Reefers, or refrigeration trailers, make up a dynamic, large part of the logistics and freight industries. Goods that are temperature sensitive would only be transportable, from their starting location, over a matter of miles without refrigerated trailers. But today, to arrive at their destination, perishable goods travel hundreds of miles. Enter the essential factor referred to as reefer fleet maintenance. Naturally, reacting to a problem when it arises is important. But possibly even more crucial is the practice of preventative maintenance when it comes to your fleet. Let’s look at some reefer trailer issues and troubleshooting.
Why Fleet Maintenance?
Occasional issues are experienced by reefer trailers, just like any other trailer. That means they’re going to need attention. Because of product sensitivity, issues with reefers are particularly crucial. Cargo could be unusable and spoiled if units are not properly cared for. That’s going to mean huge losses for stakeholders, companies, and those further down the line.
Improper Cooling
This is an unacceptable problem. It means that the product inside the trailer is not being kept at the required level. This spells disaster on all fronts! What could be the problem?
Leaks – there can be air leaks and fluid leaks. To aid in the cooling process, several mechanisms are used providing a variety of areas for potential leaks. This is a good place to begin your investigation if your reefer is cooling improperly:
- Air leaks – When you’re running this kind of check, frequently associated with doors, an inspection of seals should be done.
- Fluid leaks – The reasons for a fluid leak and/or improper cooling can consist of cracked belts, cracked cooling hoses, and more. In the overall cooling system, other important components that should be checked are equalizer tubes.
Condenser Problem
In reefer trailers, the condenser offers stable temperature maintaining support, much like a stable engine temperature is provided by a radiator. Condensers are, more or less, heat exchangers. Fleet maintenance procedures should include checking the insides of a condenser, including tubes, bolts, clamps, coils, and more.
Sensor Calibration
Also helping to regulate temperature are calibrators. A damaged load could result from faulty calibrators. If there is a change in reefer temperature, sensors help to alert the driver. But here, again, a problem can arise. Cargo could be at risk if, for an extended period of time, the reefer was not cooling properly because alerts were not given promptly, or readings were inaccurate.
Issues with Bulkheads
Within the same trailer, different types of temperature sensitive cargo are separated by bulkheads. If airflow through bulkheads is faulty or blocked, within the trailer, it can affect different temperature zones. If varied storage temperatures are required by someone shipping different types of goods, this is particularly concerning.
Drivers Doing Inspections
Every driver should be not only required to, but aware of the fact that, inspections must be done on a regular basis. Here are a few things to check:
- Displays represent accurate temperatures and measurements and are functional.
- Doors are tightly closed and locked.
- An inspection should be done for leaks that may be visible within the reefer, around the reefer, or within the compressor unit.
- Check seals, belts, and hoses for wear or cracks.
Trust Mickey For Fleet Maintenance Services And Parts
Who executes the service on the vehicles in your fleet? If you don’t currently have a reliable, reputable service provider for the trucks, vans, trailers, etc. in your fleet, it’s high time you resolved that situation. You can rely on the technicians and services provided at Mickey’s certified service centers. They are located throughout the United States for your convenience.
If you’ve already got a reliable service provider with whom you are satisfied, tell them about Mickey Genuine Parts. If they order their parts by 2 PM Eastern Standard Time, we will begin the shipping process the very same day. Either way you look at it, Mickey Genuine Parts should be part of your team. Contact us for more information.