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PM Class C Full Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Freightliner Highway Trucks
Introduction
The PM Class C Full Preventive Maintenance service is a comprehensive inspection and maintenance protocol for Freightliner Highway Trucks designed to ensure maximum uptime, optimal performance, and regulatory compliance. This extensive service typically performed at 30,000-mile intervals addresses critical systems that require attention beyond routine maintenance, including major component inspections, fluid and filter changes, and comprehensive diagnostic checks.
Following this detailed PM Class C checklist helps fleet managers and maintenance technicians identify potential issues before they lead to costly breakdowns, extend vehicle lifespan, and maintain safety compliance. The checklist aligns with Freightliner manufacturer specifications, industry best practices, and federal safety regulations for commercial vehicle maintenance. Proper documentation of Class C maintenance is also essential for warranty coverage, resale value, and defending against potential liability claims.
Vehicle Information
Pro Tips for Effective PM Class C Service
- Review Service History: Before beginning the PM Class C service, review the truck's maintenance history to identify recurring issues that may need special attention during this maintenance cycle.
- Diagnostic Analysis First: Run a complete diagnostic scan before physical inspections to identify electronic fault codes that might guide your inspection process.
- Document Everything: Take photos of any issues found during inspection for better communication with drivers and fleet managers. Photos provide clear evidence of component condition before and after service.
- Verify Parts Availability: Check parts inventory before beginning the service to ensure all potential replacement components are available, reducing vehicle downtime if issues are discovered.
- Road Test: Always perform a thorough road test after completing PM service to verify all systems are functioning properly under actual operating conditions.
Pre-Service Preparation
Engine Service
Emissions System
Cooling System
Transmission Service
Driveline & Axles
Steering System
Suspension System
Brake System
Wheels & Tires
Electrical System
Cab & Body
Fifth Wheel & Coupling
Road Test & Final Checks
Detailed Service Procedures
Follow these structured procedures to ensure a thorough PM Class C service for your Freightliner Highway Truck. These procedures align with Freightliner manufacturer specifications and industry best practices.
Engine Oil & Filter Change Procedure
- Run engine to operating temperature, then shut down
- Position oil drain pan under drain plug and remove plug
- Allow oil to drain completely (15-20 minutes minimum)
- Remove and discard oil filter(s), inspect gasket surface
- Pre-fill new filter(s) with clean engine oil
- Apply thin film of oil to new filter gasket
- Install new filter(s) hand-tight plus 1/4 to 3/4 turn
- Install drain plug with new gasket, torque to specs
- Fill with proper grade and amount of engine oil
- Start engine and check for leaks
- Shut down, wait 5 minutes, verify proper oil level
Cooling System Service
- With engine cold, check coolant level and condition
- Take coolant sample for analysis
- Pressure test system to 15 PSI, check for leaks
- Inspect radiator, CAC, and hoses for damage
- Clean radiator and CAC fins of debris
- Check coolant concentration and inhibitor levels
- Verify proper fan clutch engagement temperature
- Inspect coolant filter and replace if necessary
- Add coolant additives as required by test results
- Test thermostat opening temperature and travel
Brake System Inspection
- Ensure vehicle is on level surface with wheels chocked
- Verify system is at full operating pressure
- Perform leak-down test (should not exceed 3 psi/minute)
- Measure push rod stroke at all chambers
- Compare measurements to adjustment limits
- Remove dust covers and inspect brake linings
- Measure and record lining thickness at thinnest point
- Inspect drums/rotors for cracks, heat spots, glazing
- Measure drum/rotor wear and compare to specs
- Check slack adjusters, S-cams, bushings for wear
- Adjust brakes if necessary and recheck measurements
DPF and Emissions System Service
- Connect diagnostic tool and download DPF data
- Check soot level percentage and back pressure readings
- Verify proper regeneration cycles are occurring
- Inspect DPF and exhaust system for leaks
- Clean diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) sensor
- Check DEF quality with refractometer
- Inspect DEF filter and replace if necessary
- Verify proper EGR flow rate and temperature
- Clean/replace EGR cooler if performance is degraded
- Perform forced regeneration if soot level is high
- Reset DPF parameters after service
Service Progress
0% complete
Service Verification
Technician Signature
I certify that the above PM Class C service was performed by me according to manufacturer specifications and company procedures.
Service Notes & Recommendations
PM Service Intervals for Freightliner Highway Trucks
These guidelines outline the recommended preventive maintenance intervals for Freightliner Highway Trucks. Following these schedules helps prevent equipment failures, extends vehicle lifespan, and maintains warranty coverage.
PM Class A (15,000 Miles)
- Oil and filter change
- Fuel filter change
- Basic safety inspection
- Lubrication of chassis components
- Check fluid levels
- Drain air tanks
- Inspect belts and hoses
- Check lighting and electrical system
PM Class B (30,000 Miles)
- All PM Class A services
- Air filter replacement
- Complete brake inspection
- Cooling system service
- Transmission filter change
- Differential fluid check
- Suspension inspection
- DEF filter inspection
PM Class C (60,000 Miles)
- All PM Class A & B services
- Differential fluid change
- Valve adjustment
- Fifth wheel service
- Air dryer service
- DPF cleaning/service
- Major suspension inspection
- Steering component inspection
PM Class D (120,000 Miles)
- All PM Class A, B & C services
- Complete cooling system flush
- Transmission fluid change
- Major engine inspection
- Complete electrical system testing
- EGR system cleaning
- Turbocharger inspection
- Comprehensive frame inspection
Conclusion
Implementing this comprehensive PM Class C Full Preventive Maintenance Checklist for Freightliner Highway Trucks is essential for maintaining vehicle reliability, safety, and longevity. By thoroughly inspecting and servicing all critical systems at the recommended 60,000-mile interval, fleet managers can significantly reduce unexpected breakdowns, extend component life, and optimize vehicle performance.
For optimal maintenance management, consider implementing the FleetRabbit software to streamline your preventive maintenance program. The FleetRabbit platform allows digital documentation of all PM services, provides automated service reminders based on mileage or time intervals, and creates comprehensive maintenance histories for each vehicle. With the FleetRabbit APP, maintenance managers can easily track compliance with OEM recommendations, monitor maintenance costs, and ensure all vehicles receive timely servicing.
Make PM Class C service an integral part of your fleet maintenance strategy with the FleetRabbit Software's comprehensive maintenance management solution. Whether for warranty compliance, regulatory requirements, or operational efficiency, this digital approach significantly improves maintenance consistency and documentation while reducing administrative burden on maintenance personnel and enhancing the overall reliability of your Freightliner highway truck fleet.
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