What steps to take in this situation

Discussion in 'Experienced Truckers' Advice' started by Jock Itch Kills, Oct 21, 2022.

  1. Jock Itch Kills

    Jock Itch Kills Bobtail Member

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    Oct 21, 2022
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    A driver I know just texted me. He’s at a standstill.

    In a truckstop parking lot he text that he has no lights, truck won’t start. Won’t turn over a bit.

    If you’re in this situation what steps do you take. What do you check first and then second and what next.

    I got some ideas but so far he’s still dead in the water.
     
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  3. Rideandrepair

    Rideandrepair Road Train Member

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    Check the batteries connections. Company Driver? Call the repair shop.
     
  4. baha

    baha Road Train Member

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    Use the jumper cables in your side to hook up to 1st driver you can see that is awake?
     
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  5. Casper88

    Casper88 Bobtail Member

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    If the truck has a battery cutoff switch make sure it didn't get flipped.
     
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  6. TripleSix

    TripleSix God of Roads

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    2nd this.

    In my mind, NO LIGHTS mean that the dash lights aren’t even illuminated (correct me if this isn’t the case). From overnight??? What would kill the batteries from starting the day before to completely dead?
    Headlights left on, fridge, alternator was not charging and the driver didn’t notice.

    Check the date of the batteries. If they are 3-4 years old, I’d buy a new set. There’s no point in trying to jump old batteries. Should fire right up. Get that alternator tested too.

    Luck in battle.
     
  7. buzzarddriver

    buzzarddriver Road Train Member

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    Exit the truck, scratch your head, then kick the driver's side front tire.
    If that don't fix it, call for road service.
     
  8. Joyce's Volvo

    Joyce's Volvo Light Load Member

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    I’ve had 1 of 3 to go bad ( hooked in parallel) the bad one pulled the other two down, it could be the problem. It’s the pits when you’re out on the road,cold weather will tell you if you got a weak battery, check for bad connections or a disconnect switch first, possible try to get a charge on each battery after you unhook them ( taking off the parallel lines) using a battery tester will tell you if1 or more is bad. I change all batteries every 24 to 30 months on my otr truck and exchange them with the local truck or equipment. It saves me time and $ .
     
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