The Handiest Tools to Keep in Your Truck
When you’re out on the road, there are a million different things that can happen, leaving you in a less than ideal position. While it’s unreasonable to think you could be prepared for any and all situations you may be affected by, the intelligent truck driver has thought ahead and packed the most necessary and helpful gear needed to get out of a jam and back on the road as quickly as possible.
Here are some of the overall handiest tools to make sure you keep in your truck at all times:
1. Tool Kit: The number one must-have is a tool kit of some kind, which is invaluable when something needs to be fixed. Whether you assemble your own or purchase a kit from a store, you should make sure it contains essential tools like wrenches and sockets and an assortment of pliers and screwdrivers. Make sure you at least have a 9/16th wrench for brakes. You should also have knife or cutter, a good hammer and duct tape (regular and clear).
2. Headlamp: While the flashlight on our smartphone is handy, it’s only good for smaller things. A headlamp is far more advantageous because it helps you see what you’re doing, while also allowing you to use both hands. Plus headlamp lights are typically brighter than the light on your smartphone, making you stand out even more when it’s dark and you’re stuck on the side of the road.
3. Tire Gauges: Drivers should also always have a tire air gauge and a tire depth gauge. Both of these tools will confirm that your tires are adequately inflated and are not worn enough to warrant replacing your tire altogether. You should check your tires often, because it’s tough to haul anything when your tires are underinflated and/or your treads are completely shot.
While these certainly aren’t the only tools you should consider keeping in your truck, they are certainly the ones that you’ll find to be most helpful if and when something goes wrong while on the road. NTB Trucking encourages all drivers to be prepared for anything as safe driving is the name of the game. And if you’re interested in working for a trucking company that takes great care of its drivers, make sure to check out career opportunities currently offered by NTB Trucking.