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Unexpected breakdowns don’t just cause delays—they eat into profit. And for businesses running used bucket trucks or used vacuum trucks, skipping truck preventive maintenance can lead to major safety issues and repair costs that could’ve been avoided.

So, let’s break down how often you should service your vacuum or bucket truck—and what to check every time.

Why Truck Preventive Maintenance Matters

These trucks aren’t average pickups. They carry weight, run power equipment, and work under pressure. Letting maintenance slide means:

• Shorter equipment life
• More downtime
• Increased fuel use
• Safety violations during DOT inspections

Routine service keeps trucks safer, more efficient, and job-ready.

How Often Should You Service Your Bucket Truck?

For used bucket trucks, keep a tight maintenance schedule. Here’s what that looks like:

Daily or Before Each Use:

• Check hydraulic fluid levels
• Inspect the bucket and boom for cracks or wear
• Test all controls (ground and bucket)
• Look for leaks around cylinders and hoses
• Ensure safety harness points are secure

Used bucket trucks require consistent truck preventive maintenance for better performance.

Every 250–500 Hours or Monthly:

• Change engine oil and filters
• Grease all pivot points and boom connections
• Inspect tires and brakes
• Test the battery and electrical systems
• Check and tighten any loose bolts on the boom or chassis

Annually (or Every 1,000–2,000 Hours):

• Perform dielectric testing (for insulated units)
• Flush and replace the hydraulic fluid
• Inspect and possibly replace hydraulic hoses
• Conduct a fullDOT inspection
• Review service records and perform any missed work

Boom inspections and dielectric testing are not optional. OSHA and ANSI require them annually for insulated units.

How Often Should You Service Your Vacuum Truck?

Used vacuum trucks deal with debris, sludge, and pressure systems. That means a slightly different maintenance focus.

Daily or Before Each Use:

• Inspect tank seals, gaskets, and the vacuum system
• Check suction hoses for wear or clogs
• Test pressure relief valves
• Verify that water and debris tanks are drained properly
• Monitor fluid levels (engine, hydraulic, coolant)

Every 250–500 Hours or Monthly:

• Change engine oil and filters
• Lubricate thePTO system
• Clean out and inspect the debris tank
• Check the vacuum pump oil level and quality
• Test all lights, controls, and gauges

Annually (or Every 1,500–2,000 Hours):

• Inspect the tank interior for corrosion
• Replace the vacuum pump oil
• Pressure test the tank and valves
• Full hydraulic system inspection
• Service the transmission and differential fluids

Neglecting vacuum pump service is one of the most common causes of early failure. Always refer to the manufacturer’s pump manual for specific oil and service intervals.

Don’t Forget: Seasonal and Storage Maintenance

If you’re storing your truck between seasons:

• Drain fluids that may freeze
• Disconnect batteries
• Cover controls and electrical areas from moisture
• Run the engine and systems monthly to prevent dry seals

Cold weather especially takes a toll on used bucket trucks and vacuum trucks, so adjust service intervals during winter use.

Big Truck & Equipment Sales Offers Top-Quality Used Trucks

Big Truck & Equipment Sales has been supplying clean, work-ready trucks for over 20 years. We know that proper truck maintenance is key to keeping your equipment—and your business—running strong. From used bucket trucks in CA to used vacuum trucks in OR, our inventory is serviced, inspected, and ready to go.

Need help choosing a truck with a clean service history? Contact us today—we’ve got the trucks that work as hard as you do.