Winter is one of the most dangerous times to be on the road. According to the Federal Highway Administration, 24 percent of all weather-related crashes occur when roads are slippery from ice and snow. This results in approximately 1,300 deaths and 116,800 people injured each year. Winter temperatures can have significant impacts on the performance of your truck and increase your likelihood of being in an accident. It’s important to know what parts should be inspected and how to remedy common winter mechanical issues. 

Tires

Cold temperatures can cause your tires to slowly deflate. Deflated tires can have a negative effect on your steering and traction in inclement weather. Even on dry roads, improperly inflated tires can overheat and lead to additional wear, tread separation, and blowouts. It’s recommended to check the condition of your tires before each trip. 

Engine Temperatures 

Idling at cold temperatures causes wear and tear on your engine. An engine block heater can be a useful tool for drivers who frequently visit areas that experience sub-freezing temperatures. This inexpensive and easy-to-install device will help keep your engine oil warm allowing your truck to heat up quicker and oil to circulate better. Also, engines operated at normal temperatures are more fuel-efficient and can save on fuel costs. 

Diesel

Diesel fuel must become aerosolized in order to burn. Because low temperatures cause diesel to become a gel-like consistency, running your engine while your fuel is cold can cause a lot of damage. There are two ways to help prevent this. First, you can purchase special fuel additives that help keep diesel in a liquid form. Also, you can install glow plugs which are an added heating element installed in each cylinder specially designed to warm diesel fuel as it circulates through the system. 

Air Brakes and Suspension 

The air system on your truck is critical. Moisture in the tank can freeze and cause a leak or loss of pressure. This can result in a malfunction of your air braking and air suspension systems affecting your ability to stop and also steer. Fortunately, many newer air systems come with a built-in air dryer to prevent this moisture. Be sure to regularly check the readings on your air pressure gauges. 

Belts and Hoses

Rapidly changing temperatures can cause a lot of expansion and contraction in your engine. This can wreak havoc on your belts and hoses causing them to crack, leak, or become loose. Check under your truck for leaks and inspect belts to ensure they are installed properly and tight.

Battery

Cold weather can shorten the life of your battery. Even new batteries can be affected. Research shows that automotive batteries lose up to 60 percent of their strength at 0° Fahrenheit. Regularly measure battery strength, ensure cables are tight, and check for signs of corrosion around the battery terminals. 

Winter Emergency Kit

The risk of being stranded is increased during winter weather. In addition to making sure that your truck is maintained to operate in freezing temperatures, you should also have supplies if you have an emergency. Your winter emergency kit should include items such as a blanket, extra set of clothes and gloves, non-perishable snacks or rations, flashlight, ice scraper, candles, and road flares to help other drivers see you when visibility is low.

Trained Drivers

Here at JR’s Expedited Freight we thoroughly train all of drivers in winter weather safety and maintenance. They are ready for anything Mother Nature throws at us. Join our team today!