Winter time presents a challenging situation for truck drivers particularly those traveling in snowy areas.
This particular season then requires truck owners and drivers to winterize their vehicles to keep them in good condition and to avoid repair costs.
Whether you're the owner of a commercial truck or you're just assigned to drive it as part of your job, you are responsible for maintaining the vehicle and prolong its life.
Winter is an important part of the year that requires you to prepare your huge vehicle for its safe journey every day.
You have to plan the process well and you should do it every year.
No ifs or buts here.
Keep in mind that driving a huge vehicle during bad weather and during winter can be dangerous.
And if you don't maintain your truck properly, you will face high costs for its repair and maintenance later on.
These steps are normally taught during a CDL training course offered by accredited truck schools.
A CDL training certificate is a major requirement that aspiring commercial truck drivers need to accomplish.
Preparing the necessary tools inside your truck is the first important step you'll need to take.
Other than the truck tools plus your spare tires, you also need to bring extra food, blankets, jacket, medical and other survival supplies.
Always inspect your truck every day before you leave.
Check for damage or worn parts and when you find them, make sure to replace them as soon as possible to prevent problems from occurring.
When you inspect your vehicle, follow a system.
For instance, you can start from the front part of the truck and then work clockwise to cover all areas.
Don't ignore the engine and its compartment.
Check for wires and hoses that may be loose, worn or damaged.
Any bulging part on the hose can indicate weak spots.
Make sure hose clamps are also secure and free from damage.
Radiators should also be free from leaks.
If possible, add the winter blend antifreeze and then test the freeze point as well as the additive concentration.
The belts should likewise be in good condition.
For the truck wipers, inspect the blades and add winter blend wiper fluid.
If blades are worn, replace them right away.
Your truck's heater system should be inspected as well.
Make sure to replace the in cab filter.
Do conduct a test of the heater to ensure that its vents and door panels are working properly.
Don't forget to test your vehicle's air compressor and air dryer system, too.
If water is present in air tanks, drain them.
Air lines should also be free from leaks and water traps.
Drain them regularly and avoid adding fluids to them.
For those who own or manage trucks with modern air dry systems, remember not to add methanol in the air lines to prevent damage in its internal parts.
Other vital systems you should focus on are the fuel and exhaust parts.
The fuel system should be free from water.
Check that the water separator is working fine and that winter fuel additive is added to the system to avoid gelling of fuel due to the cold weather.
Finally, inspect that the exhaust system has no leaks as it can produce hazardous fumes that can enter your truck.