Purchasing a used truck? Learn tips for avoiding problem vehicles
For many small businesses and private individuals, purchasing a used truck is a big financial commitment. Ending up with a vehicle that has to be continually repaired is a common feared outcome for anyone buying a truck. To avoid this, and end up with a truck that operates as it should, ensure that you make these important checks when inspecting the truck prior to purchasing it:
Use Your Touch As Well As Your Sight
When looking over the truck, make sure that you use your fingers to touch and feel the bodywork of the truck. When looking around the vehicle, touch any spots that are raised; usually, this means that there has been rust underneath. Also, run your fingers along the bottom and edges of the doors and inside the hinges – feel for areas that have rusted or damaged parts.
Usually, you can't see these areas with a decent enough light to ensure that they are free from damage. If you feel anything untoward, stop for a closer inspection.
Fire The Engine
With the engine fired up there are a couple of things you can check. First, ensure that the engine is idling quite high – this is normal and if the engine idles too low, there may be an issue with the engine. Listen to the engine as you gently rev it; any clanks or thuds may indicate a potential problem with the connecting rod-bearing or the crankshaft. Be aware that both are very costly to repair.
Check The Exhaust
A leaking exhaust can be an expensive problem to repair. To check this, activate the hand brake and set the truck to park. Get out and go to the rear of the truck and press a handkerchief or tissue over the exhaust tail. You should feel some pressure coming out of the pipe; no pressure means that there is likely a leak somewhere in the system.
Always Take A Test Drive
Perhaps the most important part of your inspection is the test drive. Make sure you can drive the truck at least five miles during the run. Once you have covered this distance. Stop and shut down the engine. After a few seconds, fire up the truck again; it shouldn't hesitate when you do. Check the transmission is working as it should by accelerating slowly; allow the transmission to change up through the gears. Lastly, check the brakes by performing an emergency stop. Consider carefully if you wish to continue the purchase if the truck fails any of these checks – the repair bill is usually large to fix them.
Never allow the seller to rush your inspections; they should be happy for you to take your time. To learn more, contact a company like Atchison Truck Repairs Pty Ltd.