FINANCE BLOG

Any company operating in the transportation, waste, or recycling industry likely has a substantial financial investment tied up in trucks and equipment. Consistent preventative maintenance is crucial and goes a long way toward preventing long-term issues. Not only does proper maintenance help keep equipment in good working condition (which can significantly extend its operational lifespan)—it also improves safety, boosts efficiency, minimizes downtime, and helps maintain operational continuity. Plus, properly maintaining equipment safeguards the investment by preventing costly breakdowns and ensuring the equipment retains its value, as well as its equity.

Winter presents unique challenges for trucks and their operators. The harsh conditions—cold temperatures, ice, and snow—can significantly impact vehicle performance, safety, and reliability. For instance, water is the number one cause of brake issues during wintertime. That’s because water gets pushed back into the brake valves and can cause freeze-ups. It’s important to drain the air tanks daily (after they have cooled).

Proper winter maintenance is key to ensuring that your trucks remain in top condition and perform efficiently throughout the season, and we’ve put together a trusty list of recommended winter maintenance tips to keep your fleet running and protect your investment.

Winter Checklist for Truck Maintenance

Inspect and Replace Battery

Cold weather can be particularly harsh on truck batteries. Ensure your batteries are in good condition by checking the charge and testing their performance. If a battery is more than three years old or shows signs of weakness, consider replacing it before the winter season hits. Additionally, clean any corrosion from the battery terminals and ensure connections are secure.

Check Fluids and Additives

Winter can affect various fluids in your truck. Check engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid levels, and top them off as needed. Use winter-grade oil if recommended for your engine to ensure optimal performance in cold temperatures. Additionally, consider adding a fuel additive to prevent fuel line freeze-ups and improve combustion in cold weather. It’s also a good idea to carry extra fuel filters and fuel additives in harsh, low-temperature climates.

Check and Maintain Antifreeze Levels

Antifreeze (coolant) is important for preventing engine freeze-ups in cold weather. Check the antifreeze levels and ensure the mixture is appropriate for winter conditions—typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water. Verify that the coolant system is in good condition and that there are no leaks or other issues. Also, check the radiator cap for damage. The cap allows the system to build pressure, and in turn, causes the boiling point to go up. If the radiator cap is damaged or fails to allow the system to build enough pressure, the coolant going through the truck’s exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) can ‘flash boil’ and become a gas that no longer provides cooling effects, potentially causing your EGR tubes to crack.

Use Adjustable Winter Fronts and Monitor Engine Temperature

Fronts block the natural flow of air and add additional strain on the fan-hub because it can’t draw the air volume it requires. Opt for adjustable or removable winter fronts to control airflow and reduce strain on the fan-hub. Regularly monitor engine temperature to ensure it stays within optimal ranges, and adjust or remove the winter front as needed. Conduct frequent maintenance checks on the fan-hub and cooling system to help prevent overheating, reduce fuel consumption, and extend component life.

Inspect and Prepare Tires, Check Tire Pressure

Winter driving demands special attention to tires. Inspect tire tread depth and consider switching to winter tires if you frequently operate in snow and icy conditions. Ensure that tires are properly inflated, as cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop and affect handling and fuel efficiency. Properly inflated tires ensure optimal traction and stability, reducing the risk of skids and blowouts. Keeping tire pressure at recommended levels also helps prolong tire life and improve overall vehicle safety. Regularly check tire pressure and adjust as needed.

Check Brakes and Suspension

Cold temperatures can affect the performance of your brakes and suspension. Inspect the brake system for wear and ensure that it is functioning properly. Check the suspension system for any signs of damage or excessive wear, as this can impact vehicle handling and safety.

Check Clutch Pedal for Free Play

Regular inspection of the clutch is imperative for detecting early signs of wear, leakage, or malfunction. A properly adjusted and functioning clutch reduces issues inside the gearbox and ensures smooth gear shifts and reliable power transfer, which is essential for maintaining safe and efficient vehicle operation. Addressing any issues promptly can prevent costly repairs and minimize the risk of breakdowns, especially in challenging winter conditions.

Service the Fifth Wheel Platform

The fifth wheel platform is a critical component in your truck's trailer connection system. It plays a pivotal role in ensuring safe and stable coupling between the truck and the trailer. Proper maintenance is especially important in winter conditions to prevent issues related to cold weather and to maintain optimal performance. Regularly inspect the fifth wheel platform for signs of wear, damage, or excessive play. Look for cracks, broken parts, or excessive rust. Clean the fifth wheel platform thoroughly to remove dirt, grime, and debris that can accumulate and cause issues. Apply high-quality, winter-grade grease to the pivot points, locking mechanism, and any moving parts (make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of lubricant to use). Avoid using excessive amounts of grease, as it can attract dirt and debris. And finally, inspect and test the locking mechanism to make sure it locks securely and releases properly.

Test and Maintain the Heater and Defroster

A functioning heater and defroster are essential for maintaining visibility and comfort during winter drives. Test the heater and defroster systems to ensure they are working correctly. Replace any worn or damaged parts before the cold weather sets in.

Inspect Wipers and Washer Fluid

Visibility is critical in winter conditions. Inspect wiper blades for wear and replace them if they are worn or damaged. Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid that is designed to prevent freezing and improve cleaning performance.

Check and Clean Lights

With shorter daylight hours and inclement weather, visibility is reduced in winter conditions. Inspect all exterior lights, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals, to ensure they are functioning properly. Clean the lenses to remove any snow, ice, or grime that could impair visibility.

Prepare Emergency Kits

Winter weather can bring unexpected challenges. Equip your trucks with emergency kits that include items such as blankets, flashlights, non-perishable food, water, a first-aid kit, a shovel, and sand or salt for traction.

Plan for Winter Conditions

Educate drivers about winter driving techniques and safety. Encourage them to adjust their driving habits for snowy or icy conditions (i.e., reduce speed and increase following distances.) Regularly review and update winter driving procedures to keep safety a top priority.

Upgrade Fleet Reporting and Data Management

Make sure you keep detailed records of all maintenance activities performed on trucks and equipment, including inspections, repairs, and parts replacement. This documentation helps track the condition of your assets, support warranty claims, ensure adherence to maintenance schedules, and provide valuable information for assessing the investment's long-term value and making informed decisions about future repairs or replacements. It’s also a good idea to closely track all permits, licenses, expenses, and registrations.

Winter maintenance is not only an essential aspect of fleet management that can help prevent costly breakdowns and ensure the safety of drivers and equipment—it also helps protect the substantial investment you’ve made in your business. By following the tips above, you can better prepare your trucks for the challenges of winter and keep your operations running smoothly and safely throughout the season.

About Keystone Equipment Finance Corp. 

Keystone Equipment Finance Corp. is ready to provide customized, flexible financial solutions for your company. We’re different from others in the lending industry. We focus exclusively on the construction, transportation, manufacturing, and waste sectors, and we maintain a consistent presence in these markets, with an unwavering commitment to helping companies in these industries grow. In other words, we understand your industry. We understand your equipment.

Get started on your next equipment investment here.