Essential Trucking Tools You Should Always Have with You

There are certain tools of the trade that no truck driver should be without when they’re out on the road. Every now and then, there may be small maintenance issues that come up that the truck driver may need to handle on his own. While it’s always advisable to bring the vehicle to a mechanic to get checked out or have semi truck repairs performed, there are some circumstances in which it’s either not feasible to do so, or when the issue is small enough that it’s not worthwhile.

These trucking tools don’t necessarily just have to be standard tools, either—they can also be certain “survival” items that should always be kept somewhere in the vehicle to assist should a worst-case scenario arise.

Here are just a few examples of some of those tools that should always be in the truck:

• Traditional tools: You should have a simple tool kit with some commonly used tools like screwdrivers (both flat-head and Phillips), hammer, vise grip, adjustable wrench and multi-tool. A set of socket wrenches can also be beneficial. These simple tools will allow you to take on a lot of basic vehicle-related jobs.
• Gloves: You’re going to want to have gloves whenever working under the hood, as certain items might be hot or dirty.
• WD-40: Any time you’re working on any sort of mechanical component, you should have a can of WD-40 nearby.
• Duct tape: After all, what can’t duct tape do?
• Flashlight: A flashlight will come in handy when working under the hood or when performing inspections after dark.
• Antifreeze: It never hurts to have some backup antifreeze so you can refill your chamber as necessary.
• Load straps and chains: Load straps, chains and winches are all good to have in excess when you work in the shipping and trucking industry.
• Pocket knife: A pocket knife is a great item to have on hand, for anything from cutting materials to cutting your food.

Survival kit

As we mentioned, you should also have a survival kit on hand that will help you stay prepared for potentially being stranded while waiting for a semi truck repair service to come and find you. This survival kit should contain the following items:

• Bottled water: You’re going to need to stay hydrated, especially when the weather is extremely hot and the sun is beating down.
• Nonperishable food items: Keep plenty of canned foods (fruits and vegetables), jerky, trail mix and other items that will last for a long time without needing refrigeration.
• Cell phone and charger: Always have your phone with you, and a means of charging the device. We recommend a wireless charger in addition to a charger that can plug into your vehicle.
• Flares or triangles: Road flares or triangles will alert other vehicles to your presence on the side of the road should you need to pull over.
• Cash: It’s always a good idea to have some cash on you, just in case you’re in a situation where you can’t use a credit card.

For more information about tools and items to keep in your truck at all times, or to schedule semi truck repair, contact J.H.T. Service & Repair, LLC today.

Categorised in: Semi Truck Repair

This post was written by Writer