Pretrip and Post-Trip Inspections and Maintenance

Pretrip and Post-Trip Inspection Checklists

Periodic Inspections and Maintenance, General Information

Regulations in Canada and the U.S. clearly indicate that it is the driver's responsibility to perform an inspection, and ensure the complete road-worthiness of a vehicle, before placing it into service. Commercial vehicles may be subject to inspection by authorized inspectors, and an unsafe vehicle can be taken out of service until the driver or owner repairs it.

Use the following checklists to ensure that vehicle components are in good working condition before each trip. Careful inspections eliminate stops later to fix overlooked or forgotten items.

The checklists in this chapter can be copied and kept as a record that the procedures have been completed. For details on how to inspect each item on the checklists, see the corresponding procedure later in this chapter.

Checklists

Daily Pretrip Inspection Checklists

See the following tables for a list of procedures that should be performed daily, before the first trip. Place a check mark in the complete ( Comp. ) column to indicate a procedure has been performed.

Inspector	Date

Suspension and Slack Adjusters		Comp.
1	Suspension components
2	Slack adjusters

Wheels and Tires		Comp.
1	Tire condition
2	Tire inflation
3	Rim and wheel components
4	Wheel bearing oil seals and lubrication levels
6	Mud Flaps

Saddle Tank Areas		Comp.
1	Drain air reservoirs (without automatic drain valves)
2	Fuel tank(s) secure
3	Frame rails and crossmembers
4	Visible exhaust components

Engine Compartment		Comp.
1	Leakage under engine
2	Air intake system
3	Engine oil level
4	Power steering reservoir level
5	Engine coolant level
6	Visible engine wiring
7	Frame rails

Cab		Comp.
1	Reset dash-mounted air intake restriction indicator
2	Air-pressure warning systems
3	Air governor cut-in and cut-out pressures
4	Air pressure build-up time
5	Air system leakage
6	Air pressure reserve
7	Mirrors, windows, windshield
8	Horn, windshield wipers, windshield washers
9	Heater and defroster
10	Interior lights
11	Exterior lights
12	Seat belts and tether belts
13	Fuel level
14	Mirror adjustment
15	Service brakes
16	Backup alarm

Weekly Post-trip Inspection Checklist

See the following table for procedures that should be performed weekly, post-trip. Place a check mark in the complete ( Comp. ) column to indicate a procedure has been performed.

Inspector	Date

Engine Compartment		Comp.
1	Windshield washer reservoir level
2	Air intake restriction indicator
3	Automatic transmission fluid level
4	Water in fuel/water separator
5	Steering components
6	Serpentine drive belts

Monthly Post-trip Inspection Checklists

See the following tables for procedures that should be performed monthly, post-trip. Place a check mark in the complete ( Comp. ) column to indicate a procedure has been performed.

Inspector	Date

Brake Components		Comp.
1	Brake system components
2	Brake chambers
3	Air brake lines
4	Flex air lines
5	Brake linings and brake drums
6	Brake lining thickness

Saddle Tank Areas		Comp.
1	Drain air reservoirs (with automatic drain valves)
2	Batteries (location may vary)

Engine Compartment		Comp.
1	Hydraulic clutch reservoir
2	Radiator and heater hoses
3	Steering wheel play

Fluids Added

Use the following table to note any fluids that were added during the inspection and maintenance procedures.

Fluids Added During Inspection
Fluid	Amount Added
Wheel Bearing Lubricant
Engine Oil
Power Steering Fluid
Engine Coolant
Windshield Washer Fluid
Automatic Transmission Fluid
Hydraulic Clutch Fluid (DOT 4 brake fluid)

Safety Precautions

When working on the vehicle, shut down the engine, set the parking brake,and chock the tires. before working under the vehicle, always place jack stands under the frame rails to ensure the vehicle can not drop. Failure to follow these steps could result in serious personal injury or death.

Daily Pretrip Inspection and Maintenance

Complete the following inspection and maintenance procedures to ensure that vehicle components are in good working condition before each trip. A driver who is familiar with the vehicle and drives it regularly can perform the daily inspections, then add the weekly and monthly post-trip inspections as scheduled.

If the driver does not operate the vehicle on a consistent basis, all daily, weekly, and monthly inspection and maintenance procedures should be performed before the trip.

IMPORTANT: The pre- and post-trip checklists, inspections, and maintenance procedures detailed in this chapter are not all-inclusive . Refer to other component and body manufacturers' instructions for specific inspection and maintenance instructions, as well as local, state, and federal guidelines.

NOTE: If any system or component does not pass this inspection, it must be corrected before operating the vehicle. Whenever equipment requires adjustment, replacement, and/or repair, see the Columbia Workshop Manual for procedures and specifications.

Suspension and Slack Adjuster Inspection

Walk around the vehicle and visually inspect suspension and slack adjuster components.

Inspect the following suspension components for signs of structural damage, cracks, or wear.

springs

spring hangers

shocks

suspension arms

suspension brackets

axle seats

bushings

Inspect slack adjusters for signs of damage. See Fig. 11.1 , Fig. 11.2 , or Fig. 11.3 .

1. 7/16-inch Adjusting Nut
2. Grease Fitting
3. Boot
4. Link
5. Brake Chamber Piston Rod
6. Clevis
7. ½-inch Clevis Pin
8. ½-inch Clevis Pin
9. Grease Relief Opening
10. Slack Adjuster Spline

Fig. 11.1, Gunite Automatic Slack Adjuster

1. Clevis
2. Slack Adjuster
3. Clevis Pin
4. Manual Adjusting Nut
5. Control Arm
6. Control-Arm Washers and Nut
7. Anchor Strap Slot
8. Anchor Strap
9. Brake Chamber

Fig. 11.2, Haldex Automatic Slack Adjuster

1. Grease Fitting (if equipped)
2. Slack Adjuster Housing
3. Brake Chamber Pushrod
4. Clevis
5. Clevis Pin (large)
6. Clevis Pin (small)
7. Actuator Rod
8. Boot
9. Manual Adjusting Nut
10. Camshaft Splines

Fig. 11.3, Meritor Automatic Slack Adjuster

Inspect slack adjuster boots, if equipped, for cuts or tears.

Inspect anchor straps, if equipped, for damage.

Look for worn clevis pins on brake chamber pushrods.

Look for missing or damaged cotter pins on the clevis pins.

Ensure chamber piston rods are in line with the slack adjusters.

Wheel and Tire Inspection

Walk around the vehicle and visually inspect each wheel and tire assembly.

Inspect tire condition for the following:

valve stem caps on every tire, screwed on finger-tight

bulges, cracks, cuts, and penetrations

oil contamination (petroleum derivatives will soften the rubber and destroy the tire)

tread depth—if tread is less than 4/32 inch (3 mm) on any front tire, or less than 2/32 inch (1.5 mm) on any rear tire, replace the tire

debris lodged between duel tire sets

Check tire inflation.

For inflation pressures and maximum loads, see the tire manufacturer's guidelines. Inflate the tires to the applicable pressures if needed.

If a tire has been run flat or under-inflated, check the wheel and tire for damage before adding air.

Keep compressed air reservoirs and lines dry during tire inflation. Use well-maintained inline moisture traps and service them regularly.

Do not operate the vehicle with underinflated or overinflated tires. Incorrect inflation can stress the tires and make the tires and rims more susceptible to damage, possibly leading to rim or tire failure and loss of vehicle control, resulting in serious personal injury or death.

NOTICE

A weekly pressure loss of 4 psi (28 kPa) or more in a tire may indicate damage. The tire should be inspected and, if necessary, repaired or replaced by a qualified tire service facility.

IMPORTANT: The load and cold inflation pressure must not exceed the rim or wheel manufacturer's recommendations, even though the tire may be approved for a higher load inflation. Consult the rim or wheel manufacturer for the correct tire inflation pressure for the vehicle load.

Examine each rim and wheel component.

3.1

Remove all dirt and debris from the assembly. Rust streaks or metal build-up around stud holes, or out-of-round or worn stud holes, may be caused by loose wheel nuts.

Have any worn or damaged wheel components replaced by a qualified person using the wheel manufacturer's instructions and the wheel industry's standard safety precautions and equipment. Otherwise a vehicle or workshop accident could occur, possibly resulting in serious personal injury or death.

3.2

Inspect for broken, cracked, badly worn, bent, rusty, or sprung rings and rims.

NOTICE

Use the recommended torque values and follow the proper tightening sequence. Insufficient wheel nut torque can cause wheel shimmy, resulting in wheel damage, stud breakage, and extreme tire tread wear. Excessive wheel nut torque can break studs, damage threads, and crack discs in the stud hole area.

3.3

Make sure all wheel nuts are tightened. If tightening is necessary, use the tightening pattern in Fig. 11.4 or Fig. 11.5 to initially tighten the flange nuts 50 to 100 lbf·ft (68 to 136 N·m). Then tighten the flange nuts 450 to 500 lbf·ft (610 to 678 N·m).

Fig. 11.4, Tightening Pattern, 10-Stud Disc Wheel

Fig. 11.5, Tightening Pattern, 8-Stud Disc Wheel

Inspect the outboard side of all wheel hubs and the hub oil seal area on the inboard side of each wheel for signs of oil leakage. If any oil is found on wheel and tire or brake components, remove the vehicle from service until the leak has been fixed.

If needed, fill the hubs to the level indicated on the hub cap. See Group 35 of the Columbia Maintenance Manual for recommended lubricants.

Check that mud flaps are undamaged and hang 10 inches (25 cm) or less from the ground.

Saddle Tank Areas Inspection

When draining the air reservoir, do not look into the air jets or direct them toward anyone. Dirt or sludge particles may be in the airstream and could cause injury.

NOTICE

If the water drained from the air reservoirs is cloudy or oily, it may indicate a problem with the compressor. If oil is allowed to contaminate the air dryer, it will not remove the water from the air brake system, which could adversely affect braking.

Drain the brake system air reservoirs (reservoirs without automatic drain valves only).

Never operate the engine with the fuel tank shutoff valves partially closed. This could damage the fuel pump, causing sudden loss of engine power, possibly resulting in serious personal injury due to reduced vehicle control.

Ensure that fuel tanks are secured to their mounting brackets and that the mounting brackets are secured to the frame.

If equipped with fuel tank shutoff valves, be sure the valves are fully open.

Inspect visible frame rails for missing bolts, shiny areas, or rust streaks. Check all visible crossmembers for damage or signs of looseness.

Inspect visible components of the exhaust system to ensure connections are tight.

Inspect upstream of the aftertreatment device (ATD), if equipped, for cracking or signs of leaks, such as soot trails. Inspect downstream of the ATD for signs of exhaust leaks, such as blistering or warping of nearby components.

Engine Compartment Inspection

Check the ground underneath the engine for fuel, oil, or coolant leaks.

Inspect the air intake system for leaks or damage.

NOTICE

Failure to maintain a sealed air intake system could allow the entry of dirt and contaminants into the engine. This could adversely affect engine performance and result in engine damage.

2.1

Push the reset button on the air intake restriction indicator located on the air cleaner, if equipped.

2.2

Check the air intake duct from the air cleaner to the engine intake. Make sure the duct components are secure and airtight.

Check the engine oil level.

NOTICE

Operating the engine with the oil level below the minimum fill (or "add") mark or above the maximum fill (or "full") mark could result in engine damage.

3.1

Check the oil level with the vehicle parked on a level surface. See the engine manufacturer's guidelines for engine shutdown time requirements prior to checking the oil level.

IMPORTANT: On engines that comply with EPA07 regulations, use CJ-4 engine oil with less than 1% sulfated ash. Failure to use CJ-4 oil may void the warranty on emission aftertreatment components.

3.2

If the oil level is at or below the minimum fill (or "add") mark on the dipstick, add enough oil to maintain the level between the minimum and maximum fill marks. See the engine operation manual for recommended lubricants.

Check the power steering reservoir fluid level.

The power steering fluid level should be between the MIN COLD mark and the middle mark just above it. See Fig. 11.6 . If needed, fill the reservoir with automatic transmission fluid that meets Dexron III or TES-389 specifications.

NOTE: Typical reservoir shown; configurations may vary.

1. Filler Cap

Fig. 11.6, Power Steering Fluid Reservoir

NOTICE

Low coolant could result in engine overheating, which could cause engine damage.

IMPORTANT: The surge tank must be cool to check the coolant level.

Check the engine coolant level in the radiator surge tank. See Fig. 11.7 .

1. Pressure Relief Cap
2. Filler Cap
3. COLD MAX Fill Line
4. COLD MIN Fill Line

Fig. 11.7, Coolant Surge Tank

NOTICE

Coolant must be filled to the COLD MAX line of the surge tank. Low coolant could result in engine overheating, which could cause engine damage.

5.1

If the coolant is low, fill the surge tank to the MAX line with a 50/50 mixture of water and the type of antifreeze currently installed in the vehicle.

5.2

If the surge tank was empty, start the engine after refilling and check the level again when the engine is at operating temperature.

Inspect visible engine wiring for damage or looseness. Check for loose wiring, chafed insulation, and damaged or loose hold-down clamps.

Inspect visible frame rails for missing bolts, shiny areas, or rust streaks.

Cab Inspection

Push the reset button on the dash-mounted air intake restriction indicator, if equipped.

With the ignition switch in the OFF position, check the air-pressure warning system.

2.1

If not previously drained, drain the air reservoirs using moderate brake applications until pressure in both reservoirs is less than 70 psi (483 kPa).

2.2

Turn the ignition to the ON position. The instrument cluster will complete a full gauge sweep and bulb check, and an audible warning will sound. Ensure the low air pressure lamp (BRAKE AIR) remains illuminated and an audible warning continues to sound after the gauge sweep is complete.

Check air governor cut-in and cut-out pressures.

3.1

Start the engine and ensure the BRAKE AIR lamp goes out and the buzzer silences when pressure reaches approximately 70 psi (483 kPa) in both air reservoirs.

3.1

The air governor should cut out at approximately 120 psi (827 kPa). For vehicles with an optional dryer reservoir module (DRM), the cut-out pressure is approximately 130 psi (896 kPa).

3.2

With the engine idling, apply the brake pedal several times. The air governor should cut in when pressure in the primary air reservoir (top air gauge) reaches approximately 100 psi (690 kPa).

Check air pressure build-up time.

4.1

With the air system fully charged, make one full brake application and note the air pressure reading on the primary air gauge.

4.2

Further reduce air pressure using moderate brake applications, then run the engine at governed rpm.

4.3

Note the time that the pressure reaches the previously noted reading on the primary air gauge, then note the time that the air pressure reaches cut-out pressure.

4.4

If it takes longer than 30 seconds to reach cut-out pressure after the primary air gauge passes the previously noted pressure (noted after one full brake application), eliminate any leaks or replace the air compressor before operating the vehicle.

Check air leakage in the system.

5.1

With the parking brake applied, the transmission out of gear, and the air system fully charged, release the service brakes and shut down the engine.

5.2

Wait one minute and note the air pressure drop in psi (kPa) per minute from the primary air reservoir.

5.2

If the pressure drop exceeds the limits shown in Table 11.14 , eliminate any leaks before operating the vehicle.

Check the air pressure reserve.

With the engine still off, make one full brake application and observe the pressure drop on the primary air gauge. If pressure drops more than 25 psi (172 kPa), eliminate any leaks before operating the vehicle.

Maximum Allowable Air Leakage
Description	Pressure Drop: psi (kPa) Per Minute
Description	Released	Applied
Truck or Tractor Only	2 (14)	3 (21)
Truck or Tractor w/Single Trailer	3 (21)	4 (28)
Truck or Tractor w/Two Trailers	5 (34)	6 (41)

Table 11.14, Maximum Allowable Air Leakage

When cleaning windshields and windows, always stand on the ground or on a secure ladder or platform. Use a long-handled window cleaner. Do not use the cab steps, tires, fenders, fuel tanks, engine, or under-hood components to access the windshield or windows. Doing so could cause a fall and result in an injury.

Inspect the mirrors, window glass, and windshield for cracks or other damage.

Ensure that the horn, windshield wipers, and windshield washers are operating properly. These devices must be in good working order for safe vehicle operation.

Ensure the heater and defroster are operating properly.

10.

Check the operation of all interior lights.

10.1

Turn on the headlights and leave them on. Ensure all equipped gauge bulbs illuminate in the dash message center.

10.2

Ensure all equipped driver control switches illuminate.

10.3

Ensure both turn signal indicator bulbs illuminate in the dash message center when the turn signal switch is activated.

11.

Check the operation of all exterior lights. See Fig. 11.8 .

1. Marker Lights
2. Identification Lights
3. Clearance Lights
4. Side-Marker Lights
5. Headlights
6. Turn Signals
7. Road Lights

Fig. 11.8, Exterior Lights

11.1

Activate the high-beam headlights and hazard warning lights.

11.2

Exit the cab and check that all exterior lights and reflectors are clean and intact.

11.3

Check that the brake lights, taillights, headlights, turn signals, marker lights, identification lights, and clearance lights are working properly.

12.

Inspect the seat belts and tether belts.

Inspect and maintain seat belts. When any part of a seat belt system needs replacement, the entire seat belt must be replaced, both retractor and buckle side. Any time a vehicle is involved in an accident, and the seat belt system was in use, the entire vehicle seat belt system must be replaced before operating the vehicle. Do not attempt to modify the seat belt system; doing so could change the effectiveness of the system. Failure to replace worn or damaged seat belts, or making any modifications to the system, may result in personal injury or death.

12.1

Check the web for fraying, cuts, extreme dirt and dust, or for severe fading from exposure to sunlight, especially near the buckle latch plate and in the D-loop guide area.

12.2

Check operation of the buckle, latch, Komfort Latch or Sliding Komfort Latch (if equipped), web retractor, and upper seat belt mount on the door pillar. Check all visible components for wear or damage.

12.3

Check the seat belt and tether belt connection points and tighten any that are loose.

Never fill fuel tanks to more than 95 percent of their liquid capacity. This could make them more likely to rupture from impact, possibly causing fire and resulting in serious personal injury or death by burning.

Do not mix gasoline or alcohol with diesel fuel. This mixture could cause an explosion, possibly resulting in serious personal injury or death. Do not fill the fuel tanks in the presence of sparks, open flames, or intense heat. These could ignite the fuel, possibly causing severe burns.

IMPORTANT: On engines that comply with EPA07 regulations, use ultralow-sulfur diesel (ULSD) with 15 ppm sulfur content or less. Failure to use ULSD fuel may void the warranty on emission components.

13.

Check the fuel level in the fuel tank(s). To keep condensation to a minimum, fuel tanks should be filled at the end of each day.

14.

Adjust the rearview and down view mirrors as necessary.

15.

Test the service brakes.

15.1

With the engine running and air system fully charged, set the parking brake.

15.2

Put the vehicle in the lowest gear and gently attempt to move it forward. The vehicle should not move.

15.2

If the vehicle moves, the parking brakes are not operating correctly and must be repaired before the vehicle is operated.

16.

Test the backup alarm.

16.1

Release the parking brake and put the transmission in reverse.

16.2

Move the vehicle slightly backward to ensure that the backup alarm is operating correctly.

Weekly Post-Trip Inspection and Maintenance

Engine Compartment Inspection

Washer fluids may be flammable and poisonous. Do not expose washer fluid to an open flame or any burning material, such as a cigarette. Always comply with the washer fluid manufacturer's recommended safety precautions.

Check the windshield washer reservoir fluid level.

After resetting the air intake restriction indicator during the daily pretrip inspection, check the indicator again with the engine off.

2.1

Check an indicator with graduations to see if air restriction exceeds the value shown in Table 11.15 .

2.1

Check a go/no-go indicator without graduations to see if the colored bar shows through the clear window.

Air Intake Maximum Restriction Values: (inH₂O)
Engine Make	Pre-EPA07 Engines	EPA07 Engines
Caterpillar	25	—
Cummins	25	25
Detroit™	20	22
Mercedes-Benz	22	22

Table 11.15, Air Intake Maximum Restriction Values

2.2

If air restriction exceeds the maximum allowable value, operate the vehicle for one more day, making sure not to run the engine over rated rpm. Refer to the engine operation manual for more information on rated rpm for your engine.

2.3

If air restriction exceeds the maximum value again, replace the air cleaner element. For instructions, refer to Group 09 of the Columbia Workshop Manual .

If the vehicle is equipped with an Allison automatic transmission, check the automatic transmission fluid level.

Check for water in the fuel/water separator, if equipped.

IMPORTANT: When draining fluid from a fuel/water separator, drain the fluid into an appropriate container and dispose of it properly. Many jurisdictions now issue fines for draining fuel/water separators onto the ground.

4.1

Place a suitable container under the fuel/water separator.

NOTE: A hose may be used to direct water into the container. Use a hose with a ½-inch pipe thread on DAVCO models.

4.2

If the engine is equipped with a built-in water separator, loosen the drain valve, and allow the water to run out. Close the drain valve, taking care not to overtighten it.

4.3

Alliance/Racor Models : Turn the drain plug counterclockwise to open it. See Fig. 11.9 .

4.3

DAVCO Models : Remove the vent cap and open the drain. See Fig. 11.10 .

1. Washers (qty 2)
2. Nuts (qty 2)
3. Frame Rail
4. Fuel Outlet Port
5. Fuel Inlet Port
6. Priming Pump
7. Mounting Head
8. Mounting Bolts (qty 2)
9. Filter Element
10. Sight Bowl
11. Drain Plug

Fig. 11.9, Alliance Fuel/Water Separator Assembly and Installation

1. Inlet Port/Check Valve
2. Lower Housing
3. Bypass Valve
4. Filter Element
5. Spring
6. Cover O-Ring
7. Clear Cover
8. Vent Cap O-Ring
9. Vent Cap
10. Collar
11. 120VAC Pre-Heater
12. 12VDC Pre-Heater
13. Drain Valve

Fig. 11.10, DAVCO Fuel/Water Separator (Fuel Pro 482 shown)

IMPORTANT: Water in the fuel/water separator will appear as beads. Drain the fuel/water separator only enough to remove the water. Stop draining fluid when fuel begins to drain out. If the fuel/water separator is drained of fuel, it will be necessary to prime the fuel system before the vehicle can be started again.

4.4

Stop draining fluid when fuel begins to drain out.

4.4

Alliance/Racor Models : Turn the drain plug clockwise to close it.

4.4

DAVCO Models : Close the drain valve. Install and hand-tighten the vent cap.

Inspect the steering components.

5.1

Inspect tie rods, steering arms, and the drag link for signs of looseness (i.e., shiny spots or rust tracks). See Fig. 11.11 .

1. Steering Gear Mounting Bolts
2. Pitman Arm Pinch Bolt Nut
3. Drag Link Nut

Fig. 11.11, Integral Steering Gear Fasteners

5.2

Check the steering gear mounting bolts and pitman arm nut, if equipped, for signs of looseness.

5.3

Check the drag link nuts for missing cotter pins.

5.4

Inspect the steering intermediate shaft and end yokes for excessive looseness or other damage.

NOTICE

Do not drive with a drive belt that is visibly worn or damaged. If it fails, the lack of coolant flow could rapidly cause damage to engine components.

Inspect the serpentine drive belts for signs of glazing, frayed edges, breaks, cracks, or oil contamination.

Monthly Post-Trip Inspection and Maintenance

Brake Component Inspection

Walk around the vehicle and inspect brake system components for visible damage.

Inspect all visible brake system components for missing fasteners or signs of looseness, such as rust tracks.

NOTICE

If the external breather tube or breather cap is missing or incorrectly installed, road dirt and debris can adversely affect the operation of the brake chamber. Once inside of the chamber, dirt and debris can cause the internal parts of the chamber to deteriorate faster.

Inspect the exterior surfaces of brake chambers for damage. Make sure that breather holes are open and free of debris.

NOTE: Do not route air brake lines on top of anything likely to be stepped on.

Inspect air brake lines for dents, swelling, kinks, twisting, abrasion, and damage, especially near moving parts.

Inspect flex air lines for deterioration or signs of abrasion.

Inspect for cracked, worn, or oil-contaminated brake linings and brake drums (or rotors).

Check the thickness of the brake linings. Replace brake linings on all brake assemblies on the axle if any brake linings are worn to less than approximately 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) at the thinnest point.

Saddle Tank Areas Inspection

When draining the air reservoir, do not look into the air jets or direct them toward anyone. Dirt or sludge particles may be in the airstream and could cause injury.

NOTICE

Drain the brake system air reservoirs (reservoirs with automatic drain valves only).

NOTE: Battery locations vary between vehicles.

Inspect the batteries.

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.

2.1

Remove the battery box cover and inspect all visible battery cables for loose wiring or damage.

2.2

Check that the battery hold-down is secure.

Engine Compartment Inspection and Adjustments

Check the hydraulic clutch reservoir, if equipped. If necessary, add DOT 4 brake fluid.

Inspect the radiator and heater hoses, including the clamps and support brackets.

2.1

Inspect the radiator and charge air cooler for damage and accumulated debris. Straighten bent or damaged fins to permit airflow across all areas of the cores.

NOTE: When traveling through areas of high insect concentration, it may be necessary to clean the exterior of the radiator or the charge air cooler core as often as every 200 miles (322 km).

2.2

Make sure the radiator inlet and outlet hoses are pliable and are not cracking or ballooning.

2.3

Make sure the heater hoses are pliable and are not cracking or ballooning.

2.4

Tighten hose clamps as necessary.

IMPORTANT: Do not overtighten hose clamps, as hose life can be adversely affected.

2.5

Ensure hose support brackets are securely fastened. Make sure hoses are not located near sources of wear, abrasion, or high heat.

IMPORTANT: When replacing hoses, install service-type knitted or braided-yarn reinforced neoprene hose. Extended-service-life silicone hoses may also be used. See the Alliance Parts Catalog atwww.alliancebrandparts.comor contact a Freightliner Dealer.

Check the steering wheel for excessive play.

3.1

Start the engine. With the front tires straight ahead, turn the steering wheel until motion is observed at the front wheels.

3.2

Align a reference mark on the steering wheel to a rule, then slowly turn the steering wheel in the opposite direction until motion is again detected at the wheels.

3.3

Measure the lash (free play) at the rim of the steering wheel. Excessive lash exists if steering wheel movement exceeds 2-1/2 inches (64 mm) with a 20-inch (508-mm) steering wheel, or 2-1/4 inches (57 mm) with an 18-inch (457-mm) steering wheel.

3.4

If there is excessive lash, check the steering system for wear or incorrect adjustment before operating the vehicle.