As a van driver you have a highly practical machine that doesn’t get the same level of checks as an HGV. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t take car to make sure your van is in top condition. Making sure your van is suitable for work and long journeys should be a priority. This helps keep you and others safe on the road and stops you getting into any trouble. Here’s a selection of the basics you should be doing every day before driving off to work.
Outside checks
Around the outside of the van the things that need checking are relatively easily to spot:
- These need to be checked to make sure they’re in good shape. The little details to check include the depth of the tread being a minimum of 1.6mm and that the inflation is at the proper level.
- Tail Lifts and Tow Bars. If you’re going to be towing a trailer make sure it’s properly secured and the wiring works. The same is true with tail lifts but a quick check that it works before heading off, to avoid disappointing results.
- Doors and Body work. This is the simplest to check. Make sure that every door closes properly and is secured. Make sure the body work isn’t falling off and isn’t sharp enough to leave nasty cuts and you’re grand.
- Check that the glass isn’t damaged; small chips can become big cracks. Making sure windows are lined up properly so they can close is also a good idea.
Engine checks
Under the bonnet is a complicated piece of engineering. Here are some things to check so that your van drives properly:
- The Battery. When checking the battery make sure that it’s secured inside. For a van you’re looking to buy check this then too. There’s something wrong if it has to be held in with cable ties.
- The Liquids. The fluids you need to check are at the right level consist of: the brake fluid, the engine oil, washer fluid, water and power steering fluid. It’s also good to check for any puddles that can mean leaks, check after turning the engine on too.
The inside of the van checks
Next there are checks to make in the cab and back of the van. A lot you learn in your driving tests with seats and mirrors, but there are a few technical things to check:
- The Load. If you already have goods in the back from the previous day, have a quick check that it’s all there and secured properly.
- The wheel. Have a turn on the wheel to make sure it’s not got too much play, as well as a quick check of the horn.
- The brakes. Same as the wheel make sure they have the right amount of travel. Any problems with either brake or the wheel can mean a lack of fluid pressure.
- Lights and Engine. There are many lights to check, both the ones you turn on and the ones on the dashboard. Also, when you turn on the engine listen out for any noises of course but check the back. With a van it’s hard to see the back from the cab, but it’s still a good idea to check the exhaust. Too much smoke means the engine could be damaged and can also blind drivers behind you.
These are the basics for walk around checks for vans. With them you can minimise the risk of accidents on the road and keep your van up to code. Now all you need is something to transport, which you can find at DeliveryQuoteCompare.com to bid on national transportation jobs.