Don’t Wait to Replace These Three Bus Parts


Glaval bus

It’s easy to tell when you need to visit a bus parts warehouse, especially when something is clearly broken, but what if one of the parts on your bus is somewhere in-between function and dysfunction? That gray area is tempting to ignore, but you do so at the cost of the safety of your passengers. Whether your group uses passenger vans or a church bus, there are a few key parts that need to be monitored and maintained regularly. Here are three bus parts that you should be checking.

Wiper Blades

It should go without saying that not being able to see the road is a serious driving hazard for any bus driver, yet many people choose to put off replacing their wiper blades for as long as possible. If it has been a while since you had to use the blades on your bus, have someone spray a hose at the windshield of the bus while you put them through the paces. You will be able to tell if your blades are worn or dirty if the wipers chatter as they move across the windshield, or if water is not wiped away quickly and efficiently. Blades that won’t come clean, or that are worn, or no longer pliable, should be replaced. As a general rule, wipers should be replaced once a year.

Exhaust System

There are a number of bus parts in the exhaust system that can become broken, can loosen, or may leak. Pipes, vertical stacks, clamps, and electrical wiring can all become damaged thanks to simple wear and tear. The danger of having a damaged exhaust system comes down to fumes entering the cabin of the bus, or a possible bus breakdown. When you bring your bus in for maintenance or repair, always have the exhaust system checked, and be aware of any strange sounds, excessive smoke, or fumes entering the cabin.

Emergency Equipment

Did you know that federal law requires a bus to carry reflective triangles, sometimes a fire extinguisher, and spare electrical fuses? Although your particular type of bus may not be required to carry some of these items, it’s a safe and smart decision to make an effort to have all emergency equipment, including first aid kits, occasionally checked. A bus parts warehouse can help you replenish a supply of emergency equipment, or find new pieces to make your bus safer.

Used buses are especially important to check frequently. While safety should be your primary concern, regular maintenance and replacement of worn parts can lead to a longer lifespan for your bus or shuttle. In fact, proper maintenance could effectively double the lifespan of your vehicle from eight to 10 years, to between 15 and 20 years. Remember to check your wiper blades, exhaust systems, and emergency equipment whenever your engine, tires, oil, or other bus components are checked. A slightly dysfunctional part left unattended could cause serious safety concerns, or lead to significant repair bills. More can be found here.

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