Now that we are in the heart of fall, it is important to remember that the Fall season brings cooler temperatures, beautiful scenery, and plenty of rain. For commercial trucks, that extra moisture can potentially lead to major issues if left unchecked. Corrosion, electrical malfunctions, and reduced brake performance are just a few of the problems that can occur when water and humidity work their way into those critical truck systems.
Moisture management is more than just keeping your truck clean. It’s about protecting your investment and ensuring your fleet stays reliable no matter what the forecast looks like. In this edition of our Maintenance Monthly, we are going to cover how moisture can damage your truck, discuss some key areas to inspect, and some proactive moisture management tips for your truck this fall.
Moisture exposure might seem harmless, but over time it can lead to:
These problems can add up, and not just in repair costs, but also in downtime, missed deliveries, and serious safety risks.
Rain, mud, and road salt can accelerate corrosion underneath the truck. Make sure you regularly wash the undercarriage to remove grime and consider applying a corrosion inhibitor or protective coating to high-risk areas like the truck frame, crossmembers, and suspension parts.
Moisture in the air system can freeze and damage brake valves in cold weather. Be sure to check that your air dryer is working properly, replace the cartridge if needed, and drain air tanks frequently to remove water buildup.
Inspect all visible connectors for signs of corrosion or loose fittings. Pay special attention to trailer connectors, lighting systems, and ABS sensors — these areas are highly exposed to the elements.
Moisture combined with road salt can lead to rusted or frozen brake components. Inspect slack adjusters, camshafts, and brake linings for wear and rust. Keeping these parts clean and lubricated ensures consistent braking performance.
Humidity and rain can make their way into the truck cab, fogging up windows or damaging electronics. Make sure to check door seals, window tracks, and HVAC filters to ensure a tight fit and proper drainage. If needed, replace cracked or brittle seals before temperatures drop.
Managing moisture is not just about maintenance — it’s about uptime. Every minute that a truck sits in the shop because of avoidable corrosion or electrical failure is a minute it’s down and is not generating revenue. By investing a little time in moisture management during the fall, fleets can save thousands in long-term repair costs and ensure safer operation through the wettest months of the year. Have any questions on how you can prevent moisture damage to your truck this fall? Contact your local Kenworth Of Pennsylvania Service Department to learn more today!