Driving the Extra Mile: Maintenance for Collection Vehicles

Collection vehicles play an essential role in keeping our cities and towns clean and operational. They collect trash from households and commercial areas and transport it to the landfill or recycling center. However, to ensure that these trucks operate efficiently and last for a long time, they require regular maintenance.

Regular maintenance of collection vehicles involves routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs. Here are some key maintenance tasks that should be performed on a garbage collection truck:

1. Inspect the tires: These vehicles often operate in harsh conditions, and their tires can wear out quickly. Regularly inspecting the tires for damage, punctures, and wear can help prevent accidents and breakdowns.

2. Clean the truck: Collection vehicles can get dirty quickly, which can lead to mechanical problems if not cleaned regularly. Washing the truck's body and undercarriage can help prevent rust and corrosion.

3. Check the brakes: The brakes on garbage trucks are subject to heavy use and can wear out quickly. Regularly checking the brakes and replacing worn parts can help prevent accidents.

4. Inspect the hydraulic system: The hydraulic system is the heart of a collection vehicle and powers the loading and unloading of trash. Regularly inspecting the hydraulic system for leaks, wear, and damage can help prevent breakdowns.

5. Replace worn parts: Like any other vehicle, collection vehicles have parts that wear out over time. Regularly replacing worn parts such as filters, belts, and hoses can help prevent breakdowns and extend the truck's lifespan.

Regular inspections and maintenance of the suspension and brake systems are particularly essential for the safety and longevity of a garbage truck. Paying close attention to signs of wear, lubricating suspension components, and replacing brake fluid are all critical steps in ensuring the proper function of these systems.

The brake fluid should be replaced at regular intervals, typically every two years, to prevent moisture buildup and enable optimal brake performance. By prioritizing the maintenance of these systems, collection vehicle operators can ensure that their trucks are safe and reliable for years to come.

In addition to these maintenance tasks, it's also important to train garbage truck drivers to operate the truck safely and efficiently. Drivers should be trained to check the truck's fluid levels, inspect the tires, and report any issues to maintenance staff.

Regular maintenance of garbage collection trucks is crucial to ensure their safe and efficient operation. By performing routine inspections, cleaning, and repairs, you can help prevent breakdowns, keep employees safe, and extend the truck's lifespan.