48 10-4 Magazine / March 2026 minus the warm sunny weather. Good thing I was standing right next to it, or I might have torched the truck and burned down my entire shop. As it turned out, corrosion had eaten away at the plug, and that shorted out the connection. Now I’m gonna have to pull that heater element and check it for possible damage and, at the very least, replace the plug end of the cord. That’s how my annual list starts – usually with something small, and then it continues to grow, as I do additional preventive maintenance and inspections. Normally, I find a few questionable or repairable issues, along with some other items I want to update. Maintenance never ends with roadable equipment. Many drivers only think about the shiny parts of their truck, making sure the paint is clean, but there are thousands of individual components that can fail or malfunction and burn your operation to the ground. I call it a maintenance “countdown” because most years I take my list to Louisville and search out new or better options available. They may not all get changed out right away, but as the harsh winter gives way to April showers and then May flowers, I will be better prepared to make improvements. Not to mention, while in Louisville, there are great opportunities to chat with like-minded folks while perusing the packed isles of vendors and attendees. There’s a lot happening this month. March is when we set our clocks ahead (March 8th) and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day (March 17th). And who doesn’t like leprechauns, four leaf clovers, and shamrock shakes? The first day of spring is March 20th, and I am so ready for it. Let us pray for warm and sunny skies this year with no snow for MATS (March 26-28), and then close out the busy month with Palm Sunday (March 29th). Start making your plans now or you may get lost in the shuffle, blocked by lost opportunity, or overlooked by the fire and smoke of bad choices. Now would be a great time to stock up on your favorite swag. Get ready to gear up and shift into “Truck Show Season 2026” by supporting your favorite team. And don’t forget to stop by the 10-4 Magazine booth at their new location in the same building, still along the back wall, but now in booth 14269. While you’re there, pick up a shirt or hat (or both), some posters and centerfolds (the trucking type), and a free copy of the magazine. But don’t be late, because they typically run out of everything. Say hello to “Dan the Man” and Shannon, too, along with the crew that make it possible to produce our fine publication every month. You might even spot one of your favorite content contributors while they are out and about snapping pictures and “yucking it up” with friends. Don’t be shy – they are all very approachable and would love to hear your comments. Let’s go, drivers. Buckle up for the season and march into the madness it brings. It will be fun, and everyone is doing it. Remember, “Preparation speaks louder than poor performance,” so expect the best, but prepare for the worst. That is sage advice for both life and trucking, 10-4! n
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