It is that time of year again – the leaves are changing colors, the days are growing shorter and the temperature is about to drop. One of the biggest issues for diesel truck owners is that when the air cools, it holds less moisture, which means more condensation that can promote rust. If you’re looking for tips on how to keep your truck rust-free, you’ve come to the right place.
For truck owners who have dealt with rust before, rust prevention becomes detail #1, because outside of an actual accident on the roadway, few things are more damaging to the structure of a truck than rust. The biggest risk involves the steel body and frame of the truck, and it’s not just moisture that leads to this predicament; dirt, salt and other debris that accumulate on these metal parts combine with moisture to cause damage.
Regular Washing
It might seem like adding water to the situation would only promote rust, but when you regularly wash off debris, especially salt buildup during winter months, this preventative maintenance step will help to prevent oxidation. Be sure to spray the high-pressure water and soap mixture along the undercarriage, wheel wells and various other areas where debris can get caked on in hard-to-reach areas.
Undercoating
Salt used on slick roads to prevent auto accidents is the most often-discussed caustic substance that leads to rust on vehicles. Magnesium chloride, one of the major components in road salt, has largely replaced calcium chloride, as the magnesium formulation seems to do a better job helping motorists maintain traction on snowy and icy roads. Unfortunately, magnesium chloride is just as damaging to your truck’s metal components.
One of the best preventative maintenance tips for battling corrosion is to utilize undercoating. Among the most popular types (there are six different types of undercoating) is the rubberized version. This is a flexible, rubber-like material sprayed on the vehicle’s undercarriage, creating a protective barrier that will not allow moisture or debris to come in contact with the metal.
Rubberized undercoating is the most popular because it offers effective protection and durability. It can also deaden sound, is relatively easy to apply and is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your diesel truck from the elements.
There is also an asphalt-based undercoating, a thick, tar-like substance that gets more use on heavy-duty equipment, such as commercial vehicles. Yet another type utilizes a wax-based coating, which is also sprayed onto the undercoating and is less expensive, but also less durable.
Regular Inspection
While the undercarriage will not be painted, there are parts of a diesel trucks where the paint acts as the first layer of protection against the elements. That’s why it is smart to regularly inspect the paint for chips or scratches.
Many trucks have drainage holes, usually located in the tailgate, bed and doors. Make sure these holes are free of debris and are able to drain rather than allow water to pool.
Finally, ask your local mechanic about rust and have them inspect your truck, as they will know exactly where to look and offer rust remedy advice. That’s what we do for our customers at Gray Diesel & Equipment Services. We provide the best-in-class maintenance services in our state-of-the-art facilities where knowledgeable mechanics with the industry’s best tools are here to assist.