Open the hood of the semi truck fully with the engine turned off to allow full view of the vehicle's engine.
Approach the engine compartment from the driver's side and check all components for leaks. You much correct leaks before you put a vehicle into operation. Continue to examine the engine for any loose or missing nuts, bolts or pins. It is important to have these in the correct locations and properly tightened.
Check that all fluid levels are at the correct level using sight markers on the side of the reservoirs or the fluid container dipstick. Fill any fluids that are not to their minimum requirements while the engine is cool. Check that you have all reservoir caps tightly affixed.
Inspect filters to assure that they are clean, working properly and free of debris.
Inspect the hoses and clamps to assure that none are cracked, split, frayed or leaking. Check the engine wires and engine mounts to assure that all are in good condition with no exposed wire and free from cracks, splitting or fraying.
Look at the front of the semi's engine to assure that the fan is in good order and undamaged, and that all of the belts are tight and in good condition with no more than 1/2 to 3/4 inches of play.
Repeat all of these steps on the passenger side of the vehicle's engine, then inspect the underside of the engine for drip marks or leaks that may be coming from above.
