In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use and maintain your Auxiliary Power Unit (APU). Whether you’re new to APUs or just need a refresher, this will help you operate the unit effectively and keep it in top condition.
In this example, we are talking specifically about the Thermo King Tripac Evolution APU that comes on every truck that is sold at Pedigree Truck & Trailer Sales. Let’s dive in!
Accessing the Thermo King Tripac Evolution APU Unit
To begin, locate the APU unit on the outside of your truck.
- Open the Access Panel- Press the tabs to open the panel.
- Check the Toggle Switch- Ensure the toggle switch is in the “on” position. This setting ensures the APU is ready to run when activated from inside the truck.
Operating the APU Inside the Truck
Now, let’s move inside the truck to turn on and operate the APU.
- Powering On the APU:
– Press and hold the power button on the controller for about three seconds.
– The APU will start in AC mode (indicated by a snowflake icon). You can switch to heat or air circulation mode as needed.
- Adjusting Settings:
– Use the temperature dial to set your desired temperature.
– Adjust the fan speed using the fan control knob.
Operating the APU Inside the Truck
Now, let’s move inside the truck to turn on and operate the APU.
- Powering On the APU:
– Press and hold the power button on the controller for about three seconds.
– The APU will start in AC mode (indicated by a snowflake icon). You can switch to heat or air circulation mode as needed.
- Adjusting Settings:
– Use the temperature dial to set your desired temperature.
– Adjust the fan speed using the fan control knob.
- Startup Process:
– Once turned on, the APU goes through a startup process, which includes priming fuel and heating glow plugs.
– You’ll hear a beeping sound during this phase, indicating that the APU is preparing to run. This process typically takes 10-15 seconds.
Checking the Hour Meter and Diagnostics
– Locate the hour meter inside the luggage door of your Freightliner truck.
– This meter tracks the hours of operation and can help diagnose issues if needed.
– If professional diagnostics are required, technicians can connect their computers via the built-in cable.
Turning Off the APU
There are two ways to power off the APU:
Using the Controller:
– Hold the power button on the controller for three seconds to shut the unit down.
Using the Key:
– Turn your truck’s key to the “on” position (without starting the truck). This sends a signal to the APU to turn off. This method prevents the truck engine and APU from running simultaneously, which could damage the batteries.
Adding Oil and Coolant
Proper maintenance involves checking and refilling the oil and coolant levels:
Oil:
– Use the oil fill port to add oil as needed.
– Check the oil level using the dipstick.
– Coolant:
– Add coolant to the designated fill port.
The APU draws fuel directly from your truck’s fuel tank, so there’s no need for a separate fuel source.
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