The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance’s (CVSA) International Roadcheck is set for May 17-19, with a focus on wheel ends.
The 72-hour inspection spree will take place at weigh and inspection stations, on roving patrols and at temporary inspection sites. If critical violations are found, the vehicle is restricted to travel until those violations or conditions are corrected.
Wheel end components support the heavy loads carried by commercial motor vehicles, maintain stability and control, and are vital for braking. Not only will identifying these problems ahead of time save drivers time and money on repairs but may save a life.
Violations involving wheel end components historically account for about one quarter of violations discovered during International Roadcheck, and past data routinely found wheel end components in the top 10 of vehicle violations.
A few pointers to keep in mind:
- It is crucial for commercial motor vehicle drivers to check wheel end components during pre- and post-trip inspections.
- Drivers may also find abnormal or uneven tire wear, see or smell smoke from a wheel end, extremely hot hubcaps (too hot to touch) or feel wheel vibration, wobbling or noise.
- Increased stopping distance or decreased braking power, abnormal side pull when braking, wheel lock-up or skidding are all signs that your wheel ends may need maintenance or replacement.
For more information, including a checklist of items for the wheel end inspection, check out this flyer.
Ensuring your truck is properly maintained allows you to be proactive, safe and keep your truck on the road. Schedule an appointment with your local MHC dealer today to stay road ready.