4
P
RE-
T
RIP
I
NSPECTION
The pre-trip inspection should be performed before picking up any
load. This inspection is essential to anticipate and help minimize the
possibility of “over-the-road” problems. These checks take only a
few minutes.
1. Place the unit’s main switch in the STOP (0) position.
2. Fuel -- drain any water and impurities from the sump of the
refrigeration unit fuel tank by opening the drain-cock located on
the bottom of the tank (if so equipped). Close the valve when
only pure fuel emerges. Check the fuel level in the tank,
ensuring that the fuel supply is adequate for unit operation.
Refuel if necessary.
3. Belts -- Check the belt tension by depressing the belt with your
thumb, near the center of the longest free run of each belt.
Under moderate pressure each belt should deflect
approximately 6 mm to 13mm (1/4 inch to 1/2 inch). If the belts
deflect more than this they should be tightened (loose belts
may slip, generating heat and reducing belt life). If the belts are
too tight they should be loosened; tight belts can reduce
bearing life.
3. Battery -- on units equipped with serviceable batteries, the level
of the electrolyte in each of the cells should be checked. If the
level is low, distilled water should be added to the correct level.
Most units, however, are equipped with low or no--maintenance
batteries. These should be inspected to ensure that the
connections are clean and tight, and the battery hold--down
should be checked for tightness.