Being an owner-operator of a trucking business isn't always easy. Although it offers drastically more freedom and the potential for much higher income, it also means that you are responsible for your own business. Your truck is the most important part of that business, so keeping it healthy and on the road is key to maintaining a steady stream of income. While buying the right truck is one of the best ways to make sure that your rig is able to go the distance for you, proper maintenance is equally important. These basic tips will help you to keep your truck on the road and earning you money.

Routinely Check Your Oil

Many diesel engines consume oil between their regular oil change intervals. This is normal to some degree, even on engines that are fresh from the factory or an overhaul. Because of this loss, it is important to monitor your oil regularly. For a typical, 15,000-mile oil change interval, you should expect to lose no more than half a gallon to a gallon of oil. Any more than this is likely atypical and may indicate either a leak or a more serious internal problem that is allowing oil to be burned by the engine. If the problem persists and no leak is found, it may be time to have your truck evaluated by a professional.

Religiously Follow Pre-Trip Inspections

The FMCSA requires pre-trip inspections for any trip longer than a day and it is important to follow these closely. Not only do they help to keep you safe and protect other drivers, but they can also catch potentially expensive problems before they end up costing you a fortune. It is particularly important to inspect your tires and check for any obvious signs of leaks. Blown out or flat tires and coolant system problems are among the most common reasons for trucks to be towed off of the road, and towing costs can quickly spiral out of control.

Check Your Brakes Regularly

Brake pads on a semi-truck do not necessarily last as long as brake pads on a vehicle, especially if you are routinely pulling steep grades with heavy loads. Be aware of any sounds that your brakes are making and be especially cognizant of a brake pedal that feels off in any way. If you aren't able to check your pads yourself, have them checked regularly by professionals. The thickness of the pads should be measured and they should be replaced immediately if they fall below the minimum level. While having the pads replaced, be sure that all associated hardware is cleaned and replaced as necessary as well.

For more information on truck services, contact a company like Apex Transportation.