Ready Your Truck (and Yourself) for Winter Driving
We all experience trouble getting moving when the weather gets cold. It feels like winter settles into our systems, and makes us more sluggish. We don’t want to get out of our nice warm beds and head to work.It’s a little like that for our trucks, too. In cold weather (which there is no shortage of on the Canadian prairies), lubricant don’t flow as easily, fuel is reluctant to flow and burn, and moving parts become more brittle and break more easily.Not only are breakdowns more likely in cold weather, they’re more inconvenient, too.
If you’re an Owner/Operator, there are some things you need to do in order to ready yourself and your vehicle for lower temperatures.
Preventing Winter Problems
Have your truck inspected by a mechanic before the cold weather comes. It’s much better (and more economical) to fix the problem in a nice warm shop than it is out in the field.Ensure that your fluids are winter grade (correct oil viscosity, coolant/antifreeze tested and rated for lower temperatures than you expect, and don’t forget to stock up on anti-gelling diesel additive. It’s cheaper at home than it is on the road, and you’ll always know you have it. Without it, your truck won’t run in low temperatures.
Equip Yourself
If you drive enough winter kilometers, sooner or later you’re going to be stranded. Whether you’re snowed in at a rest stop (best place to be in a storm) or broken down in the middle of nowhere, you may need to rely on your survival kit. Bring plenty of extra blankets, drinking water, non-perishable foods, and a flashlight with batteries. Candles can provide light and heat in a sub-zero cab. Also, ensure you've got a cellphone with a backup battery and charger with you – communications can be your lifeline in the event of an emergency.If you want to learn what it takes to be a Transport Truck Driver, visit First Class Training Centre in Winnipeg. You can visit us online or call Toll Free 1-855-632-5302.In the Winnipeg area call 204-632-5302.
