The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) categorizes vehicles based on Gross Vehicle Weight Ratings (GVWR). This is a safety requirement that aids in the prevention of overloading.  The specific classes of trucks include:  
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• Light duty trucks are classified into classes one through three
• Classes four through eight are for medium and heavy duty trucks

​Medium trucks typically weigh between 14,001 and 26,000 pounds and are used to transport products or passengers between cities.

Any vehicle that weighs more than 26,001 pounds is considered heavy duty. Heavy duty vehicles include trucks, tractor trailers, buses, and other large commercial vehicles including:    
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• City transit buses
• Cranes
• Cement mixers
• Refuse trucks
• Semi trucks

These vehicles are generally used for long distance transportation and are classified into three types:
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• Class 7 — 26,001 to 33,000 pounds
• Class 8 — 33,001 or heavier
• Class 9 — Vehicles exceeding 60,000 pounds (super heavy/special duty truck)

​Excessive weight on a truck can cause serious problems if not addressed in time.  This is why proper maintenance on heavy trucks is essential.

Heavy Truck Maintenance

Because heavy trucks are used to transport very large loads, the vehicle is subjected to much higher stress than other types of trucks. Regular maintenance will prevent problems before they arise, and if there are problems that can't be avoided, you'll find it much easier to deal with them. Preventative maintenance assists you in avoiding:
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• On road breakdowns
• Safety issues
• Issues with USDOT compliance
• Fuel efficiency reduction
• Serious transmission or engine problems

Heavy trucks are complicated machines. Because of this, there are many factors to consider for proper preventative maintenance. A regular check up of a heavy truck should examine these components:

• Engine oil and filter changes
• Transmission fluid
• Fuel system
• Cooling system
• Engine and transmission mounts
• Driveshaft or CV joints
• Belts and hoses
• Tune ups
• Electrical system components
• Braking system
• Steering and suspension system

• Tires
• Wheels and rims
• Exhaust system
• Undercarriage and frame
• Exterior and interior lights
• Body, glass, and mirrors
• Windshield wiper system
• Horn
• Seat belts and seat structure
• Fluid leaks
• Auxiliary systems

The number of miles driven usually determines the maintenance frequency for the truck. The time interval for scheduled maintenance is based on the owner's manual and may vary between models.

Heavy Truck Repairs

Professionals should always maintain vehicles. Even with routine maintenance, vehicle load itself can cause problems. Some of the most typical problems are as follows:

Wheel Bearing Issues

A wheel bearing allows the wheel to turn without resistance. The following are some of the most common signs of a wheel bearing problem:
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• Wheel jerking
• Unstable movements when steering
• Loud noises under the wheel while driving

 
These symptoms indicate a problem, which is why you need immediate wheel bearing repair.

Brake Failures And Fluid Leaks 

Fluid leaks in big vehicle brake systems are common.  If you have a heavy truck, it's important to regularly service the brakes to ensure they work well and keep drivers protected.

Failure to Start

Another prevalent issue with huge vehicles is the starter motor failing. During bad weather like cold weather, these problems are particularly common.

Overheating of the engine

The engine overheating issues of huge vehicles is a major problem due to the significant weight they carry. The biggest problem with an overheated engine is that it can overheat to the point of catastrophic failure.

When a heavy truck’s engine overheats, it is a warning sign that an engine problem exists. All heavy trucks must be serviced regularly in order to function properly and avoid major issues that may result in needed engine replacement.

If routine maintenance is not done, you run the risk of expensive repairs. Heavy Equipment Repair Services Charlotte is here to assist you with all of your heavy truck maintenance and repair needs.

U-Joint Failure 

Power gets transmitted from the transmission to the differential through U joints. Your u joints must be lubricated on a regular basis in order to function properly. Some warning signs of a problem are:
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• Clicking sounds
• Vibration at higher speeds

 
These symptoms indicate major U joint problems, and they call for immediate servicing and inspection.

If routine maintenance is not done, you run the risk of expensive repairs. Heavy Equipment Repair Services Charlotte is here to assist you with all of your heavy truck maintenance and repair needs.

​You can have your truck repaired by our rapid response team on site or in our shop. If you need your truck serviced or repaired, contact us to learn more about our service and maintenance packages.

​Contact​

When you have a problem with your heavy equipment's air conditioning, click here to contact us for fast repairs done right the first time.

Heavy Equipment Repair Services Charlotte

Phone: 704-486-1717
Email: info@heavyequipmentrepairscharlotte.com