Understanding Different Types of Trucks and Their Repair Needs

For the uninformed, even kickstarting the conversation about types of trucks and how they function can be pretty confusing. However, as one of the biggest and most imposing vehicles on the road, even understanding the category of trucks—and the repairs that they require—can be critical.

Australian truck sizes can play a huge factor in moving freight efficiently around both metro & regional areas of Australia & determining their repair needs. The number of different types of trucks in Australia may surprise you too. For example: did you know what a prime mover is? Are you aware of road train configurations? Well, hopefully, you’ll have a better grasp shortly.

Today, our aim is simple: educate and inform.

The Importance of Understanding Truck Repair Needs

It goes without saying, but there’s a real importance in addressing truck repair needs in a quick and decisive manner. When on the road, an accident or collision is bad at the best of times—but when you’re involving a vehicle of this magnitude, it quickly turns into an issue that can cause problems for more than just the people directly involved.

The purpose of this blog is simple—to explore the unique repair needs of different types of trucks and, beyond that, to figure out how Royans can be there to provide a helping hand.

Heavy-Duty Trucks: Common Repairs After Collisions

Common repairs on heavy trucks after an accident often include structural damage, involving chassis, or frame straightening for realignment, plus cabin repairs and rear bodywork.. Additionally, suspension repairs and axle replacements are frequently needed to restore the vehicle’s functionality and safety. These repairs ensure the truck can operate safely and efficiently post-accident.

For decades, Royans have specialised in heavy-duty truck repairs. We want to ensure there is structural integrity from top to bottom and, perhaps even more crucially, that your vehicle is appropriate to take back on the road post-repair.

It doesn’t matter about the types of trucks that come through our doors but if you do happen to have concerns about your heavy-duty truck, we have a service for that.

Semi-Trailers and Tankers: Specialised Repair Needs

When you’re looking at different types of trucks, semi-trailers, and tankers can sometimes stand out as some of the most complicated, and a lot of that comes down to several factors:

1. Size and Weight: Heavy vehicles are larger and heavier, which means their components are built to handle greater stress and loads. This results in more robust and intricate systems that require specialised knowledge and tools to repair.
2. Advanced Systems: Heavy vehicles often incorporate advanced systems to manage their increased demands. For example, air brake systems are more complex than hydraulic brakes used in light vehicles, requiring expertise in air pressure management and maintenance.
3. Durability Requirements: The components in heavy vehicles are designed for durability and longevity under extreme conditions. This includes heavy-duty engines, transmissions, and suspension systems that are more complex to maintain and repair.
4. Regulatory Standards: Heavy vehicles must comply with stricter safety and environmental regulations, leading to more sophisticated technology and systems. This includes advanced emission control systems and electronic control units (ECUs) that require specialised diagnostic tools.
5. Operational Demands: Heavy vehicles often operate in more demanding environments, such as long-haul trucking or construction sites. This necessitates more robust and complex systems to ensure reliability and performance under tough conditions.

There is often a need for specialised repairs,  including things like:

1. Transmission Repairs: Heavy vehicles often have more complex transmission systems, including multi-speed gearboxes and heavy-duty clutches, which require specialised knowledge and tools to repair.
2. Suspension System Repairs: The suspension systems in heavy vehicles are designed to handle much greater loads and stresses. Repairs can involve heavy-duty springs, shock absorbers, and air suspension components that are not found in light vehicles.
3. Axle Repairs: Repairing an axle on a heavy vehicle is complex due to the need to handle extreme stress and loads, requiring precise alignment and specialised tools to ensure safety and functionality. Additionally, the integration with other vehicle systems adds to the complexity of the repair.
4. Turn Tables: Repairing a turntable on a heavy vehicle is complex due to the need to handle substantial weights and the intricate mechanical systems involved, which require specialised tools and expertise. Additionally, these repairs must ensure safety and precise integration with other vehicle systems.
5. Brake System Overhauls: Heavy vehicles use air brake systems, which are more complex than the hydraulic brake systems found in light vehicles. Maintenance and repair of air compressors, brake chambers, and air lines are unique to heavy vehicles.
6. Engine Overhauls: The engines in heavy vehicles are typically larger and more powerful, often requiring specialised equipment and expertise for repairs. This includes dealing with turbochargers, intercoolers, and advanced fuel injection systems.
7. Chassis and Frame Repairs or Straightening for Realignment: Due to the heavy loads they carry, the chassis and frames of heavy vehicles can suffer from more significant wear and tear, requiring specialised welding and structural repairs.
8. Electrical System Repairs: Heavy vehicles have intricate electrical systems that control everything from engine management to lighting and auxiliary systems. Repairs can involve diagnosing and fixing issues with wiring, batteries, alternators, and electronic control units (ECUs).
9. Diagnostic and Software Updates: Modern heavy vehicles are equipped with advanced diagnostic systems and software that require regular updates and troubleshooting. This can include updating firmware, recalibrating sensors, and resolving software-related issues.
10. Cabin, Rear Body and Structural Repairs: Due to the heavy loads and rough conditions they endure, heavy vehicles often need repairs to their body and structural components. This can involve welding, frame straightening, and repairing or replacing damaged panels.
11. HVAC System Repairs: The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in heavy vehicles are more complex due to the larger cabin space and additional components. Repairs can include fixing or replacing compressors, condensers, and climate control units.
12. Telematics and Communication Systems: Many heavy vehicles are equipped with telematics systems for tracking and communication. Repairs can involve troubleshooting GPS units, communication devices, and onboard computers.
13. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS): Recalibrating ADAS after an accident is essential to ensure the accuracy and reliability of safety features like collision mitigation and lane-keeping assist. Misaligned sensors can lead to malfunctioning systems, compromising vehicle safety and performance. Proper recalibration maintains safety standards and restores the vehicle’s performance to its pre-accident condition.

These repairs often require specialised tools, equipment, and expertise that are not typically needed for light vehicle maintenance.

At Royans, we have advanced equipment to run alongside experienced technicians who specialise in these kinds of repairs. It may not be easy, but we know how to get it done to the right standard.

If you want to find out more about how exactly we can help you and guide you on this journey, click here.

Light Trucks and Delivery Vehicles: Repair Considerations

While light trucks are certainly more efficient and economical in a variety of scenarios, that doesn’t mean they’re immune to damage. Delivery vans, long wheelbase vans, and light commercial vehicles are often subjected to very typical issues on the road, which include bodywork damage, door repairs, and roof repairs—with the latter being especially true for a Pantech truck.

The types of trucks may not matter to some, but time is of the essence for delivery trucks and delivery vans. There needs to be a quick turnaround for repairs in order to minimise downtime for fleets,  otherwise, there could be a real snowball effect. Thankfully, Royans has the perfect anecdote.

Royans: Your Trusted Partner for Truck Collision Repairs

From truck and semi-trailer problems to anything else you might need, one thing that can be said about Royans is that we’re trusted. We have a comprehensive range of collision repair services, whether it be panel beating, spray painting or chassis alignment to name just a few.

We are available nationwide with branches that stretch across both Australia and New Zealand, meaning you’ll never be waiting too long for us to save the day.

Ensuring Safe and Reliable Truck Repairs with Royans

In summary, there are key repair needs for different types of trucks—and with years of experience alongside a plethora of dedicated, tenured workers, Royans is best suited to give you exactly what you need from pillar to post.

We want to take up the role of being your go-to partner for expert truck collision repairs, but perhaps most importantly, we want to emphasise safety. The longevity of your fleet is what’s going to lead to a successful business venture, which is precisely why we wouldn’t want you to be left reeling.

Whether you’re a fleet manager, a truck owner or you’re just interested in learning more, feel free to get in touch.