Written by the Motorplex Team
Serving Auburn, Spokane, and all of Washington State
When a yard truck (often called a yard goat) won’t start, it can quickly throw off an entire operation for a busy transport yard. These specialized trucks are essential for moving trailers and freight around distribution centers, so downtime can be frustrating and costly.
Motorplex by FleetEasy recently responded to a call for a yard goat that wouldn’t start and needed on-site fleet repairs. Our trusted mobile fleet repair service can provide expert, on-site solutions anywhere in Washington State, including fleet repairs and equipment repairs.
What’s Got Your Goat? On-Site Fleet Repairs in Tacoma
Earlier this month, we responded to a call to fix a yard goat with a bad starter. After loading up and heading to the customer’s location, the technician had to pick up the starter and get to work.
Once on-site, our team verified the vehicle identification number (VIN) and began testing. The technician checked the battery voltage, finding approximately 12.5 volts, confirming that the issue wasn’t battery-related. The voltage readings at the starter solenoid showed 0 volts, confirming a starter failure.
Working efficiently and safely, the technician removed the faulty starter, which isn’t exactly a small task. “I had to use two 10mm wrenches and a bottle jack handle for leverage to get the mounting bolts out,” the technician explained. The new starter was installed with the same care and precision.
After the installation, the yard truck was tested thoroughly to ensure the problem was fixed. The technician started and stopped the engine multiple times and let it idle for ten minutes to ensure consistent performance. The yard goat fired up perfectly every time.
Old starter and new starter during on-site fleet repairs in Tacoma.
Common Signs of Starter Trouble
Starter issues often build up over time, and if you’re paying attention, you can see the warning signs. Here are a few signs your fleet vehicle might have starter issues:
When you turn the key and hear a clicking sound but the engine doesn’t turn over, it’s often a sign that the starter solenoid is failing. Another common symptom is intermittent starting, where the truck occasionally starts fine and then fails later. Slow cranking or dim dashboard lights can also point to an issue with the starter or its electrical connections. If you run into these signs, you need fleet repairs.
Because yard trucks, delivery vehicles, and semi-trucks start and stop frequently, their starters face extra wear. That’s why routine inspections and preventive fleet maintenance are essential. Motorplex technicians can check the starter, battery, and electrical systems during scheduled maintenance to spot and fix problems before you’re down a vehicle.
Expert Fleet Repairs When and Where You Need Them
When you’re managing a busy yard and fleet, we understand that not every issue can wait for a shop appointment. That’s why our on-site fleet repairs unit is equipped to diagnose and repair problems wherever the vehicle or equipment is. In this case, it was in a yard in Tacoma, WA. Opting for on-site fleet repairs can be a convenient, time-efficient, and cost-effective solution. In addition, we offer emergency mobile repairs and get assistance around the clock. We strive to help fleets across Washington minimize downtime and stay on schedule.
When repairs are more complex, we work with Pro-Tow by FleetEasy to bring fleet vehicles and heavy equipment to our fully equipped service centers in Auburn and Spokane. There, our certified technicians perform advanced diagnostics, major repairs, and DOT inspections.
No matter where you are in the state, Motorplex makes it easy to get your fleet back on the road (or yard) quickly and safely.
Read more tips and articles about fleet repairs.
Contact us to book an on-site or in-shop service appointment.