Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/26876
SMART DRIVING MAX KVIDERA Tips for Pre-trips Checking out your rig before you hit the road is a DOT requirement and could make the difference between smooth sailing and a costly breakdown he pre-trip inspection is the beginning of my job,” says Gina Angsten, an owner-operator leased to Duplainville Transport. “It’s the base of keeping me safe. It’s my responsibility whether it’s a “T company trailer I’m pulling or not. It’s important I inspect not only my truck but my trailer.” While the pre-trip inspection is a DOT requirement, Angsten says it’s something about which “drivers An oil spot on the ground is a telltale sign that something might be amiss while inspecting your truck. tend to get lax from time to time, particularly if they drive the same truck every day. Many drivers get re- ally comfortable going off of what they hear [on the road] rather than what they see.” But consistently conducting pre- trips, and practicing preventive maintenance, can help you avoid all manner of problems on the road, from roadside inspections to high- dollar breakdowns. While Angsten takes a solid 20 minutes on pre- trips, Dick McCorkle, an owner-op- erator leased to Perkins Specialized, says he’s been following the same 10-minute inspection routine for 25 years. It begins with looking for oil, water and radiator leaks on the ground. Mark Padgett makes sure he crawls under his trailer to check connections as part of his pre-trip. 28 TRUCKERS NEWS APRIL 2011 Heyl Truck Lines driver Mark Padgett estimates he spends 30 min- utes on pre-trips daily. He follows the same sequence each time to en- sure he doesn’t forget something. For Paccar General Marketing Manager Jeff Sass, the rule of thumb MAX KVIDERA MAX KVIDERA