Waterproofing a semi-truck helps protect the truck and improves longevity. A properly sealed truck prevents water entry that damages sensitive engine parts or corrodes the cross members.
So, what does weatherproofing entail? Weatherproofing a truck is easier said than done. Water is forced through many entry points, especially when driving at highway speeds.
Sealing these weak points requires best practices to achieve the desired results. This post highlights five top tips to remember when weatherproofing a semi-truck.
1. Always Seek Pre-Inspection Service
A rule of thumb to apply before waterproofing semi-trucks is to take the truck for a pre-inspection service. What is a pre-inspection service? It is a quick look at the current state of the truck and taking note of nicks, crevices, and electrical components prone to water damage.
Some dealers offer complementary buffing to reveal masked corrosion and crevices, allowing water to seep. Semi-truck owners can also seek more detailed semi truck service here to spot any inconsistencies with the truck’s paint, fasteners, members, and other parts prone to water damage. Waterproofing a semi-truck should always commence after a careful inspection.
2. There Are Different Kinds of Exterior Paints
Few truckers pay attention to the aesthetics of a truck. However, this is a crucial step that helps identify problems that affect the truck’s exterior. The damage is usually caused when driving in extreme weather conditions such as extreme rainfall.
A semi-truck’s paint is the first shield from rain and other external elements. When waterproofing, consider adding paint protective film(PPF). Industry-grade PPFs offer the ultimate protection to the truck’s original factory paint, preventing it from water, scratches, and water-based impurities.
3. Pay Special Attention to Electronics
Electrical components are the hardest to waterproof. Water seeping in a relay circuit may damage an electronically controlled differential or cause the ECU to short circuit. Modern solutions for waterproofing electrical components include ignition switches, adhesives, and relay packs.
4. Block Water Entryways into the Truck
Unfortunately, there seem to be more water entryways than the solutions available to seal them. But do not fret. The main entry points to check are the exhaust system, radiator grille, air intake manifold, and axles. Water can seep into the engine through the exhaust pipe and damage it.
Also, driving through water causes debris and grime to bend or destroy the fan. Truck owners can consider simple DIY solutions, including raising the snorkel height, adding axle breathers, fitting rubber casings shaped like doughnuts on the fan, or visiting a reputable truck center to get reliable waterproof solutions.
Regardless of the option truck owners choose, they should permanently block or control the main water leak points in the truck when waterproofing a semi-truck.
5. Adhesive Tapes Alone Are Not Enough
Adhesive tapes are great ways to waterproof a vehicle. Sure, they are cheap, versatile, and convenient to use. However, the tapes may lose adhesiveness in extreme weather, rendering them ineffective.
When using adhesive tapes to waterproof a semi-truck, supplement them with sealant tubes, aftermarket waterproof packs, and waterproof fluid caps. Adhesives are additional protection against water damage but should not be the primary protective measure.
Truckers go to great lengths to waterproof their semi-trucks. Preventing water damage increases longevity and enhances the functionality of the semitruck. While waterproofing a semi-truck is crucial, doing it incorrectly could expose the truck to damage.
Therefore, semi-truck owners should consider these five things while seeking waterproofing solutions. They should also hire competent and experienced professionals for waterproofing services.
