Big rigs are shaking and it’s costing truckers money! In this blog post, we will discuss what is causing big rigs to shake and how to fix the problem.
Many truckers are unaware of the issue and its causes. If you’re a trucker, it’s important to read this post so that you can take corrective measures to stop your rig from shaking.
Unbalanced Loads
When a big rig starts shaking, it can be a sign that something is wrong. In many cases, the issue can be corrected relatively easily, but if it’s ignored, it can lead to more serious problems down the road.
There are a few things that can cause a big rig to shake. One of the most common causes is an unbalanced load. When the weight of the cargo isn’t evenly distributed, it can cause the truck to shake. This is especially common when hauling large or heavy items.
One way this issue is often addressed is by shifting the load around until it’s balanced. This can be a difficult and time-consuming task, but it’s important to do if you want to avoid damaging your truck. Load shifting is the process of rearranging the load on a vehicle to achieve balance. This is especially important when carrying a heavy or unbalanced load, as this can cause the vehicle to shake excessively. There are several ways to go about achieving balance, but the most common is to move the heaviest items towards the front or rear of the vehicle. You may also need to use blocks or wedges to keep everything in place. It’s important to take your time and be careful when doing this, as you don’t want anything falling off the truck and causing an accident.
Poor Maintenance
Another common cause of shaking is poor maintenance. If the truck isn’t properly serviced, it can start shaking as soon as it hits the road. This is because worn-out parts can’t handle the stress of driving.
The most common parts that can fall victim to this are the brakes, the engine, and the suspension. If any of these parts are worn out or not properly maintained, it can cause the truck to shake. It’s important to have these parts inspected and serviced on a regular basis.
A proper maintenance schedule for these parts on a big rig will vary depending on the make and model of the truck. However, there are some general guidelines that all truckers should follow.
Brakes should be inspected every 6 months or 6,000 miles, whichever comes first. If needed, they should be serviced or replaced at this time.
The engine should be serviced every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This includes changing the oil and filter, as well as inspecting other components.
The suspension should be serviced every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This includes inspecting and replacing worn-out parts as needed.
Tire Issues
Another common cause of shaking is worn tires. Bad tires can also cause a big rig to shake. When the tread on your tires gets too low, they will slip and skid on the road. If the tires are bald or uneven, they won’t be able to grip the asphalt properly and will start to wobble. This can be especially dangerous when driving at high speeds or in bad weather conditions. And unfortunately, it can cost lives.
Bringing It to the Yard
To summarize, if you’re experiencing shaking in your big rig, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem:
- Check the load balance. Make sure that the weight of the cargo is evenly distributed throughout the truck. This will help to minimize any shaking or wobbling.
- Service your big rig on a regular basis. Make sure that all of the parts are in good condition and replace any worn-out parts as necessary. This will help to ensure that the truck runs smoothly on the road.
- Check the tires for wear and tear. If the tires are bald or uneven, they should be replaced immediately. This will help improve traction and reduce shaking.
Big rigs are complicated machines. Therefore, it’s important that you have a service provider looking after them that knows what they’re doing.
J&A Fleet Services has provided Illinois with dependable roadside assistance and in-house maintenance for many years, from Chicago and Pontiac to smaller communities like Channahon, Toluca, Eureka, Chatsworth, Gridley, and all points in between. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help!