A Wintertime Preparedness Checklist from a Professional Truck Service in Wytheville, VA
January 5, 2018 8:32 pm Leave your thoughtsWinter is here, and for many parts of the country that means rain, snow and storms have already made appearances. For truck drivers, winter means being prepared to drive in hazardous conditions and to deal with surprises on the road. Experienced truckers know to check the weather forecast and road conditions before heading out on a cargo delivery, while also making sure their rig gets a clean bill of health from the mechanic.
From cars, pickup trucks and SUVs to commercial big rigs, it’s important to winterize all types of vehicles for road and driver safety. So, is your truck ready to take on harsh winter weather? The following is a wintertime preparedness checklist from a professional truck service in Wytheville, VA.
Battery checkup
All vehicles, including semi trucks, need to have their batteries checked early on in winter or sooner. Why? Because vehicle batteries tend to drain and lose juice faster when temperatures drop during the winter months. A truck driver especially needs to ensure their truck’s battery status so they don’t end up broken down on the side of a snowy road needing to call for roadside wrecker assistance. Keep in mind the average vehicle battery lifespan ranges from 48 to 72 months, depending on usage and weather conditions.
Heating devices
Big rig diesel engines are built more powerfully than car engines to be able to pull heavy tractor-trailers and cargo. Therefore, these engines are going to need higher cylinder temperatures to start up, get moving and operate properly. This winter, it might not be a bad idea to install a heating device, or get an electric block heater for extra overnight assistance.
Fuel changes
If it’s wintertime and you’re using a fuel that contains paraffin wax, consider switching it out for a more efficient winter grade fuel. Waxy diesel fuel blends will gel up when colder temperatures roll in, but a winter blend of fuels containing 1D and 2D diesel will not. You’ll also want to check the cetane rating. The higher the rating, the better your truck will function in the cold.
Fuel filter concerns
Regardless of whether it’s summer or winter, fuel contaminants like water can negatively affect your truck’s performance. However, since condensation more easily forms inside tanks that are warmed up on cold days, condensation can be a serious issue during the winter months. To avoid this issue, fill up your tank at night, as this leaves little room for condensation to form. You might also want to look into installing a water separator for your fuel system, but you’ll need to check it every day and drain it if necessary.
Winter truck driving is safer when everything from the engine to the tires is in good condition and working properly. This also ensures you get to your destination on time, and helps to prevent truck breakdowns. If you’re a driver in need of truck service in Wytheville, VA this summer, look no further than Complete Truck Service Inc. We are the area’s one-stop shop for all of your truck repair needs. Call us today!
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