The United States Department of Transportation (USDOT) categorizes automobiles based on gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). 

This is a safety requirement that aids in the prevention of overloading. It is intended to limit the maximum weight of a vehicle, including fuel, passengers, and cargo. Excessive weight on a truck can result in safety hazards such as brake failure, tire strain, and inefficient suspension components.

The US Department of Transportation classifies vehicles into eight classes depending on their gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
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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 weighing more than 26,001 pounds is classified as heavy-duty, also known as "heavy trucks."

Here are several examples:              

• City transit buses
• Mobile 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)

Heavy Truck Maintenance

Because micro heavy trucks are used to transport very large loads, the vehicle is subjected to much higher stress than other types of vehicles. As a result, regular preventative maintenance is even more essential. If regular maintenance is not done, serious problems might arise at a high expense.​

​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 

​There are several moving parts and heavy trucks. As a result, there are numerous factors that must be considered for proper preventative maintenance. Regular heavy truck maintenance should inspect the following: ​

• 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 

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

The frequency of routine maintenance is usually determined by the truck's mileage. For a complete list of scheduled maintenance intervals, consult the owner's manual.

Heavy Truck Repairs

Even with routine maintenance, problems with the loads that vehicles transport can arise. Some of the most typical problems are as follows:

Wheel Bearing Issues

Wheel bearings allow the wheel to move with the least amount of friction possible. The following are some of the most prevalent signs of a wheel bearing problem:
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• Wheel jerking
• Unstable movements when steering
• Loud noises under the wheel while driving

Any of these symptoms indicate a problem and necessitate emergency wheel bearing service.

Brake Failures And Fluid Leaks 

Fluid leaks in big vehicle brake systems are fairly prevalent. Problems with brake systems can easily lead to brake failure if they are not properly maintained.

​Brakes should be serviced on a regular basis to ensure that they are in good operating order and keep drivers protected.

U-Joint Failure 

Power is transferred from the transmission to the differential via U-joints. U-joints must be lubricated on a regular basis in order to function properly and avoid excessive wear and strain. Among the warning signs of a problem are:
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• Clicking sounds
• Vibration at higher speeds

These symptoms indicate major U-joint problems and necessitate quick servicing and inspection.

Overheating of the engine

Engine overheating is a major issue with huge vehicles due to the significant weight they carry. Overheating in an engine can be caused by a variety of factors, including a fuel leak, a burst gasket, or a coolant leak.
 
Engine overheating is a warning of major engine problems that, if not addressed promptly, can necessitate engine replacement. Heavy trucks must be serviced on a regular basis in order to function properly. When routine maintenance is not done, more costly repairs may be required.

Failure to Start

Another prevalent issue with huge vehicles is starter failure. These problems are particularly common during bad weather, such as cold weather.

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Heavy Equipment Repair Services Miami is here to assist you with all of your heavy truck requirements. Regular maintenance and repairs can be performed in our shop by our rapid response team. Contact us immediately to get your truck on a regular maintenance schedule or to handle any repairs you may require.

Contact

Contact us immediately for all of your servicing needs

Heavy Equipment Repair Services Miami
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Phone: (786) 876-7802
Email: info@heavyequipmentrepairmiami.com