When your construction company has a dump truck, you can enjoy more convenience when hauling material to and from a project site. What is not so convenient is your truck developing rust that damages its body and hurts your ability to transport loads for customers. However, you can avoid this damage by learning six ways to prevent rust in your dump truck.
Clean Your Truck
One way that you can prevent your truck from developing rust is by keeping it clean. If you wash your truck regularly, you will help reduce the buildup of contaminants that can lead to the development of rust over time.
For example, when you drive your dump truck through winter weather, your vehicle can accumulate salt from the roads. The salt can speed up corrosion, so removing it from your vehicle is highly beneficial.
Keep It Indoors
Another way to prevent rust in your dump truck is by storing it indoors in an enclosed and temperature-regulated environment, such as a garage. Keeping it there will better protect your vehicle from snow, ice, rain, and other elements. Each of these elements can hurt the finish on your dump truck and make it more susceptible to rust and corrosion.
Fix Paint Scratches
You can also prevent rust by fixing any paint scratches on your vehicle. After your dump truck has suffered a scratch, touch up the area with primer and paint before rust has a chance to form. After the paint has dried, you can buff it to finish the process.
You can also prevent rust and corrosion in your dump truck bed by keeping an eye out for any paint scratches in that area. The rough materials you haul can cause scratches or paint in the bed to chip, leading to corrosion. You can prevent this from happening in the future by adding a bed liner to your vehicle.
Make Repairs Immediately
On a similar note, if you find rust on your dump truck’s body, it is wise to have it repaired immediately. Letting the rust sit too long can cause the rust to go deeper into the metal. But if you address it soon, you will have a better chance of limiting your problems.
Don’t Drive Through Puddles
You also can prevent your dump truck from rusting by not driving through puddles whenever possible. Not only will the water increase the chances of the vehicle rusting, but the puddles also can feature salt, dirt, and other sludge that can be harmful.
Add an Undercoating
Although some manufacturers provide sealant to the undercarriage of their vehicles, not all of them do. You can safeguard your vehicle further by adding your own undercoating. During the process, you will need to make sure the surface is clean and moisture-free. Afterward, you will be able to protect it with an anti-rust spray.
These strategies will help you extend the life of your dump truck so that it stays rust-free for a longer amount of time. This will allow you to perform better for your clients, who will keep your business strong.
