Tipper Pre-Start Checklist: 7 Steps Before Operating a Tipper Truck.

While most commercial tipper truck operators and equipment owners are familiar with the basic pre-start checklist for their vehicles, here’s a helpful list that you can use before hitting the road. By following the easy pre-start checks outlined in this blog, you'll be able to keep your tippers running smoothly and avoid any unnecessary problems that might happen once you hit the road or deploy the vehicle in operation on a job site.

Quick Tipper Truck Pre-Start Checklist

Step 1: Check the engine oil level
Step 2: Check the coolant level
Step 3: Check tyre pressure
Step 4: Inspect the brakes
Step 5: Test all lights & signals
Step 6: Start the engine and warm up
Step 7: Drive for a few minutes to ensure everything is working

1. Check the engine oil level and add more if needed

The first thing you should do is to always check the oil level in your tipper truck. This can be easily done by opening the hood and locating the dipstick. Once you've found the dipstick, simply wipe it clean with a rag and then reinsert it into the engine. After a few seconds, pull the dipstick out again and see where the oil level is. If it's below the minimum line, then you'll need to add more oil. Don't know where your dipstick is? (We're laughing out loud as we say this because this is a multi-layered construction joke). If you don't know where you're dipstick is, why don't you hire a mobile diesel mechanic .

2. Check the coolant level and fill it if needed

Next, you'll want to check the coolant level for your tipper trucks. This is important because if the coolant level is too low, it can cause the engine to overheat. To check the coolant level, simply locate the radiator and look at the overflow tank. If the coolant level is below the minimum line, simply add more coolant. Not rocket science fellas! Another smart idea is to visually inspect the undercarriage of the tipper to ensure there are no fluid leaks. Coolant can sometimes be a common culprit.

3. Check the tire pressure and inflate if necessary

It's also important to check the tyre pressure on all tyres. This can be done easily with a tyre pressure gauge. Simply remove the cap from the valve stem and press the gauge onto it – the reading on the gauge will tell you what the PSI (pounds per square inch) of air pressure for that particular tyre. Recommended tyre pressure levels are usually inscribed on the vehicle, inside the cabin where the other warning labels are. If not, ideal tyre pressure rates should be included in the tipper’s manual.

4. Inspect the brakes for wear and tear

Brakes can go through a lot of wear and tear in their long usage, which is why it's also important to inspect your brakes for any signs of damage to make sure they're still safe to use. This includes both the brake pads, rotors, and other brake equipment, which (for the record) are located behind the wheels. If you notice any damage, make sure to have the brakes repaired before setting off. We recommend a visual inspection of the brakes, and deploying brakes after driving immediately to ensure they are working.

5. Test all the lights and signals to make sure they're working properly

Another important pre-start check is to make a complete test of all of the lights and signals on your machine. This includes the headlights, taillights, flashing warning lights, turn signals, and brake lights. To do this, simply turn on each light in turn and then walk around the vehicle to make sure they're all working properly.

6. Start the engine and let it warm up

Once you've completed all of the pre-start checks, you can then start the engine and let it warm up for a few minutes. This will help to ensure that everything is working properly before you set out on your journey. If you notice any unexpected issues, shut off the engine and see if there's anything you missed.

7. Drive for a few minutes

Drive the tipper for a few minutes in a safe space. Deploy the brakes, and ensure the gears are working and the hydraulic tipping system is working.

By following these easy tips, you can be sure that your tipper truck is in good and safe condition before setting out on your next job. It might just save your trucks, your cargo – or even yourself! If you want to hire a tipper, then you can get three quotes in about 5 minutes by using iseekplant. Click these links if you're looking for tippers in any of these capital cities: Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Darwin, Hobart, and Canberra. If you own a tipper or are a tipper operator wanting to strike out on your own, then you should join the world’s largest online database of construction equipment & services in the world. Don’t worry, it’s free.