Suspension and steering
The suspension and steering linkage in your vehicle should be inspected
periodically for the following:
•Spring leaf damage
•Spring sag
•Abnormal looseness
•Damaged seals.
The following changes indicate a need to inspect and service your vehicle:
•Changes in steering action.
•Hard steering.
•Excessive free play.
•Unusual sounds when turning or parking.
If the steering wanders or pulls
This condition can be caused by any of the following conditions:
•Underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)
•Front end out of alignment
•Total vehicle out of alignment (i.e. rear axle[s] out of alignment with
front axle)
•Improper adjustment in the steering gear
•Vehicle overloaded or unevenly loaded
•High crosswinds
•High crown in center of road
•Components in steering linkage loose or worn
•Wheel bearings improperly adjusted
•Excessive lash in steering shaft or universal joints
If the vehicle steers hard
Hard steering can be caused by any of the following conditions:
•Underinflated tire(s) on any wheel(s)
•Vehicle overload
•Misalignment of the front tires
Driving
96
Check every oil
changeOil change
intervals are as
follows: Powerstroke -
10 000 ; Caterpillar -
10 000 ; Cummins -
15 000 (refer to the
Caterpillar and
Cummins service
manuals for further
instructions and
information)Engine system
Check the engine cooling system - hoses,
clamps and protection
Inspect the drive belts
Exhaust system
Inspect the entire exhaust system (including
the inlet pipe(s), muffler(s), outlet pipe(s),
clamps and fasteners) for holes, leakage,
breakage, corrosive damage and separation
from other components. Adjust, service or
replace with the same or the equivalent part.
(Also a noise emission control service)
Suspension system
Lubricate the front and rear spring pins
Tighten the front and rear spring U-bolts to the
specified torque
Driveline and rear axle system
Lubricate the U-joints and the slip yoke
Brake system
Lube the air brake foot control valve, hinge and
roller
Inspect the drum brake linings through the
inspection holes
Lubricate the brake camshafts (air brakes)
Lubricate the brake slack adjuster (air brakes)
Inspect the disc brake pads and the piston
boots (hydraulic brakes)
Clutch system
Lubricate the clutch release cross shaft and all
linkages
Check the clutch fluid
Fuel system
Drain the accumulated water or sediment from
the fuel tank(s)
General maintenance information
183
