march2021 - 21

remote software updates, and wireless data downloads, " Carrier Transicold's Maddox says.
That is not to say that technology and telematics are on the verge of rendering the heavy duty
service technician obsolete. There is still much
to keep an eye on to ensure reliable, long-term
performance of today's TRUs.
Thermo King's Kampf reminds that when it
comes to preventive maintenance, there is no substitute for following the OE's
recommendations for a given
product. That said, here is a
rundown of some of the more
essential preventive maintenance items a technician
should be paying attention to.
Pre-trip inspections
It is always important to
check the engine oil level,
refrigerant level, antifreeze
protection, and belt tension
and condition. It is also a
good idea to run a test on the
microprocessor. Technicians
should also regularly inspect
the structural integrity of the
TRU, searching for things like
fluid leaks, loose or damaged
parts, bearing wear, hose
condition, etc.
Also, every 1,500 hours or so,
give the TRU a good cleaning,
including the condenser and
evaporator coils, and remember to defrost the drains.
Engine
Every 1,500 hours, a technician should drain water from
the fuel tank and check the
vent, inspect/clean the electric
fuel pump filter, and inspect/
clean the EGR system. Every
3,000 hours, a technician
should replace the air cleaner element and fuel filter/
water separator. The engine
oil and filter should also be
changed, and the engine valve
clearance should be adjusted.
Every 4,500 hours or annually, a technician should check
the engine mounts for wear.
Finally, the coolant should be
changed every five years or
12,000 miles.
Electrical
Every 1,500 hours, a technician should inspect the battery
terminals and electrolyte level,
as well as the wire harness for
damage or loose connections.
Every 4,500 hours or annually, a technician should inspect
the AC generator and alternator wire connections.

Refrigerant
Every 1,500 hours, a technician should check the
suction pressure, as well as the compressor oil
level and overall condition. Every 4,500 hours or
annually, check compressor efficiency and pump
down the refrigeration system. It is also important to empty the oil collection container that is
mounted on the compressor.

For fleets that would rather outsource TRU
maintenance to a dealer, options exist to make
the process easier. For instance, Thermo King's
Performance Advantage program offers a set of
varying maintenance plans so a fleet can best
match its TRU servicing needs and budget.
Carrier Transicold's Maddox says that next
to the industry's driver shortage, one of a fleet's

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March 2021 | FleetMaintenance.com

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march2021

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of march2021