As a tractor trailer driver, it’s important to know about how to properly take care of your truck. Knowing how to manage truck oil changes, along with other basic maintenance, is a large part of that. While you will likely learn the basics from other truckers, instructors, or guide books. However, we’re going to provide you with one more avenue of understanding…
Truck Oil Changes: Taking Proper Steps
Engine design
The engine of your truck plays a large role in your truck oil changes. The design, age, and conditions all play a part on your oil’s life. Additionally, things like engine contaminants can also play a role in reducing your oil capabilities. You engine’s fuel efficiency helps determine the overall life of your oil. A more modern, fuel efficient engine tends to have better oil life than older, less efficient ones. However, contaminants like water, dirt, and soot can reduce this efficiency.
How the truck is used
It’s also important to consider how the truck is driven. Much like with normal cars, how hard a driver pushes their truck can shorten their oil life. You also have to consider what conditions you drive your truck in as well. Harsh weather or climates can have a negative impact on your oil lifespan. For example, say you usually drive your truck in hot and dusty area. The higher temperatures can cause your engine to work harder and reduce your oil’s efficiency. Also, there’s an increased risk of contaminants like dirt getting into your engine as well. All of this can lead to the need for truck oil changes.
Oil properties
You also have to consider the type of oil you use in your truck. Trucks will generally use heavy-duty oil, unlike normal passenger cars. Different oil types will have also different properties which can impact their lifespan. Generally, the most common oil types used for truck oil changes are synthetic versus “standard” blends. Synthetic oils tend to last longer and perform better compared to their “standard” counterparts. However, this comes with a higher cost. These oils are also not impervious to contaminants. A higher-quality oil can degrade faster than “standard” oil if it is heavily contaminated.
Truck oil changes are a key part of keeping in properly running. That’s why it’s important to know the factors that can impact your oil’s overall effectiveness. After all, it’s always better to be proactive when it comes to truck maintenance.