Tips On How To Winterize a Semi-Truck

Winter is near, and that means harsher driving conditions when you’re on the job. It also means it’s time to winterize your semi-truck. If you don’t know to winterize a semi-truck, don’t worry. Rechtien International Trucks has your back! Below you can get some helpful tips on winterizing your truck, so you’re ready for winter driving in a semi-truck and will stay safe during your cross-country excursions. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. 

Winterizing Tips

As winter rolls around, there’s a potential for you to be driving through some areas that have snow and ice. Knowing how to winterize a semi-truck will give you more peace of mind wherever you roam for maximum uptime. These are some top winterizing tips from our service team to help you prepare for winter driving in a semi-truck:

• Check your battery: Cold temperatures can cause a battery to resist charge. If your battery is reaching three years old or is showing signs of weakening, consider replacing them early. During wintertime, routinely inspect the electrical system and clean your batteries.
• Do regular brake checks: Wet and icy roads can cause rust to build up and hamper brake performance, so check your brakes throughout the season.
• Check your tire pressure: Tire pressure drops during cold weather so set the pressure correctly before driving. The ideal time to check pressure is during your pre-trip inspection.
• Air system:Air dryers should be changed before winter to ensure ice doesn’t cripple the truck’s air supply system. Also, drain out the moisture in your primary and secondary tanks daily.
• Change the oil: You must have the correct motor oil viscosity for the climate. Check your operator’s manual for cold-weather recommendations. When determining cold-weather viscosity, remember that cold-weather oil performance is based on ambient air temperatures, and engines are not affected by wind chill.
• Use the correct fuel: The petroleum industry provides winter blend diesel fuel to prevent waxing or jelling of the truck’s fuel system. Avoid playing chemist and blending your own fuel concoction. Industry experts do not recommend the use of extra fuel or lubricant additives. Also, remember that an empty gas tank allows moisture to build up and can dilute fuel. That’s why it’s wise to keep your tanks nearly full during the winter. 
• Fill up your wiper fluid and replace the wiper blades: Salt and debris from sanded streets can negatively affect your visibility, so use freeze-resistant wiper fluid.
• Coolant: Inspect the coolant system, especially clamps and hoses, for any leaks. Check your coolant level regularly, and always use a high-quality coolant and the correct type. If you don’t know the right kind to use, check the factory operator’s manual or chat with one of the service advisors at Rechtien International Trucks

Schedule Winter Semi-Truck Service at Rechtien International Trucks!

Now that you know how to winterize a semi-truck, if you don’t have time, or aren’t the DIY type, schedule a service appointment at Rechtien International Trucks, and we’ll take good care of your truck. Our certified technicians all across South Florida are some of the best in the business and highly trained. You can schedule service online at your convenience. Check our service specials and let us know how we can be of service!