Having semi-truck driver tool kit essentials as a trucker is crucial. If your vehicle breaks down, the right tools can help you handle minor repairs quickly, minimizing downtime so you can keep moving. 

Without a curated truck driver toolkit, you risk interrupting your trip schedule for too long, ultimately reducing your income because repair shop mechanics can take hours to arrive for simple 10-minute light repairs. 

Here’s the thing, though – there are so many tools for truck drivers. What are the most essential tools you should carry? Read on to learn more and assemble the ultimate trucker tool kit to match your needs.

What to consider when purchasing driver tools

To purchase truck driver tools that work well and offer great value for money, keep the following factors in mind: 

Quality and Brand 

Brands differ in terms of the quality of products they offer. You want to find high-quality tools that don’t need replacement often. The best way to identify such tools is by reading product and brand reviews.

You could also ask other truck drivers to recommend their best products. For this, pose your questions on different trucker groups online to get solid recommendations from truck drivers who’ve used the products they’ll recommend. You’ll get honest opinions to help you pick the best brands to work with.

Job Type

Why do you need a specific tool? What will you use it for? Understanding the answers to these questions will help you purchase the correct tools for the job. Some truck driver tools serve niche purposes. You don’t want to buy a tool made for flatbed truck drivers if you’re not a flatbed truck driver.

Price

 Price is a key factor when buying semi-truck driver tools. However, cheaper isn’t always better. You may save money at the time of purchase but end up spending more due to frequent replacements. Similarly, the more expensive option may not be better either. Try to strike a balance between price and quality so you can find affordable, high-quality tools that will serve you well for a long time. 

17 essential tools for truck drivers

 Some essential tools nearly all owner-operators carry and find helpful during their trips include:

Toolbox

A toolbox will help you keep all your tools in one place, so they’re easy to find when required. Get one that is effective yet compact. You want it to fit inside your truck without taking up too much space while providing enough room to accommodate almost all the other tools you need. 

Also, look for a toolbox with several compartments, or consider purchasing a truck toolbox organizer. It will help you organize your tools according to their use, making it easier to get the right tool for a specific job when needed.

Standard Hand Tools

Standard hand tools, like screwdrivers, bolts, and nuts, are necessary for various truck repairs. Because you can never tell which issues may come up at a time, it’s best to keep a set of these essential tools close. You can purchase a 200-piece multipurpose set of bolts, screwdrivers, and nuts at a decent price, and they’ll last you a while.

Vice Grips

Vice grips are the go-to trucker tool for several truckers because of their versatility. Well-designed vice grips can help you remove or tighten nuts and bolts, bend wires, remove broken screws, cinch leaky tubes, and keep things in place. Include straight-jaw and curved vice grips of different sizes in your toolkit. You’ll be well-prepared for any repairs that may come your way.

Sledgehammer

Sledgehammers are perfect for identifying tire problems beforehand. You can perform quick tire pressure checks by hitting each tire and listening to the sound they produce. If your tires produce unfamiliar sounds, you’ll know there’s a problem and can handle it before it gets out of hand. 

In addition, purchase a regular medium to large hammer. You’ll need it to perform various tasks, like releasing stuck 5th wheels and frozen brakes or knocking ice off frozen padlocks and latches.

A Metal Dowel Rod

Metal dowel rods are must-have truck driver tools if you haul loads during winter. When your brakes freeze or get stuck, a dowel rod can help you break the ice and get back on the road faster. Ensure you’re keen not to hit your brake lining when using them. You don’t want to crack it and deal with more costly repairs.

Wrenches

Truckers should have wrenches to help loosen or tighten nuts and bolts when necessary. Preferably, get 6-, 8- and 10-inch adjustable wrenches, commonly known as crescent wrenches. They offer more coverage if you have to handle odd-shaped nuts and bolts.

A 4-inch crescent wrench may also be helpful if you need to work on the smaller, hard-to-reach sections of your truck, and a 12 or 14-inch is perfect for work on your trailer.

Crowbar

A crowbar is a multipurpose tool that can help you remove nails from the trailer bed before loading, break down wooden pallets, or pry open crates. With this tool, you can create more space at the back of your truck to carry more cargo or keep your load light.

Flashlight

Flashlights are essential for driving at night. You want to include a small and large flashlight in your toolkit. You can use the small flashlight to confirm if your 5th wheel is coupled to your trailer correctly. The large flashlight will be helpful when conducting pre- and post-trip vehicle inspections late at night or early in the morning. 

Gloves

Gloves keep your hands warm and protect you from injuries when fixing your truck. Different gloves help with various tasks. For example, canvas gloves are multipurpose and perfect for all sorts of handy work. They’ll help you get a tight grip on different tools, making your job easier.

You may also consider leather gloves for refueling, checking oil and belts, or windshield washing.

Duct Tape

Duct tape is a staple in most truckers’ toolkits because of its strength and durability. Specifically, clear and gorilla duct tape helps with quick fixes in and around your truck. Say you find damaged wires during your routine inspections. You can use clear duct tape to fix the problem temporarily until you get to a shop for repairs.

Wire Cutters

As an owner-operator, you’re likely to encounter various situations that require you to use wire cutters. Having them at hand will prevent frustrations.

A Tire Depth Gauge

Having a tire depth gauge in your toolkit helps with proper tire maintenance. You can perform routine checks to see how much time you still have with your tires, so you know when it’s time to replace them.

Tire Air Pressure Gauge

The internal pressure of your tires changes as the air heats up and expands. You need this tool to confirm if your tires have enough air at least once each day.

Final Thoughts

All these tools will help you save time and money while keeping you safe on the road. But remember, these are physical tools to help with mechanical truck repairs and maintenance. Other digital tools can help you increase the efficiency of your trucking operations.

If you’re an independent owner-operator, consider using trip planning plus load profitability apps to keep your fuel costs low and profit margins high. Or use real-time load trucking apps to connect with more well-paying trucking jobs.

For more recommendations of tools that can promote your health and make your trucking lifestyle more comfortable, visit our blog. Specifically, check out our detailed guides about top gifts for semi-truck drivers and the best semi-truck seat cushions.

 Is Your Semi Truck’s Kingpin About to Fail? King pin wear and tear is a common issue with semi-trucks. It’s also essential that truck drivers can identify this issue early on. Otherwise, a failed kingpin results in all kinds of serious problems with your vehicle.

Just like you need to check your fuel filters, starter, or shocks, regularly checking your kingpin is essential for a well-maintained semi-truck. In this guide, we break down common signs of kingpin failure, and when you need to replace these parts.  

What is the Kingpin?

A kingpin is a crucial component of your vehicle’s trailer hitch system. It’s a large, sturdy pin that connects the trailer to the semi-truck fifth wheel, allowing for articulation and movement between the two parts of the vehicle. 

The Kingpin fits into a receptacle on the fifth wheel, securing the trailer to the truck while still allowing it to pivot and maneuver, particularly during turns. It plays a vital role in maintaining stability and control while the truck is in motion, especially when navigating curves or uneven terrain.

Basically, you need to have a kingpin to safely haul a trailer.

Semi-Truck Bad Kingpin Symptoms

King pin wear is a common issue among truckers. When you have a worn kingpin, it could cause all kinds of additional issues to your truck, including impacting your safety.

To help you identify this issue, here are some of the most common signs of a worn kingpin.

Hard to Couple

When you have difficulties in coupling the trailer to your semi-truck, it could point to various underlying issues related to the kingpin. 

Start by ensuring that you properly align the trailer with the fifth wheel of the truck. Check if the trailer is at the correct height and angle for coupling. Even a slight misalignment can make coupling challenging. 

If alignment seems correct and coupling is still difficult, inspect the kingpin for any signs of damage or misalignment. Look for visible wear and tear on the kingpin, such as cracks, dents, or bending. Examine the truck’s fifth wheel to see if any obstructions or debris prevent the kingpin from engaging properly. 

Addressing incorrect vehicle alignment issues and inspecting both the kingpin and fifth wheel can help you find out why it’s hard to couple.

Hard to Uncouple

Struggling to uncouple the trailer from your semi-truck can be just as frustrating as coupling difficulties and could also come from issues with king pins. 

Begin by making sure you fully release the trailer brakes to minimize resistance during uncoupling. Try gently maneuvering the truck back and forth to relieve any pressure that might be preventing the kingpin from disengaging smoothly. 

If uncoupling is still an issue, inspect the kingpin mechanism for any signs of damage or wear. Pay close attention to the locking mechanism on the fifth wheel to ensure that it’s functioning correctly. Sometimes, a buildup of dirt or debris in the locking mechanism can make it tricky for king pins to uncouple. 

Fifth Wheel Adjustment Will Not Tighten

Difficulty in tightening the fifth wheel adjustment can be a clear indication of kingpin-related issues. If this is the case, it needs to be addressed straight away as it would create unsafe hauling conditions.

Two common problems to consider are a worn-down throat and a worn-down shoulder on the kingpin.

Worn Down Throat

Inspect the throat of the kingpin for signs of wear and tear. This is a normal issue because of prolonged use and a lack of maintenance.

A worn-down throat can result in poor engagement with the fifth wheel, making it challenging to achieve proper tightness when adjusting the fifth wheel. 

Look for any irregularities, like grooves, scratches, or deformations on the surface of the kingpin throat. If you see significant wear, then your kingpin might need to be replaced. 

Worn Down Shoulder

Similarly, examine the shoulder of the kingpin for any signs of wear or damage. 

The shoulder plays an important role in ensuring a secure connection between the kingpin and the fifth wheel. If the shoulder is worn down or damaged, it can affect the stability and tightness of the coupling, leading to difficulties in adjusting the fifth wheel. 

Check for flat spots, dents, or uneven surfaces on the kingpin shoulder, as these can interfere with proper seating on the fifth wheel.

Lack of Lubrication

Proper lubrication is essential for keeping your kingpin mechanism operating smoothly and preventing premature wear and tear. 

Without enough lubrication, friction between the kingpin and the fifth wheel can increase, making coupling and uncoupling more challenging. 

Regularly inspect the kingpin and fifth wheel for signs of grease buildup or dryness. Clean any accumulated debris or old grease from the surfaces and apply a generous amount of high-quality lubricant to ensure smooth movement. 

Pay special attention to areas where metal-to-metal contact occurs, such as the kingpin throat and shoulder, as these areas are particularly susceptible to wear. A kingpin can last forever if you lubricate it properly.

When is it Time to Change Your Kingpins?

It’s time to change your kingpins when you notice signs of wear and tear or experience issues with steering and stability in your semi-truck. Here are some clear signs that it might be time for a replacement:

• Looseness or play: If you feel excessive looseness or play when hitching your fifth wheel, it could be a sign that the kingpin is worn out.
• Steering issues: A damaged kingpin could affect your steering knuckle. If your steering wheel isn’t responding as it normally would, and you’re finding it hard to steer tires in the right direction, then it could be because of an issue with your kingpin.
• Visible damage: Check your kingpin for any visible signs of damage, like bending, cracking, or corrosion. 
• Rust or corrosion: If you notice rust or corrosion on the kingpin, it’s a clear sign that it needs replacement. 
• Uneven wear: Inspect your kingpin for uneven wear patterns. If one side of the kingpin is significantly more worn than the other, it could affect the stability and performance of your truck and trailer.
• Age and usage: Even if there are no visible signs of damage, consider the age and usage of your kingpin. Over time, these parts can wear out from regular use and exposure to the elements.
• Tire wear: A bad kingpin can cause alignment and steering issues, which could cause uneven wear on your tires. If you notice this issue with your tires, check your kingpin to see if it’s still working properly.

In general, if you suspect that your kingpin is causing issues with your truck’s performance, it’s best to replace it sooner rather than later. This is important to help you avoid accidents and to keep other parts of your vehicle in good working order.

Final Thoughts

Although maintaining your king pin may seem time-consuming, it’s a small price to pay for keeping your truck and trailer in good condition. A failed king pin could become a serious issue, so it’s best to address this early on.

Looking to purchase a new semi-truck? Then get in touch with us at Mission Financial Services, where we make it easy to help you access funding for your vehicle.

An important part of being a semi-truck driver is understanding how the different parts of your vehicle work. Just like you need to know when to identify bad shocks or problems with your fuel filters, how to spot a failing turbocharger in your semi truck is equally important. 

Here’s everything you need to know about identifying a failing turbocharger in your semi-truck.

What is a Turbocharger and How Does it Work?

A turbocharger is a device that helps increase the power of a truck or car engine by forcing more air into it.

Here’s how it works:

1. Air sucks in: When the engine runs, it sucks in air for combustion.
2. Turbo spins: The turbocharger has a turbine inside that spins really fast.
3. Exhaust powers turbo: As the engine burns fuel, it produces exhaust gasses. These gasses spin the turbine.
4. Compresses air: The spinning turbine is connected to a compressor on the other side. This sucks in fresh air and compresses it.
5. More air, more power: Compressed air is forced into the engine. With more air intake, the engine can burn more fuel, creating more power.
6. Boosts performance: This extra air pressure power boosts the engine’s performance, making the car faster and more efficient.

Common Signs and Symptoms of a Bad Turbo

Turbo failure can be a pretty common issue. To help you identify it, here are some of the main signs of bad turbo on semi-truck engines.

Power Loss

One of the most noticeable signs of a faulty turbo is a significant loss of engine power. When the turbo isn’t working properly, it can’t deliver the necessary boost to the engine, resulting in reduced performance. 

Losing this boost gauge can make your vehicle feel sluggish and struggle to accelerate. This is especially noticeable when you need it to respond quickly, like when merging onto the highway or overtaking other vehicles.

Engine Warning Light

Another clear sign of turbo trouble is the illumination of the check engine light on your dashboard. 

The check engine light can come on for various reasons, but when it’s related to the turbocharger, it often signifies issues like overboost or underboost conditions. 

Whining Engine

If you start hearing strange noises coming from the engine or the area around the turbocharger, it could be a sign of turbo faults. 

A whining or whistling sound, especially during acceleration, could indicate issues with the turbocharger. Damaged bearings, a leaking seal, or other internal problems might cause these noises within the turbo.

Oil Consumption and Exhaust Smoke

A bad turbocharger can lead to increased oil consumption by the engine. You might notice that your vehicle is burning through engine oil more quickly than usual, which could be a result of oil leaking into the exhaust system because of a failing turbo. 

You might also see excessive exhaust smoke, which can appear blue or white. This indicates the presence of engine oil in the exhaust gasses.

Excessive Fuel Use

When a turbocharger isn’t functioning properly, the engine may compensate by burning more fuel to maintain performance levels. This can result in decreased fuel efficiency and increased fuel consumption – costing you more money at the pump. 

If you notice that you’re filling up more frequently than usual, it could be a sign that your turbocharger needs attention.

Oil Leaks

Inspect your turbocharger and the turbo housing for any signs of oil leaks. Oil leaks can mean problems with the internal seals or bearings inside the turbo, which need to be addressed to prevent further damage. 

Look for oil puddles or stains under the vehicle, as well as any oil buildup or residue on the turbo itself. 

What Causes a Turbo to Break Down or Go Bad?

Now that you know how to identify turbocharger failure, let’s explore some of the main reasons you might experience blown turbos.

Wear and Tear

Like any mechanical component, turbochargers can wear out over time because of normal usage. 

Continuous high-speed driving, frequent acceleration, and harsh driving conditions can add to the wear and tear of turbocharger components, leading to eventual breakdown or failure.

Oil/Lubrication Issues

Proper lubrication is crucial for the smooth operation of a turbocharger. Insufficient oil levels or dirty oil can lead to bad lubrication of the turbocharger’s moving parts, causing increased friction, overheating, and eventual failure. 

Oil contamination from coolant or fuel leaks can also degrade the turbocharger’s components and reduce its lifespan.

Foreign Objects

Foreign objects entering the turbocharger, like dust particles, dirt, debris, or even small particles from a damaged air filter, can cause damage. 

These foreign objects can get stuck in the turbocharger’s intake or exhaust side, leading to compressor or turbine wheel damage, bearing wear, or seal leaks.

Damaged Seals

Seals play a critical role in maintaining proper airflow and preventing oil leaks within the turbocharger. Over time, seals can degrade because of heat, pressure, or exposure to contaminants, leading to leaks and loss of performance. 

Damaged seals can allow oil to enter the intake or exhaust system. This causes excessive exhaust smoke, oil consumption, and potential damage to other engine components.

Should You Be Driving With a Blown Turbo?

It’s definitely not recommended to drive with a blown turbocharger. A blown turbo can lead to severe engine damage, reduced performance, and potential safety hazards. 

Continuing to drive with a blown turbo can also cause further deterioration of engine components, including increased oil consumption, excessive exhaust smoke, and potential engine failure. 

It’s best to have the turbocharger inspected and repaired by a professional mechanic as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

If you notice any of these turbocharger issues, make sure you address them as soon as possible. Fixing a turbocharger quickly will help you avoid further damage and issues with your vehicle. 

Looking to purchase a new semi-truck? Then get in touch with us at Mission Financial, where we make the financing process easy for all truck drivers or trucking business owners.

It is a crucial responsibility of any owner-operator to ensure proper maintenance of their semi-truck. This includes keeping an eye on your carrier bearing and other drivetrain components.

Follow this quick guide to learn more about how you can identify issues with a carrier bearing or U-joint, and what you need to do to keep your driveshaft running smoothly. 

What is a Driveshaft Bearing?

A driveshaft bearing is a part that helps support and stabilize the drive shaft in a vehicle. It’s like a little wheel or roller that lets the driveshaft spin smoothly and is one of the most important drivetrain components. 

This bearing cap sits inside a housing, which keeps it in place and protects it. Without these bearings, the driveshaft could cause wobbling or vibration as it would be loose, causing problems with how vehicles perform. 

Bad Carrier Bearing Symptoms

Here are some signs you might notice for bad carrier bearing on semi-truck driveshafts:

• Vibrations: You might feel shaking or vibrations coming from underneath the vehicle, especially at certain speeds.
• Clunking and banging noise: There could be loud, sudden noises like clunking or banging, especially when accelerating or decelerating.
• Howling and growling noise: You may hear a howling or growling noise, particularly when driving at higher speeds or during turns.

These symptoms suggest that the carrier bearing, or other drivetrain components, needs attention. It’s essential to get this checked and to carry out driveshaft repair to avoid further damage to your vehicle.

Causes of Bad Carrier Bearings and U-Joints

Your carrier bearing and U-joint can go bad because of a couple of different reasons:

• Wear and tear: Over time, the constant movement and pressure on these parts can lead to wear and tear, causing them to degrade.
• Lack of lubrication: Insufficient lubrication can lead to increased friction and heat, accelerating wear on the bearings and joints.
• Excessive loads: Carrying heavy loads or towing frequently can put extra strain on the carrier bearings and U-joints, causing them to wear out faster.
• Improper maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance, such as greasing the bearings or checking for wear, can contribute to premature failure.
• Water and contaminants: Exposure to water, dirt, and other contaminants can corrode or damage the bearings and U-joints, leading to failure.
• Misalignment: If the driveshaft or axle components are not properly aligned, it can put uneven stress on the bearings and joints.

How Long Do Driveshaft Bearings Last?

Generally, driveshaft bearings can last anywhere from 50,000 to 100,000 miles under normal driving conditions. However, it’s essential to monitor for any signs of wear or damage and replace them as needed to prevent further issues.

Here are some factors that influence the lifespan of these bearings:

• Usage: Heavy usage, such as towing or frequent driving on rough terrain, can wear out the bearings faster.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, including greasing and inspection, can help extend the lifespan of your bearings.
• Quality: The quality of the bearings themselves can affect their lifespan. Higher-quality bearings will likely last longer than lower-quality ones.
• Driving conditions: Driving in extreme conditions, such as extreme temperatures or constant exposure to water and contaminants, can shorten the lifespan of your bearings.

How to Check and Diagnose the Carrier Bearing and U-Joints

Just like you need to keep an eye out for bad fuel filter symptoms or bad shocks, knowing how to look after your carrier bearings is important. Follow these steps to check and diagnose the carrier bearing and U-joints:

• Listen for noise: Pay attention to any unusual noises, like clunking, banging, howling, or growling, especially during acceleration, deceleration, or turning.
• Feel for vibrations: Notice any vibrations felt through the vehicle, particularly at certain speeds or when accelerating.
• Inspect the driveshaft: Look for any visible signs of damage or wear on the driveshaft, including rust, cracks, or bends.
• Check for play: With the vehicle safely lifted and supported, grasp the driveshaft near the carrier bearing and U-joints and try to move it up and down or side to side. Excessive play could indicate worn bearings or U-joints.
• Inspect the U-joints: Look for any signs of play, rust, or damage on the U-joints. You may need to remove any protective covers or shields to access them fully.
• Examine the carrier bearing: Inspect the carrier bearing for any signs of wear, such as excessive play, noise, or leaking grease.
• Consult a mechanic: If you’re unsure about the condition of the carrier bearing or U-joints or if you notice any concerning symptoms, it’s best to consult a qualified mechanic for a thorough inspection and diagnosis.

Can I Drive With a Bad Carrier Bearing?

Driving with a bad carrier bearing is not recommended as it can lead to further damage to the driveshaft and other components of your vehicle’s drivetrain. 

It may cause excessive vibrations, noise, and potential loss of control, posing a safety risk. It’s best to have the carrier bearing replaced as soon as possible to avoid any further complications while driving.

Final Thoughts

If you notice any issues with these components, make sure you go in for driveshaft repair as soon as possible. If you leave it too long, the job will just get more expensive, and it could cause additional problems to your vehicle. 

Looking to purchase a new truck? Then you’ll need to have the right financing in place. Get in touch with us at Mission Financial to see just how easy it is to get the financing you need for a semi-truck.