Truck Topics

Springtime maintenance for the "B" unit

Some of the areas we'll touch on here are not specifically concerned with the seasonal change, but since the truck is "on the rack", why not take care of some basic maintenance items while we're at it, right?

Cooling System

The anti-freeze/fluid should be a good green color. If not, it's a good time to give the system a flush and fill. It's also a good time to throw in a can of water pump lube for good measure.

Visually inspect the coolant hoses and give 'em a good squeeze with your hand. If they feel soft and "squishy", it might be time for replacement. Visually inspect the areas around the clamps, any sign of leakage and it's definitely time to replace them.

Belts

Visually inspect for signs of cracking on grooved side, feel for tension.

Air Filter

It's a good time to replace the air filter and to carefully remove all the rocks, pebbles, bird's nests that somehow find their way into the air filter pan.

Battery

Check fluid levels in the cells. If a hydrometer is available, check each cell for capacity. The terminal ends and posts should be cleaned with a wire brush and baking soda bath.

Wiper Blades

Winter temperatures are rough on wiper blades; exposed to the cold, the rubber cracks and loses it's flexibility so it's a good policy to change these seasonally. Also, inspect the windshield for cracks and spiderwebs.

Tires

Changes in temperatures can of course change the tire pressure. Use the manufacturer's recommended pressure and don't forget to check the spare. Give the valve stems a quick look too for signs of excessive cracking.

Air Conditioning

Check with thermometer in the outlets, if not at proper temp, time to take it to the mechanic for a leak test.

Body

This area suffers the most during the winter months and is the most readily apparent. After giving the van a good wash including the undercarriage to knock off salt deposits and formations of road gunk), check the body work for those nasty dings and scratches.

The front end and rocker panels take a real beating from the salt chunks and foreign matter thrown up off the road in winter weather and should be repaired with touch-up paint if the damage is not too great. Then treat the truck to a quality wax job and stand back and admire your handiwork.