As much as we hate to admit it, the clock is ticking on when the snowflakes will start to fall. Usually after Halloween, people often begin to start thinking about preparing for winter.
Whether it’s changing the snow tires, putting away summer equipment or closing up the cottage, there’s a lot involved in the process.
If you own a fleet, you will also likely be thinking about winterization. In this blog, we will take a look at some tips for winterizing your fleet.
Always Check The Owner’s Manual
A common mistake is neglecting to consult the owner’s manual as a guide for operating the vehicle during hazardous weather and tips for keeping the fleet in top working condition.
Be Proactive
Every driver should prepare for the worst when driving in the winter. Prepare for white out conditions and icy roads. Carry extra supplies with you in case of an emergency.
Test Your Coolant
Testing your coolant should be done before the cold weather starts. A coolant test ensures that your coolant is at the optimal freezing point protection. Consult a local service provider to test you coolant, radiator, hoses and belts.Belts and hoses can be an expensive repair if they aren’t repaired when needed.
Check The Battery Age and Life
Cold engines are more difficult to turn, which requires more power from the battery. Attempting to use a cold engine can increase amperage draw and decrease voltage, which can cause negative consequences if your battery isn’t fully charged. Battery life can be affected by numerous factors, including temperatures, vibration and the amount of deeper discharge cycles. Keeping your battery fully charged assists your fleets performance during the colder months.
Check The Brakes
Make sure your brake pads are in good condition. If you notice any squealing sounds when you’re out on the road, it’s a good chance that you need new brakes.
Consider Using an Electric-Powered Block Heater For When The Truck is Parked
Diesel engines are harder to start than vehicles that run on gasoline. When the vehicle is parked for an extended duration of time in cold weather, you should use an electric-powered block heater. This will ensure that your truck starts up a lot easier when you’re ready to get back out on the road again.
Your Fuel and Diesel Engine
An important, yet often overlooked issue with starting diesel engines during cold temperatures is choosing the correct diesel fuel. Diesel fuel contains an ingredient called paraffin, which causes fuel to gel as the temperature drops.
Choosing the right fuel and making sure your fleet is sufficiently fueled is important.
Brown’s Fuels has been providing on-site fuel delivery to Canadians for years. On-site fueling helps you make the most of your operating hours. We are an on-call fuel supplier, ready to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
To find out more, give us a call at 1.888.542.7799 or send us a message online. We’d be more than happy to answer any questions you may have.