1991 AGN JAN 03 I14 - Laserfiche WebLink

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in need of attention, the inspection interval selected is probably too long - for the conditions under which the vehicle is operating. If only minor problems have developed since the last preventive maintenance inspection, the schedule is probably adequate for the type of service the vehicle is in. PROGRESSIVE MAINTENANCE SCHEDULING PLANS (A -B -C SYSTEM Typically, a preventive maintenance program will consist of several schedules for various types of rlaintenance services. These schedules are coordinated with one another to cause those vehicle components which must be inspected and/or serviced most often to receive service on the most frequent schedule, while those which need be serviced less often are scheduled according to that need. An "A" service, for example, might include an inspection of fluid levels, belts, hoses, tires, lighting and reflectors,and other items which can be checked; relatively quickly and easily. A "B" service might include all of the items on the "A" service plus several more items that need less frequent attention. A "C" service might include all items on the "A" service, all items on the "B" service, plus several more items which require even less frequent attention than the "B" list items do. Usually, the overall program is designed so that the intervals for each type of inspection are multiples of one another; that is, the "A" service might be, scheduled for 2,000 -mile intervals, the "B" service at 6,000 -mile intervals, and the "C" service at 12,000 -mile intervals. Many systems include several more levels of inspection; that is, they have a "D" list., an "E" list and so on. WHERE TO GET HELP IN STARTING A PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE PROGRAM The best source of information on how to properly maintain any motor vehicle is the manufacturer.of the vehicle. The operator's manual that comes with a new vehicle will usually specify what maintenance is to be performed on what schedule, especially for the purpose of maintaining the validity of the vehicle warranty. In addition, shop manuals are available for vehicles either directly from the manufacturer or from a publishing firm designated by the manufacturer. There, are some "aftermarket" manuals available that discuss proper: maintenance in more general terms, but the most authoritative and comprehensive publications are produced by or for the manufacturer of the specific motor vehicle. A carrier who uses the maintenance schedules specified by the manufacturer of the vehicle, and follows the schedules conscientiously, will probably have a good maintenance program, since no one can be expected to know more about that vehicle than its own manufacturer. There are numerous preventive maintenance programs in existence for a wide variety of applications. Operators of petroleum product distribution businesses, for example, can often obtain literature from their national brand affiliate or parent company which will outline an excellent preventive maintenance program for large bulk transport trucks or combinations, for 2 -axle local delivery tank trucks, flatbed delivery trucks, even pickups and 2-5 HPG 84.6