It isn’t easy to understand the electrical system of a truck. It requires lots of experience and knowledge. Therefore, before you think of any maintenance practices, ensure that you genuinely understand the process. In case you want to install an alternator, for instance, ensure that your battery can support its charging rate. While battery manufacturers provide such information, it’s up to you to ensure that you met such a threshold.
From igniting your car to the end of your journey, the electrical system plays a critical role. That makes it one of the essential system of a functional vehicle. Failure of this system can cause a huge inconvenience and a huge repair cost. Therefore, preventive maintenance should be your priority if you own a truck.
The Working of a Truck’s Electrical System
A truck’s electrical system is responsible for powering lots of aspects in your truck. Its starts and powers the engine, door locks, windows, headlights, defrosters, interior lights, radio, sunroof, etc. A poorly functioning electrical system can, therefore, strain a lot to deliver efficient results.
Major components of the electrical system include:
The battery: the battery is the source of the electrical current used in powering the truck’s ignition and fuel system. According to experts, it is advisable always to purchase a high-quality battery because it comes with incredible lifecycle cost despite the high initial cost.
Starter: the starter usually receives power from the battery, which is the starter uses to rotate the flywheel, which turns the crankshaft. A faulty starter means the engine won’t work.
Alternator: this part is responsible for charging your car battery.
Maintaining Your Trucks Electrical System
The electrical system, like other systems, undergoes wear, and tear. So, there is a serious need for regular maintenance to avoid major issues.
Here are essential things to do:
● Regularly check the battery
Cleaning the battery terminals and battery cables is very important because these parts are prone to corrosion. Once a month, inspect these parts to ensure that there’s no build-up of corrosions. If there’s any, clean using corrosion fluid for batteries or water and baking soda.
Note that batteries won’t charge in freezing temperatures. It is important to insulate them with an insulating blanket to prevent them from losing heat. Additionally, ensure that your truck’s cables are sufficient for the conditions.
A truck electrical services expert should inspect the cables and use an ohmmeter to determine the resistance instead of using a voltmeter. An ohmmeter uses precise results. Keep in mind that a well-charged battery can support a starter for longer – give it a longer life. Remember, an inadequately charged battery gives less power- meaning slower cranking. But the starter will still draw a massive amount of this power.
● Drive belt inspection is necessary
The belts are prone to cracking, glazing along the surface as well as drying. Again, check the tension of the belt. Call a qualified technician to help you check the belt’s tension and adjust accordingly – of course, if you lack the skills.
● Battery replacement
How old is your battery? Any battery more than four years old might need replacing. An old battery almost always does not provide enough power to start a vehicle. That means you’ll be calling tow services. Always check with a qualified mechanic to see if you need a battery replacement.