Monthly Post-Trip Inspection and Maintenance Procedures
- Clean the batteries.
- Remove any corrosion from the hold-down and the top of
the battery.
Notice: Take care to keep the vent plugs tight so that the neutralizing solution does not enter any of the battery cells and damage the battery.
- Use a soda solution to neutralize the acid present, then rinse off the soda solution with clean water.
- If the battery posts or cable terminals are corroded, disconnect the terminals from the posts. Clean them with a soda solution and a wire brush. After cleaning, connect the terminals to the battery posts, then apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly to the posts and terminals to help retard corrosion.
- Remove any corrosion from the hold-down and the top of
the battery.
- Inspect the radiator and heater hoses, including the clamps
and support brackets.
- Make sure the radiator inlet and outlet hoses are pliable and are not cracking, weakening, or ballooning.
- Make sure the heater hoses are pliable and are not cracking or ballooning. Replace hoses that show signs of cracking, weakening, or ballooning.
- Tighten hose clamps as necessary, but do not overtighten, as hose life can be adversely affected.
- Be sure the hose support brackets are securely fastened. Make sure the hoses are not located near sources of wear, abrasion, or high heat.
- Check the fluid level in the hydraulic brake fluid
reservoir, if so equipped.
If needed, fill the reservoir to the bottom of the fill-neck with DOT 3 heavy-duty brake fluid. See figure .
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Open caps and check fluid level.
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Fill to this level.
Fig. 1, Hydraulic Brake Reservoir
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Lash Area
Fig. 2, Measuring Lash at the Steering Wheel
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- Check the steering wheel for excessive play. With the front tires pointing straight ahead, turn the steering wheel until motion is observed at the front wheels. Align a reference mark on a ruler, then slowly turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction until motion is again detected at the wheels. Measure the lash (free play) at the rim of the steering wheel. See figure .Excessive lash exists if steering wheel movement exceeds 4-3/4 inches (121 mm) with an 18-inch (470 mm) steering wheel. If there is excessive lash, check the steering system for wear or incorrect adjustment of the linkage and steering gear before operating the vehicle.
- Check the brake lining wear on vehicles equipped with air
brakes. Proper brake operation is dependent on periodic maintenance
and inspection of the brake linings.
- Apply the parking brakes, and chock the tires to prevent vehicle movement.
- If the axle assembly is not equipped with a dust shield or backing plate, measure the axle brake lining thickness. If any of the brake linings are worn to less than 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) at the thinnest point, replace the linings on all brake assemblies on that axle. See Group 42 of the Walk-In Van Chassis Workshop Manual for lining replacement instructions and camshaft end play inspection.
- If the axle assembly is equipped with a dust shield or backing plate, remove the inspection plugs to inspect the brake lining thickness. If any of the brake linings are worn to less than approximately 3/16 inch (4.8 mm) at the thinnest point, replace the linings on all brake assemblies on that axle. See Group 42 of the Walk-In Van Chassis Workshop Manual for lining replacement instructions and camshaft end play inspection.
- Install the inspection plugs in the dust shields or backing plates, if so equipped.
- Remove the chocks from the tires.
Warning: Battery posts, terminals, and related accessories contain lead and lead compounds, chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm. To prevent possible personal injury, always wash your hands after handling battery parts and related accessories.
Important: Replace all hoses, including heater hoses, at the same time. Service-type knitted or braided yarn-reinforced neoprene hose is acceptable. Silicone hoses having an extended service life can be substituted for the reinforced neoprene type. See the Freightliner Service Parts Catalog or contact your Freightliner Dealer.