Yard trucks (also known as terminal tractors, spotter trucks, or yard dogs) are critical to keeping your operations moving. When one goes down, productivity can take a hit. At BTR, we understand the urgency of getting your equipment back up and running fast. If your yard truck breaks down, here are a few things to check before contacting BTR for service.
1. Yard Truck Won’t Crank
If your yard truck won’t start, here are some initial troubleshooting steps:
- Check the battery disconnect switch – If left on, the batteries may be depleted. If your dash lights, accessories, or headlights do not come on, your battery may be dead. Contact BTR for battery service.
- Ensure the unit is in neutral – Look for “NN” on the digital shifter pad or ensure the manual shifter is in the “N” position.
- Red shutdown light on? – Some units have an idle timer. Try resetting by turning the key off and restarting. If that doesn’t work, contact BTR.
2. Yard Truck Shuts Down While Running or Shutdown Light Stays On
If your unit shuts off during operation or the shutdown light remains on, try the following:
- Check fluid levels – Low engine oil or coolant can trigger automatic shutdown.
- Monitor the temperature gauge – Overheating can cause the yard truck to shut off.
- Check for warning lights – If both the Check Engine Light (CEL) and shutdown light are on, it’s time to contact BTR.
3. Truck Won’t Go into Gear or Brakes Won’t Release
Transmission or brake issues may be tied to safety systems:
- Is the seatbelt latched? – Many yard trucks won’t engage gear unless it is.
- Is the brake pedal pressed? – It must be engaged to shift into gear.
- Check the trailer – Sometimes a trailer issue can prevent brake release.
If these steps don’t help, contact BTR.
4. Unit Won’t Latch to a Trailer
Trouble hooking up to a trailer?
- Check the 5th wheel – Ensure it’s not in the locked position already.
- Try a different trailer – If the truck latches to another, the issue may be the trailer.
If you still can’t latch, contact BTR service.
5. Unit Won’t Unlatch from Trailer
If the yard truck won’t release from the trailer:
- Ensure the release button is being pressed correctly.
- Listen for air leaks – If you hear a leak at the 5th wheel when pressing the release, contact BTR.
6. Trailer Lights or Air Lines Not Working
Lighting and air supply are essential to trailer operation:
- Check the trailer light fuses – Located under the cab on the passenger side. One bad trailer can blow these fuses.
- Inspect gladhands and seals – Air leaks may be caused by worn seals.
- Check for damage – If the 7-pin connector, hoses, gladhands, or spring hangers are damaged, contact BTR.
When in Doubt, Contact BTR
These quick checks may help you get your yard truck back up and running—but not every issue has a simple fix. If you’ve gone through these steps and the truck still isn’t operating properly, reach out to BTR immediately. Our team is ready to provide fast, reliable yard truck service and support.
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