The snow has begun to fall, and rain is turning to ice—winter is officially here. Are you prepared to face the harsh weather? If you haven’t started to winterize your fleet, the time is now! Preparing your vehicles means focusing on critical fluids, most notably selecting the correct engine oil for cold weather. Here are our top ten tips for keeping you and your equipment safe this winter:
Diesel Fuel
If you’re starting your diesel engines in cold weather, make sure you are choosing the correct fuel type. Diesel fuel for cold weather is essential because standard diesel contains paraffin, which gels as temperatures drop, making it difficult to pump fuel to the engine. This can lead to roughness or even engine failure. To keep your truck running smoothly, check the cetane rating at the pump. Most fueling locations carry a winter blend fuel specifically for these purposes. Not sure what fuel treatment is best to use? Check with your engine manufacturer for approved recommendations.
Brakes
Make sure your brakes and brake pads are in good working condition. If you hear a squeak or a squeal, it may be time for a replacement. Also, perform air dryer maintenance to keep your brake lines from freezing, which can cause you to lose brake function entirely.
Tires
Outfit your fleet with winter tires for the cold months. Winter tires offer better grip on icy roads and improved traction in snowy conditions. Also, be sure to keep your tires properly inflated to reduce the risk of a flat so you aren’t stuck out in the cold!
Battery
Cold weather drains car batteries faster, causing most winter breakdowns. The typical life cycle of a battery is 4–6 years. Signs that your battery needs replacement include a slow crank when you turn the ignition or noticeably dim headlights when the engine idles.
Oil
To keep your engine running, it needs proper lubrication. Using the wrong oil in the winter can significantly wear on your engine. Cold weather makes oil thicker, and thick oil often can’t reach all parts of your engine—leaving you with a truck that won’t start. Changing your oil to a thinner option, appropriate engine oil for cold weather, prevents damage and keeps you on the road longer. Consult your owner’s manual or contact the experts at KW Oil to find the proper viscosity for your engine.
Fluids
Check all vital fluids before the full force of winter arrives. Ask your local technician to perform a winterization inspection of the cooling system. Make sure you check: power steering fluid, brake fluid, windshield fluid, and battery fluid levels.
Belts & Hoses
Winter conditions can weaken belts, creating a serious safety risk if a belt fails remotely. Check belts and hoses regularly for cracks or leaks and replace them as needed to avoid a breakdown.
Spark Plugs
If your engine sputters, misfires, runs rough, or simply won’t start, damaged spark plugs might be the culprit. Inspect and replace them if necessary before the worst weather hits.
Windshield Wipers
Inspect your wiper blades and replace them if necessary. It’s a good habit to change blades at the beginning of every winter, as you’ll rely on them the most during the snowy months.
Lights & Exterior
Inspect all lights to ensure you can see clearly and other motorists can see you. Additionally, wash your vehicle regularly to help prevent paint chipping, rust, or salt damage.
Even if you follow all these tips, breakdowns can still happen. Keep an emergency kit inside your vehicle with supplies like blankets, jumper cables, gloves, and flares in case you become stranded in inclement weather.
Need help topping off fluids for the winter? View our products online or contact our experts today. We’ll help your diesel engine to run all winter, keeping you safe and your business moving.