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With the onset of winter months, the owner-operators should be ready for winterizing their trucks. It is important to take the necessary steps for the preparation of trucks for the winter months as it will support keeping the costs down and staying safe in the cold winter months.

The following guidelines will help in keeping the truck ready for the winter months.

Emergency Kit: During the winter months, there is more possibility of getting stranded due to adverse weather conditions.

Therefore, it is necessary to carry sufficient supplies in the truck:

• Blankets
• First Aid Kit
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Bottled water and canned food
• Scarves, gloves, and hats
• Snow Boots
• Snow shovel
• Flares
• Radio
• Extra fuel filter
• Fuel Filter wrench
• Tire chains

Battery Check:

The appropriate time for checking the age and condition of the battery is before the onset of winter months. The freezing temperatures drain the life of the battery quickly. If the battery is close to the 48–72-month life cycle, then it is most important to replace it. It is very important to inspect the battery and make sure that it is mounted properly and that all the connections are clean and tight. Perform a prior load test and check whether the alternator and starter work well. Inspect the wiring for frays or damages, and ensure that there are no loosened or exposed wires.

Inspect the fuel filter and Water Separator:

Do check the condition of the fuel filter and replace it when necessary. In order to reduce the risk of damage to the engine, it is important to monitor the water separator daily. Water is a common contaminant in the diesel engine and therefore it can shorten the life of the engine. If larger quantities of water have been collected, it must be drained. The separators do not clean automatically, therefore it is important to locate the separator which is near the fuel filter, and therefore drain the valve for emptying the water. Especially during winter months because condensation forms on the inside of a warm fuel tank as the temperature on the outside cools down.

Use fuel additives:

The diesel fuel engine contains added paraffin and wax which freezes at negative temperatures. The contaminants cause the water in the fuel to disperse and the fuel becomes very slushy. The fuel is not able to pass through the fuel filter and when the temperatures drop, they become worse. The gelling of fuel leads to staggered vehicle operation and in worst scenarios rough vehicle operation and engine failure. To avoid this, we need to check the cetane rating of the fuel at the pump, therefore, the higher the better and after that add anti-gel fuel additives to fill up and enhance the performance of the engine. It is recommended to check the owner's manual for additive guidelines and similarly mix them according to the procedures mentioned otherwise you will damage your fuel system.

Inspection of the cooling system:

In winter months, the proper maintenance of the cooling system is necessary. As the temperature drops, anything that is worn, damaged, or cracked gets substandard. It is important to perform an inspection of the whole system, which includes the radiator, inspection of hoses or any bulges, and hose clamps to ensure that they are secure and not damaged. You must conduct a coolant test to ensure that the coolant is at the freezing point. The additive levels should be checked for determining if the coolant is to be changed or adjusted in accordance with the regular maintenance plan. It is very crucial that adequate coolant is used for your truck.

Engine must remain warm:

Diesel engines are more difficult to start in winter months because of the bigger cylinder. When you are traveling in a cold climate area, you must have an electric block heater installed for keeping the engine warm. It is important that the block heater cord contains a three-prong plug to ensure that it is held securely in place.

Inspection of the Air-dryer:

The air dryer which is installed in between the compressor and wet tank collects and removes contaminants from the air before they can enter the braking system. It will prevent water from freezing in the lines of the brake. It is necessary to inspect the air dryer for maintenance and proper functioning and if necessary, replace the air filter. The air reservoirs must be drained periodically. If you fail at maintaining the air dryer it can lead to extremely dangerous brake malfunction.

Check the Windshield:

When snow and ice get accumulated on the windshield, it makes driving very difficult for the drivers. With the arrival of winter months, it is necessary to inspect the wipers of the windshield and replace them timely. It is important to ensure that the wiper fluid is filled and that it is switched on a cold-temperature blend. Always carry surplus washed fluid in your truck.

Tire Check:

The tires must be maintained and should be kept in good condition so that they can efficiently function on snowy and icy roads. Properly inspect the tires and it is important that they are inflated to the adequate pressure rating. It is necessary to figure out the chain laws according to state, and always carry the correct size and number of chains in the truck. It is recommended to inspect if the chains are not worn, damaged, or twisted and if necessary, replace them according to the needs.