This week on the Oakley Podcast, Jeremy Kellett sits down with David and Nathan Dunn and lead mechanic Travis Davis from Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer to talk about their partnership with Oakley, how new technology (including AI and the Full Bay customer portal) is changing truck repair, and the realities of running a small diesel shop in a dealership-driven world. They dig into common, preventable breakdowns like neglected air and cabin filters, dirty cooling systems, and inadequate oil change intervals, and explain practical checks drivers can do themselves, such as the “rag test,” draining air tanks, and inspecting for leaks and bearing issues. The conversation also covers realistic oil change intervals for hard-running Oakley equipment, DEF/DPF system maintenance and warning signs, the dangers of “dirty deletes,” and why using genuine diagnostic software matters. Listeners come away with concrete maintenance tips, what tools and supplies every first-time owner-operator should carry, and how using Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer’s new online portal can reduce downtime, improve communication, and build a trusted long-term relationship with a shop that understands their business.
Key topics in today’s conversation include:
- Previewing Today’s Episode with Shannon and Mark (0:37)
- Introduction, Sponsors, and Central Arkansas Truck & Trailer Partnership (0:12)
- Has the Podcast Really Driven More Business to the Shop? (3:25)
- Small Business Challenges and How AI Is Used in the Shop (5:54)
- Full Bay Software and Real-Time Repair Tracking for Drivers (6:51)
- Driver Portal, Website, and How to Request Service Online (9:25)
- Common Preventable Breakdowns: Air Filters, Cabin Filters, and AC Issues (13:29)
- The “Rag Test” and Keeping Radiators / Charge Air Coolers Clean (15:25)
- How Often Should You Change Oil for Hard-Running Oakley Trucks? (17:50)
- New Discounted Oil Change Package for Oakley Drivers (21:05)
- Simple Checks Drivers Can Do: Hubs, Leaks, Air Tanks, and Rear Ends (23:35)
- DEF / DPF System Problems, Early Warning Signs, and “Dirty Deletes” (28:09)
- Why Bad Deletes and Bootleg Software Cause Electrical Nightmares (30:21)
- Software Updates, Dealer Pressure, and Industry Changes in Repair (32:00)
- Late-Night Breakdown Story and Helping Drivers Like Family (37:43)
- Tools Every First-Time Owner Operator Should Carry and Closing Thoughts (41:24)
Oakley Trucking is a family-owned and operated trucking company headquartered in North Little Rock, Arkansas. For more information, check out our show website: podcast.bruceoakley.com.