This month is the perfect time to conduct a thorough, seasonal inspection of all vehicles – as well as to make sure your vehicles are all equipped with proper “Emergency Kits” for winter driving. These kits should consist of standard emergency items such as triangle flare kits, first aid supplies and a fire extinguisher – as well as specific items for winter driving, including ice scrapers/snow brushes, a small shovel, de-icer, flashlight, blankets and some non-perishable food items. Consider putting in a snow plow emergency repair kit, with hoses, solenoids, fittings and hydraulic fluid to keep you earning in the middle of night.
Prior to putting your fleet on the road this winter, put each vehicle through this "checklist" to ensure it is in optimal condition for winter driving:
- Fluids. Make sure you have plenty of antifreeze, check and top off engine coolants as well as power steering/brake/windshield wiper fluids.
- Fuel. It’s critical to choose the correct diesel fuel during the winter months. Make sure to check your engine manufacturer or get professional recommendations for optimal fuel during the cold winter months, and check the cetane rating at the fuel pump (the higher the number is, the easier your truck will start during the cold winter months.) Make sure you are running fuel that meets the ISO 4405 Contamination Codes. All Roads can test your fuel and recommend solutions to keep your engines running.
- Batteries. Cold temperatures are more demanding on batteries. Make sure to check each vehicle’s battery(ies) at the beginning of the winter, and check to make sure it is free of any corrosion throughout the season.
- Air Brake Systems and Components. Making sure that your brakes are working properly is a top priority for winter driving. Listen for any unusual sounds or “squealing” when braking – and make sure to have the whole brake system checked to prevent water freezing in the lines, which can result in brake problems in many fleets. In addition, make sure that you are performing proper air dryer maintenance. The air dryer is designed to remove air system moisture and contaminants before they enter the brake system to prevent water freezing in the lines, and frozen air lines due to the cold can result in the loss of braking function in commercial vehicles.
- Hoses, Lines. Since cold temperatures can weaken belts and hoses, make sure to check for even the smallest fray, crack or wear in a belt, and replace anything needed to avoid a future problem.
- Heater. Be sure your defrost works, and make sure to check all heating elements.
- Windshield Wipers. Inspect and replace blades as necessary (blades should be replaced yearly).
- Lights. Visibility is extremely important during the dark winter months – it’s critical that not only can you see the road in challenging weather conditions, but that other drivers can see you.
- Tires. Winter tires offer a better grip on icy roads—consider outfitting your fleet with winter tires (and remember that under-inflated tires are one of the leading causes of tire failure and overinflated tires can increase the risk of tread separation, so maintain the correct amount of air in your tires at all times!)
This winter, keep your employees safe – and your fleet performing optimally -- by planning ahead and preparing in advance for the cold winter months. Proper maintenance is critical for your drivers, your vehicles – and your business, and at All Roads, we can help you with everything you need for your fleet as you prepare for the months ahead. Remember, take the time now to properly inspect and winterize your entire fleet … and avoid costly emergency repairs and avoid any down-time for your vehicles by planning ahead and getting everything you need – now – to keep your fleet up-and-running all winter long.
To schedule an appointment for your fleet’s winter maintenance inspection, call us at 516-746-0836 or 631-423-6937.