The second of our pre-season preparation discussions concerns vehicle maintenance. It should be blatantly obvious that safety vehicles need to be kept to a very high standard of maintenance. The long hours they spend idling...the quick transition from idling to moving quickly onto the track surface challenges any vehicle. If the vehicle is used at a dirt track, the challenges are even greater.
The following items, in particular, need inspection and attention:
1. warning lights
2. vehicle electrical system (batteries take a real beating in the summer heat)
3. tires and brakes
4. fluids and filters (replace air, fuel, and oil filters at the start of the season, every season)
5. windows and doors (including tailgate if present)
6. air conditioning (if applicable)
7. belts and hoses
8. spark plugs and ignition wires
It also goes without saying that a thorough cleaning inside and out, including a coat of wax, goes a long way in establishing the appearance of professionalism. Make sure any sponsor decals on your vehicle are in good shape, professionally representing your benefactor.
Failure to properly maintain safety vehicles could be a source of major embarrassment, if not real legal liability if when called upon to respond, the vehicle is unable to make the trip. Given the nature of mechanical devices to fail in spite of good maintenance, we must do all we can to minimize the risks.
Remember, at the end of the day, everyone goes home standing up.
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