Clogged Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors become dirty and clogged as they inject fuel into the combustion chamber. When this happens for a long time, it can compromise how your injectors function, interfering with how your truck accelerates. 

When the injectors are clogged, the rate at which fuel flows into the combustion chamber will either go high or reduce, and your truck will jerk in such a scenario. To solve this, consider buying and fitting new fuel injectors.

Clogged Air Filters

Air filters become clogged and dirty after usage for a long time.  When clogged, your truck starts to stutter and stops functioning as it should. Such happens because clogs block the air from passing through the filters.

Air is an essential ingredient for combustion to take place. When its supply is limited, your truck will jerk whenever you accelerate because the combustion chamber cannot produce adequate power.

The solution to this is to buy and install a new air filter. It is essential to replace your air filters when replacing oil filters and oil.

Blocked Catalytic Converter

A catalytic converter plays the role of neutralizing the harmful gases from the combustion chamber. As it performs its functions, it starts to break down due to regular use. It usually blocks after a long time of usage. When such happens, your truck will jerk whenever you press the gas pedal. 

The catalytic converter is a complex part of the exhaust system. When you feel it is developing problems, consider consulting a technician to handle and repair it. 

Faulty Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are the most important part of the ignition system. Its primary role is to supply sparks that initiate the combustion of fuel and air in the combustion chamber. It is prone to wear after serving for a given duration. When such happens, you will experience jerks whenever you accelerate.

The solution to this is buying and fitting new spark plugs. You can fit the spark plugs alone if you have basic mechanical knowledge. But it is essential to consult a professional to do it on your behalf.

Faulty Gas Lines

Sometimes the gas lines become faulty, which is due for several reasons. When this happens, little, more, or no fuel will flow into the combustion chamber, and as a result, the way your truck functions will change.

When such happens, consider servicing the entire gas line.

Conclusion

Your truck can jerk whenever you press the gas pedal for several reasons. Jerking is usually a warning that something is not working perfectly in your truck, and you should consider checking it. Truck jerks can result in major damages that are costly to repair. This guide has covered several possible reasons and what to do to fix it. 

Preventive maintenance is essential and the most convenient way to prevent your truck from breaking down. Ensuring your truck is reliable is one of the methods of keeping it affordable. It is thus essential to perform breakdown preventive maintenance for your truck. After reading this guide, you will understand the primary areas worth performing breakdown preventive maintenance.

Tires

25% of truck problems result from tire issues. Here is how to prevent such problems before going on a trip.

Check tire pressure

Tire pressure determines the rate at which your truck consumes fuel and the lifespan of your tire. When you look at the owner’s manual, you will see the correct tire pressure. If your truck is model 2003 onwards, the information regarding your tire pressure is on a placard at the doorjamb on the driver’s side. 

Check Tire Wear

Cracks and damaged treads are some common signs of bad tire wear. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) recommends that the depth of a steer tire should be 4/32. The commercial vehicle safety authority further advises that you can replace your tires once the tread depth is less than 2/32.

The Brakes

The braking system is another area worth performing preventive maintenance. Brake shoes and pads are exposed to much pressure that wears them out. You will feel some signs, such as squealing sounds, when your brake pads are worn out. Before going for any trip, ensure your brake pads and shoes are in good working condition.

The brake fluid is prone to leakages. If you note leakages below your truck, consider checking for the cause and fixing it. Sometimes it is tricky to fix braking issues, so taking your truck for a mechanical check-up is essential.

The Electrical System

The electrical system is another area that can kill or reduce the performance of your truck. These are the areas worth checking.

The Battery

Ensure your battery is working perfectly, and ensure your battery is fully charged as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. A faulty battery can damage your engine’s vital parts and make it difficult to start your truck.

Cables and Wires

Ensure the cables and wires are free from corrosion and have a secure and fastened connection. Doing this will prevent electric short and other major failures related to the electrical system.

Oil and the Cooling System

Oil and cooling systems are essential fluids that help in cooling and lubricating your engine. Ensure to keep and track your service records. Doing this will let you know when you serviced these fluids and the next time you should service them.

Oil

It is essential to change your oil after 10,000 miles and regularly check the condition of your engine oil. Consult a professional who will do an assessment and tell you how your engine is burning oil.

Coolant

Different engines require different coolants, so ensure your truck engine uses the right coolant. Doing this will let the cooling system work efficiently. 

Conclusion

Breakdown maintenance aims at preventing your truck from breaking down. Such kind of maintenance servicing focuses on specific areas. When such areas are in good working condition, your truck will give you the best performance. Consider practicing breakdown preventive maintenance to boost the reliability of your truck.

Being stuck in the middle of nowhere due to a flat tire or dead battery is one of the emergencies that is an annoying experience that no one wishes to go through. However, such scenarios will always keep you armed with the necessary tools to repair your truck during emergencies. But which kind of emergency tools do you need? After reading this guide, you will be able to know some of the basic tools that can aid you during an emergency breakdown.

Toolkit

A toolkit is a necessity that should never miss in your truck. It has screwdrivers of various sizes that can help you remove hubcaps, a lug wrench, and a jack for replacing a flat tire and checking under your truck. A fully equipped toolkit has pliers, antifreeze, a pocketknife, and duct tape.

Spare Tire

Before driving your truck, consider checking if it has a spare tire ready for use anytime. If you have a portable tire inflator can be an added advantage during an emergency. The inflators will temporarily seal and inflate your tire and let you drive to the nearest repair. A spare tire will let you drive for a longer distance before taking your tire for repair.

First Aid Kit

A first Aid kit comes in handy in case of a minor accident. The kit should have bandages, antiseptic sprays, adhesive tapes, gauze, antibiotic ointments, cotton swabs, and painkillers. It should have basic surgical items like a scissor and a thermometer. 

Jumper Cables

Jumper cables come in handy when your battery goes off, and you find a driver willing to help you jumpstart your truck. The jumper cables will help you connect your battery to the battery of the other truck for jumpstarting.

Cut – Resistance Gloves

Your repair tool kit should always take advantage of a hard glove that lets you break glass windows without hurting yourself. Such gloves have cut-resistance materials that can help you shatter a window in an emergency. 

Cut-resistance gloves are also essential when performing minor truck repairs or assisting an injured passenger.

An Extra Phone

Besides having a fully charged phone, consider leaving with an extra charger to charge your phone if it goes off. An extra phone comes in handy when your phone is dead and you need to communicate urgently.

Water and Snacks

These might not help you repair your truck, but they will help improve your situation and give you the energy to help you survive when stranded in an unfamiliar area. If any of your passengers have a medical condition like diabetes, snacks and water will come in handy. 

Warning Triangles

When your truck stalls on a busy highway or a rural road, it might be challenging for other road users to spot you. The warning triangles will warn other drivers that your truck is having mechanical issues and they should approach with caution.

Conclusion

Trucks, just like other vehicles, can breakdown anywhere. When this happens, you will need one or two pieces of equipment to repair it. Apart from the necessary tools, having food and a blanket is necessary since you never know when you might need them. The above are necessities that you should have before going for a drive.

How do you go about repairing your truck on a budget? No one usually enjoys spending their hard-earned money to keep their trucks running, but they do it to keep the truck in perfect condition. Many truck owners have emergency savings to cater for emergency repairs, but sometimes such repairs can surpass your budget.

It may be that month you go through various issues that drain you financially, your service date is here, or your truck breaks down. What do you do? Here are some tips to bail out when looking for ways of repairing your truck on a budget.

Talk To Your Mechanic

You must understand the problem and explain it to your mechanic in such a scenario. When explaining, inquire if there are expensive options. The conversation should let you know the urgency of the service. For example, a faulty oxygen sensor can trigger the engine check light, but your truck will still run perfectly.

Although a broken oxygen sensor can make you fail an emission test, you can ignore it until you have the funds to fix a new one. Having a trusted mechanic who can repair your car and make payments when you get money is good.

Buy Used Parts

Purchasing used parts is another way of cutting the cost of repairs if you cannot afford the funds to buy new parts. Some mechanics do not work with used parts. Consider taking your truck to the one who will do it for you. Doing this will reduce the final amount you will spend repairing your truck.

Check The Warranty of Your Truck

New trucks from dealers usually come with a warranty covering a given period. Before the warranty expiry, you can take your car for diagnosis and repairs free of charge when it develops mechanical issues. 

If your truck develops mechanical issues, but the warranty is still active, inquire if the warranty covers the part that requires servicing. You can do this by calling the dealer. If it covers, you can take it for fixing free of charge.

Sell Your Truck

If you are tired of spending a lot of money repairing your truck, which is giving you a headache, think of selling it. 

Consider selling if it is in mint condition except for the part that requires servicing. If you are still looking for a willing buyer, do it through a dealer.

You can also trade it in for a new truck. Some trucks may fetch little. If your truck is in this category, take it to the junkyard.

Make Payments

Inquire if your mechanic offers financing services. Financing will help you have a payment plan over a given duration to cover the cost of repairs.

Financing is the best option when the repair bills are enormous, and thus you need more cash to settle. When you have limited options, consider the available financial plans that suites you.

Conclusion

Sometimes the cost of truck repairs goes up to the extent of not being able to offset all of it at once. Your truck can also break down and will need more cash for repairs. In such a scenario, you might be stranded on the next action to take. The tips in this guide will bail you out. 

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where the truck can’t start? You have had a long day and preparing for a tougher one the next day. You wake up slightly early to go for a trip, but you realize the engine coughs and sputter instead of starting. 

There are several reasons why your truck can’t start. You will be compelled to turn to a professional mechanic, before taking such a decision. There are several things you can check on your own. After reading this guide, you will understand the possible reasons why your truck will not start.

Why Your Truck Can’t Start

1. Dead Battery

Several reasons can lead to the death of your battery and this can lead to a situation where the truck can’t start. It may be due to loose wires or even evaporation that leads to insufficient conductivity, or you forgot to turn off your light the previous day.

To solve this, you can jump-start your truck. If the jump starting is unsuccessful, your battery could die, and you should replace it. 

2. Alternator Issues

When your alternator is faulty, the battery will not be able to receive an adequate charge. If you feel your alternator is faulty, check if there is a worn-out drive belt. A check light will appear on your dashboard when the alternator or the belt is faulty. 

Sometimes the check light might not appear. In such a situation, check if the instrumental panel displays 14 volts. When you experience a weak cranking, it indicates that your battery is not charging.

3. Faulty Spark Plugs

Faulty spark plugs are not a common issue nowadays, but if it occurs, it can be challenging to start your truck. When your spark plugs become faulty, forming sparks in the combustion chamber will be challenging. As a result, you will experience starting issues. 

4. Clogged Air Filter

Air filters trap dirt from the air and keep your engine clean. As they trap the dirt and other particles, they become clogged, preventing air from reaching the combustion chamber. Air is an essential ingredient for combustion. If it is not present, your truck will experience starting issues. 

5. Faulty Fuel Filters

The fuel filter is another part of your truck that functions similarly to the air filter and this can lead to a situation where the truck can’t start. The engine combustion chamber is sensitive, and it should receive clean fuel. When the filter is clogged or faulty, the combustion chamber will not receive adequate fuel, and this can lead to starting problems. 

6. Faulty Fuel Pump

A fuel pump generates the pressure to move fuel from the tank to the combustion chamber. When your fuel pump is faulty, the combustion chamber will not receive adequate fuel, which can lead to starting issues. To check if your fuel pump is faulty, turn on the engine and check if it is running. 

7. Faulty Starter

The starter is the electrical component of your truck responsible for starting your truck. When you turn the engine on, the starter receives power from the battery, which later transmits this power to the spark plugs through the coils. If faulty, it will not transmit power to the spark plugs, and you will experience starting issues.

Conclusion

Truck starting issues result from various reasons. When you experience it, consider checking your fuel gauge. The above are the common reasons why a truck is not able to start. If you experience any of them, take your truck to a professional to check and fix it.

When should you do suspension repairs for your truck? Many people know little about their trucks’ wheels, steering systems, and brakes. Many need to learn and understand the suspension and when to repair it in their trucks. Reading this guide will let you know what the suspension is and when you can fix it.

What is Suspension?

The suspension gives you a safe and smooth drive as it absorbs the energy from various types of road bumps. It also lets your tires stay in contact with the road, increasing traction. In a nutshell, the suspension is a carriage on which the truck’s entire body rests. 

The comfort you enjoy from your cabin is due to the presence of the suspension. The suspension connects to the wheels and has basic parts like springs that control the cabin’s height and load suspension. And shocks that absorb and dampen kinetic energy pulses your tire transmits from the road.

Signs Your Truck Needs a Suspension Repairs

Some roads are extremely rough, with several potholes. Such can tear apart your shocks and struts with time. Trucks have tougher suspension that can absorb road shocks and jerks, but the tougher suspension is not immune to potholes and rough road drive beatings. 

The struts and shocks can withstand wear and tear for 50,000 miles. Upon covering this mileage, it will start not being functional. As time passes, your truck becomes bouncy and makes strange noises even if you ride on a smooth surface. Here are the four common signs that your truck needs suspension repairs.

Steering Wheel problems

When your steering wheel becomes very difficult to handle, even at low speeds, in such a situation, particular parts of the suspension need a replacement. Consider taking your truck for a mechanical check–up.

One Side Of The Truck Sits Lower than the Other

Sometimes it might take time or even fail to hear the sounds related to a faulty suspension. But if you see one side of your truck sitting lower than the other, it indicates that you need to do suspension repairs for your truck. It suggests that your suspension springs are worn out, and you should consider suspension repairs. 

Feeling Road Bumps

When your suspension system is worn-out, you will feel a bumpy ride. More shock will go to your cabin when you drive over small potholes. You will experience a bumpy ride, and such a problem is usually with the piston-cylinder assembly and requires immediate repair if a single part is faulty.

Squeaks When Passing Over Bumps

If your truck makes funny noises when you pass bumps or go through a speed breaker, it indicates that your shock absorbers are faulty. You will also note that it becomes hard to control your truck. Driving over every speed bump will be problematic for your truck as it will make screeching sounds at every bump.

Conclusion

The suspension is what offers a smooth ride in every truck. It is where the entire weight of the truck relaxes. It is, therefore, essential to check and service your suspension regularly. Here are some symptoms that will let you know if your truck needs suspension repairs or replacement.

There are a number of things that quickly destroy your truck and in this guide, we will go through them. The heavy metals that make up your truck do not make them resistant to destruction. The cost of repairing trucks is generally high, and no one wishes to go through such expenses. But, some small unnoticeable things that quickly destroy your truck without your knowledge.

Here are the top five things that quickly destroy your truck worth knowing.

Driving Your Truck Before it Warms Up

You might be in a hurry when it’s cold, so you will turn on your engine, engage gears and leave. Doing this is harmful to the health of your truck. The oil only functions well when it is cold. Try to give your engine some time to heat up. Doing this increases the temperature of the oil and activates it to start lubricating effectively.

Driving With Winter Tires Throughout the Year

The special rubber of the winter tires increases their traction in the snow. When you use winter tires during summer, they will wear out very fast and melt while driving. If this happens, your tires can blow. If you are a person who prefers using specific tires throughout the year. All-season tires are the best for you.

Not Engaging Parking Brake

Parking brakes lock the wheels and also help the transmission to hold your truck. Suppose you do not engage the parking brakes when parking. The transmission will hold your truck, and this stress it. Your transmission will wear out, leading to hefty expenses. Always engage the parking brakes when parking your truck.

Driving on an Empty Fuel Tank

Some truck owners will only visit the filling station when the fuel light appears. Doing this is dangerous as your truck might stop in the middle of nowhere. Apart from initiating combustion, the fuel in your truck cools down the engine and the fuel pump. When the fuel tank is almost empty, consider refilling, as this will prevent you from incurring hefty repair expenses.

Passing Over Potholes and Speed Bumps at High Speed

Careless driving leads to expensive repairs. Consider slowing down when you spot speed bumps ahead when driving at high speed. In most roads, the markings on the bumps are for clear visibility. Driving over potholes and speed bumps at higher speeds destroys the suspension system, the wheels, and the general body of the truck.

The suspension system has various parts, and its primary role is to protect your truck from damage from road shocks. The suspension system absorbs the road shock and ensures they do not reach the body of your truck. 

The stress goes to the suspension system when you pass the speed bumps at high speed or hit potholes. It will wear out, and you will have to replace it. The suspension system is an expensive part to repair.

Hitting potholes and speed bumps can be one of the things that quickly destroy your truck. damage your wheels. It can give you a puncture as well as bend the rims.

Conclusion

Shared above are some of the things that quickly destroy your truck. To conclude, the way you take care of and maintain the truck will determine how long or short it will serve you. If you stop these habits, your truck will give you the most extended service. 

Trying to lower some expenses like the monthly truck maintenance cost can be hectic, but you can manage it by learning a few tips that will enable you to reduce the amount you spend on maintaining your truck. Covid-19 for instance landed everybody into a financial crisis, and even the big parastatals and companies have not yet recovered from the covid-19 financial crisis. But as a truck owner, saving on the monthly expenses of your truck is one of the hacks for healing from the covid-19 financial crisis. Here are some ways to lower your monthly truck expenses.

Stick to The Routine Maintenance

Performing major truck repairs can drain you financially. One of the best ways to lower the maintenance cost is by doing routine maintenance. You can avoid this by ensuring that you stick to the routine maintenance of your truck. You can check the owner’s manual to ensure that you maintain parts like the brake pads and change the fluids, filters, belts, and other parts as per the manufacturer’s requirements.

Sticking to routine maintenance will prolong the life of your truck. Apart from only maintenance, your mechanic will make a regular diagnosis that will help fix various developing issues before they become major problems.

Avoid Careless Driving

Careful driving is a simple way of cutting the amount you spend on maintaining your truck every month. Besides cutting on expenses, careless driving is dangerous and can claim your life and that of other road users. 

Careless acceleration and unnecessary speeding increase the rate at which your truck consumes fuel. Careful driving will not only protect your truck from crashing but also reduce the amount you spend on fuel. It will also give your suspension system, the tires, and the general body of your truck a longer lifespan.

Learn to Do Some Basic Maintenance Alone

Trucks usually have various issues, and some require a professional mechanic to intervene. But some basic maintenance you can perform on your own.

Consider learning basic servicing such as changing the battery, changing the air filter, cleaning the engine, replacing windshield wipers, replacing various hoses within the engine, and tire replacement. Such services are not demanding and only require you to master a few steps to perform them.

Knowing how to perform basic maintenance will reduce the amount you will spend on maintenance cost.

Consider Walking

It is easy and convenient to hop into your truck whenever you want to run an errand. Doing this leads to unnecessary fuel consumption that you can avoid. When shopping, make a comprehensive list of everything you want to buy. Go shopping in stores near each other so you can park your truck and do all your business, then drive home.

Reducing the frequency at which you drive your truck will help you cut the amount you spend on fuel. You can also have your bicycle to help you move from one place to another after parking your truck.

Conclusion

Trucks can be very expensive to run and maintain. Consider using the above tips, and you will realize that your monthly maintenance cost on your truck will go down while your truck is running perfectly.  

How do you go about truck collision repair processes? If it is your first time crushing your truck, you should be aware of the truck collision repair process. Most truck owners are interested in the ultimate result but not concerned about the technicalities involved in this procedure. But it is essential to understand what it takes to restore your truck after a collision. 

Knowledge of the truck collision repair process reduces mysterious spending and lets you know the labor, time, and cost of restoring your truck. There are variations based on specific repair shops, but there are common fundamental steps that this guide focuses. 

Truck Collision Repair Process

Estimation

Truck inspection is the first step in a truck collision repair process. The estimation involves the paperwork and usually happens at the car body shop. At the final stages of the estimation process, those involved will take a photo of your truck’s current state. Your insurance, together with the estimators, will give you vital information. 

Disassembling

During this process, your insurance company can request the truck teardown. The teardown process ensures accurate damage documentation and reveals if the truck needs a repair. Upon the insurance company and your authorization for repair, the repair body shop you have chosen can place orders for the necessary parts.

Repairs

The truck body shop will use a system for measuring to ensure the accuracy of the restoration of your truck to its original look. Doing this is essential as it ensures that there are no structural issues with the frame of your truck. The suspension repairs, such as wheel alignment, are also performed. During structural repairs, mechanical repairs are also involved. 

Painting

Painting is a vital step in finishing. The truck body shop will prepare the painting panel before priming and sealing. This improves the adhesion when applying the finishing coat and even supplementary clear coating.

Reassembling

Reassembling involves the final molding and detailed restoration of your truck. Various truck system is assessed during assembling. Upon reaching this stage, you are sure your truck is almost restored, and you can receive it anytime. 

Inspection

Upon completing the restoration process, a thorough cleaning of both the interior and the exterior follows. As the surface is cleared, the paint undergoes polishing. Apart from cleaning and preparation for delivery, a physical inspection and test drive are conducted. The test drive ensures that your truck is in perfect working condition and has no problem resulting from the repaired parts. 

Delivery

Upon the completion of the quality assessment, delivery is the final stage of the truck collision repair process. You will receive a notification to go and collect your truck from the repair shop. In this stage, you will receive the paperwork and a detailed explanation regarding billing. Once this is done, you can take your truck.

Conclusion

After a collision, several activities take place, including towing your truck. Your insurance company will evaluate your truck as the chosen truck repair shop prepares to restore it. Such activities mark the beginning of the truck collision repair process. It is essential to know the entire process. Doing this will enable you to know the exact amount you will incur. 

How do you know that you have a faulty oil sensor? Modern trucks have oil sensors within the engine block. Its role is to sense and let the engine control unit know the oil pressure within your engine. It enables the engine control unit to monitor the pressure of the oil as it lubricates the engine’s moving parts. When the pressure of the engine oil goes down, it can result in hefty and costly damages, which is why it is essential to monitor the oil pressure.

Where does this pressure come from? The oil pump generates adequate pressure that lifts the engine oil from the sump to other parts for cooling and lubricating the moving parts within the engine. When the oil pressure goes down, the oil will not move from the sump to every part of the engine. 

Oil’s vital role in the engine is why it is essential to monitor oil pressure. When you have a faulty oil sensor becomes, the timing chain will be noisy, the oil check light will appear, and you will observe leakages from the sensor. 

Symptoms of a Faulty Oil Sensor

Oil Check Light

The oil check light will appear on the dashboard when the oil sensor is faulty. The light appears when the oil pressure is either high or low and sends the signal to the ECU. If the sensor is faulty, it will turn on the oil light even if the pressure is okay.

To determine if your sensor is faulty, use an oil pressure gauge to determine the pressure of your oil. If your oil is at normal pressure, then the sensor is faulty. Alternatively, use a code reader to determine if the code indicates a faulty sensor.

Noisy Engine and Timing Chain

When your engine has a timing chain, it is essential to have the right oil pressure. The chain itself relies on the oil for lubrication and to move freely. The tensioners also depend on oil for lubrication.

If the pressure of your oil goes down, the tensioners will slacken, and the timing chain will be loose. When the timing chain is loose, it will move freely over the pullies and the housing. As a result, you will hear a noisy sound from your engine block.

When you hear the sound without the appearance of an oil check light, the oil sensor might be faulty.

Oil Leaks from the Sensor

The oil sensor is located in the oil system within the engine for it to detect the oil pressure. Its location can lead to oil leakage if it becomes faulty. The oil sensor has a body, and it is from this part that leaks oils. 

To diagnose this, check for oil leakages around the oil sensor. You can also remove the sensor’s block connector and check for oil leakages. You can also check if the sensor leaks oil when your engine is idling.

Conclusion

The appearance of an oil check light on the dashboard, a noisy engine, or even performance issues are some of the common symptoms of a faulty oil sensor. Oil leaks are also common signs you need to pay attention to.

The ignition system is an essential part of every petrol engine truck, and the ignition coil is one of its components. The ignition coil supplies adequate current to initiate a spark in the spark plugs. It is between the battery and the spark plugs and therefore receives the current from the battery before delivering it to the spark plugs. If it fails, your truck may not start, but before it dies completely, it will develop the symptoms below.

The Appearance of the Engine Check Light

When your engine becomes faulty, the ECU will light the engine check light on your truck’s dashboard. The activities of the ignition coil directly affect the engine. Therefore when the engine is faulty, the check light will appear.

Engine Misfiring and Backfiring

In the initial stages at the beginning of ignition coil failure, you will notice engine backfires. It happens due to unburnt fuel within the cylinder that flows to the exhaust pipe.

You will also feel a bad smell of fuel, and your truck will emit black smoke. When you note such from your truck, consider checking the ignition coil and correct it as soon as possible.

Stalling Truck

If your truck has only one ignition coil, which is common in old trucks, it will stall on the highway if it is faulty. When driving at an average speed and your truck stops abruptly, your ignition might be faulty. 

A faulty ignition coil will deliver inadequate current to the spark plug. When this happens, the fuel and air in the combustion chamber will not ignite, making your engine stop.

Increase in Fuel Consumption

Faulty ignition causes engine misfires. As this happens, fuel pours out to the exhaust pipe, which increases fuel consumption. When the rate at which your truck consumes fuel goes up, consider checking the condition of the ignition coil.

Funny Engine Noises

A faulty ignition coil does not generate adequate voltage for the spark plugs causing a spark in the engine. As a result, your engine will strain to initiate combustion. Your truck will sound like a tractor if a spark delays in a single cylinder. When you hear any funny sound like the engine is straining, consider checking the condition of the ignition cylinder.

Truck Not Starting

When the ignition is completely dead, your truck’s engine will not start. Instead, you will hear a clicking sound whenever you try to start the engine. If such happens, it might be the ignition coil or the entire ignition system. Such a problem is common in old trucks with only a single ignition coil for all the cylinders.

Conclusion

When the engine starts and runs, spark plugs are essential as they are the source of heat that causes combustion in the cylinders. However, the spark plugs need adequate voltage from the battery. The ignition coil ensures the spark plugs receive the necessary voltage.

If the coil springs become faulty before they cease functioning, your truck will develop symptoms like the ones discussed above.