Taking care of your truck will make it run better and last longer without issues. Every vehicle needs a tune-up every once in a while, but trucks can benefit from them even more so because of the large engines and the hard work they do. If your truck requires some much-needed maintenance, then learning how to do a tune-up on a truck will allow you to handle it on your own.
Routine Maintenance Importance
Learning how to do a tune-up on a truck is part of the routine maintenance needed to keep it running smoothly. However, keeping up with this maintenance is important because of the difference it can make in the life of your vehicle. Also, this gives you a chance to check out any potential problems before they become a major issue that is costly to fix.
Check the Ignition System
When you are ready to begin, you will want to start by checking all aspects of the ignition system. This system is made up of plug wires, coils, spark plugs, and a few other electrical components. With the computerization of some parts of newer vehicles, you may not have all of these components, but you will have most of them.
Spark Plugs
These plugs can wear out over time and may need replacing if the engine is misfiring. If you check the spark plugs and the metal tips show visible wear, then you will want to replace them. When doing so, you should use original equipment plugs if possible.
Wires
If your truck has experienced a loss of performance or has a rough idle, then this could be a sign of a wire failing. These wires will need to be changed out eventually, so the earlier you do so, the better. If they are not changed in time, it will lead to your truck having a dead cylinder.
Coils
Your vehicle coils play a big role in battery voltage, and if they are not working properly, you will start having misfires, lessened acceleration, and reduced gas mileage. This could cost you more money because you will end up paying more for gas than you used to, so you should check to see if your coils may need to be replaced.
Distributor Cap and Rotors
The distributor rotor rotates in the distributor and this can cause it to be worn down. If the distributor cap fails, you will likely have misfires or your truck may not start at all. If either the cap or rotor is worn, you should replace both at one time.
Clean or Replace Filters
The filters in your truck act as a protective barrier for vital parts of your engine. They work to keep dirt, dust, and particles from reaching other areas of the engine. If the filters are dirty, then your truck has to work harder to run, which takes a toll on the engine. If you see that the cabin, engine, oil, or fuel filter is dirty, then you want to clean it or replace it right away.
Check the Auxiliary System
The auxiliary system in your truck is made up of hoses and belts that affect the alternator, water pump, and power steering. With daily driving and exposure to high or low temperatures, these parts can wear down or break. If you check these parts and see that they are worn, you will want to replace them before worse damage occurs.
Refill Essential Liquids
Your truck has fluids that are essential to the operation of the vehicle. Motor oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid allow your vehicle to run smoothly. You want to ensure that they are not contaminated. Changing out fluids that have been in the truck for a long time can help make the engine more efficient, and it will keep damage from occurring.
If you do not know how often to change out these oils, here are some helpful recommendations:
Motor Oil
If you have an older truck, then you should stick to changing the oil every 3,000 miles. However, newer vehicles with modern lubricants can last closer to 5,000 miles between changes.
Coolant
Coolant will keep your truck from overheating and should be checked regularly. Using a product to flush out any particles in the liquid should be used every two years.
Brake Fluid
This fluid is very important to your safety and allows the brakes to work properly. Without it, you would not be able to stop the car. It is recommended to change out this fluid every two years.
Automatic Transmission Fluid
If you begin to see the color of the liquid change from red to brown, this is a sign that you need new fluid. There is no specific time for changing out this liquid, so you should follow the instructions of the manufacturer of your specific vehicle.
Power Steering Fluid
Your power steering fluid should never be muddy, so take your truck into the shop if you see this. Always ensure that the liquid amount is in between the given range of the reservoir.
Schedule an Appointment with Rob’s Shop
Keeping your truck looking and running great takes some maintenance, but putting in the work by learning how to do a tune-up on a truck will pay off . If you want your truck to look as great as it feels to drive, then call to schedule an appointment with Rob’s Customs and Restorations. We can give your truck a custom paint job or the repair it needs to look like you just drove it off the lot!