No matter where you are, winter can create problems for trucks. No matter if you’re in a place with freezing temperatures, icy roads and piling snow or extremely wet conditions with sideways rain, truck part problems in winter can be especially troublesome and difficult to deal with when you’re in the thick of the elements.
Here are some common truck part problems to watch out for, as well as how to avoid them becoming problems for you on the road.
Frozen wipers
Windshield wipers take the brunt of everything when you’re on the road. Even the most durable wipers can eventually get damaged from harsh weather conditions in winter. For example, they may become frozen to the windshield, leading to the blades tearing when you turn the wipers on.
When your windshield wipers aren’t working correctly, it can be one of the most frustrating reasons to have to stay off the road. The truck may be running fine, and you’re ready to go, but you just can’t see enough to safely drive! One way to avoid this problem is to install wiper blades specifically made for icy conditions. These should get you through harsh conditions, even when you weren’t expecting them.
Dead battery
When the temperature drops below freezing, it can take twice as much energy as normal for your battery to start the truck. Not only does the battery start the truck, but it also powers vital systems like the heater and headlights. If your battery is drained, you’re going to have a bad time.
To avoid this conundrum, you should always carry a strong set of jumper cables with you. And if your battery is more than two years old (or if you think it might not make it through some of the harsher climates this season), it might be time to get it replaced. After all, you don’t want to get stranded because of something you could have prevented.
Tire pressure
Another common truck part problem in winter is under-inflated tires. While you may be starting out in a warmer location, it’s important to consider where you will end up when it comes to taking proper care of your tires. That’s because tires lose about 1 pound of pressure per square inch for every 10 degrees drop in temperature outside. Since under-inflated tires don’t handle as well (especially on slippery roads), this can lead to an unexpectedly difficult or dangerous drive.
Fuel filter
This is a common truck part problem that may not be well known. In extremely-cold weather, diesel fuel can get gummy and sludgy, which can clog your truck’s fuel filter. Some truckers use additives to their fuel to help prevent this from happening. If you’re not driving often in extremely-cold weather, you can help avoid a clogged fuel filter by leaving the truck idling for long periods to keep the fuel moving and help keep it from clogging up the filter.
There are many truck part problems that can pop up in winter, but fortunately many of them are preventable. To get your truck properly prepared for winter or to fix any winter-related truck part problems, contact Energy Trucking today.