Not a 100% sure but does'nt the operator get fined for operating an unsafe viehicle? I'm pretty sure that's how it is up here in Ontario, we have the right to refuse to drive if we truly believe there is a safety issue,
The co. I drive for wants a report filled out for any defects handed in on Fri./sat. and every thing is fixed by Sun./Mon. before I leave again for the week,minor or major. I ussually let them know about it before I get back if possible that way they can get the parts ordered and at the shop by the weekend. If they are unable to repair we are put on anouther trailer / tractor for the week or given the choice of having Monday off till the repairs can be finished.

 

Can you list the problems?
How bad can they be if you are willing to drive that way for a month?

 

Trailer:

5th wheel apron is all bent to hell above the right side drive tires. ( This one needs fixing, some of these areas I run it will rub on the drives.)

Frame rails ( 5 of them ) are bent under the trailer.

Leaf spring mounts, Centers are rusted through. Barely anything there. (this one scares the :dung: out of me.)

Front axle, both seals leaking.

Front axle very, very close to needing a brake job.

Mud Flap brackets are bent ( not a major repair, but will need to be addressed some point in time.)

Roof Of the trailer has a leak on the left side ( This has caused damaged product before)

Rear axle, left duals need to be replaced.

Axles will not slide what so ever. ( not to important, but there has been time were I have needed to slide, but I cant.)

Rear Brake/ Turn light covers are fogged over, been told by several drivers who have followed me they are hard to see light up.


Truck:

Over Due for PM by 2 months

5th wheel needs grease, and needs to be service. ( it is hell some days to get unhooked from the trailer, will not release at times)

Mis- Matched steer tires, Left steer is only wearing on the inside, gives slight vibration at times.

Passenger side window does not work.

Shifter boot has a hole in it, and is allowing air from under the truck to enter the cab. ( god help me if there is an exhaust leak. )



The ones in red are the ones I strongly feel need to be taken care of soon, and in case of the spring mounts right now.

Tell me if I am out of my mind, but I don't think I am.





Truck is a 2000 Freightliner FLD Daycab. 10sp, c-12 cat.

Trailer is a 1988 Grate Dane 48ft Dry van with roll doors. It has seen better days.

 

I'd find somewhere else to work, but that's just me.

 

I enjoy my job now, getting the truck and trailer fixed is my only problem. Not also to mention jobs around here are extremely hard to get now.

 

I can understand your plight, but the state of the equipment as you describe it seems unnecessarily dangerous. If [excrement] hits the fan, that job isn't going to be very enjoyable once it happens...