Jake Schell, Author at Fleet Equipment Magazine
Understanding the inner workings for a smooth ride 

Vehicles’ evolving features offer comfort, yet understanding their workings aids in diagnosing and solving issues effectively.

Slowing down for accurate electrical diagnoses: The importance of preliminary testing

Sometimes it’s necessary to slow down and be mindful to basic details needed for diagnosis.

A little truck maintenance prep can go a long way

Today’s trucks are significantly more complex than the old truck that my classmate and I (eventually) changed the oil in.

maintenance-prep
When gravity can let you down

There are numerous components on a truck that hold potential energy. Springs are well known to look static but hold a lot of potential energy.

gravity-can-let-you-down
The 3 key elements that drive shop safety 

Inattention to detail could lead to serious consequences in a dangerous, busy shop environment.

Key-Elements-Shop-Safety-1400
Spring cleaning the HVAC system

As the season changes so too does the HVAC system’s role. Make sure it’s ready for the heat.

Spring Cleaning the HVAC system
Mind your axle to prepare for the unexpected

Finding the root cause of leaks is important, even if the surfaces and gaskets appear to be in good condition.

Rear-truck-axle-generic-1400
Taking the bull by the horns with truck electrical circuit testing

Corrosion increases resistance in the circuit which may lead to improper circuit operation and trouble codes.

truck-electronic-connectors-bull-1400
A balancing act with tires

More years ago than I might care to admit –  44 years to tell the truth – I became aware of the independent repair shop near my home. As a sophomore in high school, the need for a future career lurked in my subconscious but being a mechanic was not in the embryonic plan. Nevertheless,

When lubricating truck hub bearings think like a Dippy Bird

Not long ago, someone asked how I come up with ideas for these articles. How exciting it would be if I could claim the topics rolled from my mind because of vast personal technical knowledge and experience. Granted, to a degree the article ideas are the result of some 40 years in the industry. Nevertheless,

jake-axle-1400
Removing security locks can be frustrating. For example: Lunch time!

I grab the bread and begin to unwind the bag twist tie only to discover it grows tighter. Maybe the wire in the tie got knotted together? Or maybe someone thought twisting the tie 50 times would be funny. Am I tightening the tie instead of loosening it? Turning the tie counter-clockwise to the left

A hospitable approach to truck maintenance

As summer draws towards a close, many of us are anticipating those final, enjoyable outside gatherings before the weather changes. Preparing for these events will include a list of those who we hope invite. Getting ignored or left out from a party can leave some a bit miffed, which does not help for lasting relationships.