Truck Parts

A tractor trailer is typically comprised of a certain set of truck parts, regardless of the manufacturer. Also called semis, eighteen-wheelers, or Big Rigs, tractor trailer trucks consist of a towing engine, a tandem axle, and one or more trailers that attach to the towing engine for hauling freight. The towing engine is the component of the vehicle that houses the motorized truck parts, including the truck engine. The trailer can be designed to attach onto the towing engine via the tandem axle, or to trail behind.

Towing Engine Truck Parts

The towing engine consists of the same main components as a passenger car, with additional specialized parts. There is always the engine, tires, brakes, fuel tank, axles, and suspension. These parts are designed to haul and stop with large loads, so they must be high quality to prevent accidents. There are also the standard parts that are not essential to motorization, such as lights, mirrors, and windows.

Beyond this, there may be specialized parts to increase the aerodynamics of the vehicle. There may be air bags, an engine brake, collision warning systems, and reinforced fenders for safety. Trucks that are intended to be on the road for long periods of time may be equipped with sleeping areas, called stand-up or penthouse sleepers. There may also be exhaust stacks, fuel tank guards, and many other particulars to increase safety or convenience.

Trailer Parts

Trailers must always have proper wheels, and tires must be changed out regularly to prevent blow-outs, tire shredding, and loss of tires. The trailer must connect into the electronics of the towing engine to enable the rear lights and the brakes to work. The use of trailers often dictates style.

Common uses of trailers include transport of:

  • Fuel
  • Animals
  • Food
  • Lumber
  • Cars
  • Furniture
  • Landscaping equipment and supplies

Special Features by Use

Trailers used to transport fuel or other liquid will have a cylindrical holding compartment, which must be fully enclosed and sealed. Trailers used to transport animals must be designed for proper air circulation and comfort. Trailers that are used for transporting materials such as mulch, stones, or soil may have a hydraulic lift that will tilt the trailer for ease of removing materials.

Accidents Caused by Truck Parts

Defective or worn tires, brakes, and other truck parts may cause accidents. In the event of an accident, an attorney can help determine the party at fault and give guidance on steps that must be taken. If the truck parts are defective, it may be the manufacturer of the faulty part that is liable. If the truck parts have been poorly maintained, the company or individual that owns the truck may be liable.

 

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Sources:

“Truck Driver Regulations.” U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. United States of America Department of Transportation, n.d. Web. 12 Oct 2013. <http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/truck/driver/truck-driver.htm>.

“Trucks, Buses, MPVs: Federal Lighting Equipment Location Requirement.” NHTSA National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. USA.gov, n.d. Web. 12 Oct 2013. <http://www.nhtsa.gov/Vehicle Safety/Other Equipment/Trucks, Buses, MPVs: Federal Lighting Equipment Location Requirements>.

Vehicle Valuation Services. Vehicle Valuation Services, n.d. Web. 11 Oct 2013. <http://www.vvsi.com/training/TrainingGuide.pdf>.