Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Forgotten Maintenance tasks

[ACoyle]

I saw a thread a long while ago in which someone asked:



When you are changing the oil and filters, what other maintenance tasks do you do?



Those of us that do our own service may well have some tips, tricks, and traps to share with the others that will result in a better and longer running truck.



Personally I usually lube the door hinges so they dont' wear out.

 

[rrausch]

Hey Andy, how are ya? I have a few jokes I should send your way!



That is a good tip about the door hinges. I also grease my U-joints about every other oil change.

 

[JohnE]

Rotate tires & check pressure (including spare)

A pump of grease in any zerks (do not over lube)

Check trany fluid

Check differential levels

Set rear brakes shoes

Vacuum carpet (amazing how much dirt accumulates)

Check all exterior lights (prevent blue light specials)

Check wiper blades and washer fluid

Check coolant reservoir

Run Espar (if summer and you have one)



Excellent post Andy. Too many are worried about the proper BOMBing steps tand overlook the basic Preventative Maintenance items (PMs).

 

[FDNYMOPARGUY]

Lube ALL hinges and latches:hood,doors,tailgate,fuel door. Transfer case linkage,emergency brake cable(this is a biggie - if you ever owned an older truck you know what i mean),keyways,clutch and brake pedal pivot points.

 

[Joseph Donnelly]

TDR # 40, p. 26, "Power Steering--The Forgotten Oil Change. "



I also change transfer case ATF every 15,000 miles.

 

[Rman]

that was a good article joe, i just recently changed mine out using the 10 change method (ok i added one) with the same LE oil. These cold mornings i've noticed it's a bit easier to turn out of the driveway.

 

[Sticks]

Clean the IAT and MAP sensors. Look for any new seepage of fluids, then wash the engine. Look for loose items that should not be loose (I roll around under the truck for about 20 minutes on the creeper)