If you get a semi-truck, doubtless you’ll find plenty of uses for it. However, you need to make sure you take good care of it. Part of that involves withstanding the weather.
Here are some tips that can help you do that.
Check the Brakes Frequently
First, you should have a store or online location where you can get high-end semi-truck parts. You should know what to watch out for with each part and know when to replace it.
Winterizing your semi-truck is a huge part of allowing it to withstand the weather, particularly if you live in a region of the country where you get punishing ice and snow. Accordingly, you should check the functionality of the vehicle’s ABS when winter approaches. Watch out for potential overnight freezes of your brake drums if you leave the vehicle parked on the street or in your driveway.
The Windshield
You should also check the windshield often. What you are looking for are cracks or chips. Even a very small one can spread and grow larger quickly, so if you see one, get it repaired right away.
Fuel and DEF
If you want your vehicle to withstand the weather, part of that also involves keeping it fueled up properly, especially with winter coming on. That means keeping at least half a tank of fuel in it at all times, and at least half a tank of diesel exhaust fluid in it as well. If you have more empty space in your fuel tanks, water vapor in the air can form ice crystals in the tank, clogging the fuel line and filters.
The Battery
Cold weather can drain your semi-truck’s battery. Check it often to make sure that it is fully charged and in peak operating condition.
The Air Dryer
You will also want to pay attention to the semi-truck’s air dryer. If it’s not functioning properly, moisture can build up and damage many of the vehicle’s functionalities. Brake issues can also occur with a malfunctioning air dryer, and that’s dangerous at any time of the year.
An Engine Block Heater
You will also want to have an engine block heater to use in the winter with your semi-truck. Engine block heaters can warm up your engine and its fluids. They run on electricity. Warming the oil and the coolant makes sure that they are both doing their job before you take your truck out in the frigid weather.
Cold Soaks
You will want to avoid “cold soaking” your semi-truck’s engine in chilly winter weather. This is the term given to long periods of idling. Idling can lead to fuel system issues and condensation buildup in cold weather, and you will certainly want to avoid those.
Use the Right Kind of Fuel
It’s also vital that you use the proper kind of fuel if you’re driving a semi-truck in colder weather. Winterized fuel can prevent gelling, which can damage the vehicle in several ways.
Follow these tips and your semi-truck should do fine.
