{"id":4691,"date":"2020-01-23T08:00:05","date_gmt":"2020-01-23T13:00:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.readingbody.com\/?p=4691"},"modified":"2021-09-20T08:05:53","modified_gmt":"2021-09-20T12:05:53","slug":"how-to-winterize-a-work-truck","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/readingtruck-develop.go-vip.net\/rt\/how-to-winterize-a-work-truck\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Winterize a Work Truck"},"content":{"rendered":"

Winter weather conditions can change within seconds, so you have to be ready for any situation. Taking the right steps to prepare for winter will help keep you safe and help your truck stay well-maintained. It also decreases maintenance costs while making for a more comfortable ride over the next few months.<\/p>\n

Preparing a truck fleet for winter involves several preparation tips along with a complete emergency kit guide. We know your operations depend on efficient deliveries and transportations, so Reading Body is here to help you battle the cold weather and harsh road conditions.<\/p>\n

Work Truck Winter Maintenance Tips<\/h2>\n

Driving in a winter wonderland is not the same when you\u2019re hauling a massive load. Ice and snow can decrease tire traction, inhibit visibility and affect various components of your vehicle. Salt can cause engine corrosion and eat away at exterior parts. Winter conditions also cause the engine to work harder than usual.<\/p>\n

The best way to combat the colder months is to prep your truck with the proper maintenance<\/a>.<\/p>\n

1. Inspect Battery<\/h3>\n

If your truck\u2019s battery is close to the end of its lifecycle, replace it before winter begins. If it\u2019s still in excellent condition, inspect it for corrosion. Ensure the connections are tight and clean, and that the battery is securely mounted.<\/p>\n

You can perform a load test while also checking the starter and alternator. Examine all the electrical wiring for damage and frays, making sure there are no exposed or loose wires.<\/p>\n

2. Examine Wiper Blades and Windshield<\/h3>\n

Replace your vehicle\u2019s wipers if they are cracked and split, or swap your old ones out for winterized versions. Proper winter wiper blades prevent snow and ice buildup while also getting rid of salt contamination. Never buy cheap blades that can\u2019t resist the elements. It\u2019s an impractical investment that can affect your driving ability.<\/p>\n

You should also top up the windshield wiper fluid or opt for a cold-temperature blend. Check that your defroster is working well so you can ensure complete visibility when snow and ice accumulate.<\/p>\n

3. Install Engine Heater<\/h3>\n

Diesel engines need a higher cylinder temperature compared to gasoline vehicles, which makes them harder to start in cold weather. By installing an electric block heater, you can keep your engine warm while it\u2019s off. It will help with smoother startups and keep your engine in better condition when freezing temperatures arrive.<\/p>\n

4. Check Water Separator and Fuel Filter<\/h3>\n

Make sure your utility truck\u2019s fuel filter is in excellent condition and make replacements as necessary. You should also monitor the water separator system. If water reaches your diesel fuel, it can contaminate the fluid and affect your engine.<\/p>\n

Because most separators are not self-cleaning, drain the water by turning on the drain valve. It\u2019s essential to perform this phase during winter because condensation can increase inside the fuel tank when the outside temperature is cold.<\/p>\n

5. Inspect Air Dryer<\/h3>\n

An air dyer accumulates and gets rid of any contaminants from the air before they reach the brakes. It also prevents water from freezing in your brake lines. Drain the reservoir regularly and make sure it\u2019s functioning. Replace it as needed. If you don\u2019t tend to the dryer component, it can cause the truck\u2019s brakes to malfunction.<\/p>\n

6. Prepare With Fuel Additives<\/h3>\n

Diesel contains paraffin, which is a wax that can crystallize in the winter, making the fuel sluggish. The fluid won\u2019t be able to transfer through the fuel filters and can affect the operation of your truck.<\/p>\n

To avoid a sluggish engine, invest in high-cetane diesel fuel. You can also apply a fuel additive to enhance the vehicle\u2019s performance. Refer to your owner\u2019s manual for the exact specifications of your make and model to prevent ice buildups in the fuel filters.<\/p>\n

7. Investigate Cooling System<\/h3>\n

Complete a comprehensive inspection of the cooling system for worn, cracked or damaged components. Look at the radiator, hose clamps and hoses for bulges or slits as well. Conduct a coolant test to make sure it\u2019s at the right freezing temperature and use the proper winterized coolant fluid for your particular truck. Top-up and change the antifreeze as necessary.<\/p>\n

8. Consider Winter Tires<\/h3>\n

Inflate your tires to the proper PSI before setting off on long routes. Without the right tire pressure, it can increase the risk of blowouts and cause less traction during slippery conditions. Each tire needs the correct amount of contact between its rubber and the road. Check for the proper inflation more often during the winter because cold temperatures can cause the pressure to drop faster.<\/p>\n

You may also want to consider tire chains or winter tires for your truck. Chains can boost your braking, handling and acceleration control on slick roads. Without them, you run the risk of skidding and sliding.<\/p>\n

If you live in a state or travel to one that requires tire chains, make sure you have the right number and correct size. Check them for rust, twists or damaged links before driving.<\/p>\n

9. Review Four-Wheel and All-Wheel Drive Systems<\/h3>\n

If your truck has one or both options, make sure you know when and how to operate them. Both give your rig better traction in certain situations. You often have to set your vehicle to four-wheel drive while all-wheel drive usually automatically engages when you lose traction. Check your owner\u2019s manual to learn the various settings of your truck.<\/p>\n

10. Use Enhanced Oil<\/h3>\n

\"Use<\/p>\n

Engines can be harder to start in the winter because a vehicle\u2019s oil can thicken, making it more difficult to circulate through the system. Check with your manufacturer to see if you can implement a thinner oil into your system to help with better startups.<\/p>\n

11. Look at Belts and Hoses<\/h3>\n

Cold weather can do a lot of damage when and where you least expect it. Investigate under your hood for cracked, split or broken hoses and belts, replacing them immediately if damaged.<\/p>\n

12. Wash Your Truck<\/h3>\n

Driving through salt, sand, ice, snow and other harmful contaminants can damage your truck\u2019s paint job as well as its undercarriage components. Wash your vehicle regularly to prevent a buildup of chemicals and salt that can lead to rust and corrosion.<\/p>\n

In Pennsylvania alone for the 2018-2019 season, the state used\u00a011.6 million gallons of salt brine<\/a>\u00a0on the roads. Although some states don\u2019t receive as much winter force, many still lay salt and other treatments on the streets.<\/p>\n

On top of the major maintenance tips, it\u2019s also smart to look at the weather forecast before your next journey. Know the conditions of the road before and during your trip, as well as the predicted patterns of what’s to come. You can stay up-to-date using apps, websites and the radio.<\/p>\n

When you prepare your engine, tires, fluids and other vital components, you can ensure your truck is ready for any short or long-term trips, even when the weather isn’t in your favor.<\/p>\n

What Should You Have in Your Truck\u2019s Winter Emergency Kit?<\/h2>\n

The worst thing to happen when an unexpected hazard strikes it to be stranded with no supplies. It\u2019s better to prepare now than needing to rely on emergency help. Several supplies to keep in your truck include:<\/p>\n