Volvo Trucks are similar in maintenance to other road tractors. They need an oil change and the major components inspected. Plan on spending two hours to fully inspect and make sure your truck is roadworthy. Checking your fluid levels will help to keep your equipment running longer and efficiently.
The first thing is to change the oil. You will need something to catch the oil. The truck will hold at least 40 quarts. The oil needs to be changed at 10,000 mile intervals. Replace the oil filter as well.
There are many ports on the truck that need greasing. You will need a grease gun filled with automotive grease. Any part's house employee should be able to direct you to the right type of grease. Load the grease in the grease gun and locate all the grease fittings on the truck. There will be grease fittings on the steering assembly and drive shafts. Shoot grease in the fitting till grease starts to come out. The chassis is now greased.
Inspect all the fluid levels. Start by checking your differential housings.There will be a plug in the back of the differential chunk. Use a bare 3/4r ratchet to twist the plug out. You should be able to feel the fluid with your finger. If you don't, you can replace it with gear oil. The gear oil is going to be heavier than motor oil. The gear oil will be an 80 weight. The transmission should be checked the same way. Find the plug on the side of the transmission. Check your power steering fluid by locating the fluid dipstick on the power steering pump. Check the coolant level in your radiator, too. The coolant reservoir will be marked where the proper fill mark is. Last, you will want to change your fuel filter. Make sure you fill the new filter with fuel before installing back on to the truck.
Check to see if all your lights are working. Replace the burnt-out bulbs. Make sure your clutch has free play in the pedal. The air filter should be clean; replace, if dirty. Check air pressure in your tires; you can also inspect brake pads to make sure they have plenty of life in them. Be sure to replace or adjust anything that appears to be out of specification.
